Geeta Adhikari’s bold move: From city life to running a farmstay (video)

KATHMANDU: In a growing trend of urban migration, where people are increasingly abandoning rural life for the conveniences of city living, one woman has defied the norm and returned to her roots.

Geeta Adhikari (Pandey) from Bhanu Municipality, Tanahun, has moved back to the countryside after selling her home in Kathmandu to establish a flourishing farmstay business in the tranquil hills of Chitikhola.

Geeta’s story is a testament to resilience and determination. Having worked for 16 years in NGOs and INGOs after earning a degree in Sociology and Rural Development, she was leading a comfortable urban life in Kathmandu.

Despite the apparent stability of city living, she decided to return to her ancestral land in the village, driven by the desire to preserve her heritage and contribute meaningfully to rural development.

“I faced many who advised me against leaving the city. People were shocked when I sold my house in Kathmandu and moved here. But with determination and patience, we were able to make this transition,” said Geeta. It has been four years since her bold move, and she has since established herself as a successful businesswoman.

The Green Himalaya Farmstay, a project she started with sheer grit, now employs six local youth, providing them with sustainable jobs while contributing to the preservation of her family’s land.

Geeta’s decision wasn’t driven by a desire for financial profit but by a passion for protecting her ancestral land and rejuvenating the local community. “The aim isn’t just to make money; it’s about preserving the land and the culture. We’ve created jobs for six people, and the farmstay is now self-sustaining,” she said.

Green Himalaya Farmstay: A Blend of Tradition and Nature

Nestled in the lush greenery of Chitikhola, Green Himalaya Farmstay offers an authentic rural experience, featuring traditional bamboo and thatched-roof designs.

The renovation of a centuries-old house has resulted in a charming yet luxurious environment, with modern amenities that rival five-star hotels.

The farmstay also boasts a unique attraction: an ancient lychee tree, which has been preserved with great care. A specially designed ‘Tree House’ has been built around the tree, showcasing a perfect blend of nature and innovation.

Along with the preservation of the tree, the farmstay also showcases traditional farming tools such as the dhiki (grain grinder), janto (manual rice husker), and halo (plough), which provide visitors with a glimpse of the region’s agricultural history.

For nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity, the location offers breathtaking views of Lamjung and the surrounding valleys. It has quickly become a hotspot for visitors from Kathmandu, Chitwan, Dhading, and Tanahun, as well as school and college groups eager to experience rural life and culture firsthand.

A Culinary Journey Back to Roots

One of the main attractions of the farmstay is its focus on authentic local cuisine. Visitors are treated to traditional dishes prepared from locally sourced ingredients, offering them a true taste of rural Nepal. “We serve food prepared with ingredients from our own farm. The meals are simple yet rich in flavour—rice ground in a dhiki, local chicken, and vegetables from our own garden,” Geeta explained.

As the farmstay continues to grow in popularity, Geeta has plans to further enhance its appeal by introducing boating activities in the nearby river, offering an even greater experience for nature enthusiasts.

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Green Himalaya Farmstay stands as a shining example of how rural tourism can thrive, offering an immersive experience while contributing to the sustainability of local communities.

It is not just a business; it’s a movement that seeks to preserve tradition, culture, and the environment, all while providing a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

-Bishnu Maya Shrestha