As we witness the progression of our world, shaped by the complexities we’ve created in the pursuit of comfort, it’s clear that this comes at a significant cost. The need for climate action has become urgent because we have not lived sustainably. Instead of coexisting with nature, we have disrupted ecosystems in the name of development. Now, as we experience the consequences of this relentless quest for comfort, we can see how deeply reliant we’ve become on unsustainable systems.
The founders of TGG envision a harmonious community that respects creation and integrates with the natural world. Yet, today, people are caught in a cycle of constant wanting—so much so that breaking free feels as unnatural as taking a fish out of water.
The search for SHAMBALA begins with the recognition of this truth and a desire to reconnect with a more sustainable way of living.
Namitha and I (Laiju) have both felt a calling toward Nepal, a feeling that has surfaced in our conversations repeatedly over the past few months. While India has its own spiritual destinations like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir, the energy guiding us was clearly pointing elsewhere.
In July, we began planning, and by August, we finally managed to step away from the distractions of worldly life. Our intention was to spend some time with our aging parents and, more importantly, to seek out a place that could become SHAMBALA.
On August 13th, 2024, we traveled to Kollam from Wayanad to spend time with our parents. Although we had plans to visit relatives, my mom’s cataract surgery required us to cancel most long-distance trips. Thankfully, her surgery went well, though our parents were anxious about many things, including our unplanned journey.
All we knew was that we had to find SHAMBALA, and the signs pointed to Nepal. We booked tickets to Varanasi, the world’s oldest city, marking the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. Though our trip would be self-funded and we would be traveling with limited resources, the call was so strong that we took it on as a mission. We had a clear plan to get us to Lumbini, and after that, we trusted that the path would guide us.
We began our journey from Kollam on 2nd September 2024, traveling by train to Angamali, where we stayed overnight at a budget hotel near the airport. The next day, we flew from Kochi to Varanasi via Bangalore, with a 7-hour layover. Arriving in Varanasi around 9 PM, we took a cab to our homestay in Shivalaya, where we had a 2-night stay. During this time, we visited the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Assi Ghat, the Krishnamurti Foundation, and Sarnath.
Although Varanasi is often spoken of as a spiritual center, I didn’t feel the Godliness that many seek through darshan (auspicious sight of the deity) and evening aarti (waving of lighted lamps). Instead, it seemed more like a well-organized network focused on exploiting tourists, with little regard for true humanity.
However, we did find an element of peace at the Krishnamurti Foundation’s learning center, maybe because it was peaceful. Visiting Sarnath was also a worthwhile part of the journey, offering a meaningful contrast to the city’s commercialized atmosphere.
No matter what facilities we build, without civic sense (duties and responsibilities citizens have towards their society), they will quickly become unproductive. Our education system and administration play a key role in instilling discipline in people’s lives. If common sense doesn’t prevail, fear of consequences should. The government must define safety and hygiene standards, integrate them into the education system, and enforce strict penalties for non-compliance. Without this, even with a $10 trillion economy, we risk remaining a third-world country.
Assi Ghat, Varanasi
Assi Ghat, Varanasi
Sarnath, Varanasi
Sarnath, Varanasi
We began our journey from Varanasi to Gorakhpur by train, excited about the modernization of Varanasi Railway Station. However, we were disappointed to find the station unhygienic, with litter everywhere and stray dogs causing discomfort to passengers. After checking with the enquiry desk, we were told our train would arrive at platform 1 and that the coach position would be displayed on the LED screen.
Unfortunately, the train was delayed, and just 15 minutes before its arrival, an announcement informed us that it would arrive on platform 3 instead. As we made our way there, I explored the so-called modern station and noticed escalators and lifts, but the entire area was still dirty. With our luggage, we had to use the elevator, which was so filthy it was barely tolerable.
On platform 3, there was no LED display for the coach position. We asked a baggage handler for help, but he kept changing directions. Knowing the train had a 10-minute halt, we decided to wait and board once it stopped. When we finally got on, our 3-tier AC coach was also unclean, with food wrappers and empty water bottles scattered around. Despite the presence of two policemen, children were begging, and vendors were selling pan masala, all seemingly unnoticed by the authorities. I had to ask the cabin attendant to clean the coach, who, in turn, expressed frustration at the passengers’ misuse of the facilities.
