Navin Shakya

Life on instant noodles

This time, work took us to the remote northern part of Sankhuwasabha district for feasibility study of a hydroelectric project. As I remember, there are only very few sites as rugged and…
Scariest flight

Tumlingtar Airport was blanketed in thick fog all morning, and as the hours passed, our hopes of catching a flight began to fade. We were eager to leave Sankhuwasabha after completing one…
That is not education

Basantapanchami marks the arrival of spring season and bids goodbye to freezing winter. It is also a day to worship the goddess of learning, Saraswati. Traditionally, this day is seen as the perfect…
Road in village

This photo was taken in 2011 in the southeastern part of Rolpa during our fieldwork, where a new road had just reached the village. The whole community was excited and hopeful, looking…
Budhigandaki trek

Over the course of three days, we walked roughly 50 kilometers to reach our project site—a trek that turned out to be the most scenic and enjoyable route I’ve ever taken for…
In and around Jumla

Jumla (Khalanga) is one of the most remote and beautiful places in the country. It’s a small, scenic town located in the flat valley of the Tila River, surrounded by hills and…
Street vendors

I’m not sure if this city has any formal regulations governing street vending, but it’s clear that street vendors have become an essential part of our daily life. These vendors provide quick…
Crossing the Arun River

A permanent bridge is under construction at present at Dobhan near Num that connects Khandbari, the district headquarters of Sankhuwasabha with the remote northern parts of the district. Track has been opened…
In and around Kalinchowk Temple

Kalinchowk Temple in Dolakha is an awesome spot for killer views, a bit of a hike, and some spiritual vibes. The temple, dedicated to the goddess Kalinchowk Bhagwati, is perched at around…
Birds of Lamabagar

Birdwatching becomes an incredibly enjoyable experience, especially when equipped with a superzoom camera. It’s even more exciting when a diverse range of bird species visits the area, creating a fascinating scene for…