Source::Image : Wikimedia
In recent times, there has been an increase in the number of foreign tourists visiting Bhakunde, which is located in Baglung and known for its hospitality house. The World Vegan Organization, which has been bringing in foreign tourists to Bhakunde by helicopter, has started bringing them on foot as well. The organization has been successful in bringing tourists from 17 different countries to Bhakunde to study, observe, and enjoy the local culture. Bhakunde is a three-hour walk or one-and-a-half-hour transport ride away from Baglung market and has several tourist attractions like a lake, a park, and other structures for sightseeing.
Despite the financial crisis causing a decrease in the number of domestic tourists, the number of foreign tourists has increased in recent times. Gharbas, which was established in 2073, has become a popular tourist destination, with tourists coming from countries like Britain, America, Canada, and Korea. The geographical environment, sightseeing options, welcome and farewell cultures and Magar culture are some of the factors that attract tourists to Bhakunde.
Yam Thapa, the owner of Gharbas, stated that foreign tourists have started coming to Bhakunde due to recent publicity. The houses have been upgraded to provide better facilities like hot and cold water, organized bathing houses, parks, and cultural museums targeting tourists. Atithi Satkar Gharbas, the first Gharbas in the district, is now running in eight houses in Bhakunde village, with a capacity to accommodate 50 guests in a single night. The guests are provided with service facilities as per their choice.
Tourists come to Gharbas to enjoy local products, see the panoramic view of the glaciers, and enjoy nature while making the most of their vacation time. The homestay operator serves dishes made from locally produced potatoes, soybeans, corn, radish, millet, sisno, gundruk, and chicken as per the choice of the guests. Khim Bahadur Thapa, chairman of the Gharbas management committee, stated that tourists from America, Korea, and China come to stay at Gharbas from time to time.
The locals believe that if the road leading to Bhakunde is paved, it will be easier for tourists to visit the area. Baglung Municipality-10 Bhakunde is the district's first hospitality homestay, officially registered by Tourism Office Pokhara in 2073, and is fast becoming a popular tourist destination for domestic and foreign tourists alike._Rss
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