KATHMANDU: Nagthali, located in Thuman of Gosaikunda Rural Municipality-1, Rasuwa, is emerging as an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists. Situated at an altitude of 3,165 meters above sea level, the area is known for its natural beauty, religious significance, and biodiversity. The site, locally known as Nagthali, is considered ideal for hiking and mountain viewing.
Local residents believe the name originates from a snake shrine located near a monastery. Legend suggests that Guru Rinpoche meditated in the area and constructed the monastery, which houses statues of Buddha and other deities. The site features historical landmarks, including footprints attributed to Guru Rinpoche, a tunnel believed to distinguish between sin and virtue, and ancient stone caves. Special fairs are held here during the full moon in the Nepali months of Baisakh and Asoj.
The area offers panoramic views of mountain ranges and glaciers. Its forests are home to wildlife, including snow leopards, ghorals, tharals, bears, wild boars, and langur monkeys. The trails are filled with rhododendrons, mani walls, and herds of yaks and mountain cattle. Reaching Nagthali requires a four-hour hike from Thuman village. Following flood damage to road networks by the Bhote Koshi River on Aug. 26, tourists currently reach the area by hiking from Syaphrubesi, with local volunteers having constructed a wooden bridge to restore access.
Gosaikunda Rural Municipality-1 ward chair Urken Lama noted that infrastructure and hospitality services are expanding to accommodate rising tourist numbers. “Previously there was only one hotel, but now about six hotels and lodges are in operation,” Lama said. Balram Neupane, president of the Rasuwa-Nuwakot Tourism Society, stated that the area is an excellent destination for trekking and cultural tourism. “Because it is close to Kathmandu and offers a mix of Himalayan life, cattle pastures, rhododendrons, and views of the Chinese border region, the tourism society has placed special emphasis on promoting Nagthali,” Neupane added.
