Discover Nepal's untapped adventure, wildlife and wellness
Nepalese tourism authorities say adventure options in their homeland range from standing on the permanently snow-cloaked “roof of the world” to going on safaris in thick jungle that’s found thousands of meters below the Nepalese summit that’s the highest point on the planet.
A Nepalese delegation held a Feb. 19 presentation in Toronto, during which they proudly noted that their country is home to 8 of the world’s 14 mountains that top 8,000 meters.
But Nepal’s ambassador to this country, Bharat Raj Paudyal, said that is only one side to his country.
“Though modest in size, Nepal is extraordinarily diverse,” said Raj Paudyal, whose embassy organized the event with the Nepal Tourism Board. “Within a short distance, one can move from lush tropical jungles to the foothills of the Himalayas and onward to the base of the highest peaks on Earth.”
Those peaks include 8,849-meter-high Mount Everest, which the Nepalese traditionally referred to as Sagarmatha, “believed to be the Forehead of the Sky or Head of the Sky,” a sacred and powerful mountain regarded as a divine, motherly presence that touches the heavens and symbolizes spiritual strength and national pride,” said Rishi Bhandari of Satori Adventures, which participated in the Toronto event. “For mountaineers and high-altitude adventurers, Nepal represents the ultimate frontier. Yet the country’s adventure offerings extend far beyond peak climbing. From the legendary trekking routes of Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit, to the pristine trails of Langtang and Mustang, and lush green meadows of Karnali and Khaptad, Nepal offers trekking experiences suited to both seasoned explorers and leisurely walkers.
“Visitors can also enjoy whitewater rafting in the Himalayan rivers, paragliding over scenic lakes and river valleys, ultralight flights, zip-lining, canyoning, mountain biking and jungle safaris in national parks such (national parks) as Chitwan and Bardia, where rare wildlife, including the one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tiger, can be observed in their natural habitat. In every sense, Nepal is nature’s adventure arena.”
Bhandari also said Nepal shouldn’t just be associated with the world’s loftiest mountains.
“Nepal is strongly associated with the Himalayas and mountaineering,” Bhandari said. “When most foreigners think of Nepal, they immediately think of Everest. However, many people are surprised to learn that Nepal is also rich in wildlife and offers excellent safari experiences.
“We have Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinoceroses, elephants, crocodiles and many bird species, especially in places like Chitwan and Bardia National Parks. Jungle safaris, Jeep safaris, canoe rides and nature walks are very popular among visitors who want a different experience beyond the mountains,
“We are definitely working to promote Nepal not only as a mountaineering destination but also as a diverse country with incredible biodiversity, culture, history and wildlife. The combination of the Himalayas and subtropical jungle within a few hours of travel is something very unique to Nepal.”
Raj Paudyal also noted his homeland has multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is culturally diverse, having 125 ethnic groups, over 120 languages and dialects, and numerous cultural celebrations.
The country will appeal to wellness enthusiasts, he continued.
“Nepal holds a unique position as a global centre for spirituality, wellness and inner exploration,” he stated. “As the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Nepal has for millennia been a sanctuary for meditation, mindfulness and philosophical inquiry.
“From meditation retreats in Lumbini and monastic programs in the Kathmandu Valley to yoga retreats in Pokhara and Ayurveda wellness therapies in Himalayan settings, visitors can engage in experiences that nurture mind, body and spirit.”
Raj Paudyal reported Nepal has plenty of upscale lodging options, including former palaces that are now heritage hotels and luxury jungle lodges.
“Simple and highly visitor friendly” tourist visa options include getting them upon arrival in Kathmandu, he added. Visas can be for 15, 30 or 90 days.
Those living in Montreal, Toronto or Vancouver can reach Kathmandu on a one-stop journey, he reported, with connections available in such cities as Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, Seoul,Tokyo and Hong Kong.
Satori Adventures can be reached at satoriadventuresnepal.com.
