Beyond Sustainability: What Prakriti Taught Me About Regenerative Tourism

December 30, 2025

One day, while scrolling through my feed, I came across Prakriti Resort and Organic Farm. Curious, I searched more about it and discovered that they were actively practicing sustainable tourism in Nepal. That immediately caught my attention.

During my Master’s studies, my teachers often talked about sustainable tourism - how it should protect nature, support local communities, and create long-term value. But sometimes I asked myself a deeper question:

Isn’t this what we are already doing at home?

I come from Gunadhara, Kavre, where farming, land care, and community living are part of daily life. Many times, I wondered - Is this tourism? Is this a business model? And why are we studying something that already exists around us?

I had read and learned about many international sustainable tourism practices, but honestly, I had never experienced them closely in Nepal. That’s when Prakriti Resort felt different- real, local, and meaningful.

Before this visit, Arun Shrestha Sir, the founder of Prakriti, and I were already connected on LinkedIn. We exchanged comments, messages, and mostly discussed business ideas. One day, we met in person at the Nepal Tourism Board. I introduced myself:

“I’m Upadesh Sjb Kunwar, from Ambassador Himalaya Treks and Expedition. My focus is sustainable and responsible tourism.”

Interestingly, we both come from Kavrepalanchok. I shared my interest in his work and wished him success. With a warm smile, he invited me to visit Prakriti Resort, to explore and learn from their model. I happily agreed.

Every weekend, I planned to go, but university work, studies, and business always got in the way.

Turning a Board Meeting into a Learning Journey

As an Executive Board Member of the Nepal Tourism Development Entrepreneurs Association (NTDEA), we were planning a board meeting that would also include learning and refreshment. I suggested:

“Why don’t we explore a new destination with a regenerative tourism concept?”

Everyone showed interest, and Prakriti Resort became our choice, but with a twist. We decided to walk from Sundarijal to Dhapdam, and then reach the resort.

Initially, the plan was for 8th December, but due to some issues, it was postponed to 27th December. Finally, 14 NTDEA members joined the journey to learn about the Prakriti business model.

From Hiking to Jungle Safari

What we expected to be a normal hike turned into something unforgettable. Due to road construction between Sundarijal and Mulakharka, our route changed. The Prakriti Resort representative informed us after breakfast, and suddenly, our hike felt more like a jungle safari inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.

That morning itself was special. Breakfast was hosted at Rajan Khanal sir’s home - something very rare in group travel. None of us knew about this surprise. The food was delicious, and more than that, it was filled with the warmth and love of the Khanal family. I’m deeply thankful for their hospitality.

Learning the Importance of Backup Plans

Due to the route change, we coordinated with Prakriti Resort and selected an alternative path:

Jagalphedi – Kageshwori – Manichudanda – Dhapdam – Prakriti Resort

This taught me a strong lesson:

When planning travel, always have a Plan B.

One of our stops was Kageshwori Temple, a well-managed spiritual destination popular among domestic tourists. The area offers peace, a beautiful waterfall, a small pond, and deep spiritual value. The municipality itself is named after this sacred place, which holds an important legend in Hinduism.

Reaching Dhapdam and Prakriti Resort

Around 12 PM, we reached Dhapdam. I hadn’t been there in nine years. Back then, the dam was still under construction. Now, it felt lively- filled with nature lovers and adventure-seeking motorbike riders.

After exploring for about 30 minutes, we continued hiking toward our main destination -Prakriti Resort.

We were warmly welcomed. Everyone was hungry, so after washing our hands, we enjoyed a delicious Mutton Khana Set. Arun sir greeted us:

“Upadesh ji and team, welcome to Prakriti.”

We decided to talk business after lunch-because learning is best done on a full stomach 😊.

Rethinking Travel: Regenerative Tourism

After lunch, we began our main session: “Rethinking Travel: Regenerative Tourism”

The session was led by Arun Shrestha Sir, along with Regenerative Tourism Coordinator Akash Silpakar ji. We learned deeply about how tourism can not only sustain but also restore nature, culture, and communities. It was practical, inspiring, and eye-opening.

Reflections, Discussions, and Fellowship

After 4 PM, we moved toward National Mountain View Resort for our overnight stay, passing through Everest Tea Garden, Bhotechaur, Sindhupalchowk.

In the evening, conversations flowed freely- about regenerative tourism, unexplored villages in Nepal, international relations, economy, and even our MPhil/PhD research journeys. Some friends played cards; others danced. It was a perfect balance of learning and bonding. Dinner was at 9 PM, followed by rest.

Looking Ahead

On 28th December, at 8 AM, we conducted the 7th AGM of NTDEA, discussing future plans and directions. By 10 AM, we departed for Thamel, carrying not just - new perspectives.

This journey reminded me that tourism is not just about destinations- it’s about connections, learning, responsibility, and regeneration. Sometimes, all it takes is one LinkedIn post to start a meaningful path forward.