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As air pollution continues to choke the Kathmandu Valley, concerns over another major environmental crisis—plastic waste are mounting. Despite a series of ambitious government pledges to eliminate single-use plastics, implementation remains ineffective, and the problem is only getting worse.

Nepal first announced a ban on plastic bags in 2015, aiming to reduce non-biodegradable waste and protect major rivers. According to the government’s official gazette published on 1 April 2015, the production, import, sale, and use of plastic bags smaller than 20 inches wide, 35 inches long, and thinner than 40 microns were prohibited within the valley. The decision came into force on 14 April 2015, with plans to extend it nationwide. For a brief moment, the effort seemed successful—many citizens began carrying reusable bags, and plastic use in city markets visibly declined.

However, the devastating earthquake in 2015 and the subsequent Indian blockade derailed the momentum. The government’s focus shifted toward disaster relief and survival logistics, and plastic bags once again flooded the market. Relief efforts relied heavily on plastic packaging, further entrenching its use. In the years that followed, plastic bags made a full comeback, undermining years of environmental advocacy.

Since then, the government has made the same promise multiple times. In its annual budget speech for the fiscal year 2021/22, then Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel declared a complete ban on plastic bags thinner than 40 microns. This was the third such announcement by the federal government. “I have made arrangements to use cotton, jute or paper bags instead of plastic bags in all business houses including shopping malls and department stores,” Paudel stated, adding that companies replacing old plastic manufacturing machines would receive grants.

Yet, like previous declarations, the enforcement never materialized. Industrialists remained largely silent, with some expressing doubts about the feasibility of such a ban. Even the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) had pledged to make the city plastic-free within a year in its 2019/20 policy plan. That commitment, too, was abandoned without a single round of market monitoring.

Implementation efforts have been repeatedly hindered by external and internal factors. Apart from the 2015 disasters, protests by plastic industrialists and legal challenges have struck enforcement. In 2018, a writ petition filed at the Supreme Court by Explore Nepal Pvt. Ltd. temporarily halted the new ban. The court issued an interim order preventing the government from implementing its decision, leaving plastic production and use unchecked once again.

The Department of Environment’s monitoring drives have also been inconsistent. Local governments and district offices have often turned a blind eye to ongoing violations, making the ban little more than a paper directive. In 2023, the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration once again announced a ban on plastic bags below 40 microns. The ministry’s secretary, Krishna Hari Pushkar, urged citizens to stop using thin plastic bags and called on all levels of government to enforce the rule.

According to a 2020 World Bank report, Nepal generates an estimated 4,900 tons of solid waste each day, with plastic waste accounting for about 13 percent of the total. According to the Waste Management Baseline Survey 2022, plastic accounted for 12 percent of household waste, 21 percent of institutional waste, and 22 percent of waste generated by commercial establishments. Yet, no tangible progress followed the 2023 announcement either. 

According to a 2024 World Bank report, Nepal generates around 60,000 tons of plastic waste annually, with a significant portion—nearly one-third—ending up in rivers that eventually flow into India and Ocean. Globally, about 8bn tons of plastic have accumulated in oceans, making the water increasingly acidic and threatening aquatic life. This pollution also affects the planet’s oxygen cycle, as oceans produce nearly 50 percent of the Earth’s oxygen, which is now under threat.

Environmental expert Ujjwal Upadhaya explains that globally, around 360m tons of plastic are produced each year, of which about 1m metric tons end up producing daily. When a plastic is formed, 6.1kg carbon emission is produced. 

Upadhaya further noted that studies in Brazil found microplastic particles in the brains of 33 deceased individuals, highlighting serious global health concerns. Similar research has yet to be conducted in Nepal. He added that the average person in Nepal carries an estimated 15 grams of microplastics in their body.

Moreover, the open burning of plastics releases dioxin gas, one of the most toxic pollutants, which remains concentrated at low altitudes, directly harming both humans and animals.

