Palpa’s Nuwakot developing into a hill station [In Pictures]

LUMBINI: Looking to escape the scorching heat of Butwal? A climb of less than an hour will take you to the serene Nuwakot hill in Palpa where the refreshing cold breeze awaits you. What’s even more captivating is the breathtaking bird’s eye view of Butwal from this hilltop.

Nuwakot, located in Tinau Municipality of Palpa, has developed into a popular hill station for residents of Butwal and its neighboring areas in recent years. In the bygone days, Nuwakot served as a fort, and it is believed that Nepali soldiers who fought in the Anglo-Nepal War rested at this very location. Additionally, the hill served as a customs point in the past, maintaining records of salt trade.

Of late, visitors have been flocking to this hill station in large numbers thanks to the construction of a motorable road from Butwal. There are three routes to reach the hilltop: first, a paved stair-case from Mani Mukunda Sen Park; second, an eight-kilometer trail from Shanti Chowk in Belbas; and third, a five-kilometer gravel road from Dobhan in Palpa.

Excitingly, preparations are underway to establish a cable car link between Butwal and Nuwakot fort, making the journey even more accessible and enjoyable. Once atop the hill, visitors can enjoy panoramic views, stretching from Butwal city to Tilottama, and as far as Bhairahawa.