The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) held a courtesy meeting with Maeda Toru to discuss preparations for the Platinum Jubilee celebration of the first ascent of Mount Manaslu, marking a historic milestone in mountaineering relations between Nepal and Japan.
Jubilee Celebrations Planned in Manaslu Region and Pokhara
According to NMA, the anniversary programme is scheduled to take place on May 9, 2026, with commemorative events planned at Sama Gaun in Gorkha, the gateway to Mount Manaslu, as well as at the International Mountain Museum in Pokhara. The dual venues aim to combine on-site remembrance in the Manaslu region with a broader international gathering of climbers, historians, and tourism stakeholders in Pokhara.
Delegation Highlights Historical and Cultural Ties
The NMA delegation, led by President Fur Gelje Sherpa, visited the ambassador at his office in Pani Pokhari. Discussions focused on honouring the legacy of the Japanese expedition that first summited Mount Manaslu and reinforcing decades-long friendship built through mountaineering cooperation.
Officials emphasized that the jubilee is not only a tribute to climbing history but also an opportunity to celebrate enduring cultural connections and shared respect for the Himalayas.
Push to Attract More Japanese Tourists
During the meeting, Ambassador Maeda expressed interest in exploring initiatives to increase the number of Japanese visitors to Nepal. Both sides exchanged ideas on strengthening tourism promotion, improving travel outreach, and developing heritage-based experiences that highlight historical links between Japanese climbers and Nepal’s mountain regions.
NMA representatives noted that targeted collaboration with Japanese travel operators, along with commemorative events tied to the Manaslu anniversary, could help position Nepal as a preferred destination for adventure, cultural, and commemorative tourism.
Strengthening Mountaineering Diplomacy Through Tourism
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to use the Platinum Jubilee as a platform to deepen bilateral engagement, promote sustainable mountain tourism, and highlight the historical partnership forged on the slopes of Manaslu.
Stakeholders believe the celebration will not only honour a landmark ascent but also open new avenues for tourism exchange, cultural understanding, and continued collaboration in Himalayan mountaineering.
