Myagdi: Until a few years ago, Ratnechaur village, located in Beni Municipality-1, Myagdi, was reliant on red soil and agriculture. Today, it has gained recognition as one of the district’s most famous tourist destinations.

From October to January, the area sees a significant influx of both domestic and international tourists. Visitors flock to enjoy the scenic views of the Dhaulagiri Himalayas, Myagdi, Baglung, and Parbat’s rural landscapes, alongside the golden mustard fields in the winter months. The picturesque mustard fields attract picnickers and sightseers, particularly during December and January.

Located between Beni and Baglung, Ratnechaur has gone viral on social media. The mustard fields are now a hotspot for creating TikTok videos and capturing memorable moments. Since the beginning of December, more than 12,000 tourists have visited the village, according to local leader Bharat KC.

To the north, the dazzling snow-capped mountain peaks shine like silver, while to the south, the mustard fields bloom vibrantly amidst flat terrains. The smooth blacktopped road passing through the fields adds to the village’s charm, drawing hundreds of tourists daily.

The bright yellow mustard flowers have transformed Ratnechaur into a stunning destination. The panoramic view of the Dhaulagiri range, lush green fields, and golden mustard blossoms enhance the area’s natural beauty, says Harish Gautam from Kushma, Parbat.

From Ratnechaur, one can enjoy a clear view of Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh-highest mountain (8,167 meters). The scenic blend of blooming mustard fields and the well-maintained Beni-Baglung road has made the location even more attractive. Bees and bumblebees buzzing around the flowers bring life to the village. Visitors are often seen admiring the fields and the majestic mountain views.

The green wheat plants growing amidst the mustard fields capture everyone’s attention. Ratnechaur’s fields are filled with waving wheat and mustard plants, providing a perfect setting for youths and families to create TikTok videos, dance, and enjoy themselves.

The blacktopped Ratnechaur-Arjam-Jyamrukkot road, bordered by blooming mustard fields, snow-capped mountains, and smooth roads, serves as a backdrop for countless photos and videos. Local resident Netra Bahadur Mahat shared that hundreds of tourists visit daily, with Ratnechaur now recognized as an emerging agro-tourism destination. Efforts are ongoing to preserve the village’s traditional charm while promoting it as an agricultural tourism hub.

Just a few years ago, Ratnechaur was quiet and isolated. The blacktopping of its roads has now made it accessible, attracting visitors who come by vehicle to capture the scenic beauty. Crowds are particularly large on Fridays, Saturdays, and public holidays. Managing the influx of tourists from Myagdi, Baglung, and Parbat has become a challenge for locals, says Santosh Mahat.

Adding to the allure, the 388-meter-long suspension bridge connecting Ratnechaur to Kudule (Fedi) in Baglung has become another tourist attraction. “With people coming to enjoy the bridge, the mustard fields, and picnics, the crowds are overwhelming,” remarked Mahat.

Former ward chair Tek Bahadur Thapa noted that the surrounding greenery, the smiling Dhaulagiri Himalayas, and the yellow mustard fields are not only boosting tourism but also supporting the local economy. He emphasized the potential for developing the area into a national-level agro-tourism destination, promoting local mustard products while drawing in even more tourists during the season.

RASAS