Finally, the coach attendant arrived with a long-handled brush and cleaned the compartment, allowing us to relax and continue our journey to Gorakhpur. The landscape was lush with paddy fields stretching all around. After about three hours, we reached Gorakhpur. Exiting the station, we hoped to board an AC bus but found none available. With heavy baggage, we opted for a rickshaw to the shared cab area, where we were fortunate to find a comfortable AC car to Sonauli border. The drive took around three hours.
Like much of the country, the area was undergoing road expansion and infrastructure improvements. Gorakhpur appeared more organized compared to Varanasi, likely due to its smaller population, though the widespread habit of spitting persisted. It was scorching, with temperatures peaking around 1 PM when we arrived. The driver was helpful, explaining the border crossing process.
Since we had a clear plan to reach Lumbini, we had pre-booked a homestay and established contact with the owner, who arranged a vehicle to pick us up from Bhairahawa, the Nepal side of the border, and shared the car details. He also advised us to exchange currency and get a SIM card upon arrival in Lumbini.
However, at the Nepal border security check, we realized our phones had no signal, making it impossible to contact the driver. Thankfully, a kind lady security officer assisted by calling the driver and informing him of our location. He soon arrived, and we continued our journey to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha.
Once we entered Nepal, the influence of Uttar Pradesh was noticeable near the border, but the landscape gradually became cleaner and more organized. Buildings and population density decreased, and traffic became more orderly, with people following the rules. We passed the soon-to-be Gautam Buddha International Airport, which could significantly boost tourism once international flights begin. In less than an hour, we reached our homestay, located just outside the main town—exactly the peaceful setting we were looking for.
Nepal has a comparatively smaller population than India. Lumbini, a beautiful plain at the foothills of the Himalayas, offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. It is renowned as the birthplace of Buddha, with the Maya Devi Temple marking the exact spot. This peaceful location is perfect for meditation and reflection. The entire complex is beautifully maintained, with several Mahabodhi centers built by different countries, each showcasing unique architectural styles. There is a one-day entry fee for the Maya Devi Temple, which allows multiple visits throughout the day. We visited in the morning and returned in the evening to spend some quiet, peaceful time in silence.
Main Entrance, Lumbini
Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini
Mahabodhi, Lumbini
Peace Pagoda, Lumbini
After checking in at the homestay and resting for a while, we visited the owner at another guesthouse in town. He was very welcoming, assisting us with currency exchange and guiding us on how to get a local SIM card for our mobile. Everything went smoothly.
Since the purpose of our trip was to identify a location suitable for developing Shambala, and we had no idea where to begin our search in Nepal—especially as first-time visitors—I decided to share my thoughts with him. He listened carefully and suggested that I visit the district administration in Palpa for more guidance.
On our return, I met an IT professional who was also staying and working from the same homestay. I shared my purpose of visit with him, and the conversation was overheard by the homestay attendants. She recommended that I visit her village in Gulmi, where unemployment, lack of healthcare, and poor educational facilities have left many people struggling. She believed this project would be valuable for her community, but it would need the involvement of the village authorities and collaboration with a local school or college.
Most people in the village spoke Nepali and had limited understanding of Hindi and English, so she offered to have her son accompany us as a guide. We felt that since everything is guided by the universe, we should follow this path. Her son came to meet us in the evening, and we explained the project, asking for his assistance in reaching the right contacts and obtaining their consent before we traveled.
We also wanted to stay in the village to get a feel for its atmosphere and energy. However, one of my major concerns was the availability of a western-style toilet, as I have knee issues due to my weight, which made this visit a significant concern for me.
He requested a day to organize everything, so we extended our stay by another night. That evening, he informed us that everything was arranged, and we were ready to go the next day. The IT professional, who was also concerned about our trip, briefed him to ensure we faced no issues during our visit to the village.
