Development and Conservation Plan for Nagapokhari Area in Ajirkot
A detailed project report is being prepared for the development of the Buddha Himal Himachuli Great Lakes Circuit Trail, including the Nagapokhari area within Ajirkot Rural Municipality. The Division Forest Office in Gorkha has proposed plans for the conservation and infrastructure development of Nagapokhari under the wetland area and tourism promotion program. Due to the lack of accommodation facilities at this religious and tourist site in Ajirkot, tourists currently have to return the same day. May 4 (Jestha 21), Gorkha.
Nagapokhari, located within Ajirkot Rural Municipality, is a key tourist destination situated at approximately 3,200 meters above sea level. This site is increasingly becoming a major attraction for visitors. According to the municipality, internal tourists form the majority of visitors. Nagapokhari can be reached by about a five-hour trek from Siran Danda in Bhacchek. From here, visitors can enjoy scenic natural views along with close observations of Buddha Himal and Ganesh Himal. The area is home to four varieties of rhododendron flowers: red, white, pink, and blue.
“Most visitors come here for trekking and hiking,” said Dipak Devkota, Chairperson of the Rural Municipality. “A considerable number also come for various religious rituals.” He added that the pond holds unique religious significance and beliefs. Local faith says that the pond was formed from the nectar-like poison rain borne from rare Nagadev (serpent deities) residing secretly in the Kailash Mountain peaks.
“Rare nagas inhabiting the secret caves of Kailash Mountain carry a nectarous poison which affects the surrounding flora, making the region richly stocked with unique medicinal herbs,” he explained. “Local belief holds that the pond was created by rainwater imbued with this nectar from those nagadev.” There are currently no hotels or lodges for accommodation. Visitors wishing to stay must bring their own food and shelter materials.
The Chairperson further noted that the municipality is implementing various programs to promote tourism. Plans are underway to develop this route as the Buddha Himal Himachuli Great Lakes Circuit Trail. “The trail starts from Ruvinal and continues through Dudhpokhari and Dordi, ending at Marsyangdi. Coordination with the Tourism Board is ongoing to complete the detailed project report, and work is moving forward,” he said. The Division Forest Office has also initiated programs for the preservation of this pond, known for its historical and religious importance.
Madan Mohan Shandilya, head of the Division Forest Office, stated they are carrying out plans for pond conservation by laying stone slabs and conducting cleaning activities. Under the wetland area and tourism promotion program, new foot trails and infrastructure development around settlements are also planned.