Saloni Shrestha
Our first stop was at Tin-Peeple, the starting point of our hike. We began our ascent from here, encountering some tiring staircases that led us to the Bhuwaneshori Temple. This multi-tiered pagoda-shaped temple, with its golden roofs and dignified appearance, stood tall against the backdrop of lush greenery. A long flight of steps led to its entrance, where we took a moment to rest, click pictures and soak in the serene surroundings.
Leaving Bhuwaneshori Temple, we pressed on towards our actual destination. The trail became steeper as we walked through the forest, accompanied by birds chirping and trees' calming presence. Despite the occasional scorching sun, the journey was made enjoyable with intermittent breaks we took to share experiences, take photos, and munch on the healthy snacks we had carried.
After about 2-3 hours of hiking, we finally reached the shrine of Tarkeshowr Mahadev. Nestled within a tranquil forest, the temple welcomed us with its peaceful ambiance. Some of us enjoyed the refreshing water from a Dhungedhara (traditional stone spout), while others climbed the steps to catch a glimpse of the temple and the deity residing there.
Our adventure didn't end there. We began our descent to reach Jhor, a well-known waterfall in the area. However, the usual forest path was closed, forcing us to take an alternate route. We were told it would take about an hour to reach the waterfall, so we set off with high hopes. Unfortunately, during the descent, one of our colleagues suffered from cramps and had difficulty walking. This necessitated a brief rest, but a few of us managed to reach the Jhor waterfall. To our dismay, the waterfall was dry, but we found solace in having made it to the spot.
Despite this minor disappointment, we were content with our accomplishment. We had some snacks and waited for our vehicle to arrive, reminiscing about the day’s experiences. By around 2 PM, we headed back to our starting point, our office, feeling a sense of achievement and camaraderie.
The hike was a great adventure that not only tested our physical endurance but also brought us closer as a team. We learned about each other's strengths and weaknesses, supported one another, and celebrated our collective success. Covering approximately 13 kilometers from Tin-Peeple to Bhuwaneshori, Tarkeshowr, and Jhor, with around 17,000 steps, we relished the fact that we had burned enough calories to justify a hearty meal, which our appetites were eagerly anticipating.
This hike to Tarkeshowr Mahadev Temple was more than just a physical challenge; it was an opportunity for team bonding and personal growth. Each step we took, each obstacle we overcame, and each moment we shared brought us closer together, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and perseverance. As we returned to our office, tired but happy, we knew that this adventure would be a cherished memory, a testament to our ability to unite and achieve our goals as one.