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) also announced a ban on the open burning of waste and plastic materials to curb worsening air pollution during the winter months. According to the KMC Environment Department, the decision aims to reduce environmental and health risks linked to smoke and toxic emissions from burning plastics. Department Chief Sarita Rai emphasized that offenders will face a fine of Rs 10,000 per violation, noting that air pollution in the Valley spikes each winter due to widespread open burning. The ban prioritizes protecting vulnerable populations—especially children, the elderly, and people with respiratory or heart conditions. To ensure effective enforcement, KMC has launched awareness and monitoring campaigns under the Kathmandu Metropolitan City Environment and Natural Resources Conservation Act, 2020, and the Fiscal Act, 2025.

Plastics pose significant threats not only to the environment but also to public health. There are seven main types of plastic, each with distinct uses, recyclability, and health impacts. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) is commonly used in water and mineral bottles and can be recycled; however, once recycled, it should not be reused for drinking purposes as it may release harmful chemicals. Recent tests even found 75–85 units of microplastic particles in some water jars, raising serious health concerns. 

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), found in shampoo and detergent bottles, is recyclable and safer for reuse in non-food products. LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene), used in plastic wraps and carry bags, is also recyclable but often poorly managed in Nepal. PP (Polypropylene), used for grain sacks (bora), bottle caps, and food containers, can be recycled if proper facilities are available. 

However, MLP (Multi-Layered Plastic)—commonly seen in chips and instant noodle packets—is known as “ugly plastic” because it is non-recyclable and harmful to both human health and the environment. Chemicals from such packaging can leach into food, posing risks especially to children, and Nepal currently lacks a system to monitor food packaging quality. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), used in pipes and wires, is difficult to recycle and releases toxic gases when burned. Finally, ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), found in toys and electronic products, is one of the most hazardous plastics, as it is non-biodegradable and can release toxic substances that endanger both humans and animals.

Upadhaya said, “Burning of these plastics releases microplastics into the air, which we inhale. Some particles can enter the olfactory bulb—the part of the brain responsible for smell—potentially increasing the risk of brain strokes. Microplastics also travel down to the lungs, affecting vital organs such as the kidneys, liver, lungs, and heart.” He also said that when the body tries to cope with such damage, it can trigger the development of cancer, which ultimately harms our health.

According to a report by the Monterey Bay Aquarium, plastic does not biodegrade but breaks down into microplastics—particles less than 5 millimeters in size. These have been found everywhere, from the depths of the oceans to Antarctic snow, and even inside human lungs and bloodstreams.

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has confirmed microplastic traces in human organs such as the liver, kidneys, and placenta, raising alarm over potential health consequences. Similarly, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reports that carcinogenic chemicals from plastics can leach into tap water, posing severe risks to human and ecological health.

Upadhaya said, “At present, Nepal mainly consumes salt imported from the ocean, which contains around five grams of microplastics per kilogram. People who regularly eat seafood tend to have even higher amounts of microplastics in their bodies.” He also noted that plastic pollution contributes to urban flooding by blocking drainage systems. According to him, “We cannot live without plastic, as it has become part of every aspect of our lives. However, the key is to reduce the use of the most harmful types, such as ABS plastic, and ensure that any plastic produced is properly recycled and responsibly disposed of.”

Recycling has often been promoted as a solution, but the challenges are alarming. Contamination from food residue, high processing costs, and limited infrastructure make large-scale recycling inefficient in Nepal. It reduces landfill waste, conserves natural resources like petroleum, prevents environmental contamination, and decreases marine pollution. Recycling also mitigates microplastic formation and promotes public health by reducing exposure to toxic substances.

Experts argue that government policy alone cannot solve the plastic crisis. Consumers must adopt more sustainable habits—using reusable shopping bags, avoiding over-packaged goods, and participating in recycling programs. Supporting eco-friendly businesses and community-led recycling initiatives can also foster long-term change. Sangita Tamang, a grocery shopkeeper said she is compelled to use plastic bags despite knowing their environmental impact. “Clothes bags are expensive, and customers don’t want to pay extra for them,” she explained. “People are willing to pay for reusable bags in big malls, but when small shopkeepers like us charge for them, they accuse us of trying to make more money. So, we are forced to keep using plastic bags,” she added with a note of frustration.

