Dhankuta, Nov. 19: Pakhribas in Dhankuta, a town with strong tourism potential in eastern Nepal, has recently begun attracting growing numbers of visitors.

Both domestic and foreign tourist arrivals have noticeably increased in recent months, placing the area firmly on the travel map.

Ramche Danda, located in Pakhribas Municipality-7, lies about 21 kilometres north of the district headquarters. From this hilltop, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the eastern hill districts of Koshi Province, including Dhankuta, Bhojpur, Tehrathum and Sankhuwasabha. The plains of the Tarai and the Arun Valley are also visible from this scenic spot.

The hill is especially popular for sunrise views and its clear sight of Himalayan peaks such as Makalu and Gaurishankar. According to local Govinda Thapa, tourists are drawn to the area for these breathtaking landscapes.

Ramche Danda has also become a common destination for picnics and educational visits from across Koshi Province and beyond.

To promote tourism and support local development, Pakhribas Municipality has constructed a five-storey view tower at Ramche Danda. The tower attracts visitors wishing to observe the surrounding panorama.

The hill is covered with green tea gardens, and forests of pine and fir, adding to its natural charm. The open meadow around the tower offers ample space for picnics, cultural events and gatherings.

Situated at an altitude of around 1,900 metres, the area experiences rapidly changing weather, with sunshine and fog shifting within minutes - another feature that tourists find appealing.

Nilam Thapa, operator of Ramche Highland Pvt. Ltd., said the company is working to enhance tourism in the area. The company has invested around Rs. 5 to Rs. 6 million to further develop the site. 

Ramche Danda lies about 2 kilometres from Pakhribas and roughly 500 metres uphill from the Pakhribas-Adherighat road. Spread across 350 ropanis, the site is currently being developed for a resort. Road improvements to connect Ramche Danda are also underway.

Thapa added that tea gardens, fruit plantations and two large swimming pools are being built to attract more visitors. The site is accessible within about four hours from Kimathanka and from India, offering strong potential to draw international tourists. Plans are also being made to develop the area into a national-level tourist destination, with proposals for a dedicated hub area.

He said that while the federal government supported the construction of the view tower, additional funds have not been provided for wider tourism development, creating challenges. However, Pakhribas Municipality has expressed willingness to coordinate and push the work forward.