BAJURA, MAY 16 Visitor numbers to the religious and scenic site of Badimalika in Bajura have increased in recent months amid rising publicity and public discussion. According to locals and guides, interest in the site has grown after remarks made during election campaigning by Prime Minister Balendra Shah in Dhangadhi, where he compared Badimalika's beauty to Switzerland. Guide and local resident of Badimalika Municipality–8, Nar Bahadur Rawal, said that while earlier only occasional visitors reached the site, there has now been a steady daily flow of pilgrims and tourists.

Located at an altitude of around 4,200 metres above sea level, Badimalika is considered both a religious pilgrimage destination and a natural tourism site. Mayor Amar Bahadur Khadka said improved publicity in recent days has contributed to increased arrivals. Traditionally, most pilgrims visited the site only during the annual Janai Purnima festival when the main worship takes place. However, visitors are now arriving throughout the year, drawn by beliefs that prayers offered here fulfil wishes, cure illnesses and bring prosperity.

The area is known for attractions such as the Triveni region, 22 alpine pastures, flowering meadows, Vishnupani and Dharmadwar. Local mythology holds that paddy fields in the Khetibeti area remained unchanged since a legendary battle between Goddess Bhagwati and Mahisasura. Badimalika is also home to rare wildlife and bird species including danphe, monal and musk deer, along with panoramic Himalayan views of peaks such as Api and Saipal. Despite its religious and tourism significance, locals say the area lacks basic infrastructure. Absence of proper trails, drinking water, sanitation facilities, accommodation and signage has made travel difficult for pilgrims. Accidents along the route are also reported annually.

Last year, two pilgrims died while returning from the site after falling on the trail, according to local authorities. Residents have called for urgent government attention for conservation, infrastructure development, waste management and establishment of emergency health services. They have also suggested forming a dedicated management committee to protect and promote the site as a national heritage and tourism destination.