The number of animals consuming plastic waste is also on the rise, as many ingest it unknowingly and die as a result. Upadhaya cited an example from the National park, where wild animals died after choking on plastic. He explained that plastic pollution not only harms land animals but also affects aquatic life, leading to a decline in fish populations. This, in turn, impacts the livelihoods of people who depend on fishing. Species such as the gharial and dolphin are also declining as their food sources diminish due to increasing plastic contamination in rivers and water bodies.

Globally, plastic production has skyrocketed—from 1.5m metric tons in 1950 to 359m metric tons in 2018—with between 4.8 and 12.7m tons ending up in oceans annually, according to PlasticsEurope.

Several organizations in Nepal including Doko Recyclers, Khalisisi, Upcycle Nepal, and Eco Sathi Nepal are actively promoting recycling and sustainability. Through their initiatives, they aim to reduce waste and encourage environmentally responsible habits. However, their efforts alone are not enough. True change requires collective action—every citizen must understand the importance of sustainability, adopt eco-friendly practices, and help raise awareness to protect the environment for future generations.

By minimizing plastic use and promoting recycling, communities can move toward a cleaner and healthier environment. Moreover, a cleaner environment free from plastic waste greatly enhances overall quality of life. Upadhaya said that by minimizing the production of toxic plastics, we can slowly reduce the risk of the plastic. Recycling also plays a vital role in reducing environmental contaminants and fostering sustainable, healthy communities where people can live and thrive in harmony with nature. Nepal’s repeated failures to enforce its plastic bans reveal deep systemic weaknesses—from political will and industrial pressure to inadequate alternatives and public awareness. Strict enforcement, providing viable alternatives, and mobilizing citizens toward behavioral change. Without such collective effort, Kathmandu’s rivers, air, and soil may continue to bear the brunt of plastic pollution for generations to come.

Traveling from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi on a clear day feels like passing through a magnificent gallery of mountains.

While looking north from around Kathmandu Valley, it seems that the peaks of Ganesh Himal and the Langtang Himalayan Range are bidding farewell to us.

The mountains look so close and clear like a huge painting of white snow has been hung in front of us.

We can see an exotic view of central Nepal while moving ahead towards the west. The view of Mt Manaslu, towering over 8, 000 meters, flanked by Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli, is truly priceless.

Apart from that, the peaks of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I, II, and III, refresh our mind.

In clear weather, when the sun shines, these peaks shine like silver, and their beauty touches the heart.

On top of that, the beauty of Dhaulagiri and its white glittering appearance make the journey even more exciting.

The sight of the mountains brings a wave of serenity and joy to the mind long before arriving in Dhangadhi.

Two roads connecting Hetauda and Kathmandu have reopened this morning.

The Hetauda-Kulekhani-Phakhel-Pharping road and the Hetauda-Palung-Naubise road had been disrupted earlier by the landslides, according to District Police Office, Makawanpur's police inspector Thakur Sapkota.

He said that another route connecting Heatuda and Kathmandu: Bhimphedi-Kulekhani-Sisneri road and the Kanti Highway that connects Hetauda and Lalitpur Metropolis are yet to be restored for the traffic operation.

The Dodhare river had swept away the parts of the Bhimphedi-Kulekhani-Sisneri road.

Efforts are underway to reopen the roadway. 

Similarly, the landslide has blocked the Kanti Highway.

Efforts are underway to clear the debris and repair the damaged segments, police said.  

High mast lights have been installed at various locations, including the New Bus Park area, under the ‘Bright City’ initiative launched by the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC).

According to information shared by Mayor Balen Shah on social media, the city government has begun installing a total of 62 high mast lights. So far, 12 have already been installed.

The remaining lights are expected to be installed before the Dashain festival.

The project is estimated to cost Rs 100 million, fully funded through KMC’s internal sources. 

Public transport services in the Kathmandu Valley, which had remained halted since Tuesday due to Gen Z demonstrations, resumed on Saturday.     

Superintendent of Police Deepak Giri, Spokesperson for the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office, confirmed the resumption of services this morning.     

Only a few public vehicles were seen on the roads on Friday. However, there has been a noticeable increase in both vehicle movement and passenger activity today. Public buses have already left for Kathmandu from Chitwan, and more vehicles are expected to depart the Valley for other districts later this evening, he added.     

