What looks like a terrifying cliff at first glance has now become a captivating attraction for domestic tourists in Nepal. Located along the Muglin–Abukhaireni section of the Prithvi Highway, Ainapahara—popularly known as the “Monkey-Jumping Cliff”—is gaining attention for its natural beauty and man-made artistry.
With intricately carved sculptures on the cliff’s natural rock face—featuring a fairy, an elephant trunk, and a mother-child statue—visitors are instantly drawn to the location. These art installations, combined with a cool waterfall cascading from above, create a serene and Instagram-worthy destination.
Sustainable Tourism Development by Abukhaireni Rural Municipality
Ainapahara lies on the border of Abukhaireni Rural Municipality Wards 2 and 4. Recognizing the site’s potential, the local government has started developing it as a nature-based and adventure tourism park. With an investment of over NPR 15 million (FY 2080/81), the municipality has constructed necessary infrastructure to attract and engage visitors.
Daily traffic on this stretch of the Prithvi Highway is significant, as it connects major cities like Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara. This gives Ainapahara a strategic edge in drawing high footfall from travelers and tourists alike.
Entry Fees and Revenue Growth
The municipality has introduced a nominal entry fee of NPR 50 for locals and NPR 100 for other visitors, collected under an environmental protection charge. From Shrawan to Baisakh (FY 2081/82), it has already generated around NPR 4.2 million in revenue.
On holidays, the footfall increases significantly. According to Administrative Officer Bishnu Prasad Sharma, the park recently saw a record collection of NPR 46,300 in a single day, with around 1,000 visitors entering the park. On regular days, average ticket sales generate between NPR 8,000 to 10,000.
Upcoming Adventure Attractions: Skywalk, Zip-line, Glass Bridge
To further boost its appeal, the rural municipality is investing in adventure activities. Plans are underway to introduce a glass bridge, skywalk, and zip-line, all expected to be operational within the next 10 days. These additions aim to offer thrilling experiences while enhancing the park’s revenue-generating potential.
Officials project annual earnings of up to NPR 10 million from the destination once these attractions launch.
Expanding the Tourist Circuit: Motorboats, Temples, and River Adventures
Beyond Ainapahara, the municipality is also developing nearby religious and natural sites. Motorboat rides are already available on the Marsyangdi River, and infrastructure work is ongoing at religious spots like the Andimul Temple, Chimkeshwari Mai, and Budhi Mai Temples. These efforts aim to make the region a holistic tourism circuit blending nature, adventure, and spirituality.
Municipality Chairperson Shukra Chuman emphasized the area’s high potential due to its strategic location and growing popularity among travelers.
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