Hetauda |ย Adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers now have a new reason to explore the scenic beauty of Kailash Rural Municipality in Makawanpur. The municipality has successfully constructed its own zipline, connecting two prominent religious and tourist destinationsโKailash and Vaikuntha. With this addition, visitors can now enjoy both spiritual and adventure tourism in one trip.
The newly built zipline is expected to provide a unique experience for tourists, allowing them to witness the breathtaking landscapes of the region while indulging in an adrenaline-pumping activity. According to Kailash Rural Municipality Chairperson Lok Bahadur Moktan, the zipline is set to attract more adventure seekers and contribute to the growth of tourism in the area.
First Phase of Testing Completed
On Saturday, the first phase of testing was conducted successfully. The technical team, along with key officials including Chairperson Moktan, Ward No. 2 Chairperson Rajendra Ghis-ing, Planning Branch Chief Narendra Datt Bhatt, Engineer Anil Joshi, and zipline technician and trainer Badri Ghimire, participated in the trial run. The initial testing focused on the braking system (SoloP) to ensure the safety and efficiency of the ride.
According to Ghimire, the second phase of testing will be conducted soon, after which the zipline will be officially opened to the public. He emphasized that safety measures and technical evaluations are being prioritized to ensure a smooth and secure experience for visitors.
A Significant Investment in Adventure Tourism
The construction of the 1,200-meter-long zipline was carried out by Sandhya Nirman Sewa, with an estimated cost of NPR 88.56 million (approximately $670,000). Despite the challenging geographical terrain, the construction company successfully completed the project within the stipulated timeframe, by the end of Falgun 2081 (March 2025).
Chairperson Moktan highlighted that the project is part of a multi-year development plan aimed at boosting tourism in the region. The zipline features two stations, a braking system (harness), and sturdy cable lines, ensuring a thrilling yet safe ride for adventure seekers. However, while the zipline structure is complete, additional infrastructure work, including visitor facilities, is still underway. The full-scale operation of the zipline will commence once all complementary constructions are completed.
Boosting Tourism in Makawanpur and Neighboring Districts
With the introduction of the zipline, tourism officials anticipate an influx of visitors from Makawanpur as well as neighboring districts, including Dhading. Ward No. 2 Chairperson Rajendra Ghis-ing expressed confidence that tourists from areas such as Rorang, Benighat, and Gajuri in Dhading, as well as Hetauda, Thaha Nagar, Raksirang, and Manahari in Makawanpur, will be drawn to this new adventure attraction.
As the zipline site shares a border with Dhading, tourists from areas such as Benighat, Thaha Nagar, and Manahari will need to travel approximately 33 kilometers to reach the location. To complement the zipline, Vaikuntha has also seen the development of a religious and tourism park, further enhancing the regionโs appeal as a prime travel destination.
A New Era of Adventure and Religious Tourism
The establishment of this zipline marks a significant step toward developing Kailash Rural Municipality as a hub for adventure and religious tourism. By blending natural beauty, spiritual significance, and adventure sports, the municipality aims to attract a diverse range of visitors, boosting local businesses and promoting sustainable tourism in the region.
With the final phase of testing and infrastructure enhancements underway, the zipline is expected to be operational soon, offering an exhilarating experience to visitors. As adventure tourism gains momentum in Nepal, initiatives like these play a crucial role in diversifying the countryโs tourism landscape and providing exciting new experiences for both domestic and international travelers.