A new chapter in youth engagement and adventure tourism has begun in Solukhumbu as the “Solukhumbu Skate Park” officially comes into operation in Salleri. This exciting development is the result of a joint initiative by youth leader and social activist Namgel Sherpa and Sujata Tamang, who have taken a bold step to promote sports culture in the region.
According to Namgel Sherpa, a total investment of NPR 6.5 million (approximately USD 50,000) has been made to establish the skate park. Speaking about the project, he said, “Our primary objective is to connect children and youth with sports and simultaneously promote tourism in Solukhumbu.” Sherpa emphasized that skateboarding is an internationally recognized sport, and establishing such a facility in a remote region like Solukhumbu presents unique challenges. However, he firmly believes that the park can serve as a new avenue to attract foreign tourists in the future.
Sherpa noted that interest in the park has been growing steadily among local children and young people. With its launch in the first week of Asar (mid-June), the park has already begun transforming the local community space, providing an alternative to digital distractions such as mobile games, which had increasingly become a pastime for children in the area.
Investment Despite Challenges
Local resident Sangey Sherpa highlighted that the establishment of the skate park is a significant step in reviving economic activity in the area, especially after the economic stagnation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. “In a time when it was difficult to create an investment-friendly environment, the construction of such a large-scale park in Solukhumbu is indeed a commendable effort. We believe this initiative will play a key role in contributing to the economic development of the region,” he said.
Sangey further added that since the park’s inauguration, children who were previously immersed in mobile games have now started visiting the park regularly. The transformation, he explained, is already noticeable, both in terms of the park’s role as a hub for physical activity and as a space for social interaction.
Promoting Sports in Remote Regions
Namgel Sherpa pointed out that promoting skateboarding in such a geographically remote and mountainous region is not without its difficulties. Lack of infrastructure, limited resources, and transportation barriers have made this venture particularly challenging. Yet, the initiative shows that with strong will and community support, innovative projects can thrive even in the most isolated locations.
“There are few places in Nepal where children have access to modern sports facilities like a skate park,” Sherpa said. “By providing this space, we hope to inspire not only physical well-being among the youth but also to open up possibilities for competitive sports and creative expression.”
He also believes that the uniqueness of having a skate park in Solukhumbu, a district already famous for trekking and mountaineering, can add a fresh layer to the region’s tourism offerings. Adventure-loving tourists, especially younger travelers and extreme sports enthusiasts, could find the park an unexpected yet exciting part of their itinerary.
A New Horizon for Community Engagement
Beyond sports and tourism, the Solukhumbu Skate Park has started to redefine how public spaces are used in the region. It offers an inclusive and safe environment where children and teenagers can gather, play, and learn together. As a symbol of positive community development, the park is expected to host training sessions, competitions, and recreational programs that can further enhance youth involvement.
Sujata Tamang, one of the co-founders of the park, expressed her hope that the facility will inspire more young people, particularly girls, to participate in non-traditional sports. She also emphasized the importance of breaking gender stereotypes and creating equal opportunities in all areas of life, including sports.
“Skateboarding teaches balance, persistence, and creativity. These are life skills,” Tamang said. “We hope the park can become a platform not only for fun but also for growth and empowerment.”
Looking Ahead
The establishment of the Solukhumbu Skate Park marks a significant milestone for the region, one that brings together youth development, sports promotion, and tourism enhancement in a single initiative. As the park continues to draw attention and visitors, its impact is expected to ripple through the local economy, cultural landscape, and future planning for community spaces.
While challenges remain in maintaining and expanding such a facility in a remote area, the overwhelming support from the community and the increasing enthusiasm among the youth show that this is more than just a recreational space, it is a beacon of hope, progress, and possibility for Solukhumbu.
With continued support from local authorities, the tourism sector, and youth organizations, the Solukhumbu Skate Park could soon become a model for similar initiatives in other rural and mountainous regions of Nepal.
