Here is the list of top 5 things you can do in Sankhuwasabha
Yunish Dahal
The home to the fifth tallest mountain, Mt. Makalu, Sankhuwasabha is the unheard of eastern Nepal.
Though the district is home to various birds, animals and natural wonders, it is not a primary choice of destination for International as well as domestic tourists. The district has tough terrain and very bad road connection and is easily accessible only by airplane. As many hurdles as you face to reach here, the place is worth it.
Lets peek into 5 things to do in Sankhuwasabha,
Bird Watching
This place is the heaven for bird lovers. Arun valley, located in the base of Mt Makalu is home to a diverse species of flora and fauna. It lies in Makalu Barun national park which is home to 433 species of birds and 315 species of butterflies. As there is no regular tourist flow so it is very unlikely to find tea houses and lodges. Impeyan Pheasant and Crimson Horned Pheasant are some of the protected birds in the national park. During the trip there is also a chance to spot 25 species of rhododendron, snow leopard and red pandas.
Religious Tour
With a majority of the population identifying themselves as Hindus, there are many religious sites and temples in the district. Some of these temples have been mentioned in various religious books. Siddhakali Temple, located in Ratmate is mentioned in Swasthani Bratakatha as a place where Sati Devi's eye was departed. Similarly, Manakamana Temple, Shivadhara, Gupteshwor Mahadev, Sabha Pokhari etc are some other places to be.
Trekking
While most of the tourists are concentrated in Annapurna and Everest region, the trekking trails in Sankhuwasabha are peaceful. Makalu base camp trek is a mesmerizing trek through hills, valleys and rhododendron blooming forest. Friendly people and eastern nepali cuisine makes the trek a lifetime experience. Milke-Sabha Pokhari circuit, Upper Arun valley Trek are also some other trekking routes. You can also enjoy a variety of cultural treks in Num–Bharabishe trek, Milke Danda–Barabishe–Chichila Trek where you get to learn about the culture of Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Magar and many more.
Rafting
Other than trekking, there are several adventure sports waiting for you in Sankhuwasabha. As the fast flowing rivers originating in Tibet and the himalayas pass through the district, it is also best for rafting. Arun river rafting is an underrated rafting in Nepal. This adventure offers the view of the beautiful Arun valley while fast flowing through hill cutting in Arun river. Rafting in Arun river is above Grade IV in seriously big rapids. If you are ready to push all your boundaries and fear, arun river rafting is the perfect choice.
Food
The eastern hills are most popular for the local beverages. Tongba, Chhyang(corn and millet), Raksi are locally produced and consumed. These drinks are also used for religious and social occasions. Similarly, Dhido, pork blood, wild lichen, chicken feathers, pork sekuwa, fermented soybeans, Sisnu ko tarkari and philinge ko achar etc are some popular foods. A separate world of pickles lies in the region, commonly produced in Sankhuwasabha district. These foods use locally produced ingredients and are cooked in local styles.
Sankhuwasabha is a relatively unpopular district in Nepalese tourism while it carries a huge potential. The possibility spreads from adventure tourism to religious tours. People in the district are yet to realise and the local governments seem to put no effort on boosting tourism. Just as simple as construction of proper roads for easy access could be the first step on the long way.
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