For the past few days, I’ve immersed myself in a wide range of Nepali content—everything from protests to political commentary and just about everything in between. With Nepal preparing for elections in less than six months and moving toward the formation of a new government, I thought it would be timely, as part of my quarterly report, to highlight some of the voices I’ve found most compelling—many of whom I’m encountering for the first time.
Sagar Dhakal As the protests escalated, my anxiety grew, and I found myself constantly glued to updates from Nepal. In that process, I came across Sagar Dhakal. In this podcast recorded two months ago, he shared his data-backed research on what could shape the upcoming elections. He argued that the 2084 Nepali year (2027 AD) election would be a watershed moment—explaining how many long-time party members had grown frustrated with the system, and could potentially pave the way for new leadership.
Since then, Nepal has already seen sweeping changes: a new prime minister, an upcoming cabinet, and fresh plans for elections within six months. Given this momentum, I can’t help but wonder if the shift Sagar predicted for 2084 might arrive earlier than expected. He comes across as genuine, insightful, and forward-thinking—exactly the type of person who could help shape Nepal’s new leadership. I wish him the very best.
Sumana Shrestha Sumana is not a new discovery for me—I’ve known her since 5th grade, when we were classmates in same school. Having known her since childhood, I feel compelled to share a few observations.
When I saw her during the confirmation of the new prime minister, I believe she had already stepped away from her party. There may be all kinds of allegations directed at her, but what stands out to me is that the person she is today is exactly who she was back in school. She has always carried herself with integrity, and that quality is evident in the work she does now.
She doesn’t need to defend herself—her work speaks for itself. And frankly, I think it’s a blessing that she left her tainted party, because now she has the chance to chart her own path. I wish her nothing but the very best as she moves forward.
NepaliGen Zs Amidst everything that has unfolded, I’ve saved the best for last. Gen Z doesn’t always have the best reputation, memes about their habits flood social media daily. But I have to admit: Nepali Gen Z is different. In just a matter of days, they transformed the face of Nepali politics. Tragically, this came at the cost of many young lives. My deepest condolences go out to the families of those who were lost. Their courage was extraordinary. Even now, it feels surreal, almost like watching a film in real life. I can hardly believe it happened. I only hope the worst is behind us. However, an even greater task still lies ahead. In the coming elections, the voices of young people must be heard. We need capable leaders with vision, and without ego, who can truly serve the nation.
As the news began to trickle out last week, it became clear there was no single leader driving the protests. Instead, what stood out were the many voices rising in unity. I was deeply touched by how the protest leaders supported and uplifted one another. Their maturity was evident in how they acknowledged that they were not there to lead, but to demand change. In their voices and in their eyes, it was clear—all they wanted was a better future. That kind of self-awareness is a powerful sign that Nepal’s future is bright, and that they are more than capable of leading the nation when the time comes. My hope is that this truly marks the final revolution, one that ensures no other generation will ever have to sacrifice their lives again. I wish them nothing but the very best.
Over the past few days, I have been weighed down by a flood of emotions—shock, heartbreak, disappointment, and anxiety. Yet despite everything, there remains a fragile sense of hope.
It reminds me of 2006, when Nepalis filled the streets demanding freedom, a movement that eventually brought the Maoists into mainstream politics. Back then, there was so much hope—hope that was later shattered by the ego of one man, who chose self-interest over the greater good of the nation.
And here I am in 2025, older, maybe a little more cautious, but still holding onto hope. I can’t wrap my head around how someone who has been in power since before I was even born still manages to cling to leadership. When I saw those videos of them being dragged to safety from angry mobs, I couldn’t stop wondering: did they feel even an ounce of regret for what they’d done to Nepal and Nepalis?
The real tragedy, however, is not the fate of politicians, but the lives of ordinary Nepalis. I think of the families who have lost their children—their dreams, their aspirations, their futures reduced to ashes.
As I write this, I am overwhelmed—by helplessness, by hope, by uncertainty. Also, relieved, in some ways, that the army has stepped in, but also worried—because armies, too, may have their own interests. And if those interests come at the cost of Nepal’s future. The question looms large: will Nepal ever see a leader who governs not for ego, but for the people and the generations to come? History reminds us that even good leaders can be blinded by power, but the hope for better leadership remains.
As I reflect, I’m thinking of everyone back home. My friends, my family, but most of all my little nieces and nephews—the next generation. I’m praying that what comes next will be for them, and for all of Nepal.
