A five-day intensive “Trail Inspector and Auditor Training” program concluded successfully on December 26, 2025, at Moonlight Hotel, Thamel, producing 23 newly qualified trekking professionals, including four women guides.
The training was jointly organized by the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Sustainable Tourism Project (STP), a collaborative initiative of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with the objective of strengthening safety, quality, and sustainability standards across Nepal’s trekking trails.
Strengthening Safety and Sustainability of Trekking Trails
The program was specifically designed to prepare professional trekking guides to take on the critical role of trail inspectors and auditors. It aimed to ensure that trekking routes across the country meet nationally and internationally recognized standards before the onset of each trekking season. By equipping guides with technical knowledge and assessment skills, the training seeks to improve trail readiness, promote timely maintenance and upgrading, and ensure a safer and more rewarding experience for trekkers while safeguarding local communities and natural ecosystems.
Organizers emphasized that well-maintained and properly audited trails are fundamental to Nepal’s tourism credibility. With the trekking sector forming the backbone of mountain tourism, the program plays a vital role in enhancing visitor confidence, reducing risk, and supporting sustainable tourism growth.
Training Based on National and International Standards
The curriculum was developed in line with the Great Himalaya Trail (GHT) Trail Standards Guidelines (MoCTCA, 2017), the updated Trail Standards Guidelines (MoCTCA, 2082), and the Green Flag Trails Parameters (WTN, 2025). It also incorporated standards and operational frameworks set by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC), National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), and TAAN.
Through classroom sessions, technical discussions, and practical exercises, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of trail auditing methods, environmental management, safety assessments, signage and infrastructure standards, waste management, community engagement, and emergency preparedness.
Expert-Led Facilitation and Knowledge Sharing
The training was facilitated by expert representatives from leading government and tourism bodies, including NTB, DNPWC, NTNC, the Department of Forests and Soil Conservation (DoFSC), the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DoMH), Hotel Association of Nepal (HAN), and TAAN. Renowned subject matter specialists such as Dr. Chet Nath Kanel, Dr. Kulesh Thapa, Engineer Krishna Gautam, and Kashi R. Bhandari also delivered specialized sessions, ensuring that participants were exposed to the latest best practices in trail management, environmental conservation, and tourism safety.
The experts highlighted the importance of adopting scientific approaches to trail maintenance and emphasized the role of professional auditors in minimizing environmental impact while maximizing visitor satisfaction.
Empowering Guides for Quality Trekking Experiences
A central objective of the training was to empower professional trekking guides to become proactive trail inspectors capable of identifying potential hazards, recommending upgrades, and coordinating with relevant authorities for timely interventions. By doing so, the program contributes to providing safer trekking routes, maintaining ecological balance, and enhancing the overall quality of trekking experiences offered to both domestic and international tourists.
The inclusion of four female participants was also appreciated by organizers as a positive step toward promoting gender inclusivity within Nepal’s trekking and mountain tourism workforce.
Certificate Distribution and Closing Ceremony
The closing and certificate distribution ceremony was held at Moonlight Hotel, where all successful participants were awarded completion certificates by TAAN President Mr. Sagar Pandey. Addressing the gathering, Pandey congratulated the graduates and stressed the growing responsibility of trained trail inspectors in preserving Nepal’s reputation as a world-class trekking destination. Also present at the ceremony were TAAN Joint Treasurer Lakpa Temba Sherpa, Trekking Promotion Department Coordinator Ambir Bahadur Gurung, TAAN Chief Executive Officer Ram Chandra Sedai, and several resource persons including Dr. Chet Nath Kanel and Prem Bahadur Gurung.
The event was organized under the coordination of TAAN Executive Committee Member and Training Department Coordinator Mr. Raju Gurung, who acknowledged the collective efforts of partner organizations, trainers, and participants in making the program a success.
With the completion of this training, Nepal’s trekking sector takes another step toward strengthening trail safety, environmental stewardship, and service quality, reinforcing the country’s commitment to sustainable mountain tourism.
