The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) has officially proposed collaboration with the Government of South Korea to enhance Nepal’s mountain tourism sector. NMA President Mr. Fur Gelje Sherpa, along with a delegation of senior NMA officials, formally submitted the proposal during a meeting with His Excellency Mr. Park Tae-Young, the South Korean Ambassador to Nepal, at his office.
The proposal emphasizes the establishment of a dedicated corner in the International Mountain Museum (IMM) to honor the first South Korean climber to summit Mount Everest. This section is expected to feature detailed information about the climber along with the national flag of South Korea. Additionally, NMA requested support from the South Korean government and relevant organizations for infrastructure development at both the IMM and the International Mountaineer Memorial Park in Kakani.
Invitation to UIAA General Assembly in Nepal
During the meeting, NMA President Mr. Sherpa extended a formal invitation to Ambassador Park to attend the General Assembly of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), which is scheduled to be held in Nepal from October 28 to 31, 2026. NMA will host this prestigious international event, which is expected to draw mountaineers, climbers, and adventure tourism experts from around the world.
Recognition of Nepali Mountain Guides
On the occasion, Ambassador Park, representing the Korean Alpine Rescue Association and the Government of South Korea, honored two Nepali mountain guides for their extraordinary bravery. Mr. Ashish Gurung and Mr. Riten Tashi Sherpa were recognized for their courageous efforts in conducting rescue operations at Mera Peak and recovering the body of a South Korean climber last October. The distinguished Nepali guides were presented with golden ice axes and appreciation plaques sent by the Korean Alpine Rescue Association.
In addition, an appreciation plaque was handed over to the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA) in recognition of its instrumental support during the rescue mission. The awards reflect the growing international acknowledgment of Nepali guides’ expertise, professionalism, and commitment to safety in the high mountains.
NMA Officials Attend the Event
The program was attended by several senior NMA officials, including Second Vice President Mr. Bodh Raj Bhandari, General Secretary Mr. Rajendra Bahadur Lama, Secretary Mr. Chandan Thapa, Central Executive Board Member Mr. Furi Geljen Sherpa, and Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Jinesh Sindurakar. The event was coordinated by NMA Advisor and Korea Alpine Federation Liaison Officer, Mr. Ngawa Ngima Sherpa.
Strengthening Mountain Tourism and International Relations
The meeting marks a significant step in strengthening Nepal-South Korea cooperation in adventure and mountain tourism. By honoring South Korean mountaineering achievements and highlighting Nepali rescue capabilities, NMA aims to foster international goodwill while promoting Nepal as a premier destination for mountaineering and high-altitude tourism.
Through this collaboration, NMA envisions developing world-class infrastructure at the IMM and the Mountaineer Memorial Park, enhancing tourist experiences, and further institutionalizing safety and training standards for mountaineering operations. The proposed initiatives are expected to attract both domestic and international visitors, promote cultural exchange, and highlight Nepal’s pivotal role in global mountaineering.
The upcoming UIAA General Assembly in 2026 will serve as a platform to showcase Nepal’s mountain tourism potential, celebrate the accomplishments of Nepali mountain guides, and reinforce international partnerships. NMA President Mr. Sherpa emphasized that these efforts aim not only at promoting adventure tourism but also at fostering sustainable development in mountainous regions, ensuring the safety of climbers, and preserving Nepal’s rich mountaineering heritage for generations to come. With the formal proposal submitted and international cooperation underway, Nepal’s mountain tourism sector is poised for growth, innovation, and recognition on the global stage.
