Johnson Shrestha
On Saturday, 31st May 2025, a total of 36 participants (Lions Club:21, DWIT:15) gathered at 7:15 AM at Sifal to participate in the hike organized by the DWIT Hiking Club in collaboration
with the Lions and Leo Club of Kathmandu Chabahil City. The group departed with great enthusiasm, heading toward the Radar Tower to begin a day filled with hiking, community
bonding, and environmental awareness.
Upon arrival at the Radar Tower, the participants enjoyed a light breakfast and received an orientation on trail safety, route details, and the importance of maintaining a plastic-free trail.
The hike officially began at 9:45 AM, with the team covering the route in approximately 6 hours.
The trail passed through scenic yet steep and narrow forested paths, with a significant elevation gain of over 2100 meters. Local guide Ganesh Lama led the team effectively, ensuring the
group stayed together and navigated the terrain safely. Along the way, hikers collected plastic waste, which was properly disposed of at Bulaki Chaur, promoting environmental responsibility.
The group reached Dhungepani by 2:00 PM and had a well-deserved lunch at Bhuwaneswori Basic School. After lunch, a fun and engaging game of “Pass the Parcel” was held, adding a
joyful touch to the day. Guest hiker and guide Ananda Tamang won the game and received a prize, while Lion Abhishek Shrestha was recognized as the runner-up. By 3:00 PM, some
participants returned to Kathmandu. The remaining 15 individuals, including 10 hikers, 2 students, 2 volunteers, and 1 eye care expert, stayed overnight in the village to support the next day’s community medical outreach.
The evening was spent at the residence of Ms. Bina Tamang, where the group enjoyed a campfire and BBQ, reflecting on the day's experiences and preparing for the eye screening
camp scheduled for the following day. On Sunday, 1st June 2025, the volunteer team began their day early with breakfast and then proceeded to Bhuwaneswori Basic School to set up for the free eye screening and check-up camp. The medical team, consisting of Dr. Bimal Poudel and Dr. Abhishek Shrestha, conducted the camp from 8:00 AM to 1:20 PM. A total of 70 patients from the village were examined, and 14 were referred for further medical consultation or treatment. The program received warm appreciation from the local community and strengthened the relationship between the visiting
group and the villagers.
The two-day event served as a remarkable blend of physical challenge, environmental consciousness, and meaningful social service. From navigating steep trails and cleaning the
environment to providing essential medical care in a rural community, the initiative showcased the spirit of youth, collaboration, and compassion. It left a lasting impact on both the participants and the locals, setting a commendable example of purposeful hiking with social value.
