During the 2020 COVID lockdown, an unexpected environmental moment caught people’s attention. With factories closed, travel reduced, and daily activity slowed, air pollution levels dropped significantly across many regions. In Nepal, the cleaner air reportedly allowed residents of Kathmandu to see the distant peak of Mount Everest, something rarely visible from the city because of heavy haze and pollution.

The clearer skies highlighted how strongly human activity affects air quality and visibility. For many people, the sight of the world’s tallest mountain from the capital served as a powerful reminder of what cleaner air can look like. It also sparked conversations about pollution control, sustainable development, and the importance of protecting natural landscapes.

Although the lockdown was temporary, the environmental changes showed how quickly nature can respond when pollution levels fall. The moment encouraged discussions about building a more balanced future where economic growth and environmental protection can exist together.

Baby gharial chilling in its pool at Bardiya National Park (Nepal)

Nepal’s Asian small-clawed otter

Review that I left after going to a bar for a few beers on a chill Friday. Woke up the next morning with flights booked to both Nepal and Ecuador.

The Gharial is a critically endangered crocodilian, typically found in India & Nepal