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From the sacred banks of the Bagmati River to the trails of the Annapurna Circuit, plastic waste is now a visible part of Nepal’s landscape. The rise in plastic consumption—driven by urbanization, tourism, and changing lifestyles—has outpaced our ability to manage it effectively. Nepal currently generates over 450 metric tonnes of plastic waste daily, much of which ends up in rivers, landfills, or open dumping sites. But this problem is not insurmountable. With a bold vision and strategic alignment of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Nepal can pivot from crisis to opportunity—and move toward a circular economy that benefits people, planet, and profit.

Despite bans on plastic bags in several municipalities, enforcement remains weak. The informal waste sector continues to shoulder the burden of collection and segregation, often with minimal support and recognition. Recycling infrastructure is scattered and under-resourced, and most plastic packaging is non-recyclable or economically not viable to process. This situation is compounded by Nepal’s mountainous terrain, limited municipal capacity, and lack of awareness among consumers. Yet, there is growing momentum to address the issue, and the private sector must be central to this change.

Environmental projects, particularly plastic waste management, receive limited attention. However, with the growing urgency around waste and climate, companies can—and must—go beyond token initiatives. CSR funds can play a vital role in addressing plastic pollution by supporting a range of targeted initiatives. These include investing in plastic collection infrastructure in both cities and rural municipalities to ensure efficient waste management. Additionally, funds can be directed toward providing training and safety measures for waste workers, with a special focus on empowering women and marginalized groups. Public awareness campaigns can also be supported to encourage segregation of waste at the source and reduce overall plastic consumption.  Furthermore, CSR contributions can drive innovation in sustainable solutions, such as reusable packaging, biodegradable alternatives, and upcycling ventures, fostering a more circular economy. Importantly, CSR should not be seen as charity, but as a strategic investment in sustainability, brand value, and long-term resilience.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a powerful concept—making producers accountable for the plastic waste they generate. While EPR is gaining policy attention in Nepal, it remains largely unimplemented. However, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) holds immense potential to transform waste management in Nepal. It can shift the financial burden of managing waste from municipalities to manufacturers, incentivizing producers to take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products. EPR also encourages eco-design, promoting the creation of products that are easier to reuse or recycle. Additionally, it can facilitate the development of reverse logistics systems, where used packaging is collected directly from consumers. 

At the heart of the solution lies the idea of a circular economy—where materials are kept in use for as long as possible, then recovered and reused. For plastic, this means moving from ‘use and throw’ to designing out waste from the beginning. Nepal’s path to circularity can be strengthened through a combination of grassroots initiatives, innovative enterprises, and supportive policies. Community-based recycling centers, backed by CSR funds and local governments, can serve as local hubs for waste collection and processing. Social enterprises also have a crucial role to play by transforming plastic waste into valuable products such as tiles, furniture, or materials for road surfacing, turning pollution into opportunity. 

At the policy level, incentives for companies that incorporate recycled content into their products can encourage sustainable production practices. Additionally, green public procurement policies that prioritize sustainable packaging and environmentally friendly products can drive demand for circular solutions and set a strong example for the private sector.

Plastic waste is not just a technical problem—it’s a systems failure. It reflects how we design products, run businesses, and value natural resources. But it also offers a chance to innovate, collaborate, and rebuild. If Nepal wants to preserve its natural beauty, support green jobs, and achieve its climate and SDG commitments, the private sector must step up. CSR and EPR should not be seen as obligations, but as tools to build resilience and responsibility.

Imagine you have hiked for hours eagerly wanting to see the trees full of pink, red and white Rhododendron flowers. But once you reach the destination, you see nothing but the trees with bare branches. How does that feel? Sad, right? But this is the reality of many trees in Nepal these days.

Rhododendron season has arrived and many of us have already planned or visited the places popular for Rhododendron blooms. But the question is: can’t we simply enjoy watching the flowers sway in the wind without plucking them? Too often, people pluck the flowers and even break the branches to display them on their social media posts. These flowers, in their most vibrant phase, are plucked just to be thrown away.

