A group of 96 Israeli tourists, including 12 differently-abled individuals, was warmly welcomed at Tribhuvan International Airport. The group, coordinated by the Israeli Embassy in Nepal, was greeted on Tuesday night by Israeli Ambassador Hanan Goder and Nepal Tourism Board’s Acting Director of Marketing, Laxman Gautam.
The trip was organized by Shalom Rafting Treks & Expedition and Master Himalaya, with the tourists set to explore several regions of Pokhara, Manang, and Mustang. On Wednesday, the group reached Pokhara, and on Thursday, they are scheduled to travel via helicopter to Humde in Manang. They will then continue their journey through Thorong La Pass to Muktinath and Jomsom, before returning to Pokhara and flying back to Kathmandu.
Deepak Raj Joshi, the Executive Chief of the Nepal Tourism Board, expressed his excitement about the visit, highlighting that the arrival of differently-abled tourists on such an adventurous trip underscores Nepal as a destination that is both thrilling and accessible. He added, “We have constructed some disability-friendly trails, and we are focusing on building more infrastructure to make Nepal a more welcoming destination for all.”
Welcoming the tourists in a special ceremony at the airport, Israeli Ambassador Hanan Goder praised Nepal as a safe and disability-friendly destination for Israeli tourists, encouraging more visitors to experience the country’s beauty. “Nepal is truly a unique gift of nature. Its art, culture, traditions, and natural beauty captivate every visitor,” he said, emphasizing that the positive experiences of past differently-abled tourists have inspired this group to visit.
He also reflected on the long-standing and close relations between Nepal and Israel, expressing confidence that these ties will continue to strengthen in the future.
Acting Director of Marketing, Laxman Gautam, noted that this visit by differently-abled tourists will serve as an inspiration to others worldwide. “The willpower and confidence that brought you to Nepal will inspire many more differently-abled individuals to explore this beautiful country,” he stated.
Last year, another group of differently-abled Israeli tourists visited Nepal, coordinated by the Israeli Embassy. In 2023, a total of 6,417 Israeli tourists visited Nepal, and by August 2024, 3,205 Israeli tourists had already explored the country.
This visit emphasizes Nepal’s growing reputation as a destination that welcomes everyone, regardless of physical abilities, and showcases the country’s commitment to inclusive tourism.
