Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, emphasized the importance of integrating nature and culture into tourism to achieve economic prosperity. Speaking at the inauguration of the Gurung Heritage Trail briefing, Supree Lhosar celebration, and the assembly of the Gurung Tourism Entrepreneurs Association Nepal (GTEAN) Gandaki Province held in Pokhara today, Minister Gurung highlighted the economic potential of Nepal’s natural and cultural heritage through tourism.
He lauded the Gurung Heritage Trail as a significant initiative for tourism development and expressed his commitment to supporting its promotion and growth. Minister Gurung also stressed the need to organize trekking regions and advance mountain tourism to attract more visitors. He revealed plans to introduce 11 new laws aimed at addressing challenges and ensuring effective governance for impactful development.
Promoting the Gurung Heritage Trail
Member of Parliament Man Bahadur Gurung underscored the Gurung Heritage Trail’s potential as a pivotal trekking tourism destination. Founding President of GTEAN Gandaki, Boberjung Gurung, reiterated the association’s dedication to promoting the trail as a transformative asset for tourism. Current GTEAN President, Kisam Kumari Gurung, elaborated on the phased promotion strategy of the heritage trail to maximize its impact.

Honoring Contributions to Heritage and Tourism
The event also recognized outstanding contributions to the promotion of the Gurung Heritage Trail. Similarly, Sanjeeb Gurung was acknowledged for his valuable contributions to the trail’s exploration efforts.
Expert Insights on Tourism Development
The program featured insights from various stakeholders, including Gandaki Province Tourism Secretary Kuman Singh Gurung, GTEAN Central Founding President Kul Bahadur Gurung, Nepal Mountaineering Association Gandaki President Bikash Gurung, Pokhara Tourism Council President Taranath Pahari, and Ward Chair of Madi Rural Municipality-1, Devijung Gurung. Discussions revolved around the immense potential of the Gurung Heritage Trail as a key asset in Nepal’s tourism landscape.
The assembly concluded with the election of a new GTEAN executive committee, re-electing Kisam Kumari Gurung as president unopposed. This initiative is set to strengthen the integration of cultural and natural assets into Nepal’s tourism offerings, opening new avenues for economic growth and sustainable development in the region.