Following the violent turn of the Gen Z demonstrations, a curfew was ordered by the Nepal Army on Tuesday, along with subsequent extension and prohibitory orders. The curfew was officially lifted this morning. (RSS)

Authorities have clamped curfews in different areas of Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur districts on Tuesday.

The Kathmandu District Administration has imposed an indefinite curfew.

The curfew, which was previously imposed in various parts of Kathmandu until 5 am on Tuesday, has been extended from 8:30 am on Tuesday until further notice.

Chief District Officer of Kathmandu Chhabilal Rijal has issued a curfew order prohibiting anyone from entering or leaving the designated restricted areas within Kathmandu Metropolitan City and from holding any kind of gathering, procession, demonstration, assembly and meeting.

The Kathmandu District Administration has imposed a curfew in the entire area inside ring road from Balkumari Bridge to Koteshwor Chowk, Sinamangal, Gaushala, Chabahil, Narayan Gopal Chowk, Gongabu, Balaju, Swayambhu, Kalanki, Balkhu and Bagmati River Bridge.

Similarly, the Lalitpur District Administration Office has clamped a curfew in some areas of Lalitpur Metropolitan City.

Chief District Officer Suman Ghimire has issued a curfew order from 7 am to 12 midnight today in accordance with Section 6 (a) of the Local Administration Act, 2028.

The District Administration Office has imposed a curfew in various places of wards 2, 4, 9, 18 and 25, including Bhaisepati, Sanepa and Chyasal.

Likewise, the Bhaktapur District Administration Office has imposed an indefinite curfew in Bhaktapur.

Chief District Officer of Bhaktapur Nawaraj Ghimire has issued a curfew order prohibiting anyone from entering or leaving the designated restricted areas within four municipalities of Bhaktapur and prohibiting any kind of gathering, procession, demonstration, assembly and meeting.

The administration has designated various places in Madhyapur Thimi Municipality, Bhaktapur Municipality, Suryabinayak Municipality, and Changunarayan Municipality as restricted areas.

Vehicular movement along the Kathmandu-Manthali road section has been obstructed after the road collapsed at Halede in Likhu Tamakoshi Rural Municipality-7, Ramechhap on Wednesday.

Local Sanjiv Chauhan informed that the passengers heading to Charikot, Dolakha from Kathmandu have been stranded midway.

Meanwhile, Chief District Officer Shyam Krishna Thapa said that efforts were on to reopen the roadway after repairing the collapsed section.

A woman died in a fire that broke out at a house in Makhantole, Kathmandu Metropolitan City-24 on Wednesday.

Police said that the fire erupted due to cooking gas leakage.

Kathmandu District Police Range spokesperson Apil Raj Bohara said that the blaze broke out at a four-storey house belonging to Dayaram Shrestha.

The identity of the deceased person has not been ascertained yet.

Bohara said that efforts are underway to put off the fire.

The fire also spread to the neighboring house, according to police.

The temperature in the Kathmandu Valley is expected to fall from Sunday.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology stated that the temperature is likely to drop from Sunday after rainfall.

The Department said that the days in the Kathmandu Valley will be hot on Saturday as well. 

The maximum temperature in the valley is likely to remain from 31 degree Celsius to 34 degrees Celsius, according to the Department.

Likewise, the weather will remain fair in the country today except partly to generally cloudy in the hilly areas of Koshi, Gandaki, Karnali and Sudurpaschim Provinces.

Chances of light rainfall along with thunder and lightning are there in one or two places of hilly areas of Koshi, Gandaki and Karnali Provinces.  

Recent rainfall may have brought brief respite from the choking smog that blanketed Kathmandu and other urban areas, but the problem is far from over. The haze has settled—for now. But the plastic waste and air pollutants that fueled it haven’t gone anywhere. If anything, the clean skies may lull the public into forgetting a crisis that is both ongoing and worsening.

