U.S. Ambassador to Nepal, Dean R. Thompson, has arrived in Mustang to observe and support Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. His visit aims to strengthen Nepal–U.S. partnerships in areas such as cultural preservation, sustainable tourism, and economic development.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Nepal, Ambassador Thompson is visiting cultural heritage sites in Mustang that have been restored with assistance from the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). The visit highlights the United States’ continued support in conserving Nepal’s unique heritage and fostering mutual understanding between the two nations.
During his visit, Ambassador Thompson will interact with local communities and project teams, discussing efforts to safeguard cultural identity and promote community engagement through heritage preservation.
US Ambassador Dean R. Thompson
As part of his itinerary, the Ambassador observed Jhyoṅ Gumba in Varagung Muktichhetra–2 today, which was recently restored under the AFCP program. He praised the local community’s deep connection to their heritage and stated, “This site is a living piece of the community’s identity, and its restoration contributes to the preservation of Nepal’s religious and cultural legacy.”
His schedule also includes the observation of the Tiji Festival, a traditional three-day event celebrated in Upper Mustang, starting this Saturday. The festival is a significant cultural event that showcases Mustang’s Buddhist traditions.
Ambassador Thompson is also set to visit several other heritage sites restored under the AFCP, including Gonpa Gang Gumba, Lo Gekar Gumba (Ghar Gumba), Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gumba, and Chhode Gumba in Lo Manthang. These restoration efforts are part of the broader cultural collaboration between Nepal and the United States, reinforcing shared values and promoting sustainable cultural tourism in Nepal’s Himalayan regions.
