Chame, March 27, 2025 - Manang, a remote district in Nepal, has witnessed a groundbreaking milestone in transportation. For the first time, a passenger bus successfully completed a trial run from Besisahar, Lamjung, to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. This significant step is expected to revolutionize the region's transportation system, bringing relief to locals and tourists alike.
A bus with license plate Na 6 Kha 9579, which usually operates on the Besisahar–Pokhara route, reached Chame on March 20, carrying passengers. The trial run, initiated by the private sector, marks a major achievement, paving the way for regular bus services from the upcoming New Year (April 13, 2025).
A Transformational Development for Manang
The introduction of bus services has sparked hope among the people of Manang. Suresh Ghimire, the bus operator, expressed his determination to establish regular services along the route. “After observing that even 10-wheeler trucks for the under-construction Manang–Marsyangdi hydropower project could travel to Chame, we decided to test the feasibility of bus operations. The trial was successful without any issues,” Ghimire stated.
Experienced driver Binod Rimal safely navigated the bus along the narrow and gravel roads to Chame. Ghimire emphasized that only skilled drivers will be assigned to this route to ensure safety, as the terrain remains challenging for inexperienced drivers.
Boost to Local Transportation
Until now, Manang has relied on small vehicles like Boleros and Tata Sumos for transportation. These vehicles, designed to carry five passengers, often transport up to 15 passengers along with goods, making journeys risky and expensive. A single trip on the 64-kilometer route from Besisahar to Chame costs NPR 1,250 per passenger.
With the introduction of buses, locals anticipate a safer, more affordable, and reliable transportation option. The buses will also cater to the increasing number of foreign tourists visiting Manang for trekking in the Annapurna region.
Preparations for Regular Operations
The District Administration Office of Manang has taken steps to formalize bus services. Chief District Officer Matrika Acharya confirmed that a coordination meeting held on March 9 decided to begin regular bus operations on New Year’s Day.
The Dumre–Besisahar–Chame Road Project is also addressing road safety concerns. Chief Engineer Satish Subedi stated that contractors have been instructed to install traffic signs along the route, which will be completed soon.
Currently, only seven kilometers of the road from Besisahar to Khudi is blacktopped, and 10 kilometers above Khudi is concreted. The remaining 47 kilometers is gravel, but repairs and road widening efforts are underway to facilitate bus operations.
A Step Towards Accessibility and Economic Growth
The successful trial run of a passenger bus to Chame is a transformative development for Manang, enhancing connectivity for residents and tourists. The initiative is expected to reduce travel costs, improve road safety, and support economic growth in the region.
With strong local administration support and further road improvements, the Besisahar–Chame bus service is set to become a lifeline for the people of Manang and a new chapter in the district’s transportation history.
