The Sherpa Tourism Entrepreneurs Association Nepal (STEAN) celebrated its ninth establishment anniversary with a grand event in Kathmandu on Friday.
The organization hosted ‘STEAN Day and Cultural Performance 2026’ along with ‘STEAN Dialogue 2026’ at Leela Garden in Kalopul, Kathmandu.
Tourism leaders call for policy reform and skilled workforce
The STEAN Dialogue was organized in the form of a panel discussion, bringing together prominent figures from Nepal’s tourism and mountaineering sectors.
The panel featured Member of the House of Representatives Mingma Gyabu Sherpa, Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) President Phur Gelje Sherpa, Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) General Secretary Sonam Gyalzen Sherpa, Everest Summiteers Association President Maya Sherpa and Nepal Mountain Guide Association (NMGA) Vice President Lakpa Sherpa.
During the discussion, speakers emphasized the need for policy reforms, technology-friendly tourism promotion and the development of skilled human resources for the qualitative growth of Nepal’s mountain and trekking tourism sector.
The speakers highlighted the need to adapt tourism promotion and services to the rapidly changing digital environment while strengthening the capacity of tourism professionals to meet the evolving demands of domestic and international visitors.
STEAN highlights unity and collaboration in tourism sector
STEAN President Pasang Sherpa expressed confidence that the event would play an important role in promoting Sherpa culture, supporting tourism promotion and innovation, and recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to mountain tourism.
He also emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation, unity and professional relationships among tourism entrepreneurs.
Legendary mountaineers honoured
The event also honoured record-holding mountaineers for their remarkable contributions to Nepal’s mountaineering sector.
The celebration featured a series of cultural performances and a DJ session, providing entertainment to the participants and guests.
Singer Aasman Lama, Chhodawa Sherpa, Palmu Sherpa and Nabin Dahal performed during the event, while DJ Nwawang entertained the audience with a special DJ session.
The ninth STEAN Day celebration brought together tourism entrepreneurs, mountaineers, tourism professionals and stakeholders to celebrate the organization’s journey while discussing the future prospects and challenges of Nepal’s mountain and trekking tourism.
