In a vibrant celebration of shared heritage, natural wonders, and diplomatic ties, the Embassy of Nepal in Beijing in collaboration with Shenzhen Mountaineering and Outdoor Sports Association and PELIOT successfully organized the “Nepal-China Sagarmatha Adventure Tourism and Cultural Carnival 2025” at the Four Seasons Hotel, Beijing. The event marked the 72nd Sagarmatha Day and 70th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between Nepal and China, bringing together hundreds of enthusiasts, mountaineers, and stakeholders from both nations.
Honoring Mountaineers and Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The central objective of the event was to felicitate Nepali and Chinese mountaineers who have successfully scaled Mount Sagarmatha (Mount Everest), and to promote eco-friendly adventure tourism while reinforcing the socio-cultural and people-to-people ties between the two neighboring countries.
Delivering a special video message, Hon. Badri Prasad Pandey, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation of Nepal, emphasized that Nepal and China are not only geographically connected by mountains and rivers but are also united through deep-rooted civilizational and cultural bonds. Referring to Mount Sagarmatha as a shared global heritage, Minister Pandey expressed his gratitude to the Government of China for designating 2025 as “Visit Nepal Year”. He highlighted the value of cultural and tourism-focused events like this in fostering friendship, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.
Nepal’s Ambassador Calls for Collective Action to Protect the Himalayas
Delivering the opening remarks, Ambassador of Nepal to China, H.E. Dr. Krishna Prasad Oli, praised the climbers for their courageous achievements and hailed Nepal as a global center of Himalayan adventure. He described Mount Sagarmatha as “the largest natural laboratory” for studying the interplay of extreme weather and human physiology.
Ambassador Oli emphasized that Sagarmatha/Qomolagma, beyond being a majestic peak, is a living symbol of the Nepal-China friendship. He appealed to mountaineers and environmental advocates to play a proactive role in promoting mountaineering in Nepal and safeguarding the Himalayan ecosystem, which is increasingly threatened by the adverse impacts of climate change.
Chinese Support for Environmental and Tourism Cooperation
In his video address, H.E. Chen Song, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, echoed the sentiments shared by his Nepali counterpart. He described Mount Sagarmatha as a spiritual and natural miracle that binds the people of Nepal and China. Ambassador Chen reaffirmed China’s commitment to partnering with Nepal in ecological protection, green development, and climate governance, ensuring that the Himalayas continue to inspire future generations.
Similarly, Mr. Wang Shi, Honorary Chairman and Founder of the Vanke Foundation and Deep Rock Group, shared his personal memories of climbing Mount Sagarmatha. He stressed the urgent need for cross-border cooperation in conservation, as climate change is having a pronounced effect on the Himalayan region.
Cultural Exchange and Mountain Tourism Promotion
Archana KC Rana, Senior Manager at Nepal Tourism Board, made an insightful presentation highlighting Nepal’s rich mountain tourism offerings and diverse cultural experiences. She showcased how Nepal continues to stand out as a unique destination for adventure seekers and spiritual travelers alike.
Adding to the evening’s energy, Deputy Chief of Mission and Minister Ms. Roshan Khanal extended the vote of thanks, acknowledging all stakeholders, organizations, and individuals who supported and contributed to the success of the event.
Honoring the Heroes of the Himalayas
One of the highlights of the carnival was the felicitation of 73 mountaineers, including 70 from China and 3 from Nepal, with Certificates of Appreciation in recognition of their successful ascents of Mount Sagarmatha. The Shenzhen Mountaineering and Outdoor Sports Association and PELLIOT also received special recognition for their significant role in organizing the event and strengthening Nepal-China mountaineering collaboration.
In a touching moment, six prominent mountaineers from both countries took the stage to share their personal stories of bravery, perseverance, and awe during their journeys to the world’s highest peak. Their experiences were also brought to life through a specially produced video that captured the magic and challenges of climbing Sagarmatha.
Joint Environmental Commitment Signed
In a landmark move, eight non-governmental and private sector organizations from Nepal and China working in the fields of mountaineering and environmental protection signed a Joint China-Nepal Environment Statement. This declaration expressed a firm commitment to:
- Conserving the Himalayan ecosystem
- Promoting eco-friendly climbing practices
- Organizing mountain clean-up campaigns
- Exchanging environmental technologies and knowledge
The joint statement was hailed as a significant step forward in ensuring that both countries not only celebrate the Himalayas but also take shared responsibility for their preservation.
Celebration of Nepali Culture and Art
The event also featured a vibrant exhibition of Nepali cultural products, organized by Beijing-based Nepali entrepreneurs. Attendees were treated to traditional Nepali music and dance performances, celebrating the nation’s rich heritage. A special highlight was a song dedicated to the Himalayas, composed and presented by Ambassador Dr. Krishna Prasad Oli himself, adding a personal and heartfelt touch to the proceedings.
Wide Participation and Strong Support
The “Nepal-China Sagarmatha Adventure Tourism and Cultural Carnival 2025” was attended by around 250 distinguished guests, including representatives from the Chinese Government, Beijing-based diplomats, Nepali and Chinese mountaineers, entrepreneurs, and tour and travel operators from both countries. Media representatives from both nations were also present, ensuring wide coverage of the landmark event.
A New Chapter in Mountain Diplomacy
The successful organization of this high-level cultural and tourism event in Beijing not only celebrated Mount Sagarmatha’s glory but also opened new avenues for bilateral collaboration in adventure tourism, environmental protection, and cultural exchange. As Nepal prepares to welcome global visitors in Visit Nepal Year 2025, events like this reaffirm its place as a world-class adventure destination, and showcase the potential of mountain diplomacy to bring nations closer.
