“I’m extremely pleased to see such a great turnout for this event. Hiking is a very healthy activity.  But one should not merely regard hiking as a journey from one destination to another,” said Hamal during the inauguration. “Hiking should be about enjoying the journey while observing the beautiful surrounding environment, enjoying your own health and gratifying your own spirit and soul,” Hamal added.

During the hike, participants walked through the forest of Nagarjun National Park. They started off from the foothills, went all the way to the summit and descended again to the starting point, a route that made for a 5-hour-long hike.

“Through this campaign we are creating a common platform where hikers, nature lovers, and other interested people from diverse backgrounds can meet every weekend and take a hike together. People can share their ideas and experiences while hiking, and they can also use the event to help raise funds for social causes,” said Ganesh Sharma, chairperson of the campaign.

 “We also want to use the event to let the world know that Nepal is still a safe travel destination. But we must take the lead ourselves to promote our country,” Sharma added.

Hike for Nepal also has plans to form an international hikers’ coalition in different countries to raise funds that will go towards promoting tourism and protecting the environment. The next destination for the hikers will be the hills of Shivapuri, on July 18.