Instead of discarding them, Rhododendron flowers could be used for medicinal purposes to treat pain, inflammation, and skin ailments, or processed into powders for pickles. During my visit to Taplejung recently, I saw the locals drying Rhododendron flowers to sell in the market for such uses.

Recently, a TikToK clip showing a person breaking the branches of a rhododendron tree to pluck the flowers went viral. It was met with angry comments; many demanded that the person should be punished for his act. Sadly, many people do not understand the value of Rhododendron flowers. More than just our national flower, Rhododendrons are home to thousands of birds and food source for bees and butterflies. They are a crucial part of the ecosystem.

Research has shown that once the flower is plucked, it is very hard to bloom from the same tree or it might take years to bloom again. It may be noted that Chandannath Municipality in Jumla has banned plucking of the Rhododendron flowers since 2019. 

“We want to protect our Rhododendron forests because many people have been plucking their flowers and breaking their branches,” Birkha Bahadur Sarki, chairman of Dhalthapala Community Forest, told Khabarhub.com.

To protect the Rhododendron flowers, we must be aware of ourselves and educate others to not pluck Rhododendron flowers, and to admire them in the forest—where they belong. March to May is the best time for the Rhododendron trek in Nepal. Here are the five best to go see them.

Ghorepani-Poon Hill Trek

For those looking for the best place for Rhododendron trek, the Ghorepani-Poon Hill trek could be an ideal option. The trail passes through the dense Rhododendron forests. These forests would come alive during the spring season as it is the time when the rhododendron flowers with vibrant colors bloom. The forests will be blanketed by rhododendron flowers.

With the access of the road, the trek nowadays starts from Ulleri. After walking for around four to five hours, one can reach Ghorepani (2,860 meters). The next morning, you can hike to Poon Hill (3,210 meters) from where you get the spectacular view of Annapurna Himalayan Range, breathtaking view of sunrise, and Rhododendron forests.

Langtang Valley Trek

The Langtang Valley trek offers trekkers  truly a magical experience of walking through lush Rhododendron forests. The month of March to May (spring season) is generally the best time to do this trek. This trek starts from Sybrubesi, four to five hours drive from Kathmandu, and it will take around five days to complete. Apart from beautiful Rhododendron forests, you get to trek through quaint villages, sparkling rivers, and witness gigantic snow capped mountains.

Tinjure-Milke-Jaljale trek

Located in Taplejung, Terathum, and Sankhuwasabha districts, the Tinjure-Milke-Jaljale trek is famous for its vibrant Rhododendron forests. Out of 31 species of Rhododendron flowers, 28 are found in the forests of TMJ. So this region is rightly called the capital of Rhododendron. Furthermore, the trek offers a chance to learn about the local culture and see spectacular mountain views of Makalu, Kanchanjunga and Everest.  The trek starts from Hile, north of Dharan, and takes around eight to 10 days to complete.

Jugal Himal Base Camp Trek

Jugal Himal Trek is famous for the breathtaking mountain views and Rhododendron forests. This trail winds through lush Rhododendron forests, cascading waterfalls, serene mountains, and Sherpa villages. Mt Phurba Ghetchu, Gyalzen Peak, and Mt Jugal 1, 2 and 3 of Jugal Himalayan Range can clearly be seen on this trek. The trek starts from Tembathang and takes around 10 days to complete.

Peaky Peak Trek

Peaky Peak, which is situated in the lower Khumbu region of Solukhumbu district, is relatively a new trekking destination, offering panoramic views of Mt Everest, Mt Makalu, and Mt Kanchenjunga. This trail traverses through enchanting Rhododendron forests, which burst into a riot of colors during the spring season. Along with the Rhododendron forests, the trek promises an off-the-beaten-path experience for those who wish to avoid crowded and commercial trekking destinations. This trek starts from Dhap (2,850 meters), around six hours drive from Kathmandu, and ends in Phaplu.

Rhododendrons are a gift of nature. More than just a national symbol, they are vital to the ecosystem and bring joy to trekkers. Let’s appreciate them mindfully and preserve them for future generations.