Hawaii is the 50th state of the US composed mainly of volcanic islands. Also the very last state declared as the US territory in late 1950’s. We were on the island called Maui. Many travel magazines have described Maui as the paradise on Earth. Precisely the reason I wanted to explore this region. Like many places I have visited, Hawaii had been on my list for the longest time. The state of Hawaii has multiple islands, we chose Maui – because of its natural beauty. If you are looking for adventure, Maui is just the island for you; to hike, zip-line, do many other adventure sports along with some awesome water activities.
75% of Maui island is covered by the dormant volcanic mountain called Haleakala. It’s believed, Haleakala is in fact a mix of two volcanic mountains. This mountain is on the east side of Maui. All the touristic activities take place on the west and south side. Eastern part of Maui, is usually cloudy, rainy but the west and south side is almost always sunny and the eastern mountains also block the wind so tourists can have the most ideal weather experience on Maui.
Clean streets of Maui, Hawaii
One of the first things we did as soon as we arrived was attended Luau. It was a buffet at a resort in South Maui, Wailea – an event full of music, dance and orchids showcasing Polynesian culture. This is a must do to experience Hawaiian-Polynesian culture.
WEATHER
It was on average 82 degrees Fahrenheit (approx. 28 degrees Celsius) on the island in February 2016. Everyone here surfs. When it’s a day off or a weekend, all they do is surf. Locals’ main activities are all water activities, everyone here has a perfectly toned body.
I recommend at least a week-long stay. Rent a car. It’s relatively easy to drive around.
PLACES
West Maui: Lahaina West Maui’s Lahaina area has a few awesome museums where you can learn about the history of Hawaii and its people. Interesting thing I found out about this state; after becoming a part of the US in late 50s – Hawaii’s own Polynesian culture started deteriorating. Future generations would only speak English, their native tongue was slowly disappearing. It wasn’t until early 2000, that Hawaiians deliberately made an attempt to revive their culture. For a state that seemed to start late, I was very impressed by their heritage preservation efforts. People here are multi-lingual, they have very well adapted to the American setting, keeping their culture in tact – also very cleverly integrating it with tourism.
Lahaina
PARKING (West Maui) Parking can be a big issue in Lahaina. Parking tip:> There are plenty of free public parking lots in Lahaina. But if you can’t find one. Right between the intersection of Dickenson St/Luakinu St and Dickenson St/Waine’e St you can find ‘Republic parking’; for 3 – 8 hrs it costs $5. If you park just a block ahead (closer to the main Lahaina market) It costs $5 for 1-2 hrs [2016 rate].
Lahaina is a great area to walk around, it is one of the main tourist areas on Maui. Awesome places to dine, one of which is, Cool Cat Cafe: – I recommend: Blue suede shoes cheese burgers – for the lovers of blue cheese burgers.
Best beach is in the Kaanapali area. About a few minutes (drive) north of Lahaina (although technically the same area). Kaanapali has a big mall (Whalers village) where you can park your car but it’s expensive. We were lucky enough to find a public parking spot, which is right next to the mall. If you get confused, ask the vehicle ticket person at the mall to point you to the public parking space.
South Maui: Kihei
Our hotel was on the south side of Maui. Tourist mainly flock western side – but we chose South side – as we had read in the reviews that the south side would be less crowded. Our hotel was just across an awesome beach from where you could get the best sunset view on Maui. All beaches are public on the island of Maui.
Sunset – Kihei, Beach area
Food (South Maui , Kihei)
Closer to the hotel we stayed at there was> Cafe O’Lei: This was about 6-min walk from our hotel.
Recommend: Li Hing Mui Margarita
Coconut’s Fish cafe: A few minutes drive from our hotel (30-35 minutes if you walk fast). According to CNN Coconut’s Fish cafe is one of the best top 10 food joints in the US. I would say, it does live up to the hype.
Both affordable.
East Maui
East Maui is all Haleakala – also the no. 1 biggest attraction of Maui. Haleakala mountain offers hiking experience, watching sunrise 10,000 feet above sea level, wildlife spotting, walk through a mystical bamboo forest. It’s a natural beauty jackpot.
Activities:
Haleakala
Haleakala Summit
Haleakala is humongous – considering 75% of Maui is all Haleakala – there is so much to do here in each side of Haleakala.
