Diplomats based in Nepal have praised the country’s clean air, natural landscapes, and holistic lifestyle, describing it as an ideal destination for global wellness tourism. Ambassadors/ diplomats and members of the diplomatic community based in Nepal gathered on the outskirts of the Kathmandu Valley on Saturday to take part in a wellness-themed hike, praising the country’s clean air, natural beauty, and holistic lifestyle practices.
The event, organized by Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to mark the first International Wellness Day, brought together envoys from 13 countries along with senior government officials. The “Wellness Hike” was անցկաց on the scenic Hattiban–Champadevi trail in Dakshinkali Municipality–3, offering participants a blend of physical activity, mindfulness, and cultural immersion.
Promoting Wellness Through Nature and Diplomacy with Diplomats
The initiative aimed to highlight Nepal’s growing focus on wellness tourism and healthy living as part of its broader international outreach. Participants/ diplomats expressed their commitment to supporting Nepal’s efforts to promote wellness and sustainable lifestyles globally.
Before the hike began, diplomats assembled at Hattiban Resort, where they were introduced to yoga and meditation rooted in Eastern philosophy. Life science trainer Prateek Sharma led sessions on basic asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation practices designed to enhance both physical and mental well-being. Following the session, participants embarked on a two-hour hike to the Champadevi hill, enjoying panoramic views, fresh air, and the serene forest environment.
Nepal’s Vision for a Global Wellness Destination
Welcoming the diplomats, Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai emphasized Nepal’s leadership in promoting wellness at the international level. He noted that the United Nations had adopted Nepal’s proposal to observe April 15 each year as International Wellness Day.
Rai underscored the government’s vision to position Nepal as one of the world’s premier wellness tourism destinations. He revealed that a dedicated wellness tourism strategy has already been formulated, with plans underway to celebrate 2027 as Nepal’s “Wellness Tourism Year.”
He further highlighted ongoing efforts to attract international investment in the sector and to mobilize Nepal’s global diplomatic missions and non-resident Nepali networks to promote the country’s wellness offerings abroad.
Diplomats Praise Nepal’s Natural and Cultural Appeal
Participants shared positive reflections on their experience, noting the unique combination of nature, culture, and mindfulness that Nepal offers. Finland’s Ambassador to Nepal, Petri Puhakka, described the hike as more than just physical exercise, saying it provided a sense of mental peace. He emphasized that the natural hills surrounding the Kathmandu Valley offer an ideal setting for holistic well-being.
Similarly, Jacques du Toit, Representative of UNESCO in Nepal, remarked that walking through Nepal’s natural landscapes while listening to local music created a deeply rejuvenating experience. Drawing comparisons with his home country, South Africa, he noted that while landscapes may differ, nature has the power to connect people across borders.
Kyoko Yokosuka, Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nepal, highlighted the refreshing experience of combining hiking with yoga and meditation in a clean-air environment. She expressed her intention to promote Nepal among her fellow citizens as a must-visit destination not only for its natural and cultural heritage but also for inner peace and self-discovery.
British Ambassador Robert Fenn also welcomed the initiative, stating that organizing such an event on International Wellness Day was both meaningful and inspiring. He noted that the day’s message, that long walks contribute to better respiratory health, resonated strongly with him. He added that Nepal is already a popular destination among British travelers, many of whom are fascinated by the country’s geographic diversity and rich cultural heritage.
Strengthening Nepal’s Soft Power Through Wellness Tourism
According to Lok Bahadur Paudel Chhetri, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event reflects Nepal’s strategic use of wellness tourism as a form of soft power diplomacy. He stated that the participation of ambassadors from 13 countries in the inaugural International Wellness Day event carries significant diplomatic importance.
“The government aims to establish Nepal as a leading global wellness destination through natural healing practices such as yoga and meditation,” he said. The program concluded with a shared sense of appreciation for Nepal’s natural assets and a renewed commitment among participants to support the country’s efforts in promoting wellness tourism on the global stage.
