Nepal Celebrates First International Day of Wellness, Declares 2027 as 'Nepal Wellness Year'

Kathmandu. Following the United Nations' recognition of the 'International Day of Wellness', the first such event was celebrated on Wednesday at the Sainik Manch, Tundikhel. On this occasion, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Khadgaraj Paudel 'Ganesh', announced 'Nepal Wellness Year 2027' for the upcoming year.

At the event, Speaker of the House of Representatives and chief guest, Dol Prasad Aryal, stated that it is essential to integrate the concept of wellness into overall human life and establish it as a global priority.

He said, 'Wellness is not just the absence of disease; it is a holistic state of physical, mental, social, cultural, emotional, spiritual, and environmental balance.' Speaker Aryal expressed the view that amidst rising global conflicts, climate crises, and mental stress, wellness should be viewed as a beacon of hope for humanity.

He noted that Nepal could be developed as a premier destination for wellness tourism, adding, 'We possess mountains, culture, spiritual traditions, and natural heritage. We must now focus on quality over quantity, establishing Nepal as a destination that offers high value and profound experiences.'

Similarly, Tourism Minister Khadgaraj Paudel emphasized the need to integrate wellness into lifestyle, stating that Nepal can provide new guidance to the world. He said, 'Wellness is not about running away from the hustle; it is the courage to return to oneself. It is the art of understanding the silence of the soul.'

Citing World Health Organization data, Minister Paudel mentioned that over one billion people globally are affected by mental stress, making wellness essential in today's world. 'People have everything, but they lack a moment of peace. The peace the world is seeking can be provided by Nepal,' he said.

According to him, the government has adopted a policy to develop wellness tourism as 'soft power'. 'The government's 100-point action plan aims to make Nepal a global center for wellness tourism, and based on that, 2027 has been declared the Year of Wellness,' he clarified.

The government aims to link wellness tourism with sustainable development, cultural preservation, and the prosperity of local communities. Minister Paudel conveyed the message that Nepal is being established globally not just as a travel destination, but as a 'center for self-discovery and spiritual peace'.

At the event, Life Science expert LP Bhanu Sharma pointed out the need for long-term infrastructure to promote wellness. He said, 'Before taking leadership, one must take ownership. There are three stages of wellness, and more than 5 million people in Nepal are involved in Swajagra meditation.' He highlighted the need for forming a high-level commission to organize wellness tourism, creating a 'Wellness Circuit', and implementing wellness visas and long-term stay policies.

The ceremony began with mantra chanting by Buddhist nun and singer Ani Choying Dolma, followed by meditation and yoga sessions. Additionally, representatives from the Spa Association provided information on healing. The event also saw the unveiling of the meditation and yoga program, the wellness tourism strategy, and the official logo.

Upon the proposal of the Government of Nepal, the United Nations General Assembly formally recognized April 15 as the 'International Day of Wellness'. Following this recognition, the day was celebrated worldwide for the first time.