By Our Staff Writer
The Himalayan kingdom of Nepal celebrated International Wellness (Arogya) Day, following its recognition by the United Nations. On the occasion, the country’s minister for culture, tourism and civil aviation, Khadka Raj Poudel also reportedly announced the decision to hold ‘Nepal Arogya Year 2027’.
Speaking at the event, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dol Prasad Aryal, said the concept of wellness should be linked to overall human life and established as a global priority. “Wellness is not just the absence of disease, it is a state of physical, mental, social, cultural, emotional, spiritual and environmental balance,” he said.
Highlighting growing global conflicts, climate crisis and mental stress, Aryal said wellness should be seen as a ray of hope for humanity.
He also said that Nepal has a strong potential to become a major destination for wellness tourism. “We have mountains, culture, spiritual traditions and natural resources. Now we must focus on quality tourism rather than numbers and position Nepal as a destination offering high value and meaningful experiences,” he added.
Minister Paudel stressed that wellness should be connected to lifestyle, saying Nepal can offer new guidance to the world. “Wellness is not about escaping from life’s rush, but about returning within oneself. It is the art of understanding the silence of the soul,” he said.
Poudel also said the Nepal government has adopted a policy to develop wellness tourism as a form of soft power. “The government’s 100-point action plan aims to make Nepal a global hub for wellness tourism, and 2027 has been declared Wellness Year accordingly,” he said.
The government aims to link wellness tourism with sustainable development, cultural preservation and local prosperity. Poudel said Nepal will be promoted not only as a travel destination but also as a place for self-discovery and inner peace.
The United Nations General Assembly had officially recognised April 15 as International Wellness Day following a proposal by the Government of Nepal. This year marks the first global observance of the day.