The next morning, we started our journey at 6:30 AM and, after changing a couple of vehicles, reached a remote village in the Gulmi district around 5 PM. The Ward Chairperson and his staff awaited us. I met with him and explained the purpose of our visit to Nepal. While I’m unsure how much he understood, he sensed the significance of the project. As it was getting dark, I checked our accommodations but, realizing there was no western toilet and not wanting to risk staying longer with Namitha, we decided to leave. The Ward Chairperson arranged meetings with the Chief Municipality Officer and the heads of both secondary and higher secondary schools.
We traveled 27 km through bumpy roads to the nearest town and stayed in a basic hotel for the night. Given Namitha’s needs, we planned to continue to Tansen in Palpa. The next morning, we met with the Municipality Officer and school heads as scheduled and discussed with them about this project. Since we couldn’t stay another day, we left for Tansen, leaving our guide to continue discussions with local authorities. During this time, we found and booked a homestay in Tansen with good reviews and spoke to the owner couple of time during our trip. We reached the homestay via a taxi from the bus park, and though it was on the 4th floor, the helpful driver assisted with our luggage.
This stay played a significant role in our journey, as our meeting with the homestay owner was pivotal in guiding us toward the path we followed in the coming days.
We don’t meet people by accident; they are meant to cross our path in the journey of life. Each individual and each encounter plays a role in our lives, contributing to a greater purpose. As we follow the divine path to engage in collective actions for the common good, those who join us without understanding the deeper purpose—and who primarily seek material gain—may find it less fulfilling. Our mission is to plant the seed of a noble project that will be a blessing for future generations.
Therefore, aligning with our Responsible Human Mission consciously will naturally draw those with a shared vision. Many may sign up without fully grasping the intent, but as we move forward, some may lose interest.
Living for oneself is part of basic survival, something that requires no special training. But living for others is a path that goes beyond the self, and it calls for a deeper commitment.
Tansen, a beautiful hill station located in the Palpa district of Nepal, is a culturally rich town with a deep history and breathtaking landscapes. It’s a lesser-known gem that blends traditional Nepali culture with stunning views of the Himalayas. Here’s a detailed look into Tansen and its offerings:
Location and Geography:
Tansen is situated at an altitude of around 1,350 meters (4,430 feet) above sea level on the southern slope of Shreenagar Hill. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and, on clear days, spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges.
The town is about 300 kilometers west of Kathmandu and 120 kilometers from the city of Pokhara.
Historical Significance:
Capital of the Magar Kingdom: Tansen was historically the capital of the Magar kingdom and has a long history tied to the Magar people, one of Nepal’s indigenous groups. The town has a distinctly Magar cultural heritage, making it an important site for understanding the region’s ethnic diversity.
Prithvi Narayan Shah’s Unification Campaign: Tansen played a significant role in the unification of Nepal, as it was a strategic location during the military campaigns of King Prithvi Narayan Shah in the 18th century.
Colonial Influence: Tansen has experienced influences from India during the British colonial period, which can be seen in its architecture and cultural influences.
Cultural and Architectural Highlights
Tansen Durbar: The former palace of the local governor (known as the “Durbar”) is an impressive structure that represents traditional Newari-style architecture. Although it was damaged during the Maoist conflict in 2006, it remains a focal point of the town’s historical charm.
Rani Mahal (Queen’s Palace): Built by General Khadga Shumsher Jang Bahadur Rana on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River, Rani Mahal is often called the “Taj Mahal of Nepal” due to its romantic backstory and beautiful architecture. It was built in memory of his beloved wife.
Shreenagar Hill: This is one of the most scenic spots in the region. Shreenagar Hill offers panoramic views of the mountains and valleys below and is also a popular hiking destination.
Cultural Richness
Tansen is known for its Newari culture, with various festivals celebrated throughout the year. It’s also a hub for local crafts such as Dhaka textiles, a traditional handwoven fabric worn by many Nepalese, including the iconic topi (cap).
The town has temples, stupas, and gompas that reflect the mix of Hinduism and Buddhism in the area. Some notable temples include Bhagwati Temple, which is a major religious site, and Amar Narayan Temple, known for its wood carvings.
