The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki has successfully concluded a four-day Digital Tourism Promotion and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Training Program, marking an important step toward equipping trekking entrepreneurs with modern technological skills. The training was organized under the Sustainable Tourism Project (STP), a joint initiative of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in coordination with STEM Lab Pvt. Ltd.
The program was held from Poush 8 to 11, 2082 BS at Bar Peepal Resort, Lakeside, Pokhara, and brought together 50 trekking business operators affiliated with TAAN Gandaki. The training aimed to enhance digital competence, introduce AI-based tourism promotion tools, and prepare trekking entrepreneurs to compete more effectively in the international tourism market.
Strengthening Digital Readiness of Trekking Businesses
Presiding over the program, TAAN Gandaki President Krishna Prasad Acharya highlighted that the primary objective of the training was to make trekking businesses more technology-friendly and globally competitive. He emphasized that digital platforms and artificial intelligence have become essential tools in tourism marketing, customer engagement, and operational efficiency. According to him, equipping entrepreneurs with these skills is crucial for expanding Nepal’s trekking market and attracting quality tourists.
Focus on Practical Use of AI
Delivering the keynote address, Maniram Lamichhane, Senior Director of the Nepal Tourism Board and Head of the Gandaki Province Office, stressed that artificial intelligence has significantly simplified and modernized human life. However, he noted that having proper knowledge and practical skills to apply AI in daily business operations is equally important. He encouraged participants to actively integrate AI tools into their marketing strategies, content creation, and customer service systems.
Similarly, Sudip Aryal, Head of Field Office for UNDP Gandaki and Lumbini Provinces, described the training as highly practical and urged participants to make full use of the knowledge gained. He stated that the adoption of digital tools would contribute to sustainable tourism development, business efficiency, and broader economic resilience in the region.
Broad Support from Tourism Stakeholders
The training program received strong appreciation from various tourism leaders and stakeholders. Taranath Pahari, President of the Pokhara Tourism Council, commended the initiative for addressing the evolving needs of the tourism industry. Dambar Bahadur K.C., PPC Coordinator of TAAN Gandaki, extended his best wishes to the trainees and encouraged them to become digital ambassadors for Gandaki’s trekking destinations.
Representatives from the Sustainable Tourism Project, including National Project Manager Dharmaraj Dawadi and Engineer Amit Bista, emphasized the importance of embracing new technologies to enhance professional efficiency and service quality. They highlighted that digital transformation would not only improve marketing reach but also strengthen sustainability and innovation within the trekking sector.
Adding to the voices of support, Gokarna Lamsal, President of AIGA Pokhara, and other speakers expressed their gratitude for the timely and relevant nature of the training, noting that such initiatives are critical in the post-pandemic recovery phase of tourism.
Interactive Learning and Program Management
The program featured interactive sessions, demonstrations, and hands-on learning modules designed to familiarize participants with digital marketing tools, AI-based content creation, social media strategies, and online customer engagement techniques. First Vice-President Tirtharaj Subedi delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for collaborative learning.
Training Coordinator Renuka Karki, Trainer Suman Baral, and trainee representative Yadunath Adhikari also shared their experiences and perspectives, highlighting the practical benefits of the program. The event was conducted by TAAN Gandaki Secretary Gopalkrishna Sangraula, who ensured smooth coordination throughout the sessions.
Toward a Tech-Enabled Trekking Industry
With the successful completion of this four-day training, TAAN Gandaki has reaffirmed its commitment to modernizing the trekking industry through innovation and capacity building. Participants expressed confidence that the skills gained will enable them to enhance digital visibility, reach international markets more effectively, and deliver improved services to trekkers.
The program is expected to play a significant role in strengthening Gandaki Province’s position as a leading trekking destination while promoting sustainable, technology-driven tourism development across Nepal.