Plastic pollution has become a silent emergency in Nepal. According to a 2022 report by the Ministry of Forests and Environment and ICIMOD, Nepal generates over 60,000 metric tons of plastic waste annually. Alarmingly, nearly one-third of it ends up in rivers. This staggering volume exposes a stark reality: Nepal’s waste management systems are overwhelmed. Landfills are overflowing, open dumping is rampant, and in many municipalities, the default response is to burn plastic waste—releasing toxic fumes and microplastics into the air. The result is not only deteriorating air quality but also a serious public health threat.

This isn’t just about pollution—it’s about the systems’ failure. Government policies exist, such as the ban on plastic bags thinner than 40 microns, but enforcement remains weak. Most municipalities lack basic infrastructure like waste segregation units or recycling centers. There’s a wide gap between the demand for structured recycling solutions and the supply of services to meet it.

Experts say Nepal must urgently adopt a proven, practical solution: plastic recycling.

Recycling isn’t a novel idea. It’s a globally recognized, cost-effective method for reducing waste, cutting emissions, and recovering valuable materials. Countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas have shown that recycling can transform plastic from a threat into a resource—turning waste into opportunity.

In Nepal, however, recycling remains underutilized. Informal waste pickers form the backbone of the system, yet they work without safety gear, proper training, or fair compensation. Even so, much of the plastic they collect is eventually burned or dumped due to the absence of structured recycling systems and markets. Only around 15 percent of Nepal’s plastic waste is recycled, according to a 2023 UNEP assessment.

To bridge this gap, Nepal needs to invest in a formal, inclusive recycling infrastructure. This includes supporting municipalities with proper waste segregation systems, funding recycling facilities, and integrating informal waste workers into official supply chains—offering them fair wages, dignity, and protection. 

There are already small glimmers of progress. In some areas, plastic waste is being turned into eco-bricks or construction blocks. Others are piloting neighborhood-based recycling hubs. These initiatives demonstrate that localized, creative solutions can work—but they remain small-scale and isolated without broader government backing.

Another critical issue is the low level of awareness among policymakers. Despite the growing threat of plastic pollution, the topic rarely ranks high on political agendas. Experts believe a national-level behavioral shift is necessary—not just among citizens but also within local governments and decision-makers.

Public participation is equally vital. Recycling begins at the household level, with simple acts like separating plastic from organic waste. Civic education, school outreach programs, and mass campaigns are essential to build a culture where recycling becomes a norm, not a novelty.

On the regulatory front, Nepal can draw inspiration from global best practices. For example, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws—where producers are held accountable for managing plastic at the end of its life cycle—have driven recycling rates up in countries like Germany, Japan, and South Korea. Such policies can provide funding for infrastructure, promote innovation, and shift the cost burden away from municipalities and informal workers.

Experts emphasize that while banning plastic outright might not be feasible in the short term, better management absolutely is. Recycling isn’t just an environmental solution—it’s a long-term strategy for resilience. It reduces pollution, conserves resources, and creates green jobs in the process.

But time is running out. The rain may have temporarily cleared the air, but unless Nepal changes how it handles plastic, we’ll be right back under the same toxic haze or perhaps even worse. We must stop treating pollution as a seasonal inconvenience and start addressing it as a structural failure that demands systemic, sustained action.

With the arrival of the summer-autumn flight season in 2025, China Southern Airlines will optimize its flight layout starting from April 10, further enhancing the capacity of the China-Nepal route and promoting economic, cultural, and tourism cooperation between the two countries to new heights.

According to the latest flight schedule, China Southern will resume its night flight from Kathmandu to Guangzhou from April to October. The planned departure time from Kathmandu is 23:30, with one flight per day, Southern Airlines reported.

At the same time, the daytime flight schedule will be adjusted, with the overall departure time pushed back by 50 minutes, resulting in the planned departure time from Kathmandu being adjusted to 12:50. This optimization will enhance flight connections and allow passengers to arrange their schedules more comfortably. It is worth noting that the operating frequency of China Southern's daytime flights has also been adjusted at different times as per Southern Airlines.

