Conservation efforts underway for Ganga Khola

KATHMANDU: Conservation efforts have begun for the renowned historical, religious, and tourist destination, Ganga Khola, located in Ward 6 of Ramprasad Rai Rural Municipality in Bhojpur.

Local residents, in collaboration with the Ward Office, are actively engaged in preserving the site.

Nestled between the Golme Raj and Golme Rani hills, Ganga Khola is believed to be a sacred place where devotees come to fulfill their wishes.

Rajendra Rai, a local resident, shared that the site has three large water springs originating from rocks. It is a common belief that visiting the site and offering prayers can help fulfill one’s desires.

Despite its unique religious and tourist significance, the site has remained relatively unknown due to a lack of promotion, according to Rai.

He emphasized that taking a dip in the waters of Ganga Khola is said to cure all kinds of skin diseases, and it is also a popular tradition to use its waters in various religious rituals.

Rai further mentioned that a grand fair is held during the Maghe Sankranti festival every year.

“Ganga Khola is a historical and religious site that deserves national recognition,” Rai stated. “Although it holds immense importance in terms of its unique features and ancient significance, it has been overshadowed due to insufficient promotion and conservation efforts. The region’s development is hindered by its geographical remoteness, and the government must prioritize the protection and promotion of such invaluable sites.”

The water sources of Ganga Khola remain abundant throughout the year, and the water does not get muddy even during the monsoon, with the springs flowing from south to north.

This unique characteristic adds to its significance, said Ward Chair Ekraj Acharya. Although a large budget is required for further development, the ward office has already allocated some funds for the site’s preservation, including the construction of water channels to cater to the increasing number of devotees visiting the area.

Acharya highlighted the necessity of creating a proper pathway to reach the spring sources. He has also sought support from other government agencies to help in the site’s development.

Local residents, including Pandav Rai, stress the importance of government action at the local, provincial, and central levels to facilitate the site’s development. “This place has the potential to become a sustainable source of income for the village,” Rai suggested. “By promoting and developing Ganga Khola, it can become a key tourist and religious destination.”

Rai added, “Ganga Khola is a truly remarkable and sacred site, with a natural beauty that astonishes all who visit. However, despite its potential, it has not received the attention it deserves in terms of conservation and promotion.”

The locals are calling for a concerted effort from all levels of government to ensure that Ganga Khola receives the recognition and protection it deserves as an important cultural and religious heritage site.