Historical Jyamrung Kot, now part of Beni Municipality-2, is a popular tourist destination. The picturesque view of Dhaulagiri in the north and the nine peaks of Nilgiri and the famous religious and tourist destination Panchakot in the south of Baglung captivate travelers. The dense forest and greenery of Gauswara and Dolakha, and the charming scenery of Bani Bazaar in the lower part of Beni, captivate tourists.
The former capital of the mountainous kingdom, Jyamrung Kot, is now a major military center in Beni Municipality-2. The historical and archaeological significance inherited from the Thapa and Mall era has become the main attraction for tourists. Located at an altitude of approximately 1,648 meters above sea level and with a history of around 600 years, Jyamrung Kot’s historical, archaeological, and touristic importance has become a captivating destination for domestic tourists after the construction of the ward office building that connected its assets with development.
Jyamrung Kot, also known as Khadga Bhawani Kot, was made a religious and natural tourist destination by the Thapa family in the 15th century. The ward office and local municipality of Beni have shown great enthusiasm in the construction of the eastern base to highlight the historical and cultural heritage of this place.
Although about 14 kilometers away from Beni Bazaar, Jyamrung Kot is now frequented by tourists and travelers daily. The traditional houses, local dialects of Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and Dalits, along with their simple hospitality, warmly welcome visitors. The breathtaking views of the Himalayas in the north, the urban landscape of Beni and Baglung, and the natural beauty of Ratna Chaur, Panchakot, Panchase, Mallaj, Pulachaur, Dholtan, Takam, Rangkhulgayat, Mustang, and other rural areas mesmerize tourists. The traditional window designs and flower pots with artistic styles on the roofs and walls of houses here also delight visitors.
Travelers are enticed by the traditional mud houses in the village. Bhim Bahadur Paudel, a local social worker and businessman, reported that the number of tourists visiting Jyamrung Kot has increased over time. Despite the road being somewhat difficult, tourists continue to flock to the area. He mentioned that Jyamrung Kot and its natural beauty, historical significance, and the traditional lifestyle and hospitality of the locals are the main attractions.
Various hotels and homestays are available for tourists. They can relish local delicacies such as Kodo’s Dhindo, masu (meat), Gundruk, Bhatmas (soybeans), Achar, Sisno, and homemade Raksi (traditional liquor). Bhim Bahadur also mentioned that during the monsoon season, visitors can enjoy playing in the mud along with the locals.
However, the president warned that the road to Jyamrung Kot is still underdeveloped, and travelers need to be prepared and carry essentials. He expressed the desire to develop Jyamrung Kot as a religious, natural, and historical junction. Two years ago, with an investment of NPR 2.1 million and the support of Beni Municipality and the Ministry of Tourism of Gandaki Pradesh, a 350-meter pedestrian and rail track was constructed up to the temple.
Last year, the Ward Office and the Tourism Committee of the Municipality allocated a budget of 5 lakhs rupees for tourism development in the Kot area, and 2 lakhs rupees for the construction and management of the Jyamarukot Area Development and Conservation Committee. Ramkrishna Ghimire, the chairman of the committee, provided this information. He expressed his happiness at the increasing number of tourists visiting the historical sites and said that their goal is to promote tourism by connecting the historical heritage with development.
Jyamarukot has a significant historical background, with rulers from the Thapa to the Malla dynasties having their reign here. The area covers 42 ropanis an area measurement unit and it contains various historical artifacts like ancient weapons stone sculptures hidden treasure spots, and an old well that holds water for religious purposes. These historical assets still attract tourists.
The chairman of the Ward Karki expressed his commitment to developing Jyamarukot as a religious and tourist destination. He also mentioned plans to build a road connecting Galleshwar and Panchakot further promoting tourism in the region. The area has the potential to create employment opportunities through the active involvement of the Municipality Ward and local residents in promoting religious tourism.
Rajesh Shakya an advocate for tourism development in Myagdi mentioned that Jyamarukot offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas rivers, villages, and sunrises, making it an attractive destination for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Additionally there are plans to construct hotels and restaurants at different levels in the region catering to foreign tourists who come here to enjoy the Himalayas rivers villages and sunrise views.
Tikabhahadur Karki, the former headmaster of Arjun Secondary School and the current head of the School Management Committee, stated that the historical well and the Rajkuvaa behind the Ward Office could be preserved and managed. It is possible to create a pond and build a restaurant nearby to promote the area tourism.
Jyamarukot has the potential to attract tourists with its 15+ snow-capped mountains like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, more than 30 villages in the Gandaki region, rural beauty, and scenic views of the Myagdi River and Kali Gandaki.
Amar Baniya, chairman of Dhaulagiri Tourism Development Council said that construction of a view tower and promotion of natural beauty in Kotdanda could attract around 25% of tourists visiting Annapurna and Dhaulagiri regions to Beni.
Jyamarukot is also rich in biodiversity with organic farming fresh water from Thulakholaa various bird species fish black lentils local breeds of goats chickens ducks butterflies deer wild boar fox rhododendron and rattan. The Bhakunde Youth Club through its various programs aims to promote cultural diversity traditional dance performances and social harmony.
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