Kathmandu: The Embassy of Nepal organized a programme to celebrate Everest Day 2026 at the Embassy premises in New Delhi on May 27. The programme was done to commemorate the historic first successful ascent of Mt. Everest in 1953. The programme was attended by members of the diplomatic community, mountaineers, adventurers, friends of Nepal, and representatives of the Nepali and international communities.
The programme commenced with a welcome addressed by Mr. Taranath Adhikari, Economic Minister at the Embassy. In his remarks Mr. Adhikari welcomed the participants and highlighted the significance of Everest Day as tribute to the remarkable achievement of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary, who reached the summit of the world’s highest peak on May 29, 1953. He described Mt. Everest as a symbol of courage, endurance, determination, and international partnership.
Renowned Indian summiteers and adventurers Mr. Prem Singh, Ms. Tusi Anit Sah, and Mr. Neeraj Choudhary shared their reflections on Everest and their personal mountaineering journeys. Their remarks brought out the spirit of adventure, resilience, and deep respect for the Himalayas. On the occasion, the Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy, H.E. Surendra Thapa, felicitated them in recognition of their remarkable achievements and their contribution to strengthening Nepal-India friendship through mountaineering and Himalayan exploration.
Col. Madan Gurung, Executive Director of the Indian Mountaineering Foundation, also addressed the gathering. He appreciated the Embassy’s initiative in organizing the commemorative event and underlined the importance of continued cooperation between Nepal and India in the field of mountaineering and Himalayan exploration.
Mr. Matthew Ayres, Acting High Commissioner of New Zealand, recalled the historic legacy of Sir Edmund Hillary and the enduring friendship between Nepal and New Zealand, which has been closely associated with Everest and the Himalayan region.
Delivering the closing remarks, CDA Thapa expressed sincere appreciation to the speakers, guests and participants for their gracious presence. He highlighted the importance of preserving the Himalayan environment, promoting sustainable mountain tourism, honouring local communities and respecting the dignity of the mountains.
The programme concluded with informal interactions among the participants, celebrating the enduring legacy of Mt. Everest and its continuing power to inspire courage, cooperation and human aspiration across the world.