The Nepal Association of Tour & Travel Agents (NATTA) proudly represented Nepal at the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA) Annual Conference and the International Conference of Mountain Tourism & Outdoor Sports (MTOS 2025), held from 11–13 November 2025 in Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China. The prestigious international gathering, themed “Integration of Culture, Sports, and Tourism for a High-Quality Life,” brought together delegates from over 40 countries and 100 organizations, uniting global efforts to strengthen cooperation in sustainable mountain tourism.
Mundum Trail Honored for Sustainable Mountain Tourism
In a significant achievement for Nepal, the Mundum Trail, a breathtaking route in the eastern hills, was honored at the IMTA–MTOS Awards for its outstanding contribution to sustainable mountain tourism. The recognition highlighted the trail’s unique blend of indigenous Kirat culture, pristine ecology, and community-led adventure experiences that together embody the principles of responsible tourism.
This honor follows the 2024 recognition of Annapurna I as one of the “World Famous Tourism Mountains”, underscoring Nepal’s continued leadership and innovation in mountain-based tourism products. The Mundum Trail’s award reinforces Nepal’s growing reputation as a country that not only celebrates its natural beauty but also preserves its cultural and environmental heritage for future generations.
Nepal’s Vision for Responsible and Inclusive Mountain Tourism
During the conference, NATTA President Mr. Kumar Mani Thapaliya delivered a compelling presentation on Nepal’s mountain tourism vision, focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and authenticity. His address was complemented by a short video presentation, scripted and compiled by NATTA Secretary General Ms. Yubika Bhandari, which showcased Nepal’s stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and commitment to responsible trekking.
The presentation captivated delegates and earned wide acclaim from IMTA officials and international participants. It highlighted Nepal’s efforts to balance tourism growth with environmental conservation, ensure fair benefits to local communities, and protect cultural traditions that give each mountain destination its distinct identity.
President Thapaliya emphasized, “Nepal’s tourism vision is straightforward, sustain our peaks, uplift our people, and deliver authentic, meaningful, and unforgettable experiences. Mountains connect us geographically, economically, and spiritually.” His remarks resonated deeply with the conference’s central message of high-quality, people-centered tourism.
Strengthening Global Partnerships and Mountain Resilience
NATTA, a founding and Council Member of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA), reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible mountain tourism and enhancing cross-border collaboration. During the IMTA Council Meeting, President Thapaliya joined global leaders in discussions on integrating culture, sports, and tourism, enhancing mountain safety standards, and building resilience through shared learning and cooperation.
The event also featured key presentations from international tourism figures, including Mr. Peter Semone, President of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA); Mr. Liu Zhaohui, Vice Chairman of IMTA; and Mr. Giorgio Grussu, FAO Mountain Partnership Secretariat, among others. These sessions emphasized the role of innovation, local participation, and sustainable development in shaping the future of mountain destinations worldwide.
The NATTA delegation to the conference comprised Mr. Kumar Mani Thapaliya (President), Ms. Yubika Bhandari (Secretary General), and Mr. Bidur Khatiwada (Executive Member). Their active participation helped strengthen Nepal’s voice in international tourism policy discussions and opened avenues for future collaborations.
Celebrating 70 Years of Nepal–China Diplomatic Relations
The conference held additional significance as Nepal and China celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations. NATTA utilized this milestone to reaffirm its dedication to enhancing people-to-people connections through cultural and tourism exchange. Both nations share deep historical and geographical ties, particularly in the Himalayan regions where cooperation in tourism, culture, and trade continues to flourish.
President Thapaliya noted that NATTA will continue collaborating closely with key partners such as the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN), the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), and IMTA members to transform Nepal’s mountain destinations into global models of sustainability, safety, and shared prosperity. He concluded, “We invite the world not just to visit Nepal, but to partner with our mountain communities, to protect, promote, and prosper together.”
A Step Forward for Nepal’s Global Tourism Diplomacy
NATTA’s active participation in IMTA–MTOS 2025 reinforced Nepal’s position as a global leader in sustainable mountain tourism. The recognition of the Mundum Trail and the strong representation by NATTA officials underscored the country’s evolving role in international tourism diplomacy.
By championing inclusive, eco-conscious, and culturally grounded tourism practices, Nepal continues to demonstrate how mountain destinations can thrive while preserving their natural and human heritage. As the world seeks balance between adventure and sustainability, Nepal stands as an inspiring example of how tourism can unite nations, empower communities, and celebrate the spirit of the mountains.