Festivals
Gaijatra: One of the vibrant festivals celebrated in Tansen, Gaijatra is a festival of cows where families who have lost loved ones participate in processions. It’s a unique blend of humor and mourning, and the entire town comes alive with music, dance, and parades.
Chaitra Dashain: A local version of the national Dashain festival, this celebration has a distinct local flavor, with traditional rituals and community feasts.
Nature and Adventure
Hiking and Trekking: The hills surrounding Tansen are perfect for short hikes and treks, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and valleys. The region is less crowded than places like Pokhara, offering a more tranquil experience.
Kali Gandaki Gorge: Nearby is the Kali Gandaki River and the gorge, one of the world’s deepest. It is both a natural wonder and a spiritual site for many Hindus.
Climate
The climate of Tansen is temperate, with pleasant summers and cool winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear for mountain views.
Local Cuisine
Tansen is known for its Magar and Newari cuisine, including dishes like gundruk, sukuti, and yomari. Local eateries offer a variety of traditional meals, often with ingredients sourced from the surrounding region.
Access and Transportation
Tansen is accessible by road from major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Butwal. The nearest airport is in Bhairahawa (Siddhartha Nagar), about 65 kilometers from Tansen. Bus services are available from nearby cities, but the town itself is best explored on foot due to its hilly terrain and narrow streets.
Tourism and Accommodation
While tourism is still developing in Tansen, there are several guesthouses, homestays and hotels catering to visitors, offering a range of services from budget to mid-range options. Staying here offers a chance to experience authentic Nepali culture away from the crowded tourist hubs like Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Key Attractions Nearby
Ridi Bazaar: Known as the “Banaras of Nepal,” this is a sacred site for Hindus and a pilgrimage spot located near the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Ridi Khola rivers. The area is also known for its stone carvings and artifacts.
Kashinath Park: A lovely spot for a stroll, offering views of the surrounding landscape and a quiet place for relaxation.
Conclusion
Tansen is a town that blends cultural heritage, history, and natural beauty. With its traditional crafts, vibrant festivals, and scenic surroundings, it provides a peaceful, authentic experience of Nepal. Its historical importance and less touristy nature make it an excellent destination for those looking to explore off the beaten path in Nepal.
A lesser-known gem, Tansen is a hill town rich in history and culture. It was the seat of the Magar kingdom and has a mix of Newari and Magar cultures. The town is filled with traditional houses and has its own distinct local traditions and festivals.
Srinagar Park, Tansen
View from Homestay, Tansen
Sital Patti, Tansen
Regional view, Tansen
One of the biggest challenges we faced was accessing my bank account. Our resources were depleting faster than expected, and I couldn’t access my account because I wasn’t receiving OTPs on my mobile. My card also wasn’t activated for international payments, a hard-earned lesson from our trip. Namitha’s Google Pay worked wherever Fone Pay QR codes were available, but that, too, had its limitations. Thankfully, our son Nigil, who stayed in constant contact and fully supported our mission, quickly transferred enough money to Namitha’s account and the owner of the homestay gave us cash against Fone Pay, helped us complete the journey.
Driven by our strong determination to find Shambala, every challenge became an opportunity. The next morning, the owner of the homestay, a retired Economic Professor in his mid-70s, and I went for an early walk at 5:30 a.m., quite unusual for me. We hiked uphill to Srinagar Park, a stunning spot filled with pine trees and a well-maintained walking trail. There was also a stupa and a temple. While walking, we noticed some plastic wraps and bottles scattered around, so we collected them and disposed of them properly. Afterward, we spent some time meditating near the stupa and took fantastic pictures of the breathtaking views. During our walk, we also had a deep conversation about Project Shambala.
Back at the homestay, we relaxed on the terrace, enjoying the refreshing view. The owner’s daughter, who is a teacher, prepared a delicious breakfast for us. Later, I spent time with Namitha before heading to Tribhuvan Multiple Campus to discuss the project. The students would benefit greatly, gaining practical experience by participating in various research and development activities. I contacted the communications head, who gave me the number of the Campus Chief. After messaging him, he promptly invited me to meet the same day.
