Nepal is a landlocked country located in South Asia, bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. It is a mountainous country, with eight of the world’s ten tallest mountains, including Mount Everest, located within its borders. Nepal is a culturally diverse country with a rich history and heritage. Hinduism is the predominant religion, practiced by over 80% of the population. Buddhism is also widely practised.
A devastating flash flood in Nepal has once again exposed the fragility of the Himalayan ecosystem. An ice-and-rock avalanche unleashed a torrent through the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers, destroying homes, bridges and livelihoods. Beyond Nepal, the disaster carries a warning for South Asia: a warming Himalayas demands stronger cooperation, real-time monitoring, early-warning systems, and urgent action to protect vulnerable communities downstream
There’s something magical about a Thakali thali in Kathmandu — it doesn’t just feed you; it grounds you. The buckwheat aroma, the ghee‑kissed dal, the tang of the achar, the slow comfort of the saag… it feels like the Himalayas decided to cook you a meal themselves. Kathmandu has many thrills, but that thali is the one moment where the city pauses, the traveller breathes, and the plate becomes a small, warm universe.
Our adventure began in Ranchi as my wife, Tania, and I awaited the delayed Hyderabad-Raxaul Express. After returning home, we finally boarded the train and reached Raxaul just 15 minutes late. We then traveled to Birgunj, Nepal, via a tanga. The Indo-Nepal Gate marked our entry into Nepal. Exhausted but excited, we arrived at the Annapurna Hotel, eager to explore Birgunj and participate in my training.