From April 10 to May, daytime flights will operate four times a week (on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday). From June to August, daytime flights will be reduced to two times a week (on Sunday and Thursday). From September to October, daytime flights will resume daily. The number of seats planned by China Southern Airlines for this season has significantly increased. Approximately 45,000 seats will be offered from Kathmandu to Guangzhou, and over 46,000 seats from Guangzhou to Kathmandu. Compared to the same period last year, this represents an increase of more than 6,000 seats, a growth of 16.5% on the Kathmandu-to-Guangzhou route, and over 13,000 seats, a growth of 39.9% on the Guangzhou-to-Kathmandu route. This adjustment not only provides passengers with more travel options but also further facilitates economic, trade, and cultural exchanges between China and Nepal, according to Southern Airlines.

This increase in transport capacity coincides with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nepal and the "China-Nepal Tourism Year."

Shopping for clothes in Kathmandu can sometimes be an ordeal. With cheaply made and sourced Chinese products dominating the market, the options are endless but you can never be sure that the product you buy is of good quality. Colors fade, fabrics shrink and look misshapen, buttons pop off on second wear, and you’ll have to soon replace it with another. Though we have recommended some sustainable brand wears in the past, we know it might not always be a feasible solution especially given the fact that these pieces though well crafted and of high quality can be slightly on the expensive side. So, this week, we bring to you some businesses that offer good quality clothes at reasonable prices.

Ruby’s Collection

If you want good quality cord sets, kurtis, kurta sets, saris, etc. at a price you won’t regret, look no further than Ruby’s Collection. From party wear to everyday outfits, you will be spoilt for choice. Sourced from different parts of India like Banaras and Jaipur, the products at Ruby’s Collection are gorgeous and offer great value for money. You can browse through their collection on their Instagram and Facebook page or even visit their outlet located in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur.

Nesca Nepal

Head to Nesca Nepal in Baneshwor, Kathmandu, or order from their Instagram page if you want daily wear clothes that are unique and fun. They even have a range of accessories and bags at affordable prices that you can pair with your outfits to create looks that match your mood. Most of the products are sourced from India so that vibe can be a little ethnic with floral motifs, paisleys, and tribal prints dominating the products available here. But you can rest assured that you won’t be paying a paisa extra than what they are worth.

Junkiri

We think the clothes Junkiri sells are beautiful. You will want to buy them all. They are well-designed pieces that are different from what you get at regular stores in Nepal. There is a wide range of tops and kurtis that are perfect for office or party wear. Junkiri’s summer collection is even better than their winter edition so now is just the right time to head to their outlet located in Manbhawan, Lalitpur, to get your wardrobe ready for the hot months ahead. Some of the items might feel slightly pricey but given the quality and the make, it will be worth the investment.

Yantra Fashion

This could very well be your one stop solution for party dresses, pants, tops, t-shirts, skirts, and everything else that you want to include in your closet. They have a good variety of clothes and they almost always have sizes available so you won’t have to be disappointed. What’s more, they have separate accounts for children’s clothes, men’s clothes, and accessories as well. What you see on the posts or photos is exactly what you will be receiving so you don’t have to worry about not liking something once you get it. You won’t have to spend a lot on these items as everything is moderately priced and feels light on the pocket.

Hiking has emerged as one of the most popular activities in Kathmandu, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic brought life to a standstill. During the lockdown, many residents of the Kathmandu Valley found themselves confined to their homes, with little to do except watch TV or scroll through their phones. This period saw a dramatic rise in anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. As a result, people eagerly awaited the day when the lockdown would be lifted, allowing them to venture outdoors and seek solace in the serene green hills. This longing for nature gave rise to a thriving hiking culture in Kathmandu. Here are five must-visit hiking destinations around the Kathmandu Valley:

Shivapuri

Standing at an elevation of 2,732 meters, Shivapuri Peak is one of the most popular hiking destinations near Kathmandu. The hike begins at Budhanilkantha and takes approximately five to six hours to reach the summit. The trail winds through the dense, biodiverse forests of Shivapuri National Park, leading to Nagi Gumba, a tranquil Buddhist monastery perched atop the hill. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley and visit Bagdwar, believed to be the source of the Bagmati River. A large fair is held here every Nepali New Year. From Bagdwar, it takes about an hour to reach Shivapuri Peak, where a large open ground and a statue of Shivapuri Baba await. The peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ganesh, Langtang, and Jugal Himalayan ranges. Shivapuri is the second-highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley and can also be accessed via Tarebhir.

