Subin Bhattarai is among Nepal’s most widely read writers. He gained attention with his novel Summer Love and has since published Saaya, Monsoon, Priya Sufi, and Ijoriya.

Starting his literary journey with short story collections, his new collection Chameli ko Phool Baijani Rumaal is set to be released on October 17.

Apart from writing, Bhattarai is passionate about trekking. He says that the energy from long walks not only makes life easier but also fuels his creativity.

What is your favorite trekking destination?
Chisapani, near Kathmandu. I visit it up to twice a year. I haven’t counted precisely, but I’ve probably been there more than 25 times.

Why Chisapani?
Because it offers dense forests, villages, and all kinds of trails – uphill, downhill, and flat.

How would you describe Chisapani’s beauty?
Amazing, refreshing, and profound.

Most memorable moment from a Chisapani trek?
Carrying my one-year-old son to Chisapani during the cold of January and safely returning.

Toughest moment on the trek?
Once, while returning from Chisapani, I was trapped in the forest for hours by a storm and heavy rain – recalling it still makes me shiver.

How do you feel while walking in Chisapani compared to other times?
I become a version of Subin who is slightly tired, mostly carefree, and mentally very healthy – just listening to his own heartbeat.

What do you bring back from Chisapani?
All the stress accumulated in the potholes of Kathmandu disappears. I come back with a plan – thinking about when and with whom I will return next time.