Acupuncture In Nepal

In the years following its introduction, acupuncture in Nepal has experienced significant growth and integration into the country’s healthcare landscape. The initial Chinese influence, brought by those involved in the construction of the Arniko Highway, laid the foundation for a practice that has since become an integral part of Nepalese healthcare.

Dr. Ram Man Shrestha’s pivotal role in securing a freeship quota for acupuncture training in China through UN sponsorship in 1976 marked a turning point. His dedication to the acupuncture unit at Bir Hospital for 17 years not only contributed to the local expertise but also played a crucial role in making acupuncture more accessible to the Nepalese population.

The ripple effect continued with the training of Dr. Homraj Bajracharya and other Nepali doctors in China. Their expertise and knowledge further fueled the widespread adoption of acupuncture across various medical settings in Nepal.

The establishment of the Oriental Treatment Cum Training Center (OTTC) in Kathmandu in 1992 AD formalized the practice and education of acupuncture in the country. This institute has played a pivotal role in training healthcare professionals and fostering research in acupuncture, thereby contributing to the overall development and acceptance of this traditional healing method.

Today, acupuncture has become an integral part of Nepal’s healthcare system, with practitioners offering their services in both urban centers and rural areas. The ongoing collaboration between Nepali and Chinese medical professionals continues to enrich the understanding and application of acupuncture in diverse healthcare settings, reinforcing its status as a valuable therapeutic option in Nepal.