Road to Hana (all day trip)
Watch sunrise: Make sure to wake up early for this. To get there on time, you have to leave your hotel room by 2:45 a.m. if you are on the South side. For those living on the west side, will have to leave even earlier.
Explore the Haleakala mountain. Go for hiking. We tried, Halemau’u trail and Hosmer’s Grove trail
Part of the Haleakala National park> Pipiwai Trial: This trail was something out of a dream. Nothing like I had seen before, forest full of bamboo, gave me goosebumps – very mystical and spiritual.
Haleakala Summit
North Maui
We were on the island for 8 days – so after we were done with all touristic activities – we had enough time to also check out the Nakalele Blowhole. If you do not have enough time – you can skip this. But if you do, do not miss out. It isn’t a protected area, hence you will see plenty of sign boards saying something like, ‘..explore at your own risk’. Please do not go so close to the blow hole, it is in fact very dangerous. Blowhole area looks a bit like alien planet. It took about 2 hours drive to get to this place from Kihei (south Maui).
Nakalele Blowhole, North Maui
Overall Must dos:
Attend Luau
Explore all the best beaches of west (Kaanapali) and south Maui (Kihei).
Go snorkeling: We went snorkling at Molokini crater. Water was absolutely divine. I have never seen water so clean. You can see all kinds of aquatic creatures from the boat, you don’t even have to jump in the sea. It was that clean! Molokini is a protected area, you are not allowed climb the rocks of Molokini. Snorkling will be limited within a certain area only. But highly recommend it for sure. Besides Molokini, this package also included watching sea turtle on south Maui. As a bonus, we also got to see humpback whales. Turns out it was a whale mating season, so there were multiple male humpback whales trying to impress one single female whale and ended up very close to our boat. Boats are not allowed within 100 yards of whales, but if whales decide to come close to the boat, there’s nothing the captain can do but stay put. It was an awesome sight!
Explore Haleakala: Watch sunrise, hike Pipiwai trail, and other trails of the mountain.
All in all, I found Maui very similar to Nepal. Hawaii is literally at the top most level in the landscape of international tourism. When I say, Maui is very similar to Nepal – I am not even kidding. Except for the ocean, everything else in Maui reminded me of Nepal. From long and winding road to Hana, to summiting Mt Haleakala, seeing the sunrise above the clouds, to beautiful weather – it felt very much like going back home. If such a small island can offer so much, Nepal being a bigger country would naturally have much more to offer, if only managed well. Still, having said that, Maui of course has its own charm that cannot be compared to any other place; especially its people and culture – very unique and one of a kind. If Maui is on your bucket list – I hope you wait no more to book a trip.
I had been wanting to work on an svg animation for a very long time. Finally managed to create this simple animation. There’s a lot more to work on, until then here’s a quick preview: http://shailiza.com/animation/
This was inspired by the awesome animation of Adam Coulombe.
Drawing in Illustrator – grouping each object appropriately.
Further edited svg file.
Added CSS, JavaScript. Majority of my time was spent in Illustrator and CSS.
Followed by endless debugging.
Adam has done a great job explaining the process. I recommend you to go through his post.
Note: This only works when run from the HTTP protocol for security reasons. If you are having issues getting the SVG to load, be sure you are testing from a web server or running on localhost.
Top 5 Manufacturing Industries of Nepal
Data Source: cbs.gov.np. National Census of Manufacturing Establishments of Nepal 2011/2012, Central Bureau of Statistics, Government of Nepal.
My cousin asked me if I could add people to an existing layout and so I did!
Again, I’m providing A4 size Illustrator (AI) and PDF (with illustrator editing capabilities preserved) versions of Kathmandu skyline with people walking and cycling. You can manipulate the layout for brochures, presentations, posters or for any other purposes.
I am providing A4 size Illustrator (AI) and PDF (with illustrator editing capabilities preserved) versions of Kathmandu skyline. You can manipulate the layout for brochures, presentations, posters or for any other purposes.
My 2014 narrative was dominated by upper Mustang. I must have had thought there couldn’t be a bigger high than upper mustang experience, that place – so barren and yet so beautiful. I was a rare few amongst my peers who’d made it to the Tibetan border; that subsequently turned me into a complete travel snob. But as I recall 2014, Mustang was not the only place I had discovered. Neighboring city next to Kathmandu – Patan, was in fact my very first discovery of the year 2014.
