Ramechhap district is located in the Bagmati Province of Nepal. This hilly district has been historically, culturally, and naturally rich since ancient times. The district headquarters is Manthali. Ramechhap district covers an area of 1,546 square kilometers and, according to the latest census, has a population of about 202,646. Various ethnic groups and communities reside in Ramechhap district. These include Tamang, Chhetri, Bahun, Newar, Sherpa, Sunuwar, Majhi, Pahari, Bhujel, Sarki, Pariyar, Bishwakarma, Magar, Gurung, Rai, Kasai, Hayu, and Thami, among others. The cultural influence of Newar and Tamang is significant in the district. There are several religious sites in the district, including Khadadevi, Bhringeshwar, Thanapati Mahadev, Narvadeshwar Mahadev (Triveni), Satalingeshwar Mahadev, Kevleshwar Mahadev, Shailungeshwar Mahadev, and Gupteshwar Bhagwati. Ramechhap is also very scenic from a natural viewpoint. Attractions include Serdanda, Shailung Sunapati Hill, Agleshwari, Kaladanda, Tame, Malagiri, Panchpokhari, Jattapokhari, and Thoseko Phalam Khani.
The district offers beautiful views of various hills, mountains, and coastal areas. Major rivers such as Sunkoshi, Tamakoshi, and Likhu flow through the district, providing irrigation. The lowest point in Ramechhap is Kolonjoreghat, located at the confluence of the Likhu and Sunkoshi rivers, at an altitude of 426 meters above sea level, while the highest point is Number Himal at 6,958 meters. Despite being a hilly district, Ramechhap has many small fertile valleys created by rivers like Tamakoshi, Sunkoshi, Likhu, and Khimti. Notable areas for production and settlement include Rajmanthar, Mungitar, Dyauralitar, Jhakhani Tar, Sitkatar, Tarikhet, Khimti Bensi, and Birtatar. The district features various hills like Gidgedanda (3,148 meters), Agleshwor Hill (2,295 meters), Damkot Hill (2,420 meters), Shailung Hill (3,148 meters), and Tame Hill (3,106 meters). The district is adorned with Himalayan ranges including Ramadigchuli (6,258 meters), Gokulchuli (5,502 meters), Likhuchuli (6,757 meters), and Gakosir (6,678 meters).
Main market areas include Manthali Bazaar, Ramechhap Bazaar, Sangutar, Thos Bazaar, Sitkha Bazaar, and Galwabanyal Bazaar, as well as the recently developed market areas of Shivalaya, Betali, and Bhamti Bhandar. The primary economic source of Ramechhap is agriculture, with residents producing crops such as maize, millet, potatoes, and wheat. Overall, Ramechhap district is rich in natural, cultural, and historical heritage, making it a potentially attractive destination for tourists. Among these, the Mulkot Shailung trail is an easy and excellent destination. Starting from Mulkot, be sure to visit Khadadevi. The next station after Khadadevi is Galpa Bazaar. From Galpa Bhanjyang, enjoy the panoramic views from Agleshwar, and you can reach Doramba. In Doramba, visit the Maoist War Museum, and then you can reach Shailung. Spend a day in Shailung to observe its beautiful pastures. During this journey, you will see beautiful villages, forests, temples, monasteries, mountains, hills, and various ethnic languages, customs, and traditions. On the way back, visit Baira Mahadev in Timbu village and Thanapati Mahadev in Bhandari village. Local homestays are ready to welcome you and provide you with local food and cultural experiences. Start your journey from Kathmandu. Travel towards Bhaktapur from Kathmandu. From Bhaktapur, head towards Banepa and then to Dhulikhel on the BP Highway. Continue your journey to Bhakunde Besi Station, then to Mangalatar, and from there to Nepalthok, finally reaching Mulkot. There are also quality hotels and resorts in Mulkot.
The detailed route from Kathmandu to Mulkot is as follows:
1. *From Kathmandu to Bhaktapur*: Start your journey from Kathmandu and head towards Bhaktapur via the Arniko Highway.
2. *From Bhaktapur to Banepa*: Continue from Bhaktapur on the Arniko Highway to Banepa.
3. *From Banepa to Dhulikhel*: From Banepa, take the BP Highway to Dhulikhel.
4. Dhulikhel to Bhakunde Besi*: Continue on the BP Highway to Bhakunde Besi, enjoying the scenic views and well-paved roads.
5. Bhakunde Besi to Mangalatar*: Continue on the same highway to Mangalatar, traveling through hilly terrain.
6. Mangalatar to Nepalthok*: From Mangalatar, continue on the BP Highway to Nepalthok, known for its beautiful landscapes and winding roads.
*Suggestions:* – Ensure your vehicle is in good condition due to the winding roads and altitude changes on the BP Highway. – Be prepared for potential delays due to road conditions or traffic. – Enjoy the scenic route, but drive carefully on the winding sections of the highway. – Rural roads may not always be well-marked, so having a reliable map or GPS system is recommended. Now, set aside some time and head to the enchanting place of Ramechhap, particularly Jattapokhari. Have a safe journey!
