Nepal Tourism Board studies new Sunapati–Shailung trekking route to connect Ramechhap and Dolakha

Ramechhap — The Nepal Tourism Board has completed a four-day feasibility study for developing a new tourism trail connecting Sunapati Rural Municipality in Ramechhap with the Shailung area of Dolakha. The study found that the route has strong potential for tourism because it includes natural beauty, religious sites, local culture, historical places and village experiences.

The proposed Duhu–Sunapati Danda–Shailung Trail aims to attract both domestic and international tourists. During the study, the team observed road access, tourism infrastructure, local settlements, cultural heritage sites and possible areas for future tourism development.

The study team travelled from Kathmandu through the famous Kusheshwar Mahadev Temple in Sindhuli before visiting Sunapati and Shailung. In Sunapati, the team studied religious and cultural sites, tea gardens, Lakhapatimane Danda and other possible tourist attractions.

The team also observed Sano Shailung and Thulo Shailung, which are important for both religious and nature-based tourism. Located at more than 3,000 meters above sea level, Shailung is popular for scenic views, peaceful hills, trekking, spiritual travel and adventure tourism.

During the visit, locals of Lamagaun in Sunapati welcomed the team with traditional Dhime music, Tamang Damphu dance and cultural performances. The team said this showed strong local interest in tourism development.

Sunapati Rural Municipality Chairperson Thulo Kancha Tamang said the municipality is prioritizing tourism as a major source of local economic growth. He said focus is being given to trail management, tourism infrastructure and preservation of local culture.

Nepal Tourism Board officials also stressed that tourism development should move ahead with environmental protection and cultural preservation. They said sustainable tourism can create income opportunities for local communities while protecting the area’s identity.

Local hotel entrepreneur Dhawa Lama said around 3,000 to 4,000 tourists visit Shailung every month. The study is expected to support the formal development of the new trail, improve tourism infrastructure and promote Ramechhap and Dolakha as connected tourism destinations.