Unforgettable Steps of the Langtang Journey
The second Langtang Trail Run competition was held in Langtang, Rasuwa to promote sports tourism. The event was inaugurated by Indra Baniya, Chief Minister of Bagmati Province, Tourism Minister Suraj Shrestha, and Economic Affairs Minister Prabhat Tamang. Established in 1952 BS, the historic Kanji yak cheese industry continues to make a significant contribution to the local Himalayan economy. June 20, Kathmandu.
Some journeys in life do more than just introduce us to new places; they offer a fresh perspective on life itself. My six-day trip to the Langtang Valley, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, was one such unforgettable experience. Filled with natural beauty, challenging treks, encounters with Himalayan culture, and the excitement of sports tourism, the journey remains vivid in my memory. The journey began with a simple meeting. While having tea with photojournalist Bharatbandhu Thapa in New Baneshwar, Kathmandu, he suddenly asked, “Are you going to Langtang?” Without hesitation, I agreed.
On the first day, from Syabrubesi to Bansbari, on May 19 in the morning, we left Samakhusi for Rasuwa on four buses. More than 100 participants including athletes, organizers, officials, healthcare workers, and media personnel took part. After leaving Kathmandu’s bustle and passing through Tokha and Nuwakot, we reached Syabrubesi in Rasuwa by afternoon and began the trek, which truly introduced us to Langtang. Having grown up in the hilly terrain of Jumla, the uphill and downhill terrain was not new to me, so the hiking seemed manageable. However, the body, accustomed to the comfortable lifestyle of Kathmandu for a long time, experienced something different. The uphill paths challenged the body greatly. Led by Energy Tamang, the team proceeded toward Bansbari. Despite being exhausted from the strenuous journey by evening, the spirit was enthusiastic. The coolness of the stream, the peaceful forest, and the fatigue from hiking made the first night memorable. Without hotels available, media personnel had to stay in tents.
The second day’s journey toward Langtang Valley became even more demanding. Starting early in the morning, we advanced through Rimche, Lama Hotel, Riverside, and Ghoda Tabela, moving toward the Langtang Valley. The green forests, waterfalls, rivers, and mountain views along the way eased the exhaustion. Upon reaching Langtang Valley in the evening, bodies were tired but spirits lifted. There, I had the opportunity to closely understand the devastation caused by the 2015 earthquake (2072 BS). Locals shared heartbreaking stories of how old Langtang village was swept away by avalanches and glacial floods. Recalling the tragedy that claimed the lives of hundreds weighed heavily on the heart, yet the courage to rebuild a new settlement served as a powerful inspiration.