Manpang is a beautiful and scenic hilly region located in Myagde Rural Municipality–Ward No. 6, Tanahun District, Gandaki Province, Nepal. Rising up to 1,070 meters above sea level, it is considered the highest hill area of Myagde Rural Municipality.
Adjacent to Manpang lies another prominent hill known as Kotchuli Danda.
The term Manpang broadly refers to the hilly landscape bordered by fertile Sange Phant in the east, Myagde Phant in the south, and extending up to Jamdi in the west. Within this area lie numerous small settlements, known by different local names.
Culturally, Manpang is a multi-ethnic and multi-caste settlement, reflecting rich social harmony and diversity.
Historical and Cultural Significance
According to local elders, Manpang served as a fortified site (Gadhi) during the Baise–Chaubise states era. This historical claim is supported by the remaining ruins of guard posts (Kot) and weapon storage structures found in the area.
Kotchuli Danda has now been developed as a religious site, where locals have constructed a Manakamana Temple, enhancing its spiritual importance.
Settlement Pattern and Cultural Diversity.
Sange: Predominantly Brahmin settlement
Harshapur, Dadagaun, Majhilang: Mixed Magar and Newar communities
Archale: Presence of Gandharva community
Dhoke and Tilahar: Gurung and Thakuri settlements
Shyam Danda and Manpang: Gurung-majority areas
Bohoribot, Sarbalang, Rahul Danda, Ramkot: Magar-majority settlements
Keurang: Mixed Magar and Gurung community
Chihan Danda: Small village with a single Sarki (Nepali surname) community.
Bazarkot: Once a dense Newar settlement and trade center, now nearly deserted due to migration.
Thanthok: Previously dense mixed settlement (Chhetri). Magar, Damai, Kami), now reduced to a few households.
Dhairani: Chhetri and Magar settlement still existing.
Mijethum and Tilyatar: Previously dominated by Chhetri, Brahmin, Newar, and Kumal communities; now evolving into urban-oriented mixed settlements due to new migration.
Chhabise, Atharabise (Akala Temple), Turuture,
Seraphant: Newly developing settlements
This distribution highlights Manpang’s deep-rooted cultural plurality and historical transitions.
Tourism Possibilities
Cultural Tourism
Harshapur – Danda Gaun
Dhoke–Tilahar
Keurang
Bohoribot
These areas can be promoted as cultural tourism destinations reflecting ethnic traditions, settlement patterns, and rural lifestyles.
Historical, Cultural & Religious Tourism
Manpang Kot
Kotchuli Danda
These sites are ideal for development as historical, cultural, and religious destinations.
Scenic Viewpoint
Kotchuli Danda is an excellent viewpoint, offering:
Panoramic views of surrounding villages and vast valleys
Spectacular sights of all Annapurna Himalayan peaks, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri
Ideal conditions for sunrise and sunset viewing
Religious Tourism
Major religious sites include:
Mulbarahi Temple
Atharabise Akala Temple
Among them, Atharabise Akala, located near the Prithvi Highway, is rapidly gaining popularity. It receives approximately 100,000 devotees annually and is also a favored location for:
Picnics
Weddings
Bratabandha (sacred thread ceremonies)
For domestic tourism, Atharabise Akala stands as the leading religious destination of Myagde Rural Municipality, significantly supporting local trade and businesses.
Adventure Tourism
Manpang is also suitable for adventure tourism, including:
Trekking routes from Damauli → Sange → Manpang Kot Khairanitar (Shuklagandaki) or Kotre (Kaski border)
Cycling trails along the same route
These routes are scenic, culturally rich, and ideal for both trekkers and cyclists.
Conclusion
Manpang holds immense potential as a combined destination for historical, cultural, religious, scenic, and adventure tourism, making it one of the most promising tourism landscapes in Tanahun District and Gandaki Province.