The Village Tourism Promotion Forum Nepal (VITOF Nepal) has appointed Ashok Silwal as the “Gaun (Village) Goodwill Ambassador” in recognition of his contribution to tourism promotion, literature, and cultural advocacy in Nepal.
Silwal, who also serves as the Langtang Goodwill Ambassador, was formally appointed as the Village Tourism Ambassador by VITOF Nepal. Before this new role, he had been associated with the organization as an advisor.
Widely active in journalism, literature, and tourism promotion, Silwal has established himself as a multifaceted personality contributing to Nepal’s tourism and cultural sectors through writing, documentaries, and public engagement initiatives.
Author and Documentary Filmmaker
Silwal is the author of several notable books, including Everest: An Unfinished Story, Appa Deepo Bhava, and Sri Lanka Smriti. In addition to his literary work, he is also recognized as a documentary filmmaker focusing on themes related to spirituality, nature, culture, and tourism. His writings often explore the deeper meaning of travel and human experience, blending tourism with philosophy and cultural reflection.
H2O Nepal Book Journey Reaches Across Nepal
Recently, Silwal has been actively engaged in the “H2O Nepal Book Journey,” a nationwide literary campaign described as a symbolic journey from the Himalayas to the ocean. The initiative is currently traveling across all 77 districts of Nepal to promote literature, tourism, and cultural awareness.
The journey features his book Everest: An Unfinished Story, which is rooted in the story of Mount Everest while emphasizing the idea that the journey itself is more meaningful than the destination. Similarly, Appa Deepo Bhava focuses on inner transformation and self-realization, whereas Sri Lanka Smriti reflects on the interconnectedness of nature through experiences linking the Himalayas and the ocean.
Continuing Spiritual and Cultural Journeys
Earlier, Silwal had also completed the “Appa Deepo Bhava Yatra,” a spiritual journey from Pashupatinath Temple to Maya Devi Temple, further highlighting his efforts to connect tourism, spirituality, and cultural heritage.
Tourism stakeholders believe his appointment as Village Tourism Goodwill Ambassador will help strengthen Nepal’s village tourism campaign by promoting rural destinations, local culture, and sustainable community-based tourism initiatives across the country.
