British billionaire businessman, politician, author, and philanthropist Lord Michael Ashcroft concluded a four-day visit to Pokhara, returning to the United Kingdom on Sunday via an 11-hour non-stop private flight. The journey marked the first direct private jet flight from Pokhara to London, highlighting the international operational capabilities of Pokhara International Airport.
According to airport officials, Lord Ashcroft departed Pokhara at 2:25 pm on Sunday aboard a Dassault Falcon 7X, scheduled to reach London after 11 hours. “The aircraft, capable of flying up to 5,900 nautical miles without refueling, demonstrates that Pokhara International Airport can handle long-haul, high-capacity aircraft efficiently,” said Airport Information Officer Yasodha Regmi.
Arrival and Stay in Pokhara
Lord Ashcroft arrived in Pokhara on Thursday, flying via Malta and Singapore, and stayed at Hotel Landmark, Lakeside, while his crew was accommodated at Bar Peepal Resort. During his stay, he visited the Gurkha Memorial Museum near the British Gurkha Camp, paying tribute to the courage and sacrifices of Gurkha soldiers. The visit also included a short trek in the Armala area, coordinated by the British Camp, providing him with a firsthand experience of Pokhara’s natural beauty.
As a long-time supporter of Gurkha veterans, Lord Ashcroft is the world’s largest private collector of Victoria Cross medals, which represent the highest military gallantry awards in the United Kingdom. His collection comprises over 200 Victoria Crosses, several of which were awarded to Gurkha soldiers for extraordinary bravery during historic wars and campaigns. These include awards given during the Second World War in Burma, the 1904 Tibet campaign, and the Malaya campaign in 1875, highlighting the global significance of Nepali military heroism.
Aviation Milestone for Pokhara
Lord Ashcroft’s non-stop flight underscores Pokhara International Airport’s growing technical and operational capacity. With a flight covering approximately 7,300 kilometers directly to London, aviation experts note that Pokhara is now capable of supporting long-haul, high-value private and commercial aviation, enhancing the city’s connectivity with international markets.
“Private jets of this scale landing at Pokhara signify a milestone for Nepal’s aviation sector and demonstrate that the country can support premium and luxury tourism experiences,” said Hari Bhujel, Vice President of the Pokhara Tourism Council.
Boost to Luxury Tourism and Global Visibility
Tourism stakeholders believe Lord Ashcroft’s visit has major implications for Pokhara’s high-value tourism segment. The billionaire shared a photograph of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) Mountain on the social media platform X with the caption “Good morning from Nepal,” drawing international attention to the region’s scenic beauty.
Jeevan Raj Sapkota, General Secretary of the Pokhara Tourism Council, said, “Endorsements by globally influential figures like Lord Ashcroft help put Pokhara on the world tourism map, attracting high-spending visitors and strengthening the city’s image as a premium destination.”
Officials also emphasized that visits by international personalities enhance Pokhara’s potential as a hub for luxury tourism, supporting local economic growth and encouraging investment in high-end accommodations and experiences.
Cultural and Historical Significance
During his stay, Lord Ashcroft engaged with Nepali history and culture, particularly the legacy of Gurkha soldiers. His collection of Victoria Cross medals not only preserves individual acts of bravery but also commemorates the contributions of Nepali soldiers in global military history. Several rare medals from historic campaigns will be showcased to the public through the Lord Ashcroft Medal Collection, ensuring that Gurkha valor is recognized internationally.
Lord Michael Ashcroft’s historic visit to Pokhara marks a new chapter for Nepalese tourism and international aviation. His journey, cultural engagement, and social media influence reinforce Pokhara’s potential as a premium, high-value travel destination, while highlighting the city’s scenic landscapes and rich heritage. Tourism experts suggest that strategically leveraging visits by global figures like Lord Ashcroft can significantly elevate Nepal’s tourism profile and attract more international attention and investment.
