Sudurpaschim Province, the seventh province of Nepal, borders Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north, Province No. 5, and Karnali Province to the east, Indian States Uttarkhand and Uttar Pradesh to the west and the south respectively. Covering an area of 19,874 km2, the province has nine districts with Dhangadhi as the largest city. Godawari, the province's capital city, is 666 km away from Kathmandu and 16 km away from Dhangadhi Airport. The province is accessible via roadways and airways.

Khaptad National Park, the gem of Sudurapaschim Province attracts thousands of Hindu pilgrims from India and is one of the popular trekking destinations. Sukhlaphanta National Park, thrilling raw and virgin national parks of Nepal, also lies in this province.

The province is famous for trekking destinations like Mount Saipal, and Mount Api. Badimalika – one of the pilgrimage sites and a trekking region, is another newly popular touristic destination that receives thousands of tourists during specific religious festivals.

The locals' language in this province is a different kind of Nepali, with some unique words and pronunciations. Locals of the region are rich in culture. They have been preserving their traditions in the form of dances like Deuda, Bhuwo, Hudkeuli, Thadi, etc. where locals were traditional costumes, play unique musical instruments, and perform a fascinating dance. The festivals like Janai Purnima and others are celebrated with high energy and enthusiasm in this region.

The facilities like lodges, restaurants, and teahouses lack in this region, especially in the mountain region like Khaptad and Shuklaphanta Region, so the trekkers will have to stay in tents and be self-sufficient. The region is a virgin and a new touristic destination. Therefore, the services are comparatively lacking, with extra challenges and risks.

The region is perfect for pilgrims, wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, trekkers, and wanderers who are looking for adventure along with challenges and escape from normality.

GETTING AROUND IN PROVINCE7

Sudurpaschim Province, the farthest and comparatively raw province of Nepal, is bordered by Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north, Province No. 5, and Karnali Province to the east, Indian States Uttarkhand and Uttar Pradesh to the west and the south respectively. Godawari, the capital city of the province, is 666 km away from Kathmandu and 16 km away from Dhangadhi Airport. The province is accessible via roadways and airways.

The province receives a smaller number of tourists than other tourist-popular regions in Nepal because of the distance from the capital, and the least available facilities. Being one of the provinces rich in trekking destinations with Khaptad National Park, Shuklaphanta National Park, Badimalika, Mount Api Base Camp, Mount Saipal Base Camp, the trails are raw and virgin, with no or very little accommodations and teashops available.

For trekkers, the Sudurpaschim province is accessible via domestic flights from Nepalgunj or Kathmandu to Bajhang or Dhangadhi. Four-wheelers run in most places in the terai and hill regions of the province. The area is lively with unique festivals, traditions, and dance forms. Locals speak Nepali but have a different accent, and the inter-religious people from different ethnic groups live in peace and harmony.

Exploring Sudurpaschim Province is not easy and is full of challenges. If you are looking for thrilling adventures along with terrific and long trekking experience, or want to explore the different side of Nepal, this province is the gem for you. Walk Through the Himalayas recommends you avoid solo exploration of the base camps and other raw trails to mountains in the province. It is better to understand routes, carry a map, be self-sufficient, and take a local and experienced guide along with you for a better experience.