Photos: Achitra Thieng

Detox drinks have, over the past few years, gotten a bad rap as something that is used unnecessarily for weight loss. But there is more to these amazing drinks that can have a horde of health benefits when used right. They can soothe an upset gut, aid digestion, help clear your skin, and even rejuvenate you after a tiring day. Here are some of our favorites, including how to enjoy them.

Turmeric water

Topping the list is the very popular ‘besar paani’ that we tend to drink when we have a cold but this golden concoction is a potent anti-inflammatory drink that we must include in our diets to keep our immune systems strong and fight off infections and illnesses. Great for when you are feeling slightly under the weather and also otherwise, this drink is simple to make and easy on the tummy. Most people tend to drink it on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning. Simply add a pinch of turmeric to plain water, warm or room-temperature, give it a stir, and sip on it. Have it in a clear glass, looking at the brilliant yellow hue.

Amla, ginger shots

This is really fun to make and to have as well. We recommend you buy shot glasses to enjoy this amazing, nutrients-rich concoction. Amla ginger shots are the easiest way to give your body a health boost every morning. Amla and ginger both are powerhouses of nutrients and antioxidants and, when taken regularly, can help tackle a variety of health issues. Amla is the richest source of vitamin C, containing 20 times more than oranges. It helps boost white blood cell production and strengthens immunity. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help protect against seasonal illnesses. Together, they can help cleanse your body from the inside. Blend one or two fresh amlas with an inch long piece of ginger and a little water till it becomes smooth. Strain the mixture and add a pinch of black salt for taste and drink it on an empty stomach.

Cucumber and mint infused water

One of the most cooling and refreshing drinks, this is a really hydrating mix for hot summer months. If you are one of those people who have to be reminded to drink water, then this one will make you chug it by the liter. Simply wash and slice some cucumbers and add it to a large jar of fresh water. Wash and crush some sprigs of mint and add that to the mix as well. You can also add some lemon slices or just let it be with cucumber and mint. Let the water sit for half an hour and then pour it into a glass to enjoy sip by sip. Cucumber and mint both have antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Cumin and carom tea

Most of us drink black or milk tea to start our day or wind down after a long day with a cup of oolong tea. But what if we told you there was a healthier alternative to caffeine laden teas that could potentially mess with your sleep cycle? Jeera (cumin) and ajwain (carom) are spices that are found in most kitchens and you can use these staples to make a healthy tea that calms your nerves and helps you relax. All you have to do is boil a teaspoon of each of these seeds in water and strain and drink the golden liquid. Both these spices are known for their digestive properties and help to relieve gas and indigestion. Studies have shown that cumin water also helps stabilize blood sugar levels. The drink aids detoxification and helps boost metabolism as well.

Fennel water

Did you know that you can make a refreshing drink by simply soaking fennel seeds in water overnight? Most of us consume fennel seeds after meals. We have it at home and most restaurants also serve this, along with other dry spices, at the end of a meal. But soaking fennel seeds and drinking the water can have a lot more benefits than simply consuming a few pinches of fennel seeds. It can help build immunity, aid digestion, help with water retention, promote a healthy complexion, and support weight loss. It can also help deal with period pains. If you like a warm drink to kick start your mornings, then you can add a teaspoon of fennel seeds to one and a half cups of water, bring it to a boil, and reduce it to a cup and strain and drink it as a tea as well. You don’t have to soak the seeds overnight for this.

Cabbage, beet, and ginger juice

We all know how great the classic apple, beet, carrot juice is. Cabbage, beet, ginger, on the other hand, might sound like an odd mix, and even seem a little unappealing but hear us out. It’s a tried and tested recipe that has been a hit with people of all ages and taste preferences. Cucumber and cabbage help to eliminate excess fluid in the body while ginger helps to accelerate metabolism. This helps to burn fat and aids weight loss. You need two cabbage leaves, a tablespoon of fresh mint leaves, one small beet, half a small cucumber, one teaspoon grated ginger and a cup of water to make this drink. Blend all the ingredients together, strain the mixture, and drink it. You can also keep it in the fridge for upto a day.

The worship of Salhesh is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Dusadh caste, a historically marginalized group within the Madhesi community. Though the caste system continues to influence social structures across the Madhes from east to west, the reverence for Salhesh unites people across caste lines during his annual celebration.

