A place of religious, historical and geographical value, Tanahun has been a place where Nepalis from all communities, castes and creeds have been living harmoniously for centuries. As a pious pilgrimage destination, the district attracts numerous Hindus each year. Perhaps more importantly, Tahanun is the land where Banubhakta Acharya, the first Nepali poet was born, and is home to beautiful caves such as the Parasar, Siddhi and Hattigaura Gufas. Bandipur, a hilltop settlement in the district is particularly noted for its natural and cultural beauty, and Tanahun stands its ground as one of Nepal’s beautiful places.
With the view of promoting this district as a tourist hub whilst exploring its natural beauty and helping uplift the socio-economic conditions of its locals, the Tanahun Federation of Nepalese Commerce and Trade as well as the Tanahun District Development Committee are orgnaising the Fourth Tanahun Mahotsav—2069 in Damauli—the district capital, from January 25-February 3.
“We hope to explore and expose the natural, cultural and historical value of the district of Tanahun through this festival, helping bring awareness on health, education and all other aspects of human life,” says Dev Kumar Shrestha, co-ordinator of the Tanahun Mahotsav. “We have tried doing something new with the fourth edition of this festival,” he adds. “Local farmers will be exhibiting their products at the festival, and we hope to find a better system of fixing market price values in this way. Also, helicopters will be available for chartering (at reasonable prices) for those who’d like to get a bird’s eye view of our beautiful district.”
The nine-day festival will also hose local handicrafts and agricultural products (fruits, vegetables and herbs) exhibitions. An entertaining factor will be the ‘Lok Dohori Saanjh Comeptiion’, a poetry competition, as well as the inter-school and college dance competition. What’s more, attendees will get to watch rare indigenous dances such as the kaura, ghatu, sorathi and lakehy as performed by the locals.
Another special attraction will be rafting and boating opportunities in the Seti and Madhi rivers. There will also be various photo exhibitions, as well as a packaged tour including a helicopter ride over Tanahun and paragliding opportunities. Moreover, 40 different food and handicraft stalls, all showcasing local Tanahun fare, will be set up at Damauli, giving outsiders an insight into this beautiful district.
The Kathmandu Post, Posted on: 2013-01-20 08:42
