Navin Raj Pudasaini
Our team embarked on a day hike in early June despite the hot and humid summer weather. Our destination was the Latarambeshwor Mahadev temple, located at the top of a hill at approximately 2,700 meters in the Makwanpur District.
On the day of the hike, we gathered at our office premises, our bags filled with snacks and our hearts brimming with adventure. We left the valley, following the route from Satdobato through Thecho, a historical place in the Lalitpur District. The road was newly built and wide, with the greenish scenery of forests refreshing our eyes. At a junction, we took a right turn towards Makwanpur. After passing a few kilometers, we spotted the famous Tika Bhairav temple on our left, situated at the confluence of three creeks, known as Triveni in Nepali. We paused for a tea break there before continuing towards our destination.
The road ahead was newly built but still under construction in some parts, with narrow and gravel sections. We reached the starting point of our hike at the Mahadevtar Army Base Camp around 9 AM, approximately two hours from Kathmandu.
We began our hike, greeted by near-ripe maize fields. The top of the hill occasionally disappeared behind a veil of fog, creating wonderful, shifting scenes. Our team comprised 11 members, and since it was Saturday, many other hikers from various organizations were also on the trail. The narrow parts of the trail were sometimes congested. Despite the challenging ascent, everyone enjoyed the hike, including children and elderly participants. Midway through the trail, we stopped briefly at a small shop for water, drinks, and snacks.
The route became steeper as we ascended, quickening our heartbeats. Staying hydrated, we reached the top of the hill. To reach the temple, we turned right from the summit. A small resting point and shop awaited us there. The final path to the temple involved a narrow, rocky staircase with iron bars on both sides for support. After a 10-minute walk, we arrived at the temple.
At the temple, our fatigue melted away in the cool breeze and mist, which obscured the valley below. We spent some time in silent contemplation, feeling nature and the wind. After worshiping Lord Mahadev and creating lifelong memories, we began our descent to avoid the impending rain. The downhill journey was quicker but more strenuous on our toes and calves. The total hike covered about 20 km round trip. At the base, Mohan Dai awaited us eagerly.
On our return journey to Kathmandu, we purchased some local vegetables—Fiddlehead ferns (Niuro) and Lambsquarter (Bethe ko saag)—and red plums. Our progress was briefly halted by a vehicle carrying plants and mud for a nursery, whose engine had failed. Our team helped move the vehicle to the side of the road until a mechanic arrived.
As the sun set, we reached Kathmandu Valley and had dinner at Tukche Thakali Restaurant, whose ambiance blends Buddhism, Newari, and Hindu cultures. Enjoying the meal, we parted ways to return to our homes.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the Deerhold team for organizing such hikes regularly. These adventures foster team spirit, help us know each other better, allow us to explore the natural beauty of our country, and teach us to overcome obstacles while enjoying serene moments.
