18-year-old Yogi embarks journey to explore Nepal

By Raju Lamichhane,Musikot, June 24: Sushil Kawar Yogi of Kotjahari, Chaurjahari Municipality-9, in West Rukum district, has embarked on a remarkable journey to visit all 77 districts of Nepal in just four months.

After 24 days, the 18-year-old has now reached the capital city Kathmandu, completing his visit to the 24th district. 

Determined to explore Nepal without financial resources, he carries only a mobile phone, a backpack, and the national flag as he aims to discover the country's hidden treasures and showcase them to the world.

Yogi expressed, "Ever since my childhood, it has been my dream to explore every corner of Nepal. Now, I have embarked on this journey without any money, and I have been blessed to receive assistance from the kind-hearted people I have met along the way." 

Grateful for the support, he added, "Most people have been providing me with food and lodging, and some even extended monetary help."

His ultimate goal is to gain a deep understanding of Nepal's geography, society, and its people, with the intention of documenting his experiences in a book that promotes Nepal's tourism potential. Yogi diligently maintains a daily journal, capturing the essence of each day's journey.

During his expedition, Yogi makes it a point to visit the district headquarters and explore famous landmarks in every district he encounters. 

Having completed his final exams for grade 12, he embarked on this nationwide tour to utilize the leisure time before the results are announced. 

After completing grade 12, he has a plan to pursue a science degree and subsequently initiate projects within the country, creating employment opportunities for fellow Nepalis.

Yogi emphasised, "It is not wealth but sheer determination that drives me to undertake this travel adventure." He believes that his current age is an ideal to explore the county. 

Starting his expedition in Chitwan, he has successfully visited 24 districts, employing various modes of transportation such as trucks, cars, motorcycles, and even walking for 13 hours to reach certain destinations.

The districts he has explored so far include Chitwan, Ilam, Jhapa, Panchthar, Taplejung, Sankhuwasabha, Tehrathum, Dhankuta, Sunsari, Morang, Saptari, Siraha, Udayapur, Khotang, Okhaldhunga, Solukhumbu, Sindhuli, Ramechhap, Dolakha, Sindhupalchwok, Kavre, Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, and Kathmandu.

While Yogi's parents initially balked at his ambitious travel plans, he managed to win over them before setting off on this remarkable journey.

Currently, his father Narendra is working as a laborer in India, while his mother Bhadrasheela takes care of agricultural work back home.