Narayan Dham Ashram, located in Ramghat, Bharatpur Metropolitan City ward no. 4, has been leasing land for 18 years at an annual rent of NPR 72,000 to cultivate the medicinal plant Kurilo. According to the ashram manager, Taranath Paudel, Kurilo cultivation is conducted entirely through organic methods, providing financial support for the ashram’s operations. Paudel noted that the main season for Kurilo is during the months of Chaitra, Baisakh, and Jestha, and that the plant has medicinal properties which help enhance the body’s immune system.
The ashram’s animal and agricultural farm produces Kurilo, mango, elephant foot yam (bhui-kathar), and other crops, all grown organically. Around 15 katthas of land are dedicated to Kurilo cultivation. Paudel explained that the income generated from this cultivation financially supports the ashram’s activities. Since the products are organically grown, there is no difficulty finding buyers, with sales conveniently made through the farm and the ashram itself.
Kurilo—a medicinal crop—strengthens the body’s disease resistance. No chemical fertilizers or pesticides are used; instead, fertilizers made from cow dung and cow urine are applied. Approximately NPR 800,000 has been invested in Kurilo farming. Revenues after expenses help sustain the ashram’s operations, Paudel shared. The price for Kurilo varies by season, ranging from NPR 500 to NPR 1,200 per kilogram, with daily sales averaging about 20 kilograms.
According to manager Paudel, Kurilo’s peak season is Chaitra, Baisakh, and Jestha, and this crop has been continuously cultivated at the ashram for the past four years. With proper care, the crop can yield for 10 to 12 years. Because organic farming can increase challenges from pests, diseases, and weeds, cultivation is regularly managed with technical assistance from the Chitwan Agriculture Development Office. Production begins roughly six months after planting. Kurilo seeds are readily available in the market, and the months of Magh, Falgun, and Chaitra are considered ideal for planting. Currently, the ashram provides free meals for about 20 residents and visitors. Additionally, cows raised at the ashram contribute to the production of organic fertilizers used in farming.
