Nature’s Worth: Felt, Not Taught

Dr. Bishnu Bahadur GC

We are taught from an early age that nature is precious. We learn that forests sustain life, rivers shape civilizations, mountains regulate climate, and oceans cradle biodiversity. These truths are important to know. But information alone does not awaken reverence. The true worth of nature is not fully grasped through instruction — it is realized through presence.

By the shore, as waves rise and fall with patient rhythm, inner turbulence gradually settles. Standing beneath a vast sky, one feels a quiet humility that no lecture can instill. Walking through a forest, where light filters softly through leaves, the restless mind begins to slow. In such moments, nature becomes an intimate experience of joy.

I have had several such moments when I absorbed and belonged to nature. One of them I experienced recently is during a hike to Champadevi Hill, an easily accessible hiking destination near Kathmandu.

My cousin Kumar, who had come from Tezpur to attend the wedding ceremony of our nephew (Bhanja) Dr. Sagar, and I decided to climb Champadevi the day after the reception party on February 23, 2026.

One of the starting points for the Champadevi hike is Basbari, on the way to Dakshinkali Temple. Around 9 a.m., we placed our small rucksacks on our shoulders and began climbing the steep steps. After 10–15 minutes, the trail turned right and led us to the ridge of the hill, where footpath construction and beautification were in progress. A large Nepali flag lying proudly on the ground impressed us; we silently thanked the artists and the management behind it.

The morning sunshine gently warmed our backs, and the surrounding scenery refreshed our minds. Without much strain, we reached Hattiban Resort. I was recalled by the memory where our small family had spent a night in this resort some years ago. A cup of coffee in the Resort and the beautiful view of the Kathmandu Valley energized us to continue our hike. It was already 10 a.m.

A gentle slope and a few more steps brought us to the first hilltop, where we paused briefly to regain strength. Though mist partially covered the valley, the view remained captivating. By noon, we decided to climb the final hillock where the Champadevi Temple stands.

Descending several steps and then walking along a relatively flat trail, we eventually faced a steep ascent. Along the way, we met both Nepali and foreign hikers. Short conversations with them about the trail made the journey even more enjoyable.

During the climb, I received a call from Rishan, my daughter-in-law in Australia. Her voice released my tiredness and strengthened my spirit. For Kumar and Rishan, it was their first conversation. I briefly shared details of our hike. In that moment, I also realized the value of modern communication—even in remote natural surroundings.

Finally, we reached Champadevi at an altitude of 2,285 meters and offered darshan at the temple. It felt like a meaningful achievement to complete the journey with my cousin Kumar. The moderate, well-marked trail passing through pine forests, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan ranges, was truly a mind-blowing experience.

More than the physical achievement, finding oneself in the embrace of nature—under the shadows of trees, breathing fresh air—felt deeply healing for both hearts and lungs.

From this short journey, I learned that nature does not advertise its generosity. It simply exists—steady, balanced, enduring. The changing seasons teach acceptance. The silent growth of trees teaches patience. The ceaseless flow of rivers teaches resilience. The vastness of mountains teaches perspective. These lessons are never spoken, yet they are deeply heard.

Modern life often distances us from this living classroom. Surrounded by noise, speed, and artificial light, we begin to mistake convenience for fulfillment. Yet when we return to the earth—even briefly, as we did—something ancient within us awakens.

Remember that we are not separate from nature; we are shaped by it, sustained by it, and spiritually restored within it. Nature reminds us who we are when distractions fall away. It brings us back to balance. It restores proportion between desire and contentment.

The hills surrounding the Kathmandu Valley are precious spaces for refreshing our minds, hearts, and lungs. They are also perfect from the perspective of tourism. Let us recognize, protect and preserve these generous gifts of nature that have been bestowed upon us.

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