Solukhumbu: While the festive spirit of Dashain is in full swing across Nepal, for many porters in the Khumbu region, work takes precedence over celebration. Nabin Rai, a 24-year-old porter from Sotang, Solukhumbu, set out for Khumbu on Phulpati, the seventh day of Dashain, instead of staying home to celebrate. As the sole breadwinner for his family, which includes his elderly parents and younger siblings, Rai prioritizes earning during this busy tourist season.

"For people like me, Dashain and Tihar don't matter much. It's prime tourist season here, and I've joined friends who are guiding foreign trekkers," Rai shared, explaining how essential this time of year is for his livelihood. He, like many others, will be celebrating Dashain while carrying luggage for tourists.

The Khumbu region, the gateway to Mount Everest, sees a surge in tourist arrivals during peak seasons, which coincide with major Nepali festivals. This has led many local youths, including students like Ramesh BK from Mapya Dudhkoshi, to utilize their holiday time for portering work. BK noted that the money earned during this period helps cover his educational expenses.

Amrit Magar, a tourism entrepreneur from Lukla, mentioned that porters can earn up to Rs 2,000 per day during the tourist season, making it an opportune time for those seeking temporary work. According to Magar, the influx of foreign tourists—up to 300 daily—creates a busy and profitable environment for those involved in the tourism industry.

For porters like Pradip Magar of Gorakhani, who has missed celebrating Dashain with his family for five years, the need to work during this season outweighs the desire to partake in the festivities. The Khumbu region’s tourism business thrives in two peak seasons: mid-February to mid-May and mid-September to October, leaving locals reliant on this time to secure their annual income.

Despite the significance of Dashain and Tihar, the economic realities of supporting their families push many in Khumbu to prioritize work over celebration, as they strive to make the most of the tourist season.