Salhesh, also known as Shailesh—meaning ‘King of the Mountains’—is regarded as the domestic deity of the Dusadhs. He is believed to have lived during the 7th or 8th century in Mahisautha, where he was known as King Jayabardhan Salhesh. He was the eldest of four siblings: his brothers were Motiram and Budhesar, his sister Banaspati, and his niece Karikanha. Banaspati was known as the mother queen of Bagh Fort. The stories of Salhesh form the basis of a vibrant dance-drama performed by a priest, accompanied by a large traditional drum known as the dholak.

According to tradition, Salhesh was the first chaukidar (night watchman) of the village, earning him heroic status within the Dusadh caste. Their traditional role was to guard villages at night, receiving paddy and coins as payment. In every village across the Madhes region, there exists a shrine dedicated to Salhesh, known as Salhes Sthan. These shrines, usually found under the sacred peepal tree on the village outskirts, consist of clay platforms representing characters from Salhesh folklore.

Worship at these shrines is conducted with deep reverence. Devotees offer rice, incense, sandals, and other ritual items, accompanied by folk songs, such as this one from the Salhesh Ballad:

Khan khan rahaichhi ham Beluka Garhme
Khan rahaichhi Sarabag me
Manik Dah me snan karatchhe, Garh pokhari me Mai sumarait chhi
Bhagaichhi ta yeki Maliniya ke khatir
Gadhpakariya me Maiya ke sumirichhi

 (Sometimes I live in Belukagarh, sometimes in Sarabag.
I bathe in Manik Dah and remember Mother Goddess Durga.
I wander in search of my beloved Maliniya,
And recall the goddess in Gadhpakariya.)

As a young man, Salhesh is said to have bathed daily in Manik Dah, a local pond, before heading to a garden—now known as Salhesh Phulbari—to pluck fresh flowers for his beloved. These routines have become symbolic rituals reenacted during worship. Salhesh is revered not only as a historical figure but as a cultural icon whose myth is woven into the social fabric of Mithila, both in Nepal and across the border in India.

As cultural expert Prem Khatri puts it: “Salhesh lives in the minds of the people of Mithila—from Nepal Tarai to the holy Ganges in India. His legends blur national borders, allowing human connection to transcend political boundaries during festivals like Ram Navami (Chaite Dashain).”

The dance-drama honoring Salhesh is performed annually with grandeur, resembling a village fair. While the deity is primarily worshipped by the Dusadh community, people of all castes participate. The rituals are conducted in open spaces, without elaborate temple structures. A priest, believed to be spiritually possessed by the deity, leads the ceremony. He shivers, chants mantras, walks on the edge of a sword, and distributes rice and flowers as blessings—actions meant to signify Salhesh’s divine presence.

Renowned Indian scholar Radha Krishna Chaudhary writes: “It is practically a one-man show—the priest trembles, shouts, walks on swords, sings ballads, and blesses the audience. The entire performance is thrilling, sometimes inspiring, and often a delight to the senses.”

Salhesh is especially honored during the Nepali New Year at places like Mahisautha, Salhesh Phulbari, and Patari Pokhari. In Siraha, the Haram tree near Salhesh’s temple is a source of wonder. Each year, a white garland mysteriously blooms in the tree’s center, believed to represent Salhesh’s unfulfilled lover, Dauna Malin. Legend has it she appears once a year in floral form to spend a fleeting moment with Salhesh before fading away. Despite local botanists’ interest, this phenomenon remains unexplained and continues to attract pilgrims and researchers from both Nepal and India.

Historically viewed as a lower caste, the Dusadhs—also known as Paswan—were denied equal status for centuries. However, in modern democratic Nepal, caste-based discrimination is on the decline, and all communities are increasingly seen as equals. Today, Dusadhs participate fully in social and civic life, and their patron deity, Salhesh, has become a symbol of resilience, pride, and cultural identity.

Another important site, Salhesgarh, contains an ancient mound believed to be linked to the deity. It houses a small shrine (Gahwar) to Salhesh, now in a state of neglect but still held sacred by the community.