Summer Fiesta 2025 : A Memorable Journey to Chitlang with NATHM

Day 1: The Beginning of the Journey

On 2082/5/9 (August 25, 2025), our exciting journey began. A day before, my 6th-semester student Arpan Tiwari had called me: “Sir, you have to come to Chitlang tomorrow.” Later that evening, Shubham Poudel Sir (BTTM coordinator of NATHM) also asked me if I was free to join. After checking my schedule, I agreed and confirmed on WhatsApp.

The next morning, I reached NATHM at 6:45 AM. Before heading to the office, I had breakfast 'Chana and eggs' at Thapa Dai’s shop. At the Ravichautari, Loknath Tripathi (6th Sem Student) briefed us about the day’s itinerary. Soon after, at 08:30 AM, our hiking began from NATHM.

It had been almost a month since I last went hiking, so the fresh trail felt exciting. Our group of ten formed a team, and the crew members led us ahead. I stayed in the middle, connecting both the front and back groups. The hiking trail had changed a lot since I last walked it years ago - now there were proper signboards, stone steps, and improvements.

Along the way, one girl felt tired and said, “Sir, I’m feeling dizzy, it’s difficult.” We gave her a short rest, offered some cold drinks and chewing gum, and encouraged her to continue slowly. She kept asking, “How much longer? How many more uphills?” and I replied with a smile, “Don’t worry, just enjoy the walk - we’ll reach soon.” During the hike, I met many lively and talkative students - Rumba, Sherpas, Moktan, Rai. Among them, Rumba caught my attention. I asked him the meaning of his unique name. He shared the meaning of his name with me - how wonderful! It was nice meeting him.

What an inspiring story! We kept walking, chatting, and laughing until we reached Deurali. After a short meal, we divided into two groups: one group took the easy route led by Loknath, Sanket, Bipul, while I, along with Topi Guide -Sujan Humagai, led the adventurous trail. My group had 8 students (2 girls and 6 boys). The trail was tough - steep rocky paths and slippery stones - but full of adventure.

On the way, we even saw a national army training group cooking their own food in tin pots, which made us hungry too! Finally, our group became the first to reach Chitlang village. There, we explored ancient heritage - including Kun Mandir ma janxou yatri geet wrote place, stone spouts with inscriptions, old trading routes from medieval times, prayer flags, and local vegetable farms. By afternoon, we reached Chitlang Organic Resort.

After check-in, shower, and lunch, the students’ program began. The first game was “Ghaito Futaune” (pot breaking). Some students struggled due to coordination issues, but eventually, the round was completed. Next came the tug-of-war, with hilarious team names like 10 Tigers vs Mustard Army. After three intense rounds, Mustard Army (Tori Laure ) emerged as the winner.

The girls’ tug-of-war followed, between Saibu Team and Superpower Girls. After a tie, Team Saibu won in the final round. We distributed prizes, clicked photos, and later enjoyed DJ music at another resort. By 11:40 PM, after dinner and student check-ins, I finally went to bed. Day one was complete.

Day 2: Exploring Kunchhal Village

The next morning, after breakfast, we divided again into two groups - one went to visit Kunchhal village, while the other stayed back for camping setup and demonstrations.

I led Section B students to Kunchhal. This was my second visit to the village, the first being back in the 2080 BS Chaitra during my student years. After getting off the bus, we met our supposed guide, Buddharam Gopali. Unfortunately, he was drunk, so I had to call our organiser Topi Guide for help. The students laughed at the situation, and we decided to explore on our own.

Walking through traditional houses, stone taps, and courtyards, we reached Ganesh Mandir, where I explained about the Gopali community. Later, Teacher Nirajan Gopali, a respected leader, joined us and shared in detail about their traditions:

Gopali is a unique indigenous community, with no outsiders historically.
They practiced collective farming, animal husbandry, and trade.
Social rules were strict, including fines for missing communal duties.
Weddings and rituals were conducted within the village.
They have a 12-year traditional dance called Kam Sen & Chandra Sen, which is like a living history performance.
Ancient heritage includes temples, stone spouts, guthi lands, and old trade routes.
Learning these details made the students realize how rich and preserved the Gopali culture is.

After returning to the resort, we had lunch and later enjoyed live music in the evening. I especially loved Shubham Poudel Sir’s performance. Later, discussions with Lakpa Sir, Dambar Sir, and Ma’am revolved around Manaslu Treks, NMA elections, and Nepal’s tourism future.

Day 3: The Final Day

On the last day, after breakfast, Devendra Nepal Sir guided the students for a Chitlang village tour. Some of us teachers also joined and explored the village lanes, even buying some local chilies. Later, Damber R Bhatta Sir led a guided meditation session for the students. Personally, it was a refreshing experience - I felt a sense of calm and focus.

After lunch, we headed back to Kathmandu, reaching around 5 PM. By evening, I was already back in Kalimati, tired but filled with joy.

This three-day journey was more than just a summer fest - it was an experience of learning, laughter, and culture. Hiking through ancient trails, exploring Chitlang and Kunchhal, learning about indigenous traditions, and sharing moments with both students and fellow educators made it truly memorable. A heartfelt thank you to the BTTM 2nd and 6th-semester students, Shubham Poudel , Dhamber R Bhatta Sir, Lakpa Sherpa and Ma'am, Debendra Nepal who made this journey so meaningful. Summer Fest 2025 at NATHM will remain a beautiful memory in my heart. ✨

Finally, I want to give THANK the organizing team: Arpan Tiwari, Pratika Adhikari, Loknath Tripathi, Mandira Tamli, Manzul Basnet, Rikesh Maharjan, Sushmita Shrestha, Sujal Man Shrestha (Haku), Sujan Humagain (Topi Guide), Kushal Poudel, Sanket Rimal, Bipul Bysal for putting together Summer Fiesta 2025. You all are my 6th Semester students from BTTM 20th Batch-NATHM, and I’m really proud of you. Thank you for inviting me to join the Event. It was a great time walking, discussing, and coordinating with your team.

Your hard work and teamwork were clearly seen. Wishing you all the best for your future - keep doing great things! Also, big thanks to Mr. Sanket Rimal for the beautiful photos. Keep it up, and blessings to you, Sanket!

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