Dashain holidays saw an increasing number of tourists frequenting Manhunkot in Ward No. 5 of Byas Municipality, Tanahun. Manhunkot, a vantage point for the best view of Damauli Bazaar, became a hit on social media and since then domestic tourists have been flocking the point to witness sunrises.

However, the new tourist hub is not prepared to welcome tourists in such large numbers, locals say. The road infrastructure is poor and accommodation for tourists is negligent.

On Wednesday, a microbus carrying 16 individuals fell off the road in Tanahun. A woman died in the accident, according to the District Police Office, while several others were injured.

“The road to Manhunkot is under construction. It is a steep and rough road. That is why the microbus driver could not manoeuvre his vehicle through the steep road,” said the municipality Mayor Baikuntha Neupane

Likewise, a man was recently found dead in one of the guest houses in the village. He had come to Manhunkot with a group of 15 other individuals on Tuesday night.

“The individual, who had stayed in a local’s house, was found dead in his bed,” said Neupane.

There are only seven houses in Manhunkot with no hotels. Visitors have to spend the night outdoors or seek shelter at a local’s house.

“Manhunkot has become viral on social media of late. Because of this, the flow of tourists has increased but there’s no infrastructure or hotels to accommodate the rising number of tourists,” Neupane said.

Meanwhile, Superintendent of Police in Tanahun Arun Paudel said, “There are security challenges in Manhunkot due to the increased people’s movement. We have started a police patrol after the place saw an increasing number of tourists in recent days. We will have to establish a police post here soon.”