Jamacho

For those seeking a shorter hike near Kathmandu, Jamacho is an ideal choice. Located at an altitude of 2,128 meters, the hike begins at the Phulbari gate. As you enter the forest, the serene environment quickly helps you forget the chaos of city life. The hike takes about three to four hours to complete and leads to a sacred Buddhist site with a monastery at the hilltop. From here, you can enjoy clear views of the Manaslu, Ganesh, and Langtang Himalayan ranges, as well as the Kathmandu Valley.

Bhasmasur

Bhasmasur, the third-highest hill in Kathmandu at 2,500 meters, is a fantastic hiking destination in the southern part of the valley. The hike starts from Hattiban and takes around six hours to reach the top. The trail passes through Hattiban Resort and Champadevi, where you can visit the Champadevi Temple and the Padmasambhava Cave. The path winds through dense forests of pine and rhododendron, offering a peaceful escape into nature.

From the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Langtang, Jugal, and Gaurishankar Himalayan ranges. For those looking to extend their adventure, the hike can continue to Chandragiri.

Kakani-Suryachaur

The Kakani-Suryachaur hike is a short and easy trail located to the north of Kathmandu. Situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters, the hike begins in Kakani, a popular picnic spot known for its strawberries and trout fish. The trail takes you through dense forests of pine and rhododendron within Shivapuri National Park. After about three hours, you’ll reach Suryachaur, an open ground offering spectacular sunset views. Local eateries along the way provide opportunities to enjoy a hearty meal amidst nature.

Nagarkot-Sankhu

Nagarkot, a well-known tourist destination, is famous for its sunrise and sunset views. The Nagarkot-Sankhu hike is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Starting from Nagarkot Bazaar, the trail passes through an eco-trail, Kattike Bhangyang, a Tamang village, and Jaharsinghpauwa before reaching Sankhu, a charming Newari village. The hike takes about five hours and is relatively easy, offering majestic views of the Jugal and Gaurishankar Himalayan ranges. Along the way, hikers can explore traditional Tamang villages and immerse themselves in local culture.

Photos: Achitra Thieng

Until the filing of this report, the Air Quality Index (AQI) of the Kathmandu Valley was 163, putting it as the fifth most polluted city in the world.

As per the AQI chart, Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam was the most polluted with 210 AQI while Beijing of China in the second position with 184 followed by Dhaka of Bangladesh in the third with 175 and New Delhi of India in the fourth with 170.

Amidst this, the Department of Environment has suggested the increased risk of air pollution till the month of Jeth (May-June). Smokes from industries, factories, motorcycles, construction sites, households, from the burning of waste in the open and dust from the construction works are among the identified major sources for air pollution.

Children, aged people, people with respiratory illness including asthma and heart diseases and expectant women are considered more vulnerable to the impact of air pollution.

Disaster Management Expert Dr Dharmaraj Upreti said an AQI 0-50 is good for human health and indicated by green signal and it is suggested by yellow when it is measured 51-100 to urge us to remain alert to the situation.

An AQI of 101 to 150 is indicated by orange and is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. It is capable of further impacting people with breathing issues and heart diseases.

Similarly, an AQI of 151 to 200 is considered unhealthy and is suggested by red and when it is in between 201 to 300 it is considered very unhealthy and it is hazardous when it exceeds 300. In this emergency condition, everyone is more likely to be affected.

Air Quality Management Action Plan-2076 BS for the Kathmandu Valley has also stated that a situation where the AQI value is higher than 300, it will be treated as a disaster.

Deluxe AC night bus service has been operated from Mustang to the federal capital, Kathmandu.

The service was launched on Thursday.

The Mustang-Muktinath Service Pvt Ltd started the bus service from Muktinath to Kathmandu for the convenience of locals and tourists visiting Mustang.

The Mustang-Kathmandu bus fare is Rs 2,400 per person.

The Pvt Ltd has already been operating deluxe bus, jeep and electronic vehicles before this.

