Nepal’s outdoor adventure scene is on the rise, thanks to its diverse landscapes, ranging from snow-capped Himalayas to lush river valleys. Add to that the emerging infrastructure for adventure activities, which offers an ideal backdrop for thrill-seekers looking to push their limits and explore the great outdoors.

While such activities provide unique and unforgettable experiences, they also come with inherent risks. This underscores the importance of safety measures to prevent accidents and injuries.

Before setting out, adventurers should prioritise safety precautions. It is also beneficial to learn about specialised healthcare options available for emergencies, ensuring swift recovery in the event of unexpected incidents.

“Success in outdoor adventures stems from pushing your limits. However, it’s essential to remain mindful of the risks to ensure that excitement doesn’t give way to unnecessary dangers,” says Dr Nima Namgyal Sherpa, a high-altitude medicine expert and mountaineer.

This focus on safety will be a central theme of the Nepal Adventure Expo 2024, taking place at Aranya Boutique Hote this Saturday. It also highlights the broader shift in Nepal’s fitness and adventure sports landscape, blending excitement with a strong emphasis on safety.

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Wilderness Medicine

Dr Sherpa will be attending the expo with Himalayan Medics, an organisation he founded. It is dedicated to educating and enhancing safety for adventure seekers and local communities in the Himalayas.

At the expo, Himalayan Medics will highlight the importance of wilderness medicine, advocating for its inclusion in training for anyone venturing into remote areas. Their efforts involve rigorous training, capacity building and resource development to strengthen Emergency Medical Support (EMS) in Nepal.

Dr Sherpa’s credentials further reinforce this mission; as the founding director of Kaitu Expeditions, he has successfully assisted over 100 climbers in reaching the summit of Everest, maintaining an impeccable safety record.

Another key participant at the event is B&B (Baidya & Banskota) Hospital, a premier healthcare provider in the country.

Anil Banskota, who heads B&B’s Management and Marketing, explains, “Being part of this event allows us to communicate our brand’s mission and the essential services we provide.”

Reliable Medicare

A team from the hospital will offer insights into the lifesaving rescues they perform. To resonate with visitors, they will distribute detailed materials emphasising the importance of accessible, “high-quality” trauma care.

As an avid mountain biker himself, Banskota stresses that the expanding adventure sports scene necessitates reliable medical care. “B&B’s expertise in trauma care is particularly vital, providing heli-evacuations and rapid response services to remote areas often frequented by adventure athletes.”

In addition to sharing information about trauma care and sports physiotherapy at the expo, the hospital will underscore the importance of robust Emergency Medical Service and personalised recovery care for adventurers.

The hospital’s Sports Physio unit is another key aspect of its expo presence. It is designed to help athletes enhance mobility, improve fitness and recover from injuries, specifically addressing the high demands of adventure sports. Banskota explains, “Customised for athletes recovering from injuries, our Sports Physio services enable them to return to peak condition while reducing the risk of future injuries.”

Simple Intervention

In outdoor adventures, as many might have noticed, oftentimes simple, low-cost interventions can improve pain management and functionality. These solutions allow adventurers to overcome discomfort and improve mobility. This leads to a more enjoyable experience in activities like hiking, running and biking.

“As adventure sports gain popularity, we’re seeing an increased emphasis on injury prevention,” says Dr Amir Neupane, the managing director of Aashas Health Care.

Aashas Health Care is making a notable presence with Himalayans Trima Physio Tape, a kinesiology tape developed to support muscle recovery, prevent injuries, and manage pain for athletes.

“Our goal is to raise awareness about the benefits of these tools, particularly for those engaged in intense physical activities,” the physiotherapist explains. These tools are vital for athletes looking to challenge themselves seeking to push their boundaries without compromising their health.

“We’ll conduct live demonstrations at the expo, giving athletes and fitness enthusiasts the chance to experience the product firsthand,” Dr Neupane shares. He also plans to offer exclusive discounts and giveaways to promote broader adoption.

This expo not only showcases Nepal’s breathtaking outdoors but also creates a unique platform for adventurers to connect. It ensures that every thrilling experience is both safe and unforgettable.