PANCHTHAR, April 9: Hills in Sukepokhari of Panchthar have turned flaming red with blooming rhododendrons.

Had it not been lockdown period, local would have flocked at hill station to attend the week-long annual cultural fair organized on the occasion of Nepali New Year. There would be crowds of people along those forests posing for photographs and enjoy the natural beauty in this season.

However, the hill stations have witnessed almost zero visitors due to the lockdown. Due to nationwide lockdown order enforced by the government in an attempt to contain the spread of coronavirus disease, people rarely come out of their houses let alone paying a visit to those naturally beautiful place. Of course, Panchthar is not an exception.

"Although there are plenty of rhododendrons this season, these hills are silent as no visitor comes here," a local resident Bharat Fago told Republica Online on Thursday.

Located alongside Mechi Highway in eastern Nepal, Sukepokhari used to witness significant numbers of domestic tourists in this season resulting in good income generation of the locals. According to Faujman Rai, a local, the fair which holds during this time every year provides an opportunity for the locals to boost their business and trade.

Not only Sukepokhari, but all the tourist hubs around the country have also turned silent. Here are some beautiful shots taken on Thursday.

 
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