Tribhuvan Multiple Campus, the oldest college in Nepal, was visible from our terrace, so I decided to walk there. On the way, I met a boy transporting water bottles in a pickup van, and he kindly offered me a lift. The campus, built before Tribhuvan University, once had an affiliation with UP University. Its buildings are old, and the Campus Chief’s office is on the first floor. I climbed the wooden stairs to meet him.
Though it was our first meeting, we quickly engaged in a friendly discussion. As the project was being discussed, we explored the role of students in developing and staying connected with it. Soon, some of the other faculty members and the president of the student union joined the conversation. Another professor, whose son had just secured a position as a probationary officer at a bank, shared sweets with us in celebration of his son’s achievement, and we all shared in his joy and pride.
Later, it was time for me to interact with the students. I was informed that the BBA second-year classes were in session, and I was granted permission to meet the students after their class. The president of the student union guided me to meet the director of the BBA program, where I once again explained my mission and the purpose of my visit. After a brief wait, I was invited to the classroom, which held about 40 to 50 students.
I gave a short video presentation, emphasizing the importance of gaining practical knowledge for career readiness and leadership development, particularly for those aspiring to become entrepreneurs. I also introduced them my vision of Project Shambala and shared the reasons behind my visit to Nepal. In line with environmental awareness, I spoke about my experience visiting Shreenagar Park and the trash I encountered there, and I gauged their interest in participating in a voluntary environmental protection initiative. Nearly 20 students raised their hands to join the park cleanup scheduled for the following day.
Given their focus on business, I also asked about their entrepreneurial ambitions and whether they had plans to start their own ventures. Three students, all young women, stood up to express their interest. I then had one-on-one conversations with them to better understand their areas of interest and the impact they wished to create.
As the day came to a close, I thanked the students and began my journey back. One of the students, who lived near my homestay, kindly accompanied me on the way.
Upon my return, the guide who had taken us to the village in Gulmi was waiting for me at the homestay. He was visibly disappointed by the village administration’s inability to move the project forward. I reassured him, saying that things happen only if they’re meant to, and perhaps that village wasn’t destined to be Shambala.
After settling his expenses and getting the voucher signed for our records, he headed back home. My intuition tells me that he will play a more significant role as we move forward, but for now, we’ll wait and see how things unfold.
In the evening, the owner of the homestay sat with us for a discussion. He grasped the seriousness of our mission and shared details about a village 11 km from Tansen. However, the lack of a Western-style toilet remained a priority, creating a roadblock for our stay before traveling back. Fortunately, he mentioned another village just 6 km from Tansen, where a socially responsible individual had already been working to promote tourism. Taking the initiative, the homestay owner arranged a meeting with him for the next day.
I also shared our morning plans with the homestay owner, and he readily agreed to join us. At around 6 AM the following morning, we gathered at a convenient meeting point. A student with whom I had a one-on-one conversation during my visit to the college was given the responsibility of coordinating the day’s activities, and she did an excellent job. Fourteen students participated, most of them girls.
It was inspiring to witness the changing world in front of me. In Project Shambala, women will have a significant role to play; it will be a safe haven for them, as well as a healing ground. The foundation was being naturally set, and it was clear how everything was coming together.
After two hours of dedicated effort, collecting as much as they could, we regrouped at 8:30 AM to hand over the collected garbage to one of the park attendants. The contribution of the homestay owner was significant here as well. The foundation thanked all the participants and awarded them digital certificates subsequently for their commendable and socially responsible actions.
During the day, we had a meeting with a representative from a nearby village shortlisted for the proposed project who was invited by the owner of the homestay after having a discussion with me. I found him to be someone with a deep sense of social responsibility and a genuine desire to bring positive change to the village and its people. He is active, makes things happen, and is well-connected thanks to his background as a journalist. The owner of the homestay, who had a clear understanding of our mission, introduced us and joined in on the discussion.
For the village representative, our project felt like a dream—one filled with hope and potential but clouded with uncertainty. He wondered how it would come to life, where the funding would come from, and how, with us being in Wayanad and them in Nepal, such a vision could materialize. Nevertheless, he found the project exciting and full of promise.
