The Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki recently conducted a field survey of the Anadu village and Fewa Lake Stupa hiking trails near Pokhara. This initiative aims to organize and upgrade the trails to encourage longer stays by tourists, enhancing the local tourism experience.
The historic Anadu trail, which once served as a traditional route, is now at risk due to recent road expansions. Recognizing this, TAAN Gandaki organized a field visit to assess the trail’s potential for improvement. The goal is to revive its value as an ideal trekking route, extend tourist stays, and identify its opportunities, prospects, and challenges.
Honorable Minister for Industry and Tourism of Gandaki Province, Mitra Lal Basnet, joined the trek from the World Peace Stupa. Minister Basnet emphasized the ministry’s commitment to enhancing the trail, citing its scenic beauty and natural proximity, which offer an immersive experience for visitors. He announced an initial budget allocation of NPR 5 million from the provincial government for this trail’s development.
TAAN Gandaki’s president, Krishna Prasad Acharya, highlighted the association’s efforts to improve the safety and organization of the Anadu and Fewa Lake Stupa trails. He expressed confidence that a well-maintained route could attract more trekkers and potentially extend their stay in Pokhara by an extra day. “This trail offers at least five to six hours of hiking enjoyment, adding value to a visitor’s experience,” Acharya added.
Local social activist and tourism entrepreneur Prakash Gurung from Pokhara-22, along with other residents, voiced concerns over the lack of adequate funding for quality trail development. They urged Minister Basnet to allocate additional resources for the project.
The trek included nearly 20 participants, including TAAN Gandaki officials, representatives from Pokhara-22, and local community members, all dedicated to preserving and enhancing this significant trail for sustainable tourism growth in the region.