However, the air-conditioned deluxe night bus service is the latest addition. Chief District Officer of Mustang Bishnu Prasad Bhusal inaugurated the deluxe night bus service amidst a program in Mustang on Thursday.

Addressing the programme, he said the religious tourism in Mustang would be boosted only with the expansion of passenger-friendly services.

He also called on the transport entrepreneurs to improve their services in tune with the time.

Vice Chairpersons of Baragung Muktikshetra and Gharapjhong rural municipalities, Diki Gurung and Jamuna Thakali respectively, called for paying attention to the passenger-friendly and visitor-friendly services.

The Mustang-Muktinath Transport Pvt Ltd Chairman Binod BC said they are preparing to operate passenger vehicles on the Lomanthang-Korala route from March 14.

Kathmandu is beautiful. Tourists are fascinated by the myriad things you can do here, from cultural walks and temple visits to one-day hikes and hilly getaways. But for those of us living here, things can become a bit mundane, especially if you don’t have a full day to indulge in activities. This week, we bring to you four things you can do when you are bored and need a little something to cheer you up but only have a few hours at your disposal

Attend the evening aarati at Pashupatinath

The Pashupatinath temple is a really nice place to go to when you want to spend some time by yourself or immerse yourself in some spiritual or religious activities. There’s a lot of space and a lot of things to do in the area. The evening aarati in Pashupatinath riverbanks which in winter takes place from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm every day is something everybody must witness. It’s a special puja that priests do to worship Lord Shiva and the entire environment comes alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of prayer and worship. Those who have seen it confess to wanting to attend it whenever they can. It’s a sight that slowly calms you down and fills you with a sense of peace. Make sure you go a little before time so that you get a nice place to sit as it can get a bit crowded.

Evening stroll at Patan Durbar Square

A mini vacation is just what we need after a hectic work week. It’s a great way to relax and recharge for another busy week. But a weekend getaway isn’t always possible or practical. This is when a visit to any one of the Durbar Squares in Kathmandu Valley comes in handy. It’s like a mini getaway. There is so much to do and see at the Durbar Squares. Patan Durbar Square is one of our favorites. From quaint little eateries and tea shops to various kiosks selling all sorts of knickknacks, a stroll at Patan Durbar Square makes you feel like a tourist in your hometown. You can just sit on one of the benches at the center of the square and take in the surroundings. It’s especially beautiful at night when all the lights come on. Be sure to bargain if you decide to do some shopping as the vendors tend to hike the prices at random.

Enjoy some delicacies at the farmer’s market at Le Sherpa Restaurant

There are many farmer’s markets in Kathmandu these days. Some happen during the weekdays while others are up and running on the weekends. Our favorite is the one at Le Sherpa that takes place every Saturday from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. People can be seen just basking in the sun, indulging in some hot tea or coffee or some cold beer too. There are all sorts of stalls with various kinds of food available here to suit your taste. From Biryani and Pad Thai to cakes and cheeses, you can take your pick depending on what you are in the mood for. You can also shop for jewelry, perfumes, handicrafts, home decor, etc. Gather your friends and family and spend a lovely Saturday morning catching up with them at the market while you buy your week’s worth of groceries. You will also be supporting local businesses so it’s a win-win situation.

Spend a few hours at a bookstore

There was a time when Kathmandu didn’t have good bookstores. Now, the book industry is trying to change that. There are many new bookstores coming up and even the ones that have been in business for years have revamped their spaces and services to make shopping for books a fun affair. Ekta books at Thapathali, Kathmandu, spread across three expansive floors, is a nice place to hunt for your next read. They have recently opened a cafe too so you can even have a drink and grab a bite to eat while you read a few pages. Books Mandala in Baluwatar, Kathmandu, is another great place to visit. Here, you are very likely to find the book you have been searching for as they stock all sorts of titles, from popular authors to lesser known writers. Wisdom Books and Aroma Center in Bhanimandal, Lalitpur, can be your go-to place to browse through books, buy some cool notebooks, incense, candles, stationery items, and handicrafts. They have recently opened a small cafe of sorts where you can get some tea, coffee, and homemade food.