Many of us are limited by the circumstances we find ourselves in, but for those guided by a higher purpose—driven to work for the well-being of others and the protection of the world—there is little need to worry about outcomes. When a path is unselfishly guided, we believe the universe opens doors in its own time.
In a world where many preach personal growth without reflecting on the countless lives and transformations, we’ve all experienced to become who we are today, it’s crucial to keep humanity alive in a world driven by material desires. For me, this journey is also a search for deeper meaning, a quest to understand the purpose of my existence as a human being.
I explained the significance of the project and how it would shape the village’s future. He then connected us with the Ward Chairperson, who happened to be in town, and agreed to join us for a productive meeting at a nearby restaurant in the evening. Namitha, the homestay owner, the village representative, and I met with the Ward Chairperson for an in-depth discussion. Another individual, a relative of the village representative, also joined us and took great interest in the conversation.
Developing Shambala is the need of the hour, and its natural evolution will be slow and sustainable. First and foremost, the people of the village must be willing to embrace this significant transformation. There needs to be well-coordinated, sustainable development with a focus on self-sufficiency. It requires a collective willingness to contribute to the community’s welfare, volunteer for the village’s progress, and ensure active government participation in building the necessary infrastructure. Rising above personal priorities to embrace the world community is the goal. Every activity undertaken must be part of a well-thought-out plan, with a clear vision for the future and it should be a safe haven for the women in this world. A place that has grown beyond all divisive systems to embrace humanity as the only way of life.
BBA 2nd Year (TMC), Tansen
Shreenagar Park, Tansen
Shreenagar Park, Tansen
Meeting at Sital Patti, Tansen
The meeting concluded smoothly, with a decision made to visit the village the following day after presenting the project to the community and reaching a consensus. The village representative remained in close contact with us while organizing our visit. The village had two retired army men who had served in the Gurkha Regiment. One of them, a gentleman in his early 80s, had a house equipped with a western-style closet outside. They were preparing for our stay in an extended family home he had created for guests.
Since we had also planned a short leisure trip to Pokhara, we packed our suitcases and checked out of the Homestay. The owner of the Homestay accompanied us to the village, and the taxi driver who had originally dropped us off was called to take us there. While we were expecting one more person in the vehicle, two additional passengers joined, making the journey a bit cramped. The road to the village was under construction, so the ride was quite bumpy. Although the village was only 5 to 6 kilometers from the town, it took nearly half an hour to reach due to the rough roads. At one point, a few of us had to get out of the car because of the overload and walk a short distance before continuing.
Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly by the village representative, the ward chairperson, a retired captain, and a few other villagers. We were shown the captain’s house, where we could potentially stay. However, as they weren’t fully prepared for our visit and the toilet was located a few meters away from the rooms, making nighttime access difficult, we decided to stick with our plan to travel to Pokhara.
The village community was waiting for us at the primary school, so we walked down to meet them. We were welcomed with a traditional ceremony by the principal’s wife and escorted to a classroom where everyone had gathered. The village representative introduced us to the community, followed by the Homestay owner, who passionately explained the project and the purpose of our visit. By this time, he was able to speak straight from the heart. I also contributed by summarizing the objective of our mission. Most of the villagers were comfortable speaking Nepali, but they were attentive and observant as I spoke in my South Indian-accented Hindi.
Afterward, we were shown a few houses in the village. They were traditional and charming, but most had low ceilings and required significant maintenance, with toilets located outside the home. This way of living reminded us of our own village from about 20 years ago. We were delighted to experience this nostalgic glimpse into the past.
Eventually, we found a house we liked, owned by the principal of the primary school, where he and his wife lived. Their daughter was pursuing higher studies in Japan. We expressed our interest in staying at their home, but the toilet situation remained an issue. The villagers were so hospitable that they promised to create a suitable facility to accommodate us. We thanked everyone and returned to the Homestay to leave behind some of our non-essential baggage before continuing our journey to Pokhara.
While we were in Pokhara, we received updates on the progress of the toilet construction. I had shared a simple, low-maintenance design that could last over 10 years, but the villagers decided to build a more permanent brick-walled structure with columns. This decision reflected their openness to change and their desire to accommodate visitors, showing a clear willingness to embrace the outside world. Their efforts solidified our decision to focus on this beautiful village, and after a few leisurely days in Pokhara, we returned to Tansen.
