Person in a winter jacket holding a camera in a snowy landscape with mountains and trees in the background, likely during winter in Yosemite National Park.

Construction workers placing stones and iron rods at a building site.

Aerial view of a rural school with metal-roofed buildings and students gathered outdoors in circular formations on a barren hillside.

Snow-covered mountains reflected in a calm lake with grassy terrain and rocks in the foreground; a small building is visible on the left.

Two children walking outdoors on a dirt path, wearing colorful clothing and scarves. One child is holding a yellow bag.

My journey began in Bhalche, a remote village northeast of Kathmandu, where life was simple and deeply connected to nature. The Himalayas were more than a backdrop—they were my guardians and teachers. As a child, I spent hours exploring the hills, drawn to the beauty and mystery of the land. At fourteen, I moved to Kathmandu, a city bursting with energy. The contrast was overwhelming, but it only deepened my longing for the mountains. I returned as a trekking porter and later a guide, walking the rugged trails that had shaped my spirit.

Over time, I witnessed the growing impact of human negligence on these sacred landscapes. Though I couldn’t afford a camera then, the desire to document and protect nature through photography began to grow. In 2004, political unrest forced me to leave Nepal. I settled in California, where the wild coastlines and deserts offered new inspiration. I finally picked up a camera and found my voice—capturing the beauty of nature and advocating for its preservation.

But my heart never left Nepal. I worked to give back, helping build an elementary school, a high school, and a college in remote villages. After the 2015 earthquake destroyed thousands of classrooms, I rallied support to rebuild safe, lasting spaces for students.

From Bhalche to California, my journey has been rooted in a love for the land, a commitment to community, and a belief that art can inspire change.

https://www.marinij.com/2018/12/24/mill-valley-humanitarian-builds-college-for-nepal-villagers/ Marin Magazine https://marinmagazine.com/people/be-free-2/

Earthquake In 2015, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal, devastating thousands of schools in remote areas. With countless children left without educational facilities, the local government constructed temporary classrooms using zinc metal sheets. However, these makeshift structures provided little protection against harsh winds, leaving students vulnerable to the cold and frequent illness.

Thanks to the support of family, friends, and the community, I was able to help rebuild an elementary school, a high school, and a college in different villages, providing safe and stable learning environments for the children.