One day Hiking and Butterfly Watching

 I should do something on this coming "National Learn About Butterflies Day, March 14, 2021". 

This was the thought that immediately strikes in my mind soon after knowing the date March 14 has been celebrating to learn some new things on butterflies. As a butterfly enthusiast thinking of what shall be done to make this event memorable but effective and educational at the same time. So, without any doubt planned for organizing a butterfly watching. But the question is how to let others enroll in this program? This big question has disturbed the planning for few days. How about hiking? How about hiking with butterfly watching? wow, that would be cherry on top. So, without any second thought fixed for organizing one-day hiking and butterfly watching. This will definitely enroll one who is interested in studying butterflies as well as one who needs a break from their busy schedule. Also, this will be favorable for all age groups children, adults, students, and butterfly enthusiasts. What a wonderful idea!! finally in peace. 

Anyone interested in Butterfly Watching and Hiking to Suryabinayak Bhaktapur this Saturday? If interested plz call me at 9849696540

I posted a status on Facebook in my timeline to know if anyone is interested to participate. Soon after the post, comments and phone calls were on fire requesting to be part of the event and asking for more details. Then after I posted a full status with event details including the time to meet, hiking route with the main attraction of the event "Butterfly watching, handling and identification".

Suddenly something strike into my mind that what could be the weather condition on that day? Quickly I followed some weather apps and online weather portals.  To my bad, the weather prediction was a whole day of cloudy sky and the probability of raining after 12:00 pm. I was in a dilemma whether to proceed with the event or cancel for next time. Though realizing the facts, I chose not to cancel the event. Whatever happens, we shall see later!

So, on March 13, 2021, reached at Suryabinayak temple gate early morning where all the participants gonna meet and start our hiking. After about 30 minutes of waiting all participants (13participants) arrived, I gave some background information on the main aims and objectives of the event. 

The hike was started from Suryabinayak temple to Doleshwor temple and reached our final destination Maali gaon. In between the participants get to know using insect net and catch butterflies like Indian Cabbage White, Dark Judy, Common Four Ring, Indian Tortoiseshell, and Peacock Pansy do a close inspection of its identifying characteristics. We could only observe five species of butterflies since it was cloudy weather. The hike was started around 7:30 am and by the time we've reached Maaligaun it was around 10:00 am. Then we had lunch in Maligaun Hills. Mr. Bijay Basnet, the owner of the farmhouse has warmly welcomed us and served delicious local Dal-Bhat. It was very good actually. 

After few minutes of a break then we walk back to Suryabinayak temple. Luckily, even though it was cloudy weather the whole day, there was no rainfall. Otherwise, it would have halted our hiking making it hard to return back.  

Overall, today's hike was a good experience. Besides hiking, at least a few more people get to know more about butterflies and their importance.

"Let's conserve and protect butterflies and their habitats"