Tourist arrivals at Namaste Waterfall in Dhankuta have dwindled due to infrastructure damage caused by last year’s floods. The local government and Koshi Province have allocated NPR 1 million and NPR 1.5 million respectively for the waterfall’s reconstruction. Sangurigadhi Rural Municipality has built a temporary bridge and staircase to improve access, but a permanent truss bridge is still needed. (April 29, Dhankuta)
Namaste Waterfall, located in Dhankuta district of the Eastern Hills, was once a prime destination popular among domestic and Indian tourists. Each summer, visitors would flock here to swim in the cold waters and enjoy the natural pools formed beneath the waterfall, making the area vibrant with families and friends. However, despite its natural beauty, the site now appears deserted.
The primary reason for this decline is the damage to essential infrastructure caused by last year’s floods, which has created safety concerns. Although the natural allure remains intact, the risky access route has discouraged tourists from visiting. The local authorities and community have constructed temporary structures using bamboo and wood, but these are not sustainable solutions. Jeevan Subba, secretary of the Namaste Waterfall Management Committee, confirmed that tourist activity has notably decreased.
“The hustle and bustle of tourists is nowhere near what it used to be. People are still afraid,” he said. “When floods come from above making it impossible to reach the waterfall, why would visitors come if they cannot actually get there?” Limbu noted that this situation has made the area uncomfortable for visitors to the waterfall and nearby attractions. Nevertheless, efforts for the waterfall’s revival have begun, with Sangurigadhi Rural Municipality allocating NPR 1 million and Koshi Province providing NPR 1.5 million towards its management and reconstruction.