Growing up in Kathmandu, Kathmandu Durbar Square had been an integral part of my childhood days. It was just a few minutes walk from my home in Ason chowk. One of my aunts lived in the Durbar square area and I would go there every possible weekend to hang out with my cousins. I grew up playing hide and seek in Kathmandu Durbar Square, I learnt to ride a bicycle in Kathmandu Durbar Square. My childhood memories are made up of Kathmandu Durbar square. Whereas, Patan, not so much. It barely even crossed my mind.
Fast forward to 2014, when I was home – my parents had moved to a different neighborhood, except this time it was closer to Patan. When I needed to hang out with my friends, Thamel seemed too far. Lo and behold – it was the right time to discover Jhamsikhel – or more popularly known as ‘Jhamel’. A combination of ‘Thamel’ and ‘Jhamsikhel’, mockingly coined as new Thamel. It was up and coming, hip neighborhood of Patan where all the cool kids hung out. I presumed I was one of those cool kids. My quest to discover Patan, began by exploring Jhamsikhel. The clean and cool neighborhood, decent eateries and the hypnotic musical ambience attracted me all the more toward this quaint community.
Food
Jhamsikhel has many options, you can pick and choose from. Some of my favorite places to go eat are:
LeTrio
This is the spot for hot and spicy mouth watering Jhol momo. That’s it. I go there just for Jhol momo, best in town. If you are adventurous, try chicken wings. It was great the last time I tried. Their veg menu is good too.
The first time I was here on a Friday night, had tried Salmon Medallion, I loved it. I thought this place could fulfill my craving for American food. As the clock was about to strike 7 p.m., I heard this guy sing, his music, loved it even more than the food. Music seems to be the only reason I keep going back to this place. I must admit though, every time I went in; the quality of food seems to deteriorate a notch. Nonetheless, still not too bad to try at least once. But MUSIC! music is always 100%. This musician, Dharmendra Sewan has a great personality. I believe he performs every Friday night in Tamarind. That man nails every song he sings – be it Nepali folks, contemporary English or my most favorite hindi movie songs. He is genuinely a good singer and a great entertainer. Check out this place every Friday nights. You won’t be disappointed, thanks to Dharmendra Sewan.
Thakkhola is a hidden gem. My dad introduced me to this place. It’s a great spot to have authentic Thakali food. Most importantly, you get great food, that is within your budget, in squeaky clean cozy atmosphere. The reason it costs less as compared to the others in Jhamsikhel is because; restaurants offering 100% traditional Nepali food do not need to pay value added tax (VAT). Therefore, it gets a lot cheaper for the owners to run the restaurant and subsequently gets lighter on our pocket too. If you are more into Nepali food, I highly recommend this spot than any other places in Jhamel.
Thakkhola, Veg Thali
Patan Durbar Square
From the narrow streets of Jhamsikhel to the main attraction of Patan, one of the world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley; Patan Durbar Square. In order to understand this place you have to immerse yourself in its surrounding. You have to get it from every angle. Spend time and learn about this piece of history through the most well preserved museum in Nepal, inside the durbar square. Also get a good bird’s eye view, from any one of the tall restaurants of the neighborhood. Gaze at Patan in all its glory. Go with friends that you can have a conversation with just about anything and everything, and don’t forget a chilled glass of beer – I recommend, Gorkha or Tuborg.
A 1000-year-old heritage mixed with hustle and bustle of everyday people – that’s Patan for you. I’ve seen Patan Durbar Square in all its shape and form. In the most bright sunny day, to monsoon weather, I’ve seen it drenched in rain and form a mini river. I’ve seen that place illuminating underneath a starry night and street lights. I truly feel like I have seen it all, all of Patan, inside and out.
Patan Durbar Square in all its glory
Patan Heritage
My admiration for this city didn’t just end with gazing at everyday Patan. I was lucky enough to take a heritage walk with Anil Chitrakar in and around various tiers of Patan. The science behind the architecture of the main Patan square and its periphery is simply mind blowing. What you see today is just a glimpse of what’s to come in next few years. In next 5 years or so, Patan will get a complete facelift. Wait and watch. I highly recommend you to sign up for the Patan Heritage Walk with Anil Chitrakar, and allow him to blow your mind.
