A Memorable Dang Trip
- Introduction of Samjhana Shahru Bachatkosh Samuha :
“Samjhana Sahru Bachat Kosh Samuha” is a relative’s informal group that was established in 2061, even before I was born. I learned about this group from my father, who shared his experiences from when he first came to Dhangadhi. At that time, he was jobless and had no personal income but had many family responsibilities, having recently gotten married. He was also a student, during the phase studying and teaching computer skills to others.
During these challenges, my father conceived the designed idea of gathering Saahru (Wife’s Brother In-laws). The group initially included Sahrus (wife’s sister’s husbands) and didi-bahinis (sisters), with a total of 61 members from different place. Remarkably, my father was the youngest Saahru in the group, as he had married the youngest sister—my mother.
The informal group faced challenges during the conflict period marked by the political conflict movement time during 2061 BS. Many Saahrus and sisters from small villages could not gather in one place, and the group became inactive for a time. However, the core members, including my father’s and mother’s siblings, reestablished the Informal Group as cooperative Named “Samjhana Saahru Bachat Kosh Samuha” later, established in 2062 BS. They are total 10 members in that Group.
During the initial phase, my father was jobless, while other members held various positions—some worked at Government official Banking sector, others as teachers, sports coaches and businessmen. Despite his limited financial resources, the group supported him. Members collectively contributed what they could, starting with just 50 rupees saving each. Over time, the group’s funds grew. My father took out the first loan of 35,000 rupees at a minimal interest rate, used it to buy a computer, and started a computer teaching institute business. Today, the Saahru Samuha’s funds have grown to about 2 dorzens lakhs.
The primary objective of “Samjhana Shahru Bachat Kosh” is to raise mutual economical support and solidarity among its members, particularly during challenging times. The group also organizes yearly explorations, social work, picnics, and festive gatherings, creating memorable experiences for all.
- Dang trip:
Over the years, the group has explored various places, of India tourism places Nainital, Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Haridwar. These trips have always been an opportunity for bonding and creating lasting memories.
Our recent trip to Dang began at around 2:30 PM Chaitra 30, 2081 with 15 participants, including Samuha’s members, family relatives, me and my sister too. The journey was lively and filled with enjoyment as we fun and enjoyed the home-made food packed by my mothers and elder mothers too. Delicious items like dhikri, garlic pickle, Pakaura, puri, roasted fish, popcorn and fruits kept us energized throughout the trip.
Our first stop was Tikapur Park, where we took a brief break to enjoy the greenery. The vibrant trees, calm atmosphere, and cheerful company made this a wonderful beginning to our adventure journey. We resumed our journey towards Dang, but an unexpected event added a twist to the trip. As I napped off in the vehicle, a loud noise woke me, it was a policeman stopping our vehicle. Apparently, some travel documents were incomplete, and we had to visit the police station to sort it out. This delay took an hour, forcing us due to cancel plans to see deer (Krishnasaar), it is a preserved area at Khairapur bardiya and along with Nepal’s longest bridge Kothiyaghat in bardiya. Though we only watch that from inside our vehicle. Despite the hindrance, we made the most of our time by engaging in more conversations and hilarity.
In the evening, my father suggested stopping at my maternal uncle’s daughter house in Khairapur tole no. 15 for dinner. Though we didn’t have this plan, it was a sudden decision, and since I didn’t know the house, it was also an opportunity for me to get to know both her and the house. We arrived there around 8 PM, tired but excited. The hospitality was warm, and the meal was delightful. We sat together, sharing stories and jokes. Given the late hour and our tiredness, we decided to stay the night there. We woke up at 3 AM, got ready, and resumed our journey by 4 AM. The cool morning air and excitement of the adventures ahead refreshed us.
As dawn broke, we reached Rapti Sonahari, Aghaiya Bridge of district Banke and witnessed a mesmerizing sunrise. The view was serene, with the light reflecting off the Rapti River’s water and the surrounding landscape. The play of colors in the sky was breathtaking, and the moment brought a sense of peace and togetherness. We clicked a lot of photos and videos. My father taught them different style of posing to click photos it was really fun. By 9 AM, we arrived in Dang, greeted by the sight of glorious mountains that lifted our spirits even higher.
Our first destination in Dang was Dharapani, where we visited the Pandeshowar temple. The temple, surrounded by 108 shivlings, was a peaceful and spiritual place. There was a large, manmade Rhododendron’s ancient tree adorned with statues of a leopard, a Daphe Monal, an owl, and a powerful anaconda, crafted with stunning detail and artistry. There we worshiped god Pandeshowar and amazing Large Shiva Trisool. After taking a refreshing shower and performing our prayers, we captured some memorable photos and immersed ourselves in the peaceful atmosphere.
