Meaning of Kora
What “KORA” Means to Us
In Buddhist tradition, Kora refers to the sacred act of walking around or circumambulating a spiritual site — a journey made with purpose, mindfulness, and respect. At Kora Tours, the name embodies more than a tradition; it defines our core values.
For our team “KORA” stands for
Honesty, Integrity, and an unwavering commitment to delivering the highest standard of personalized service to our discerning guests.
Every journey with Kora Tours is crafted with care, cultural sensitivity, and deep local knowledge — ensuring an experience that is not just seen, but truly felt.
About Founder
Bijay Amatya: Tourism Visionary and Advocate for Sustainable Travel in the Himalayas
Born and raised in Nepal, Bijay Amatya is a pioneering figure in the country’s tourism industry, with over 48 years of experience dedicated to promoting sustainable travel, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. With a career spanning continents and decades, he has personally traveled to more than 80 countries, passionately championing Nepal as a destination of rich diversity, authenticity, and depth.
Bijay began his career in the 1970s as a young guide at Yeti Travels, rising through the ranks to become Director of Sales & Marketing. Fueled by a deep love for connecting people, landscapes, and cultures, he pursued a Master’s degree in Economics and Marketing—laying the foundation for his future leadership in tourism.
He is the founder and CEO of Kora Tours, one of Nepal’s most respected travel companies, specializing in responsible and culturally immersive experiences across Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, and India. Guided by the principle of “quality over quantity,” Bijay has been instrumental in developing innovative travel products that deliver authentic engagement while preserving heritage and benefiting host communities.
A strong proponent of social inclusion, he has played a key role in empowering rural women through initiatives like the Community Homestay Network, which offers training and sustainable income opportunities to women hosts across Nepal.
Bijay’s strategic vision has shaped Nepal’s tourism narrative during critical periods. He has served in several advisory roles, including as Senior Vice President of SKAL International Nepal and a current member of the PATA Nepal Chapter Advisory Committee (2024–2026). During major crises such as the 2015 earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic, he emerged as a leading advocate for sustainable recovery, resilience, and smart tourism reform.
Today, Bijay Amatya continues to be a mentor to the next generation of tourism professionals and a respected voice in the Himalayan travel industry—steadfast in his commitment to responsible tourism and long-term destination stewardship.
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Tourism isn’t just about taking people places—it’s about sharing stories, creating impact, and building bridges between cultures.