Ex-British Army serviceman’s vision comes alive with Begnas Aqua Park

POKHARA: Begnas Aqua Park, a recreational facility featuring a restaurant and modern amenities, has recently opened its doors in Majhikuna in the Begnas Lake area of Kaski. The promoter of this venture is Muchhetra Gurung, an ex-British Army serviceman, who has not only established a unique recreational space but has also generated employment opportunities for 12 individuals.

Muchhetra served in the British Army for 18 years since joining at the age of 18. He hails from Gilung, Lamjung, with a family legacy of four generations serving in the British Army. His grandfather and father served in the British Army, while his son Samir is currently serving. Although he had an option to live in the United Kingdom after retirement, Muchhetra decided to return to Nepal with his wife Laxmi with the feeling that he should contribute to his homeland.

“This is a small thing I have done in my homeland. I won’t return now,” Muchhetra stated when asked about his choice to return to Nepal.

Muchhetra is a former president of the Non-Resident Nepalese Association (NRNA). Begnas Aqua Park is Muchhetra’s second business venture in Nepal. He invested in Hotel Blue Magnet in Lakeside four years ago. He has invested a huge amount of money in the new venture, established in collaboration with Kanchan Capital Group. He, however, did not disclose the exact amount. Begnas Aqua Park aims to promote tourism development and create jobs for the local people.

Begnas Aqua Park offers dining facilities, a swimming pool, and ample parking space, providing visitors with an opportunity to appreciate the scenic beauty of the lake, mountains, and forest. Local cuisines, including dishes made from the fish of Begnas Lake, are served in the restaurant.

“Begnas Aqua Park will play a significant role in the tourism sector of the Begnas region in the future,” said Dumbar Gurung, another former president of NRNA UK.

Looking ahead, Muchhetra plans to introduce sky cycling on the property. Despite encountering challenges with government administrative procedures for investment partnerships, he remains optimistic about the prospects for non-resident Nepalis looking to invest in the country.

His commitment to community involvement is evident through his roles as a member of the Nepal Former Athletes Association and founder and vice president of Sahara Club UK. He has been supporting children currently residing in Sahara Academy. He even brought a team from the UK to participate in Pokhara’s flagship football tournament, the Aha Rara Gold Cup.

“Nobody would have known me had I chosen to spend my retirement days in the UK. One shouldn’t look elsewhere to spend their life after retirement,” Muchhetra added.