Visiting the forest can be very beneficial for human health and wellness. The trails around the Ranibari Community Forest are well maintained and easy to traverse. It takes around 15 minutes to complete the main trail which starts near the forest entrance, encircles the forest area covering a distance of 1.2 km and bring you back to the start.
There is a shorter trail in the middle of the forest which starts at the Porpa Ajima (पोर्पा अजिमा) temple and encircles the small hilltop.
Many residents of the surrounding area and from other parts of the city come to visit the forest for recreation. To encourage healthy habits, morning visitors are allowed free entry into the forest premises as long as they arrive before 8 am. Spending time in the forest can positively impact our well-being. Some of the benefits are as follows:
Stress reduction: Spending time in forest and nature, has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve mood. The sounds, sights, and smells of nature have a calming effect on the mind and body, which can help to reduce anxiety and improve overall mental health.
Physical activity: Our community forest area has well maintained trials surrounding the forest perimeter which provides opportunities for physical activity, such as hiking, walking, and jogging. Engaging in regular physical activity has numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases, improving cardiovascular health, and promoting overall well-being.
Improved air quality: Trees and other plants in forest help to filter and purify the air, reducing pollutants and improving air quality. Breathing clean air is important for respiratory health and can reduce the risk of respiratory diseases. The community forest greatly contributes to improving the air quality of the locality.
Boosted immune system: Exposure to natural environments, including forests, can help to boost the immune system. This is because exposure to natural environments can increase the production of natural killer cells, which help to fight infections and diseases.
Social connection: Ranibari can be an excellent escape from the urban hustle and bustle of Kathmandu to spend some peaceful time with family and friends. Spending time with others in a natural setting can help to reduce feelings of loneliness and improve mental health. Overall, forest provide a natural environment that can help to reduce stress, improve physical health, and promote overall well-being.