Mustard flowers blanket Kaflethok (Photo feature)
Mustard Flowers Blanket Kaflethok
Kaflethok, a serene village in NamobuddhaMunicipality–4 of Kavrepalanchok district, is currently basking in the golden glow of blooming mustard flowers. Located about 50 kilometers east of Kathmandu, the village’s terraced fields are covered in vibrant yellow blossoms that make the land look as if it were sprinkled with gold.
Just a 15 to 20-minute walk from the BP Highway’s Bhakundebesi, a local market, Kaflethok is an emerging rural destination rich in natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. With green hills, open skies, and views of distant mountain ranges, the village has strong potential for eco and agro-tourism.
Though mustard farming began here only about two decades ago, locals say most households now produce enough mustard to extract oil that lasts their families an entire year. “Our homegrown mustard oil tastes better than store-bought oil and is much healthier too,” shared one local farmer.
The village’s main crops include maize, paddy, and wheat. Late August to early September is typically the time when mustard seeds are harvested. While agriculture and livestock remain the primary occupations, many of the village’s youth have moved to Kathmandu for education and employment. A significant number also have experience working abroad.
Kaflethok is also known for its religious significance. For the past 45 years, an uninterrupted Hare Ram Hare KrishnaBhajan (devotional singing) has echoed from a temple at the heart of the village. The sound of prayers and traditional instruments during morning and evening hours creates a tranquil atmosphere. On occasions like the new moon, full moon, and other religious festivals, the temple sees a steady flow of devotees.
Musical traditions associated with the temple, such as the morning "Prabhati" melodies, Malshree tunes during Dashain, and Holi during the spring festival are cherished cultural treasures of the village. With active youth participation in these traditions, the community is hopeful about preserving this heritage for generations to come.
Kaflethok is home to around 130 households, predominantly of the Kafle surname, along with families from Gairapipli, Aryal, Neupane, Adhikari, Giri, Karki, Mainali and Bhujel communities. Most families follow a vegetarian lifestyle and embrace a simple, spiritual way of living.
Kathmandu valley shines bright for Tihar (With Photos)
With the arrival of Tihar, the second greatest festival of Hindus, the Kathmandu Valley has been beautifully illuminated with decorative lights. Every house, neighborhood, and the entire valley is now adorned with dazzling lights. The valley, glittering with colorful illumination, looks mesmerizing from the surrounding hills.
Tihar is also regarded as the festival of lights. It is believed that Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, resides in bright and clean homes, so people light oil lamps and decorate their houses with sparkling lights to welcome her.
Photos: Nepal Photo Library
Bagmati river-side settlements submerged (With Photos)
Continuous rainfall has inundated several settlements in Kathmandu.
Squatter settlements along the banks of the Bagmati River have been submerged. In response, the army has been deployed to evacuate the affected neighborhoods. Security personnel are checking each house and assisting residents in moving their belongings to safety.
Text & Photos: Nepal Photo Library
