The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki has submitted a 12-point memorandum to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Narayan Dahal, aiming to highlight key issues and propose solutions for the long-term development and promotion of the tourism sector. The memorandum stresses the need for improved coordination and cooperation between the government and concerned stakeholders to tackle challenges faced by the tourism industry.
While receiving the memorandum, Speaker Dahal expressed his willingness to collaborate with TAAN Gandaki for the development of tourism in the province. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts from the government and relevant organizations to address the problems facing the tourism sector. He pointed out that while there is considerable focus on the income of tourism businesses, it is equally important to examine how tourism in Pokhara can be increased and improved. Dahal further emphasized the necessity of addressing issues related to the tourism industry, which are caused by economic and awareness-related factors.
Regarding the delay in international flights from Pokhara International Airport, Dahal acknowledged the systemic weaknesses within the government and identified a lack of awareness as a contributing factor to these issues. He assured that efforts would continue to improve international flight services.
Earlier, Krishna Prasad Acharya, President of TAAN Gandaki, had pointed out the significant employment potential of trekking tourism and the need for better coordination and collaboration with the government. Acharya highlighted the importance of promoting Nepal’s trekking tourism on the international stage and urged Speaker Dahal to take immediate action to address the challenges faced by the tourism industry.
The 12-point memorandum submitted by TAAN Gandaki outlines several key recommendations, including the immediate commencement of international flights at Pokhara International Airport, upgrading the Kathmandu-Pokhara Prithvi Highway, and addressing the negative impact of indiscriminate road construction on popular trekking routes. The memorandum also calls for the exploration, promotion, and conservation of new trekking routes to prevent the decline of world-famous trekking paths.
In addition, TAAN Gandaki has urged the government to make provisions allowing at least one person to travel in restricted areas, halt the decision of local bodies to charge fees from both foreign and domestic tourists upon entering municipalities, take strict action against illegal trekking operations, and reinstate the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) checkpoint. They also emphasized the need for stronger policies to ensure that tourists are not allowed to travel without a certified guide or assistant.
TAAN Gandaki has also called for the implementation of a one-door system to address the lack of coordination within the federal structure, as well as for timely revisions to tourism policies and laws. The association also proposed the establishment of a company registrar office in Gandaki Province to streamline the registration process for tourism businesses.
Furthermore, TAAN has requested the government to declare the Dhaulagiri region as a protected area and promote camping treks, which could further enhance tourism opportunities in the region.