By Narendra Dhakal
Gorkha, Apr. 3: In an effort to attract tourists towards historically significant Siranchowk Kot in Gorkha district, various developmental works, including the construction of a hiking trail, are being carried out.
Siranchowk Kot Rural Municipality, which is concerned about protecting and promoting the legacy of the place, has already started construction of the trail. Other than that, the municipality is also doing research and publicity works. Chairman of the municipality Raju Gurung said, “We believe that Siranchowk Kot can be established itself as a unique hiking spot. We have laid out a master plan and are working on it.”
Two step-trails leading to the spot are being constructed simultaneously. One is from Gagre Bhanjyang in Ward No. 5; the other from Gairikuwa in Ramcha in Ward No. 2.
The local government, UNDP Community Infrastructure and Livelihood Rehabilitation Programme and Thailand Government have funded the construction with Rs. 1,202,400 for each trail.
Chairman of Ward No. 2 Gyanendra Gurung informed that a two-km-long step, flanked by steel railings and connecting Gairikura to Siranchowk Kot, was built last year at a cost of Rs. 1,050,000.
The UNDP had spent Rs. 470,000 and the locals had invested Rs. 215,000 on the project. The trail is supposed to make navigation easier and joyful to various travellers, including holiday makers and devotees. Those who want to walk enjoying the serenity of nature can take a detour from Charkot to reach the spot.
Gurung added that all hikers would be given a warm welcome and that homestays had been started in various places of the ward, including Aasubote.
Siranchowk Kot holds special place in history. The place was used by the then King Drabya Shah in 1559 as a strategic place to formulate strategy to conquer Gorkha, after which, the place was transformed into security fort. What’s more, it is also famous as the birthplace of Mukhtiyar Bhimsen Thapa, Commander Jhaagal Gurung, Commander, Military General and Bada Kaji Amar Singh Thapa -- the great heroes of the nation.
In addition, the municipality, where several battles were fought during the unification campaign led by the late King Prithvi Narayan Shah, is home to famous temples -- Srinath Baba and Mandali Mata.
Standing at 1974 meteres above sea level, Siranchowk Kot is surrounded by dense Rhododendron forests which offer visitors a picturesque view and a plethora of wild birds and animals.