Revitalizing Fewa: Trail Cleanup and Hiking Event
Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most popular tourist destinations, witnessed a unique blend of environmental activism and tourism training this week. As part of a hands-on training session for aspiring tourist guides and trekking professionals, a clean-up and hiking campaign was organized along the “Round Fewa View Hiking Trail.”
The event was led by the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki Chapter, in collaboration with Nepal Tourism Board and the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM). The program was part of an ongoing training initiative in Pokhara aimed at preparing tourist path guides, trekking guides, and porter guides for Nepal’s growing tourism sector.
Trail Clean-Up and Practical Exercises
As part of the practical module of the training, participants were taken on the scenic Round Fewa View Trail for a guided hike and clean-up activity. According to TAAN Gandaki President Krishna Prasad Acharya, the initiative not only focused on experiential learning but also on instilling a sense of environmental responsibility among trainees.
The waste collected during the clean-up was transported across Fewa Lake by boat and responsibly managed, showcasing an innovative approach to trail sanitation in areas without road access. The chairman highlighted the trail’s beauty, noting that it offers magnificent views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), Fewa Lake, and the wider Pokhara Valley, making it an ideal route for eco-conscious travelers.
Promoting Short-Distance Hiking Routes
The Round Fewa View Trail starts from the dam side of Fewa Lake and passes through Raniban (Queen’s Forest), Mewa Khola, and ends at Margi, making it a perfect one-day hike. TAAN Gandaki has been actively promoting this short-distance trail to both domestic and international tourists, focusing on those looking for quick but fulfilling nature-based experiences within Pokhara.
Chairperson Acharya stated that Fewa Lake remains the focal point of Pokhara’s tourism landscape, and promoting trails around it aligns with sustainable tourism practices and the diversification of travel experiences.
Commitment to Trail Upgradation and Expansion
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the hiking and clean-up program, Pokhara Metropolitan City Ward No. 22 Chairman Himalal Baral emphasized the local government’s commitment to improving the hiking trail. He shared plans to complete the development of the 13-kilometer route in the upcoming fiscal year, which will ultimately allow visitors to walk around the entire circumference of Fewa Lake. He added that efforts are already underway to upgrade the trail infrastructure, ensuring it meets the expectations of modern-day tourists while preserving the natural environment.
Tourism Stakeholders Call for Continued Campaigns
Hari Bhujel, Senior Vice President of the Pokhara Tourism Council, called for regular and organized trail clean-up campaigns to maintain the region’s appeal. He stressed that tourist path guides and trekking professionals have a vital role in preserving these natural assets, as they are the frontline ambassadors of Nepal’s trekking culture.
Laxman Subedi, President of the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) Pokhara, emphasized that the profession of guiding tourists holds strong potential for local youth. He urged them to consider careers in Nepal’s booming tourism industry rather than seeking uncertain opportunities abroad. “Becoming a guide or porter in Nepal is not only a viable career but also a chance to showcase our culture and environment to the world,” he said.
Law Enforcement Encourages Practical Application of Skills
Santosh Niraula, Deputy Superintendent of Police at the Baidam Ward Police Office, also addressed the participants. He encouraged trainees to implement what they’ve learned practically and ethically. “If you apply your training seriously in real-world situations, your career can reach great heights,” he told the attendees.
Exploring the Trail’s Potential
During the concluding session, other TAAN Gandaki executives, including First Vice President Tirtharaj Subedi, Second Vice President Mohan Subedi, and Executive Member Renuka Karki, participated in a group discussion on the trail’s tourism potential. They emphasized the importance of community-led conservation efforts and the role of trained guides in educating visitors about responsible tourism.
The training program began on Jestha 26 (mid-June) and has drawn significant interest. Over 350 participants, including tourist path guides, trekking guides, and porter guides, have enrolled. The extensive curriculum blends theoretical learning with practical experience, ensuring the trainees are industry-ready by the end of the session.
A Model for Sustainable Adventure Tourism
This initiative has been hailed as a model for blending professional training with environmental stewardship. With growing concerns about trail degradation, littering, and unregulated tourism, such campaigns offer a glimpse into the future of responsible travel in Nepal.
The successful execution of the clean-up and hiking event along the Round Fewa View Trail stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between tourism organizations, local government bodies, law enforcement, and civil society. As Nepal aims to recover and revitalize its tourism sector post-COVID, initiatives like these play a crucial role in redefining the nation’s travel narrative, one that values nature, sustainability, and professionalism equally.