Once back at the guest house, we decided to move forward with the Needs Assessment Study to gain a deeper understanding of the village’s requirements and their openness to the project. The village representative met with us and brought in an academician to help us define the community’s needs. After a detailed discussion, he immediately agreed to arrange students to conduct the survey.
He organized a team of 10 students from Millennium Secondary School in Tansen for the study. I had already prepared the report format, which I shared with the students, explaining each point and its significance. For many of them, this was their first practical experience, and they were genuinely excited.
The next day, all 10 students walked from Tansen to the village, a journey of about two hours. They successfully completed surveys for over 35 houses, while the village community provided them with breakfast and lunch. The students also enjoyed a memorable experience at the village’s campfire site, making the day both productive and enjoyable for everyone involved.
To be continued…….
This village stands out as an ideal candidate for the Shambala project due to its rare blend of qualities. Thinly populated, it offers ample space for planned, sustainable development. The people, kind-hearted and forward-thinking, welcome change and are eager to improve their lives. The landscape is picturesque, adding to its charm, while the local administration is supportive, ensuring smooth collaboration. The villagers’ sense of responsibility and willingness to help create a strong community foundation, making it the perfect place to evolve into Shambala—a harmonious blend of tradition, progress, and natural beauty.
Need Assessment Study, The Village
Need Assessment Study, The Village
Toilet under construction, The Village
View from, The village
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PROGRAM CONDUCTED BY TGG FOUNDATION AND TRIBHUVAN MULTIPLE UNIVERSITY WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF BBA STUDENTS 2ND YEAR BATCH.
Following Students are issued Certificate of Participation
A VISIT TO THE VILLAGE SHORTLISTED TO BE DEVELOPED. WE HAVE BEEN WELL RECEIVE BY THE VILLAGE COMMUNITY AND WE WERE DEEPELY TOUCHED BY THEIR LOVE AND AFFECTION.
Village gathering was attended by
NEED ASSESSMENT STUDY CONDUCTED BY TGG FOUNDATION WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE SELECTED MEMBERS OF THE VILLAGE AND WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF THE STUDENTS OF MILLENIUM SECONDARY SCHOOL, TANSEN
An academician from the village who was later on appointed to the members of the monitoring committee, took the leadership to conduct the Need Assessment Study of the village, an essential study before we even start the project planning.
Following Students participated in the Need Assessment Study
INORDER TO COMPLETE THE GROUND STUDIES AND TO PLAN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PROJECT SHAMBALA WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF YOUTHS FROM ALL PEACE-LOVING COUNTRIES FROM ACROSS THE WORLD IN A SYSTEMATIC WAY, A MONITORING COMMITTEE COMPRISING OF THREE PEOPLE FROM THE VILLAGE AND AN ADIVISORY BOARD COMPRISING OF 4 MEMBERS WERE SELECTED TO GET THE GROUND READY TO RECEIVE THE VOLUNTEERS AND MEMBERS ON JOURNEY WITH TGG IN FEBRUARY 2025.
Monitoring committee
Advisory board
Shiva and his wife shanta are true ambassadors of their village, embodying the essence of genuine hospitality that transcends any selfish desires. Their warmth and generosity have left an indelible mark on us, making them deserve of special recognition in our Shambala project. Through their thoughtful actions, they have not only welcomed us into their home but also into the heart of their community, making them an integral part of the spirit of Shambala.
A Special Mention about Shiva & Shanta.
Shiva and his wife Shanta have shown us what true hospitality means. With open hearts and generous spirits, they went above and beyond to ensure our comfort during our upcoming visit to their village in Nepal. Understanding our needs, they took the extraordinary step of constructing a toilet with a Western-style closet. Their thoughtfulness and effort deeply touched us, leaving a lasting impression of their kindness.
This simple yet profound act exemplifies the warmth of village life—where care and generosity flow naturally. We are eagerly looking forward to returning, not just to experience the beauty of the village, but to reconnect with the wonderful spirit of the people, like Shiva and his wife, who make it a home away from home.