Almost all through 2014, I also took a dance class in the heart of Pulchok, again that was in Patan. I have ventured all the way to Patan Durbar Square from my parents’ house and located all possible nooks and crannies and short cuts to Patan. May be I haven’t yet fully uncovered Patan’s gallies as Ason chowk but I know – one day I will get there. Through this post I want to acknowledge the greatness that is Patan. The place that remained unexplored for so long. When finally the moment arrived, I discovered it in such a way that I felt like I was a part of Patan all long. Here’s to the city that helped expand my horizon, to the city I fell in love, to the city that will forever remain etched in my heart.
I am a typical urban Kathmandutie; but unlike majority of my peers, I can proudly say I haven’t just visited places beyond Kathmandu but even lived there. Chitwan being one of them – however, the very famous national park of this district had been left undiscovered for quite sometime – until very recently.
In the midst of Monsoon (August 2015) I made it to Meghauli, Chitwan – about 178 KM from Kathmandu. Flew from Kathmandu to Bharatpur. Took a cab from Bharatpur to Meghauli (32 km) where Barahi Jungle Lodge is located. It takes about 1.5 hrs to get there from Bharatpur airport. This was part of a package tour.
Bharatpur Airport
Interesting things to witness on the way to Meghauli (as is with every other flat land of Nepal):
1) Greenery
2) Vast farm lands
3) People commuting in bicycles: Again another typical terai feature. Like people in Paris or Amsterdam, except – here in Nepal, it is the cheapest way to commute – not that we care about the environment; unless they really do care about the environment.
While reading the reviews, I noticed people complaining about this long ride to Meghauli. On the contrary, I actually loved it. The downside is the bad road condition – otherwise it is a great way to watch the local world go by.
Highlighted districts: Chitwan and Kathmandu
I felt very awkward by the fact that my brother and I were the only guests on the day of the arrival. All attention on us, just not used to so much luxury. Barahi Jungle lodge is located in a Tharu village, hence the reason they have mainly employed all Tharu locals. We were assigned Subash Gurung as our naturalist, he was an encyclopedia of Chitwan National Park and Chitwan itself. If you ever go there, hunt down this guy and learn everything you wanted to know about Nepal and its wildlife, and don’t forget to give me a credit – i.e if you are interested in one.
Things we did:
Elephant safari: Monsoon is an off season. Since it rains so much, jeep safari is not allowed in the park. Plus elephant safari is permitted only in the community forest area, which I must say was still very impressive. You can also notice the extent of the thickness of this forest while you’re on board approaching to land in Bharatpur.
Elephant Bathing: I technically didn’t do this because it involved taking a dip in the river and the heavily influenced American side of me got scared by the brown colored river. I know, I totally chickened out 🙁 Actually I suffer from aquaphobia.
Boat ride: This was the best part of the package for me. I think Gorkha beer had something to do with it (or had everything to do with it). There were four of us (my brother, I and two other guests). This was supposedly only a boat ride. Those guys surprised us by stopping somewhere in the jungle – with beverages all lined up. I was like – heck, I’m drinking beer! But didn’t think I could take the whole bottle since my brother didn’t want to accompany me. Then this another guest and I made a deal – to share a bottle… and another one. It was drizzling in the middle of this green community forest. Very romantic. Then the two elephants were brought in to pick us up! another round of elephant safari.
Visit to Tharu museum: Learned that tharu and Newars have in fact a very similar culture. I highly recommend this to those who are curious to learn about ethnic community of this district.
Bullock cart ride: It was a fun ride
Barahi Jungle Lodge
About Chitwan National Park: I was thoroughly impressed by the park. Out of 3500 national parks in the world, this one is the 19th best! The main park is spread across 900 sq meters plus the community forest separated by the river. Although, technically I didn’t get to visit the main part of the park, the community forest alone was very impressive entirely owned and managed by the local community. We could have had done, jungle walk in the main park – but it was way too hot to try that. So, I bailed out. The park is safe guarded my Nepal army, one of the reasons why poaching is under control. Considering nothing in Nepal seems to be working, turns out that’s not the case with our national parks. Nepal is in fact pioneering the wildlife conservation. Yeah, try beating that America!
Coincidentally, the last day when we had to leave – it was supposedly Tharu community who’d called for Chitwan bandh. But the Tharus of this village didn’t seem to have a clue. One has no idea what’s happening in Nepal, can’t trust the media either. Everything is happening in Nepal; yet nothing is happening in Nepal, if you know what I mean. All I can suggests is – do not trust the media. Talk to the locals instead. There are definitely no security issues, but that doesn’t mean you venture out in unknown areas without your guide either.
Evening
I’m definitely visiting this place at least one more time.
