Travel trade explores Nepal, nature’s adventure arena at Toronto event

Those visiting Nepal can literally encounter high and low points during their vacations, with the country’s lofty side underscored by its always quickly being associated with Mount Everest and its being home to 8 of the world’s 14 peaks that top 8,000 metres.

“For mountaineer and high-altitude adventurers, Nepal represents the ultimate frontier. Yet the country’s adventure offerings extend far beyond peak climbing,” Bharat Raj Paudyal, Nepal’s ambassador to this country, told a recent Toronto gathering.

Indeed, much of the country lies at low altitudes that provide other adventure experiences, he said, with one example being lush Royal Chitwan National Park, home to the likes of tigers and rhinos. Wildlife-spotting safaris are available in Royal Chitwan.

“In every sense, Nepal is nature’s adventure arena,” said Raj Paudyal, who led a delegation of Nepalese tour operators that will be participating in a Toronto adventure travel show.

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 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.

In the top photo 

Among those attending was David McClung (r), president of Baxter Media,  which assisted with the event and is seen here during the evening with Bharat Raj Paudyal, Nepal’s ambassador (l).