On Sunday, July 20, our team at Lily’s Leaves led a very important tree-planting event at Swayambhunath, one of Nepal’s most sacred Buddhist sites and a UNESCO World Heritage location. Swayambhunath is not only beautiful and full of spiritual energy, but it’s also home to many birds, monkeys, insects, and other wildlife. Our rich nature there is part of Nepal’s pride and peace.
In the past, the forest at Swayambhunath was full of life. Birds chirped, monkeys played, insects buzzed, and plants thrived. The soil was healthy, and everything was in balance.
Sadly, the city’s pollution, more people, fewer trees, and soil erosion slowly damaged this. Many insects died, birds and monkeys left, and biodiversity dropped. Monkeys came into temples looking for food and water. Because they ate junk food, many got unhealthy and obese.
This growing problem was brought to our attention by Keshav, the treasurer of Swayambhu Maha Samiti. We knew we had to act fast.
We joined hands with many groups: Kathmandu Metropolitan Ward 15, Swayambhu Maha Samiti, the Forestry Department, temple leaders, schools, the army, the police, and hundreds of local residents. Together, we planned the Swayambhunath Religious Forest Reforestation Project - Phase I.
We chose the Miyawaki method, a fast and strong way to grow forests.
The Miyawaki method, created by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, grows forests much faster than usual. These forests can grow 10 times faster, be 30 times denser, and full of more native species, even in very small areas sometimes just a tennis court size. It’s perfect for crowded cities like KathmanduIt starts with good soil: digging deep, mixing compost and natural nutrients, and then planting many native saplings close together. The forest is fenced to protect from animals and people, and after 2 - 3 years, it can grow almost on its own.
On that sunny July day, we planted around 2,700 native saplings in a 1,184 m² area. We planted 70 different kinds of trees suited for local conditions. We also built a strong fence to keep monkeys and people out until the saplings are strong.
This is the first phase. Next, we will plan Phase II, and make more forests in other parts of the sacred area.
We hope this planting will bring birds, monkeys, and insects back. Soon, people will hear birds singing, see monkeys eating natural fruits, and insects buzzing happily.
These trees will also help restore clean air, healthy soil, better wildlife habitat, and preserve Swayambhu’s sacred beauty.
This forest is more than trees it’s the return of nature, culture, and hope. By planting now, we give future generations shade, clean air, and peaceful beauty.
Slowly, Swayambhu will regain its rich biodiversity, all thanks to our community’s love and action. In time, our small forest will grow tall, dense, and full of life again.
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