Nepalgunj sub-metropolitan city in Banke district is one of the major cities and the economic hub of the Province 5. The industrial city shares its border with Bahraich district in the Uttar Pradesh state of India. Apart from its industrial significance, Nepalgunj is also the transit point to tourist destinations including Dolpo, Jumla, Mugu, Rukum, among others.

With the boost in the tourism sector since the 1950s, Nepalgunj has experienced significant industrial growth and at present, there are more than 30 industries under operation. The city is also a trading point for people from neighbouring hilly districts.

Nepalgunj, however, has more to offer than just its fair share of economic activities. The city is also known for its rich cultures and traditions. People from diverse communities, religions, and cultures have been living together, sharing their norms and traditions among each other for a long time. The city boasts a large number of people speaking the native Awadhi language.

In the 1960s and 70s, volunteers from the US Peace Corps were posted across Nepal, serving and teaching in various sectors, including education, farming, and health.

These photos taken by them show the lives of people of Nepalgunj at a different time in history.

This photo essay is part of our Once Upon a Time series, featuring photographs taken by US Peace Corps volunteers in the 1960s and 70s.

To see more photo essays in the series, visit tkpo.st/eka-deshma