Kalmyk Tourists Make Historic Visit to Nepal, Strengthening Cultural and Spiritual Ties with Russia

Kathmandu, The Embassy of the Russian Federation in Nepal has welcomed the first-ever group of tourists from the Republic of Kalmykia, Europe’s only Buddhist region, marking a new chapter in cultural and spiritual exchanges between Nepal and Russia.

The visit was organized with the initiative and support of the Government of Kalmykia, together with the Russian Embassy in Kathmandu. Officials noted that the exchange builds on the visit of Kalmykia’s Head, Batu Khasikov, who traveled to Nepal in May this year to deepen bilateral humanitarian ties.

During their stay, the Kalmyk tourists will explore Kathmandu and Pokhara, and visit Lumbini in Rupandehi, revered worldwide as the birthplace of Lord Buddha-along with other spiritually significant sites.

The group was formally received at the Russian Embassy, where Ambassador Aleksei Novikov and his spouse Alina Novikova extended a warm welcome. The interaction highlighted the Embassy’s role in advancing cultural diplomacy and fostering people-to-people connections, with Buddhism serving as a meaningful link between the two countries.

Observers say that the arrival of Kalmyk visitors could help diversify Nepal’s tourism industry, opening new prospects for attracting Buddhist travelers from different regions of Russia.