Namaste from the Himalayas,
Over the past week, Nepal has experienced important political changes that have caught global attention. We are writing to share an open and transparent update on what has happened and how things stand in the country today.
On 8 September, Nepal witnessed a protest led by courageous Gen Z youths demanding an end to the corruption that has weighed heavily on the country. The movement began peacefully but turned tragic when government forces responded with violence, resulting in the heartbreaking loss of 21 young lives. This cruelty shocked the nation.
The following days saw Nepal’s streets filled with grief and outrage. Citizens across all major cities joined the protests. In their anger, protestors burned government offices and properties linked to corrupt politicians and several leaders had to flee under army protection. It was a raw, difficult moment in our history but also a turning point.
It all began as a social media trend highlighting the stark contrast between the reality faced by ordinary young Nepalis, many of whom are forced to leave the country for low-paying jobs abroad, and the lavish lifestyles of corrupt leaders’ children, who frequently showcase their luxury holidays and extravagant spending online.
The people’s courage prevailed. The Prime Minister and key corrupt political leaders from all major parties resigned. With the help of Nepal Army, who had initially taken control of the situation, the President and the representatives of the youth, an interim government has now been formed, led by Madame Sushila Karki, Nepal’s first female Chief Justice and now its first ever female Prime Minister. She is respected for her honesty and long-standing fight against corruption, who, as you may have heard, was chosen by Nepal’s youth through a Discord public poll! She represents a new hope of light everyone has turned towards and a motherly figurethe country desperately needed.
In total, 72 lives were lost and many injured in these events and their sacrifices will not be forgotten. Yet what followed was just as powerful: youths returned to the streets, not in angerbut with brooms in hand, cleaning the very roads where violence had taken place. Communities gathered to repair and rebuild and today Nepal feels remarkably calm and normal, even as the scars of burned buildings remind us of what has passed.
It is important for you to know that throughout this period, not a single tourist was harmed. Our current travellers in Nepal continued their journeys without disruption. Daily life has stabilised quickly and the welcoming spirit of Nepal remains unchanged.
Nepal has faced hardship before from civil war to earthquakes to past political upheavals. Each time, the country has shown resilience, humility and an ability to stand strong. This moment is no different.
Your safety remains our highest priority. Should there ever be a time when travel is unwise, we will communicate it to you directly and immediately. But today, Nepal is safe, calm, and moving forward into a new era; one shaped by the courage of its youth and the strength of its people.
We deeply value your trust and encourage you to continue planning your journeys with us. Now, more than ever, Nepal needs visitors to support its journey toward rebuilding a better, stronger and more positive future. If you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming journey or anything, please do not hesitate to reach out to us directly.
With warmth and resilience,
Amrit, Kate and the HQ Team
Recent Comments