Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki Gandaki, a regional body representing trekking businesses that have been promoting Nepal’s mountainous trekking tourism for the last 33 years, has formally submitted a request to the Honorable Minister Bindu Kumar Thapa Minister of Social Development, Youth, and Sports, Gandaki Province, Pokhara. With over 33 years of active involvement in Nepal’s trekking and mountainous tourism sector, TAAN Gandaki has consistently played a pivotal role in promoting the nation’s tourism potential on a global stage. The association has now emphasized the urgent need for strategic government support to enhance the province’s tourism landscape and ensure long-term economic prosperity.
TAAN Gandaki
Nepal is globally recognized for its extraordinary natural beauty, cultural diversity, and mountainous terrain, making tourism one of the primary pillars of the national economy. The majority of tourists visiting Nepal are drawn to its trekking routes, mountaineering opportunities, and immersive experiences in rural villages that reflect a harmonious blend of geography and tradition. In light of this, TAAN Gandaki has stated that mountain tourism should be a top priority for the government, not only for its economic contribution but also for its cultural and environmental significance.
The letter highlights the growing importance of Gandaki Province, especially Pokhara, as a premier tourism hub. With Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal recently announcing Pokhara as the “Tourism Capital” of Nepal in a grand ceremony, there is a renewed sense of responsibility among tourism stakeholders to elevate the region’s potential. TAAN Gandaki believes this declaration should be backed by strategic investments, infrastructure enhancement, and policy-level support to protect and promote trekking routes, natural landscapes, and local communities.
TAAN Gandaki also reiterated its commitment to working closely with all three tiers of government, federal, provincial, and local, to create a robust foundation for sustainable tourism. The association has been involved in various initiatives such as route maintenance, community-based tourism projects, guide training programs, and promotional campaigns that showcase the hidden gems of the province. These efforts have not only attracted international trekkers but also empowered local economies and created employment opportunities for thousands.
However, despite the enthusiasm and the recent momentum, TAAN Gandaki expressed concerns over the lack of structured budgetary allocations specifically aimed at supporting trekking and mountain tourism in the province. The association urged the Honorable Minister to recognize the potential of this sector in the upcoming fiscal policy and allocate a targeted budget that would ensure the development, security, and promotion of tourism-dependent professionals and businesses.
Additionally, the letter appeals for the protection of existing trekking trails and the exploration of new routes that connect less-traveled rural destinations to mainstream tourism circuits. TAAN Gandaki believes such expansion would distribute the economic benefits more equitably across the province and encourage tourists to explore new cultural and natural experiences. It also advocated for the implementation of safety measures and insurance policies to safeguard trekking professionals, guides, and porters who play an essential role in the tourism ecosystem.
The association’s vision includes fostering collaboration among government institutions, tourism entrepreneurs, and local communities to build a resilient, inclusive, and eco-friendly tourism model. They have called for positive cooperation from the Gandaki Province government to transform Pokhara and its surrounding areas into a globally competitive tourism destination.
In closing, TAAN Gandaki reaffirmed its dedication to furthering Nepal’s image as a world-class trekking destination. They see this moment as a strategic opportunity for the Gandaki Province to lead the way in creating a sustainable and inclusive tourism economy. With appropriate budget allocations, policy support, and institutional partnerships, the letter notes that Nepal and particularly the Gandaki region can emerge as a model for tourism-led development.
