Jhandi Danda (झन्डीडाँडा), located in Rong Rural Municipality-6, Rambhyang, Ilam, is an attractive tourist destination. Its significance and accessibility have increased following the creation of the Karson walking trail from Haspokhari on the Mechi Highway.
Jhande Danda (झन्डीडाँडा) is also known by the name Gajlethumka (गाजलेथुम्का).
From here, one can view dozens of Himalayan ranges including Kanchenjunga and Kumbhakarna to the north, as well as many places in the hills and the Terai.
Jhandi Danda (झन्डीडाँडा) holds great potential not only for its beauty but also for adventurous sports. Recently, a tower structure was built to attract more tourists, and stairs with railings have been constructed to make the climb more appealing.
Situated 17 kilometers north of Kakarbhitta in Jhapa and 10 kilometers south of Harkate Bazaar on the Mechi Highway, Jhandi Danda is conveniently accessible from both the hills and the Terai, making it a place with immense tourism potential. It is also accessible from India through the Mechi River. There are both vehicular and walking routes from Haspokhari and Beauty Border to reach Jhande Danda.
With a cycling road available, young people also visit this trail on bicycles. The rarity of such a high peak in the Chure region adds to the significance of Jhandi Danda. Tourists have started camping and organizing campfires here.
A Heritage of Kirat Culture
Jhandi Danda (झन्डीडाँडा) holds religious and cultural importance. It is considered a site where the ancient Kirat Rai ancestor Rinahang worshipped the goddess. Local leaders named the playground in Rambhyang ‘Rinahang Thulo Aahal Sports Ground,’ which is also known as Jhandi Sports Ground. During festivals like Udhauli and Ubhauli, Kiratis would hoist flags and banners as part of their rituals.
Historical records suggest that flags were planted on this hill after the completion of religious rituals and ceremonies, which is believed to be the origin of the name Jhandi Danda. The Kiratis, or Sampang Rai, also referred to this hill as ‘Rinahang Danda.’ As a heritage site of Kirat culture, Jhandi Danda has now become a major attraction for tourists. Even today, there is a Sakela shrine here, and rituals are performed during Udhauli and Ubhauli. The Sakela dance, accompanied by drums and cymbals, is also performed.
Scenic Views from Jhande Danda
From here, one can witness mesmerizing views of the sunrise and sunset. The best season for viewing the sunrise is from October to May. To reach Jhandi Danda (झन्डीडाँडा), one can take the Karson trail from Haspokhari through Google Point, Dewangadhi, Giddhebhir, Daile, and Hallane, and spend the night near Dhaje Bhanjyang. There are homestays near Dhaje. After watching the sunrise from Jhandi Danda the next morning, the journey towards Jhapa can be resumed. Locals have traditionally visited this area to watch the sunrise.
From Jhande Danda, one can also view Kanyam, Antu Danda, Sandakpur, Meghma, Thumke, the Mechi River, as well as towns and villages in Ilam and Jhapa. Additionally, parts of India like Darjeeling, Ghoom Hill, upper regions of Sikkim, Kharsang, Siliguri, Matigara, Bagdogra, and the Teesta River can also be seen.
Picnics
Locals have long visited this area for picnics (previously known as ‘forest meals’) during spring and autumn. Nowadays, school groups, youth groups, and Deusi groups from the Terai visit this place to escape the heat and enjoy picnics, often arriving by tractor, pickup, and jeep. Improving road infrastructure and accommodation facilities would likely increase this trend.
Adventure Sports Potential in Jhandi Danda
Successful trials for paragliding have already been conducted in the vicinity of Jhandi Danda. Paragliding trials were held here in 2021. Tourism entrepreneurs aim to attract tourists from as far as Kolkata, India, once paragliding operations commence. Since the paragliding route descends from Ilam to Jhapa, it will link the tourism sectors of both districts. Conducting paragliding landings near Mini Mountain could further highlight the tourist potential of Mini Mountain and its surrounding areas.
Homestays
To cater to tourists visiting Jhandi Danda, homestays have been expanded in Rambhyang, providing food and lodging. For tourists visiting Jhandi Danda, Rambhyang Homestay at the house of Dashrath Rizal, Sarita Homestay at the house of Vishal Sampang, and Jhande Danda Homestay at the house of Prajun Rai are in operation. In Rambhyang, simple meals cost 150 rupees, and a night’s stay in a room costs 500 rupees.
Video: Sulav Yatra
Prem Rai
6 months agoNot adventure games available but for the side scene and nature wise is Love it. they should repair and clean the public washroom over there I have seen I washroom there but that one is not running at all and full dirty and for the snacks and others item shop is very limited in future if the organization maintenance. Properly this place I can see a good future ahead no tickets needed but for the traveling is bit trouble private and reserve vacales prefer .
Amit Goswami
6 months agoYou have to take an absolute body bursting off-road track to reach here. It took almost an hour for 9kms of distance. This place is serene and untouched. You will have a great view of the valley here and a beautiful sunrise and sunset
Biplove Rai “Vlogs”
5 months agoit’s was amazing spot for picnic and trekking you must be visit your friends and family definitely best for this place. if you want to knowing this full details watch my YouTube video YouTube Channel Name Biplove Rai Vlogs and don’t forget to share your Experience Jhandi Danda Keep Travelling “ Keep ExploringRating : 5/5 Less MaintenanceEnjoying Your Day 🤞🥰
Ravi Poudel
9 months agoThe natural scenery and view of Southern Nepal and Some parts of India over the mechi river is amazing but it is very difficult to reach there as the road conditions are worse. Renowned for orange trees all over the villagers.Buy the orange farming is decreased significantly and most people are shifting towards other options like Amlisho, homestays and trade to terai region markets.
Bali Hang Rai
a year agoExcellent View Sight. Spectacular scene of Mechi river, Jhapa, Bahundagi, Ilam, Antu Danda, Kanyam can be viewed from here. Also many parts of India can also be seen. Long hike can be taken. If the road conditions can be improved then it will be no.1 destination. Recommended for everyone.