Mundhum Trail to be developed as yoga & meditation haven

KATHMANDU: The Temkemaiyung Rural Municipality has announced its ambitious plan to develop the renowned Mundhum Trail — one of the top 100 must-visit destinations selected by the federal government — as a center for yoga, meditation, and spiritual retreat.

Recognized as the only serene and picturesque trekking region in eastern Nepal, the municipality envisions transforming the trail into a spiritual sanctuary.

According to Rural Municipality Chairperson Saroj Basnet, the initiative aims to promote tourism while preserving the area’s natural beauty. “This is a beautiful and peaceful trail of eastern Nepal. Visitors often speak of a unique spiritual energy they experience here. We are committed to developing it as a tapobhumi — a place of deep meditation and spiritual practice,” Basnet said.

He also highlighted the trail’s wide, flat grasslands, noting their potential for being developed into a golf course.

To maintain the sanctity of the region, plans for road construction along the trail have been halted.

The local government is focused on retaining the area’s pristine nature, making it ideal for extended meditation and yoga retreats.

Chief Administrative Officer Adit Dahal emphasized the trail’s simplicity and tranquility, calling it “the most accessible and peaceful trekking route in the east.” With tourist numbers rising steadily in recent years, the municipality is investing in infrastructure development to support sustainable tourism.

The municipality’s Vice Chair Ramadevi Rai shared that a Tourism Information Center has been established at Chakhewa to guide visitors. “The center provides detailed information about the trail’s features, geography, major landmarks, estimated trekking time, lodging options, and essential safety tips,” she explained. Rai added that the municipality is committed to the holistic development of the trail area, combining agriculture and tourism as key pillars of progress.

According to tourism entrepreneur Vivek Kulung, the trail offers panoramic views of more than two dozen Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Nuptse, Chamlang, and Kumbhakarna, among others.

Temkemaiyung Ward-3 Chairperson Purna Prasad Rai noted that the region’s balanced climate — neither too hot like the lowlands nor too cold like the high Himalayas — makes it a favorite among trekkers. He confirmed that the number of visitors to the trail is growing annually.

The Mundhum Trail also leads to Silichung Peak, the highest religious and tourist site in Bhojpur district, situated at an elevation of 4,153 meters.

Along the trail, travelers can experience the rich culture and traditions of the Kirat community, vast green meadows, and the sight of yaks and sheep herded by local residents — all contributing to a uniquely immersive and spiritual journey.