The Sikles Eco Museum in Madi Rural Municipality–1, Kaski, welcomed a total of 2,475 visitors during fiscal year 2082/83, contributing to the preservation and promotion of Gurung culture, heritage and traditional lifestyle.
Located in the pristine Gurung village of Sikles, the community-focused museum showcases the unique cultural identity of the Gurung community, including traditional practices, indigenous artifacts and locally used medicinal herbs.
Nepali Visitors and Students Make Up Majority of Visitors in Sikles Eco Museum
According to the annual visitor summary, the museum received 1,348 Nepali visitors during the fiscal year. Students accounted for 1,081 visitors, while 46 international tourists visited the museum. The visitor figures reflect the museum’s growing role as a cultural and educational destination for both domestic visitors and international tourists exploring the Gurung heritage of the Annapurna region.
Museum Earns Rs. 106,730 from Entry Fees
The museum collected Rs. 106,730 in entry fees during FY 2082/83. In addition, 385 visitors rented traditional Gurung cultural dresses, generating Rs. 57,750 in income. Combining entry fees and cultural dress rentals, the museum generated a total income of Rs. 164,480 during the fiscal year.
Managed by 15 Local Women
The Sikles Eco Museum was established on Baisakh 1, 2071, with the support of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). Since its establishment, the responsibility of managing the museum has been entrusted to 15 local women from the village under the leadership of Humkumari.
The museum operates under the Conservation Area Management Committee, Sikles, with the support of ACAP. It is managed by the Eco Museum Sub-committee, reflecting the important role of local communities in conserving and promoting their cultural heritage.
Preserving Gurung Heritage Through Community-Based Tourism
The museum serves as an important center for preserving the distinctive culture, traditions and lifestyle of the Gurung community. By showcasing traditional artifacts, cultural practices and indigenous knowledge, it provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the rich heritage of the Gurung people.
The museum also contributes to sustainable, community-based tourism by creating opportunities for local participation and income generation. The involvement of local women in its management further highlights the role of community ownership in cultural preservation and tourism development. The Sikles Eco Museum has expressed heartfelt gratitude to all visitors and supporters whose contributions have helped strengthen efforts to preserve and promote Gurung culture and heritage.