For lunch, we stopped at a small eatery run by a young female entrepreneur’s Hotel KHANA 1Cs at Gorahi Bazar nearby. The food, priced at just 100 rupees, beat our expectations. It was inspiring to see someone under 20 years managing a business with such dedication and politeness. Even though the place was a bit small but it was wonderfully managed for the business. The experience left a lasting impression on us, and it sparked discussions about entrepreneurship and self-reliance within our group.
After lunch, we visited Barakune Daha (Lake), a site featuring a Kanchha Barha temple, also a statue of a goat stand for god and a lake teeming with fish. I don’t know much about that place, but there might be some spiritual beliefs or a story connected to it. We purchased fish food and enjoyed feeding them while capturing beautiful photos. The relaxing atmosphere of Barakune added to the charm of the trip. The lake, reflecting the surrounding greenery hills and temple structures, created a picture-perfect scene that remains printed in my memory.
Our next stop was Chakhaura Dang, Tharu Traditional Dangisharan Museum. Having visited this place before, I was excited to see the newly completed sections of the museum. My mom had brought the traditional Tharu attire herself from home and she wore that dress, adding traditional ornaments. We clicked many photos outside the museum, but the guide initially refused to let us in, mistaking our attire for museum exhibits. We didn’t knew if we wore the attire they do not allow to enter in museum. After explaining that it belonged to us, we were allowed to enter.
The museum showcased traditional Tharu houses, dances, and agricultural practices. The exhibits, though mostly dummies, looked incredibly realistic. The new sections highlighting Tharu dances and agriculture were especially impressive. They were new blocks. While taking photos, we learned that the dhan (paddy) farming and harvesting on display was real, and we were cautioned not to step on it. A funny incident occurred when my elder father fell into the rice fields while trying to take a video, adding a dose of humor to our visit. That place was so beautiful and spellbound that my elder father fell into the rice fields while taking photos and videos.
During the visit museum, the weather shifted from sunny to windy and rainy, creating a cool and refreshing atmosphere. The weather felt like a friendly companion. As rain lightly drizzled, we explored the museum further and then stopped at a nearby shop for snacks. While the museum experience was enriching, the café beside it was a letdown. The service was slow, and the food was subpar. Despite ordering a variety of items like dhikri, ghogi(a type of snail) chicken noodles and local roasted chicken, the quality and quantity left much to be desired. The rude behavior of the staff added to our disappointment. Finally, we have successfully and joyful along with everlasting experiences and memories completed the trip destination and return back home at 5:30 PM.
- Recommendations for Improvement:
- The quality of food and service at the small restaurant near the museum should be improved. The food, although reasonably priced, lacked taste and did not meet expectations. Additionally, the staff’s attitude was disappointing. The service was slow, and the staff was not very polite, which detracted from the overall experience. To enhance the visitor experience, it’s essential for the restaurant to serve freshly prepared food with better flavors and maintain a polite attitude toward customers.
- The museum guides need to be more active and professional in their roles. They should be easily identifiable by wearing a uniform, as it was difficult to differentiate the guides from other visitors. Furthermore, guides should be more active in explaining the exhibits and providing additional context. While the names of the dances and other displays were written beside the dummies, it would have been helpful for the guides to offer detailed explanations, especially for visitors unfamiliar with Tharu culture.
- Clear Display of Rules and Regulations: It would be beneficial for the museum to have clear boards or signs displaying rules and regulations that visitors should follow. For example, visitors should be informed not to step on the real paddy and should respect the exhibits. This would help avoid accidental mishaps and ensure a respectful and educational experience for everyone. Clear instructions regarding the handling of the exhibits would also contribute to a more organized and enjoyable visit.
- Challenges Encountered:
Challenges were a significant part of this trip, adding unexpected twists to our journey. From the police stopping our vehicle due to incomplete travel documents to the subpar service, these hurdles tested our patience. The delayed journey caused by the police intervention meant we missed out on visiting some planned sites, such as Nepal’s longest bridge and deer habitats. Navigating through rainy weather, dealing with a lack of coordination at certain stops, and managing minor family disagreements. Yet, each challenge was met with humor, reminding us of the importance of staying positive and flexible during travels.
- Learning Experience:
By the time we returned to Dhangadhi, it was midnight, marking the arrival of Nepali New Year 2082. Despite some interruptions, the trip was a wonderful mixture of family bonding, cultural exploration, and charming beauty. It left us with cherished memories, a deeper gratefulness for the rich heritage of the Tharu community, and a sense of gratitude for the simple joys of togetherness and discovery.
Dhangadhi, Kailali
