The 14th Annual General Meeting and 5th National Convention of the Gurung Tourism Entrepreneurs’ Association, Nepal (GTEAN), concluded in Kathmandu with the election of a new executive committee led by Baburam Gurung as President for the next three-year term. The gathering brought together tourism entrepreneurs, community leaders, and stakeholders from across the country to review achievements, set future priorities, and strengthen collaboration in promoting Nepal’s indigenous tourism heritage.
Newly Elected Executive Committee
The convention unanimously elected Baburam Gurung as President, expressing confidence in his leadership to further expand the association’s role in national tourism development. The newly formed executive committee includes:
- First Vice President: Bindu Gurung
- Second Vice President: Dil Bahadur Gurung
- General Secretary: Sanjeev Gurung
- Secretary: Bikash Gurung
- Treasurer: Ambir Gurung
- Joint Treasurer: Mahabir Gurung
Members: Dhan Bahadur Gurung, Raju Gurung, Hari Bahadur Gurung, Sanjeev Gurung, Bhim Bahadur Gurung, Nirmal Gurung, and Durga Gurung.
The election committee, coordinated by former President Kamala Gurung, formally announced the results during the assembly.
Call for Collective Effort in Tourism Development
Following the oath-taking ceremony, President Baburam Gurung emphasized the need for unity and shared responsibility in advancing both the association and Nepal’s broader tourism sector. “We cannot move forward alone. An institution cannot be run by a single individual,” he stated, urging members to work collectively to transform GTEAN into a strong contributor to Nepal’s tourism economy. He highlighted the importance of community-based tourism, cultural preservation, and entrepreneurship as key pillars for sustainable growth.
Government Support and Revenue Sharing Mechanisms
Chief Guest Juddha Bahadur Gurung, Acting Chairperson of the Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission, underscored the government’s commitment to tourism promotion through equitable revenue-sharing models derived from mountain royalties.
He explained that revenues collected from mountaineering activities are distributed among federal, provincial, and local governments, creating opportunities to invest in destinations such as the Gurung Heritage Trail and other emerging tourism circuits. “If properly utilized, these resources can ensure there is no shortage of funding for tourism infrastructure and promotion,” he noted.
Recognition from National Tourism Bodies
Representatives of major tourism institutions praised GTEAN’s grassroots initiatives and its contribution to trekking and mountain tourism. Nepal Mountaineering Association President Fur Gelje Sherpa announced a financial contribution of NPR 75,000 to the “GTEAN Tourism Workers’ Welfare Fund,” commending the association for supporting tourism workers and communities where state intervention has often been limited.
Similarly, Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal General Secretary Sonam Gyaljen Sherpa stressed the importance of collaboration among tourism organizations to promote indigenous tourism circuits internationally. He particularly lauded the exploration of the Gurung Heritage Trail as an innovative model of cultural tourism.
Promoting Indigenous Heritage and Cultural Tourism
Leaders from community organizations echoed the importance of preserving Gurung heritage through tourism. Tam Hyul Chhonj Dhin Gurung, National Council President Dhanman Gurun,g expressed strong interest in supporting research, documentation, and promotion of the heritage trail, pledging institutional cooperation.
Speakers highlighted that the trail reflects ancestral migration routes and living traditions of the Gurung community, offering visitors an immersive cultural experience while contributing to local livelihoods.
Showcasing Achievements and Publications
Founding President and advisor Kul Bahadur Gurung reviewed the association’s milestones, including:
- Exploration and documentation of the Gurung Heritage Trail
- Relief support during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Assistance to earthquake-affected communities
- Financial aid to families of deceased tourism workers
During the event, GTEAN also launched the second edition of its souvenir publication “Gurung in Tourism,” described as an important documentation of indigenous contributions to Nepal’s tourism landscape.
Awards and Recognitions
The association presented the Harka Gurung Award, carrying a cash prize of NPR 10,000, to its founding president in recognition of his contributions. The award amount was donated back to the Tourism Workers’ Fund.
Senior journalists Anita Gurung and Amrit Bhadgaunle were honored for their role in promoting tourism through media, while journalist Khim Ghale received recognition for supporting the exploration of the Gurung Heritage Trail. Additional honors were given to contributors, advisors, active members, sponsors, and lifetime members for their continued support of the organization.
Outgoing President Pitambar Gurung expressed gratitude to members and partners for their cooperation during his tenure, particularly in advancing research and promoting the heritage trail and publishing institutional materials.
The convention concluded with a renewed commitment to sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and inclusive economic opportunities. Participants emphasized that the Gurung Heritage Trail is not only a symbol of Gurung identity but also a shared national asset capable of benefiting diverse communities across Nepal. With new leadership in place, GTEAN aims to expand partnerships, strengthen indigenous tourism networks, and position Nepal’s cultural routes prominently on the global tourism map.
