POKHARA OF THE EAST

Jamunkhadi Simsar or Jamunkhadi Wetland Conservation Project is a newly introduced tourist destination of eastern Nepal. Operated by Jamunbari Community Forest (JCF), the Simsar lies in Jamunbari, Surunga Village Development Committee, Ward no. 3, Jhapa district of Nepal. It is roughly 1.5 km away north from the main east-west national highway. Few years ago, in the initiative of Mr. Kedar Giri (founder President of JCF) some young environment activists of that area introduced the concept of community forest with an objective to conserve woods, maintain ecological balance and protect wildlife. Today it stands as the best example of afforestation in the region. Not long ago some foreign TV channel also highlighted Jamunkhadi with a good coverage.

  The total land area covered by JCF is 500 hectares of which Jamunkhadi Simsar occupies 10 hectares and presently about 4 hectares of land is filled with natural water which forms a lake suitable for boating. Nearly fifty years ago there was a big pond known as Jamunikhadi which was densely covered with water lily and other aquatic plants. It was a home to many species of birds like wild goose, pheasants and was frequented by wild beasts such as wild boar, swamp deer and even tiger to quench their thirst. Time passed by; for a few decades nobody seemed to pay attention to conserve the pond. In due course of time Jamunikhadi almost vanished, lost its identity and was on the verge of extinction. The new generation of that locality could not stand the pathetic condition of Jamunikhadi. And finally few young blood determined to restore the lost glory. Eventually, people’s awareness, local participation and three years’ hardship transformed Jamunikhadi into the present-day Jamunkhadi Simsar.  As the government of Nepal has declared Year 2011 as Nepal Tourism Year, this is the perfect, successful and appropriate concept of village tourism. Hats off to the people of Jamunbari.

   Although the project has a long-term work-plan to develop this area into a full-fledged tourist destination, boating, a mini zoological park and rubber extraction are the  main attractions for the time being. The trident shaped natural lake is up to twelve feet deep and is surrounded three quarter by tall sal trees and other wild shrubs and bushes. Locals called it 'Pokhara of the East'  because it is actually a recreational spot, the only venue for boating in the east fancied by many. The entire locality boasts of this  Simsar. The charge is  Rs. 25 for 25 minutes. People from all walks of  life and holiday makers even from neighboring Indian states   of Assam, Darjeeling, Sikkim come for boating, picnic and short vacation. Everyday more than two hundred visitors have fun here. As days become hotter more people crowd in for refreshment. Those who have never experienced the charm of boating are found to be extremely delighted and enthralled upon their arrival to the venue. The thrill of boating under the azure blue, with an unknown jungle fragrance in the serene lake is unforgettable. Row or peddle your boat in the late afternoon, click your camera to capture moments of ecstasy and get yourself relaxed with cool, soothing breeze coming from the nearby thicket. The chirping of birds, the whistling sounds of trees, the unheard wild melodies of the jungle are some of the salient features that reside deep in your mind. The most unique excitement once you go there is the spontaneous feeling of being in the wilderness. Arrange family picnic as there is enough space for relaxations. Some label it as a "lovers' meeting point" because the Simsar coverage offers peaceful spaces aloof from human intrusion. Young pairs find it to be a paradise  where they can share their feelings for one another. Foreign travellers set out for trekking in the eastern hills or mountaineers heading towards Kanchenjunga region are suggested to halt one day for camping in the vicinity. It’s surely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

   Within the Simsar there is a mini zoo (entry fee Rs. 10 p.p.) where you can have a rare sight of three pythons, one of which is claimed to be the biggest ever found in the country. This python weighing 42 kilograms with 14 feet length was caught by some tribal groups in the jungle of Jalthal and it attracts the most visitors. In the aviary the best attraction among others is a Brown Fish Owl (natives called it Huchchill) looking majestic and gorgeous. In the animal section you can see deer, otter, mongoose, monkey, hare, guinea pigs and all.

  Do you know how rubber is produced? Do not miss to watch rubber being extracted from a rubber tree. They also have a rubber plantation from which a good revenue is generated.

Mr. Parshu Ram Giri, the present chairman of the JFC, says that there is a lot more to do for the betterment of the Simsar area. “Good vision, perfect coordination and perseverance will definitely bring success to one’s life” he says.

     

So, what're you waiting for? Visit Jamunkhadi Simsar at once and feel yourself proud to be a part of the endeavour of the locals to promote village tourism. Pay little and enjoy more. Where else can you avail of such an opportunity?