Jiba’s Akshat Antarctica- A Journey Through Earth’s Most Mysterious Continent

Jiba Lamichhane

“Every journey, whether good or bad, leaves behind a story worth telling.”

This Jewish proverb, quoted on page 142, perfectly captures the essence of Jiba Lamichhane’s Akshat Antarctica. The book stands among those rare Nepali travel works that are truly worth reading — and retelling.

Voyage Across Earth’s Beautiful Frontier

Akshat Antarctica is an extraordinary contribution to Nepali travel literature in which Jiba Lamichhane explores the mysteries of Earth’s most enigmatic continent — Antarctica. Written in simple yet profound language, the book takes readers on an awe-inspiring adventure to the planet’s farthest, coldest, and most uncharted frontier.

Beyond vivid storytelling, it also prompts reflection on humanity’s relationship with nature, the planet’s future, and the urgent need for environmental awareness. Blending scientific observation, human connection, and spiritual depth, Lamichhane creates a work that inspires readers to appreciate Earth’s fragile beauty and existence.

Lamichhane notes that despite Antarctica’s unbearable cold, one can still feel a greater sense of beauty there. The book documents his twelve-day expedition from 13 to 24 January 2024, capturing each moment through factual detail and emotional depth. Compared with his earlier travel collections — Sarasarti Sansar and Desh Deshavar — this new work demonstrates a more mature and reflective style of writing.

Reflections, Realisations, and Environmental Awareness

More than a travelogue, Akshat Antarctica carries a powerful message of environmental consciousness. Highlighting the continent’s delicate ecosystem and the grave threats posed by climate change, Lamichhane calls for its protection for future generations. His seamless integration of scientific facts, history, and personal experience makes the narrative both informative and compelling.

Through his descriptive prose, Lamichhane brings Antarctica’s icy deserts, glaciers, penguins, and icebergs to life — so vividly that readers can almost feel the freezing winds and see the endless white horizon before their eyes. The book thus appeals not only to travel enthusiasts but also to environmental advocates and dreamers who long to experience Earth’s untouched wonders.

One of the most memorable moments is Lamichhane’s daring polar plunge — diving into the freezing Antarctic Ocean — which he humorously compares to his childhood experiences of cold baths in Kathmandu’s winter mornings, calling it an “extreme version” of those memories. His personal reflections and emotional honesty make the story both relatable and captivating.
Personal Bonds and Enduring Inspiration

Lamichhane references great historical explorers such as Marco Polo and James Cook, while also drawing insights from books, documentaries, and outlets including the BBC, CNN, and National Geographic. The book concludes with nearly five dozen references, enriching it as a resource for anyone curious about Antarctica.

Even while physically distant from home, Lamichhane remained emotionally close to his family, regularly sharing his experiences with his wife, Bindita, and sons, Anurag and Anukrit, through high-speed internet. Before taking his polar plunge, he had already informed them and received their blessings.

In a touching moment, Lamichhane shares how a heartfelt email from his younger son, Anukrit, became the emotional spark that motivated him to complete the book. Thus, Akshat Antarctica is not only a travel narrative but also a testament to love, family, and inner courage.

Published by FinePrint Publications, Akshat Antarctica has already received the Uttam Shanti Award 2081 from the Uttam Kunwar Memorial Foundation. Spanning 183 pages and 27 chapters, the book elegantly weaves together history, science, environmental awareness, and personal reflection.

Born in Chitwan, Jiba Lamichhane holds a master’s degree in civil engineering. Having established himself as one of Nepal’s leading travel essayists through Sarasarti Sansar and Desh Deshavar, his third travel collection, Akshat Antarctica, cements his reputation as a powerful voice in contemporary Nepali travel literature. Readers are now left wondering — which corner of the world will inspire his next journey?

-By Narendra Basnet