Goverdhan, 21, took bronze at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, the first Games podium place in history for the Himalayan nation who have also never won a medal at the Olympics.

"I am filled with immense pride for having achieved this victory for our beloved nation," Goverdhan said on social media ahead of her return to Kathmandu.

"The countless hours of hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and the feeling is simply overwhelming."

Traditional music and the army band played as Goverdhan emerged to loud cheers at Kathmandu's airport, draped in the national flag, marigold garlands and traditional Buddhist scarves.

Many young taekwondo athletes were among hundreds gathered to welcome back Goverdhan, who beamed a wide smile and held up her medal.

"I am very happy, very inspired and proud for the country," said 13-year-old taekwondo athlete Nandani Adhikari, who was among the crowds at the airport.

"Her victory feels like our own," she added.

Goverdhan, who is studying architectural engineering in China, won bronze in the women's K44-57kg para taekwondo category when she beat Serbia's Marija Micev 15-8.

Born with a congenital limb deficiency on her left hand, Goverdhan took up martial arts at school when she was 10 years old.