The northern Korala border in Upper Mustang, which lies adjacent to the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, has recently become a popular destination for domestic tourists in Nepal. From capturing photos at the border post to admiring the impressive structures on the Tibetan plateau, the area has seen a significant surge in visitors.

The breathtaking views of the plateau and the surrounding landscape have captivated tourists, drawing over a hundred Nepali visitors daily, especially during the summer months. This newfound popularity has also given a boost to the tourism industry in Upper Mustang.

The Korala border gained prominence after the Indian blockade, as the Nepali government focused on developing trade routes to northern border crossings. The Beni-Jomsom-Korala road project, a national pride initiative, was launched in the fiscal year 2016/17 to improve connectivity. So far, 105 kilometers of the 202-kilometer road have been blacktopped, while the remaining 99 kilometers have been graveled, making it easier for tourists to access the border by bus, jeep, or motorcycle. The 74-kilometer Beni-Jomsom road and the 110-kilometer Jomsom-Korala road can now be traversed in a single day.

Bikash KC, chief of the Lomanthang Rural Municipality Administration, noted that improved road conditions have led to a growing number of Nepali youth visiting the Korala border. This influx of tourists has significantly benefited Upper Mustang's tourism sector.

However, some visitors have raised concerns about the lack of infrastructure at the border. Madhav Chhetri, a local resident of Pokhara who recently visited the area, highlighted the need for better facilities.

"While the road conditions have improved, the border lacks basic amenities for tourists and locals. The Chinese side has built grand structures, but we have yet to see similar development on our side," he said.

Lomanthang bazar near Korola border. Photos: RSS

Ramji Poudel, a tourist from Syangja, emphasized the potential of the Korala border as both a tourism hub and a trade route between Nepal and China. He urged the government to take proactive steps to develop the area, especially given its strategic location and accessibility to Mansarovar in China.

Umesh Poudel, chief of the ACAP Lomanthang Office, reported that the number of domestic tourists visiting Upper Mustang has been increasing annually, thanks to the upgraded Korala road. He also noted that more hotels with quality facilities are being established in the region to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

Each year, over 500,000 domestic tourists visit Mustang, primarily to Muktinath, a famous pilgrimage site. According to police statistics, one-third of these tourists also travel to the Korala border. The border was officially opened for Upper Mustang residents on November 13, 2023, allowing them to access the Tibetan market in Korala for trade. However, the lack of operational customs and immigration offices has created challenges for both locals and tourists.

Visitors to the Korala border often face difficulties due to the absence of basic amenities such as eateries and restrooms. Local businesses operate out of tents, as commercial infrastructure remains underdeveloped. While domestic tourists flock to the border, foreign tourists are limited by strict entry permits. The government charges $500 for a 10-day permit to visit Upper Mustang, which is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area. As a result, foreign tourists account for only about 3% of the total visitors to Mustang annually, according to ACAP statistics. -- RSS