Timilsina to share his 25-year journey from himalayan porter to global outdoor education leader
KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 8
Nepali mountaineer and outdoor education expert Jagan Nath Timilsina is set to showcase his remarkable 25-year journey at the 2024 Wuhan Sports University Experiential Education International Forum in China, from September 27-29. Timilsina will share how he rose from humble beginnings as a porter in the Himalayas to becoming a respected leader in outdoor education.
Born in Sarangkot, a village known for its stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range, Timilsina's connection to nature began at an early age. At just 14 years old, he started working as a porter, navigating the rugged terrains of Nepal and Tibet while carrying heavy loads for trekkers. These formative years not only honed his physical endurance but also instilled in him the values of perseverance and determination, laying the foundation for his future success.
Determined to advance his career, Timilsina participated in government-led training programs, mastering English and honing his skills as a trekking guide. Over the next decade, he summited Mt. Everest and 25 other peaks, often leading expeditions, demonstrating his passion and resilience.
In 2016, Timilsina's ambition took him to the prestigious National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) in Wyoming, where, after two attempts, he earned a spot among just 15 global candidates. Though he initially struggled with the Wilderness First Aid test, his resolve led him to pass with a 99% score-the highest in the course-cementing his expertise in outdoor safety.
Timilsina's vast experience traversing every district in Nepal has given him a unique perspective on the country's diverse landscapes and cultures. His expertise has been instrumental in designing inclusive outdoor education programs, particularly those tailored for differently-abled individuals. His approach to education focuses not just on survival skills but also on helping people reconnect with nature and find joy in the natural world. These themes will be central to his presentation at the Wuhan forum.
In 2017, Timilsina took on a new challenge-the first-ever Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) race, covering 1,600km through some of the most remote terrains in the Himalayas. Reflecting on the experience, he noted, "Much of the race was very easy for me," underscoring his mastery of the mountains. Yet, it was the untouched valleys and cultures he encountered that left a lasting impression.
Today, Timilsina is not just a mountaineer but also an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. He divides his time between Pokhara and Kathmandu, where he runs Freedom Adventures, offering unique outdoor experiences, and leads the non-profit Freedom Social Foundation. He also organizes races and training sessions through Himalayan Trail Running. Safety is a cornerstone of his ventures, with his staff receiving training in Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and Advanced Wilderness First Aid (AWFA).
Timilsina has traveled to over 30 countries, sharing his knowledge and learning from others in the field of outdoor education. His global experiences have enriched his teaching methods and continue to bring new ideas to Nepal's outdoor education scene.
As he prepares to speak at the Wuhan forum, Timilsina reflects on his journey from a porter to a global educator. "I hope to help people appreciate the beauty of nature and learn from it," he said, emphasizing his goal to inspire others to connect with the natural world. His story is not just a personal success but also a testament to Nepal's growing prominence in outdoor education.
