A Father-Son Adventure in Nepal: Medicine, Mountains, and Meaning
At Tiger Tops, we have the privilege of hosting incredible guests who embark on journeys filled with discovery, service, and connection. One such journey was that of Mark Berner-Hansen and his son, Mark Alexander Berner-Hansen, both esteemed physicians from Denmark. Their trip to Nepal was more than a simple visit; it was a mission to share their medical expertise, connect with local communities, and explore the beauty and culture of Nepal.
We were honored to support them throughout their journey, providing a seamless experience at Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge and facilitating their medical outreach in various regions of Nepal. Here’s a glimpse into their meaningful adventure with us.
RETURNING TO TIGER TOPS THARU LODGE: A PLACE OF NATURAL BEAUTY AND PURPOSE
Mark (father) had visited Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge years ago, providing medical assistance to local communities. He was eager to share the experience with his son, Mark Alexander. For both, staying at Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge, provided the perfect balance of relaxation and purpose.
The lodge, surrounded by dense forests and wildlife, was an ideal base for their medical outreach at the nearby Narayani Health Post. The lodge’s staff ensured that their stay was comfortable and rewarding, while also offering opportunities to explore the wildlife and culture of the Tharu people. Their time with us also served as an opportunity to understand the impact of sustainable tourism and conservation efforts, an ethos that Tiger Tops holds dear.
MEDICAL OUTREACH: SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF NAWALPARASI
During their stay, the father-son duo provided pro bono medical work at the Narayani Health Post in Nawalparasi. It was an eye-opening experience for them, as they worked with local healthcare providers in a region with limited medical resources. Despite the challenges, the local team’s commitment and the gratitude of the patients made their work incredibly rewarding. Mark and Mark Alexander were able to assist with a variety of medical conditions, as well as train local healthcare workers in basic medical procedures – hoping to leave a lasting impact on the community.
A JOURNEY TO SOLUKHUMBU: MEDICINE IN THE SHADOWS OF EVEREST
Following their time at Tiger Tops, the Berner-Hansens traveled to Solukhumbu, in the shadow of Mount Everest. Here, they worked at the District Hospital Solukhumbu in Phaplu, a lifeline for the local population. Their medical work included maternal and child health, emergency care, and the treatment of surgical and chronic conditions. They were deeply inspired by the dedication of the local healthcare staff, who often worked with limited resources.
A visit to the Chiwang Monastery, where they provided medical assistance to the monks, also stood out. The monks welcomed them warmly and shared their teachings on mindfulness and compassion, providing the Berner-Hansens with a profound reminder of the interconnection between physical and spiritual well-being.
TREKKING THE PIKEY PEAK ROUTE: A SHARED ADVENTURE
After their medical work, the duo set out on a trek through the Himalayas. Organized by Mountain Travel Nepal, the Pikey Peak route offered stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest. The trek took them through remote villages, where the simplicity of life was a striking contrast to their work in the hospitals. Reaching the summit of Pikey Peak at 3,000 meters, the father-son duo was rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
GRATITUDE AND REFLECTION: A JOURNEY TO REMEMBER
As their time in Nepal came to an end, Mark and Mark Alexander reflected on the impact of their journey—both on themselves and the communities they served. They expressed deep gratitude to Tiger Tops for the hospitality, support, and opportunity to engage in meaningful work during their stay. They also shared their admiration for the local healthcare workers at Narayani Health Post and Phaplu Hospital, guides, and communities who welcomed them with open arms.
At Tiger Tops, we are honored to have been a part of their incredible journey, and we are grateful for the positive difference they made during their time in Nepal. We look forward to welcoming them back, and to hosting more guests who are eager to experience Nepal’s natural wonders and contribute to the communities they visit.