Reflecting on my recent trip to Nepal, I am both proud and encouraged. I moved to the U.S. in 2002 in search of better opportunities, but Nepal’s charm and traditions have always stayed with me. During this visit, I spent a month reconnecting with my roots, which was particularly special for me as it was filled with nostalgia and adventure. Every trip to Nepal has been unique for me, and is always filled with family moments and delicious meals showing the culture I grew up in. Unlike the other visits, I went on an exploration and have discovered the side of Nepal, that has surprised me pleasantly.
Regardless of where I went for the trip, ranging from Pokhara to The Pink City or Waling, Syangja, the smooth road trip from Butwal to Bhairahawa, I was constantly surprised with the resemblance to my road trips in the US – striking me with the range of progress Nepal has gone through in the last 23 years. Particularly, my trip in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and Tilaurakot, the old capital of Kapilvastu, deepened my connection to my roots. Moving further to the west, the amazing views of the Palpali Hills stunned me and the places like Ridi and Rani Mahal told the stories of past.,
The natural beauty of Nepal is stunning. The views from the Kaligandaki Corridor showed me our homeland’s great potential. Hidden gems like Kristi, Nirmal Pokhari, and Bharat Pokhari of Kaski remained peaceful, with potentials to be explored as escapes from the chaos. The Mustang region and the holy place of Muktinath were the highlights of my trip. Places like Marpha, Kagbeni, Baglung Kalika, and Beni felt like living postcards, rich in culture and tradition.
During my second visit to Ghandruk, I was captivated by a traditional-style home with a star-hotel setup inside, perfectly blending modern comforts with a stunning side view of the Machhapuchhre Himalayas. It made me wonder—why have I traveled the world when heaven-like Nepal was always here? Driving from Pokhara to Rupakot Resort and then to Chitwan, Sauraha, on winding highways shows Nepal’s progress. There are so many opportunities! And so much potential!
One surprising thing I noticed was how some people perceived Nepal. Phrases like ‘Nepal Khatam (Nepal is bad)’ or ‘Nepal ma kehi chaina (There is nothing in Nepal)’ are common in Nepal as well as among the diaspora, who often focus on the negatives. When I returned to New York, it took almost an hour to get off the plane and another 90 minutes for my luggage. If that had happened in Nepal, people would have called it a disaster. But in the U.S., it is just a ‘busy airport’. While Nepalis do not complain about the noisy overhead train tracks there, they always seem to find time to complain about the “noisy roads” of Nepal. This mindset needs to change.
While I was making trips from Naples to Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, there were narrow roads, and drivers had to back up frequently to pass through. Delays and setbacks happen everywhere, but they don’t define a country. While political frustrations remain, people are sick and tired of the endless political games. Administrative costs have skyrocketed, industries are shrinking, and imports are rising. Yet, Nepal is thriving in ways that many overlook. More restaurants now serve diverse cuisines, and the service industry is growing with more professionals entering the workforce. New hotels are enhancing options for both tourists and locals. A cleanness mindset is seen throughout the county. Progress is visible from Gautam Buddha International Airport to Pokhara International Airport.
The IT sector is also remarkably progressing. InDrive App in Nepal is more user-friendly than taking an Uber in the U.S. Bank apps offer seamless services, allowing users to check bills, book flights, hotels, and even pay taxes and utilities—something we cannot do just as quickly in the US. These are not just ideas, but tangible signs of Nepal’s growth and potential. We need to recognize and celebrate this.
In Nepal, we focus on what needs fixing rather than acknowledging how far we have advanced. It is time to accept the positives and see daily progress. Nepal is a land full of potential, beauty, and strength. Life here is full of culture, beautiful views, and kind people. Instead of focusing only on what is missing, we should also highlight what is thriving. We need to look at the significant changes ahead. Nepal is not ‘done.’ It has endless opportunities, beauty, and hope. Let’s stop saying ‘Nepal Khatam’. Together, we can shape a future where Nepal stands out globally and earns respect and admiration. A positive narrative about Nepal can give hope and attract investment for its future.
I have heard many stories of friendly local drivers who take pride in welcoming Nepalis from abroad, knowing they often contribute more than the average tourist. Let’s uncover and celebrate Nepal’s hidden treasures, creating new growth opportunities. Every visit to Nepal should be more than just a trip; it should be a chance to help our country’s bright future. Let’s all participate in this progress journey and feel empowered to make a change.
By investing in our infrastructure, tourism, and businesses, we can make Nepal an even better place to live and visit. Let’s shift the conversations from complaints to pride in Nepal. Let’s celebrate the good changes around us—how far we have come and the fantastic potential we possess. Focusing on the positives can inspire the younger generation to join in on building a better Nepal.
The time for change is now.
Narayan Baral is a seasoned civil engineer with over two decades of experience in construction management, infrastructure, and public works projects across the United States. He is currently serving as the President of the Greater New York Metro Chapter (NY, NJ, and CT) of the American Society of Nepalese Engineers. Narayan is passionate about mentoring emerging professionals and fostering collaboration within the engineering community, with a strong commitment to advancing both technical excellence and community engagement.
