KATHMANDU: The Embassy of Nepal in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), organized the “Nepal Destination Promotion Program – Lumbini and Beyond” in Colombo on June 30 to promote Nepal’s rich spiritual and cultural tourism offerings, with a special focus on Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

The event brought together Sri Lankan travel trade representatives, Buddhist monks, media, Everest summiteer Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala, and members of Nepal-Sri Lanka associations to strengthen tourism ties and spotlight Nepal as a prime destination for pilgrimage, heritage, and adventure.

Ambassador Dr. Purna Bahadur Nepali highlighted the deep-rooted spiritual and historical connections between the two countries and invited Sri Lankans to explore not only the serenity of Lumbini but also Nepal’s broader tourism appeal—from ancient cities to Himalayan trails.

NTB's Ranu Shah presented the “Lumbini and Beyond” initiative, featuring key Buddhist sites such as Tilaurakot, Devdaha, Gotihawa, and Ramgram across Kapilvastu, Rupandehi, and Nawalparasi. A video presentation also showcased Buddhist circuits across South Asia, emphasizing Nepal’s role in regional spiritual tourism.

The program concluded with a shared commitment to deepen bilateral tourism cooperation and promote Buddhist pilgrimage routes connecting both nations.