The Embassy of Nepal in Colombo has announced plans to host a special “Sagarmatha Programme” on 29 May 2026, aimed at promoting Nepal’s mountain heritage—particularly Mount Everest—and strengthening cultural and adventure tourism ties with Sri Lanka.
The initiative was outlined during a recent planning meeting attended by mountaineers, artists, tourism professionals, and volunteers from both countries.
Delivering opening remarks, Nepal’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Purna Bahadur Nepali, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of fostering closer people-to-people connections through tourism and cultural exchange.
Sri Lanka’s first female Everest summiteer, Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala, shared insights on ethical mountaineering, stressing respect for the Sherpa community, challenging gender stereotypes, and adopting a nature-first approach.
Meanwhile, Mahesh Priyadarshana and adventurer Dimantha Thenuwara underscored the need for proper pre-expedition training in Sri Lanka, including breathing techniques and hypoxia awareness, citing relatively lower lung capacity among many Sri Lankans.
Participants also discussed promoting other popular trekking destinations in Nepal such as Annapurna, Makalu, and Manaslu, each known for unique biodiversity and cultural experiences.
The meeting further explored plans for a joint visual arts exhibition featuring Sri Lankan and Nepali artists, including works by internationally acclaimed photographer Dominic Sansoni. Cultural links between Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism were also highlighted, particularly shared reverence for Bodhisattva Tara.
Participants agreed on the importance of community-based tourism, proper training standards, and working with vetted Nepali travel agencies to ensure environmental sustainability and respect for local ecosystems.
Summarising the discussions, Deputy Chief of Mission Vijay Kumar Raut confirmed the formation of an organising committee and plans for art and photography exhibitions alongside a public demonstration of the Everest journey on 29 May.
The steering committee will be chaired by Dimantha Thenuwara, with Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala serving as Principal Advisor. Other members include Mahesh Priyadarshana, Michele Thurairaja, Shehara Silva, Sabana Poudel, Hubika Joshi, Brian Wimalasinghe, K. Veronica Mudalige, Migma Sherpa, and DB Nepali.
The Embassy also noted plans to collaborate with the Nepal Tourism Board to further strengthen the programme.
Officials expressed confidence that the Sagarmatha Programme will serve as a platform to deepen ties between Nepal and Sri Lanka by blending adventure tourism, culture, wellness, and environmental stewardship.
