Rumsi: The ethnic Magar-majority community of Rusmi village in Vyas Municipality-14, Tanahu district, is gaining recognition as a tourist destination.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the local government, in collaboration with the Gandaki Province government, launched a programme three years ago to develop Rumsi as a ‘model village’. Known as the ‘village of Lahure’ due to its history of recruitment into the British and Indian armies, this initiative has focused on boosting tourism and income generation through agriculture.
The “Chief Minister Innovation Partnership Programme” has played a significant role in transforming Rumsi. Santosh Thapa, Chair of the Rumsi Community Homestay Management Committee, noted that around 80 percent of households now offer homestay services. Conservation and promotion of historic, religious, cultural, and natural heritages are prioritized to establish Rumsi as an important tourist destination.
The programme introduced various activities, such as the Bandipur-Rumsi Village tour, Rumsi Eco Trek, cannoning in Rumsi Waterfall, farmer field schools, cultural exchange programmes, and experiences with traditional local cuisine and religious events. Financial support from the Gandaki Province Government and local government has been crucial, with a combined allocation of Rs 10 million. Recently, Rs 1 million was released to construct a building to improve homestay services.
Homestay facilities in Rumsi attract both domestic and international guests. Committee member Harimaya Thapa emphasized their efforts to provide quality services, ensuring visitors leave with a lasting impression of their hospitality. For Rs 1,200 per person per night, guests enjoy locally brewed tea, traditional maize snacks, meals with local flavors, and organic, locally sourced produce. Groups of over ten visitors receive a special welcome with traditional art and cultural performances.
Rumsi is accessible by road, located 16 kilometers from Damauli and 15 kilometers from Bandipur. Public transport and private vehicles facilitate travel from these locations. Visitors can also explore the village’s surroundings through a safari service, as noted by Village Safari operator Basanta Poudel.
A recent farm trip targeting media and tourism entrepreneurs was organized during the Village Tourism Mart in Bandipur, highlighted by Nepal Tourism Board, Gandaki Province Chief Maniraj Lamichhane. Village Tourism Promotion Forum (VITOF) Gandaki Province is actively promoting destinations across the province, with a focus on training hospitality and homestay management, stated Forum Chair Shobha Sapkota.