Kathmandu: Everest Bank Limited has expanded its branch network to the remote Saipal Rural Municipality-1, Dhaloun, in Bajhang district of Sudurpashchim Province. This marks the bank’s 129th branch across the country.
The new branch was officially inaugurated by Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank, Maha Prasad Adhikari, in a grand ceremony attended by Saipal Rural Municipality Chairperson Manbir Bohora, Everest Bank Board Chairman Dr. Balgopal Baidya, CEO Sudesh Khaling, NRB Director Keshav Bahadur KC, ward chairpersons of all wards of Saipal, Everest Bank’s Sudurpashchim Province Head Ujwal Pokhrel, along with representatives from the Nepal government, local institutions, bank employees, and enthusiastic locals.
With the establishment of this branch, all 753 local levels across Nepal now have access to a Class-A commercial bank. Given the challenging geography and lack of motorable roads, reaching Saipal requires a 7 to 8-hour trek. Despite these difficulties, Everest Bank has successfully set up a branch, reinforcing its commitment to expanding financial access to remote areas.
Addressing the event, Governor Adhikari highlighted that the government’s objective of ensuring banking services in all federal municipalities has now been achieved with this branch opening. He emphasized that the residents of Saipal will no longer need to travel to the district headquarters for basic banking services. Additionally, he expressed confidence that the branch will facilitate economic activities in the region and contribute to overall development.
Everest Bank believes that this new branch will boost economic activities in Saipal and enhance financial inclusion. As one of Nepal’s leading commercial banks, Everest Bank operates in partnership with Punjab National Bank, India, and serves over 1.4 million customers across the country. It currently has a network of 131 branches, 4 extension counters, 7 provincial offices, and 167 ATMs.
The bank provides modern banking facilities such as mobile banking, internet banking, and corporate banking and operates 32 revenue collection centers for the Government of Nepal. Additionally, it has established representative offices in New Delhi, India, and other countries, ensuring seamless cross-border financial services.
