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Nepal Embassy fetes mountaineers, promotes tourism

30 May 2023 By ANIRBAN RAY

Muscat – More than 100 individuals, including mountaineers, travel agents, diplomats and representatives of Oman-based Nepali organisations, gathered at Nepal House in Muscat to commemorate International Everest Day on Monday.

The event was graced by Jamal al Moosawi, Secretary-General of The National Museum of Oman.

Coinciding with the country’s Republic Day, the International Everest Day celebrations aimed to showcase the allure of Nepal and shed light on trade and investment opportunities in the country.

H E Dornath Aryal, Ambassador of Nepal to Oman, took the opportunity to focus on the country’s tourism attractions and discuss the impact of climate change on its mountains.

“The majestic mountains face immense challenges due to rising temperatures and extreme weather conditions. These mountains not only possess breathtaking beauty and provide fresh water sources, but they also play a significant role in maintaining the ecological balance of the oceans,” H E Aryal stated.

The occasion also served as a platform to honour several guests, including Nadira al Harthy, the first Omani woman atop Everest; Fatiyah al Zadjali, a traveller and social media influencer who has visited Nepal over ten times; Dr Chithra Narayan, former goodwill ambassador of Nepal and dedicated social worker; and Akshaj Udiwal, a student of Indian School Ghubra who reached the base camp of Mount Everest at the age of six.

Reflecting on her experience, Nadira said, “Nepal instils a sense of fearlessness; everyone is courageous. Scaling the highest mountain brings about a feeling of peace and courage. The mountains have taught us that as human beings, we share universal thoughts and needs.”

She added, “I realised that the material things and superficial concerns we often fight for in our daily lives are ultimately meaningless.”

She also saluted the brave sherpas who stood by her throughout her endeavour.

An additional attraction to the event was the popular Omani singer Haitham Mohammed Rafi who enthralled the audience with Nepali and Arabic melodies.

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