Cholung Park in Tehrathum: A cultural-natural connection between Nepal & Sikkim

PRASHANT ACHARYA

BASANTPUR (Eastern Nepal), : Cholung Park in Tehrathum, Eastern Nepal, has emerged not only as a picturesque haven that attracts tourists from around the world year-round, but also as a cultural bridge, connecting Nepal and Sikkim through the study of the Limbu language and heritage.

Arjun Babu Mabuhang, the Mayor of Laiguras Municipality in Basantpur and a noted writer whose book on Limbu culture has been included in the syllabus of Sikkim Alpine University since 2023, is actively working to promote cultural ties between Nepal and Sikkim. His efforts aim to preserve and promote the Limbu language and cultural identity across borders.

The park covered with green lush and rhododendron trees all around also has a historic museum where the original documents like ‘sanad’ and ‘rukka’-state order papers are preserved. These documents were donated by Indra Narayan Angdambe of Tumnayak, Panchthar, on December 23, 2023.

The museum also showcases traditional weapons of the Gorkha community, including khukuris, shields, swords, and hand cannons. Cultural attire of the Limbu, Bhutia, and Rai communities, as well as farming tools from ancient times and other significant historical artifacts, are also on display.

Speaking to this correspondent, Mabuhang emphasized that culture and tourism transcend borders. “Many tourists from Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Bhuta, particularly from the Limbu community, visit the park regularly. We are working to establish cultural connections between Nepal and Sikkim to further explore and celebrate Limbu heritage,” he said.

He also revealed plans to set up a cultural study centre for Limbus living across the globe, encouraging them to visit the park for cultural exchange, research, and tourism.

According to Mabuhang, the term ‘Cholung is derived from two Limbu words: “Cho” (a shortened from of “Chomen,” meaning to raise one’s head”) and “Lung” meaning stone. Together ‘Cholung’ means a benevolent or sacred stone. Several such culturally significant stones are placed around the park.

The park’s main attractions include the Limbu Tribe Museum and a 16-foot-tall Cultural Stone. Spanning approximately 9,157 square meters, the park was inaugurated in 2018 by senior poet Bairagi Kaila.

To boost tourism further, the Nepal Tourism department has launched the ‘Visit Koshi Programme,’ inviting media representatives from Sikkim, Bengal, Bihar, and other parts of Nepal to explore and promote the destination.

Basudev Baral, coordinator of the ‘Visit Koshi Programme’, highlighted the park's growing popularity. “Cholung Park offers both cultural depth and natural beauty. It’s not only historically important but also draws tourists from India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and beyond,” he said. “Visitor numbers are increasing each year, contributing to the local economy.”

“This park has become a paradise for nature lovers and a learning hub for those interested in the Limbu language and heritage,” added Baral.