The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) has held a high-level discussion with Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel (Ganes) on the sustainable development of Nepal’s tourism and trekking sectors. A delegation led by TAAN President Sagar Pandey discussed measures to improve trekking management, enhance tourist safety, and strengthen data management through the implementation of the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS). The meeting focused on the need for a more systematic approach to managing trekking activities and ensuring reliable data are available to support policy formulation, destination management, and the safety and well-being of trekkers.
Discussions Held on Proposed Special Trekking Act
The delegation also discussed the draft of the proposed Special Trekking Act, which aims to provide a dedicated legal framework for the protection and sustainable management of Nepal’s world-famous trekking routes. According to TAAN, the proposed legislation seeks to prevent the unnecessary destruction of existing trekking trails, restore damaged routes, and promote responsible trekking through the active participation of all relevant stakeholders.
The association stressed the need to protect Nepal’s trekking infrastructure and ensure that the country’s iconic trails remain safe, sustainable, and accessible for future generations.
TAAN and NTB Discuss Tourism Promotion and Immediate TIMS Action Plan
In separate meetings, TAAN also held issue-focused discussions with the newly appointed private-sector members of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Board’s directors. The meetings agreed on the need to further strengthen cooperation among TAAN, the NTB, and the private sector. Discussions also focused on preparing tourism promotion budgets in a coordinated and effective manner and developing an action plan for the immediate implementation of TIMS.
The stakeholders emphasised that stronger institutional coordination and practical implementation mechanisms are essential for improving trekking management and promoting Nepal as a safe, responsible, and sustainable trekking destination.
Data-Driven Pilot Project Planned for Everest Region
TAAN has also agreed to collaborate with the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) and The Never Rest Project (TNP Nepal) to implement a pilot project focused on studying the growing impact of trekkers and tourists in the Everest region through data-driven research.
The project is expected to collect and analyse reliable data on tourism activities and their impact on the region. The information generated through the initiative is expected to contribute significantly to sustainable tourism planning, tourist management, and the development of responsible tourism destinations in the Everest region.
The initiative is aimed at supporting evidence-based decision-making and providing stakeholders with reliable information to better understand the changing pressures on the Everest region.
TAAN Delegation Participates in Discussions
The meetings were attended by TAAN President Sagar Pandey, Senior Vice President Karma Sherpa, General Secretary Sonam Gyalzen Sherpa, Treasurer Lakpa Temba Sherpa, CEO Ram Chandra Sedai, TAAN Gandaki Chapter President Krishna Prasad Acharya, and Executive Committee members Ambar Gurung, Pavitra Tamang, Rajendra Amagai, among others.
The series of discussions is expected to strengthen coordination among the government, tourism institutions, trekking agencies, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable, safe, responsible, and data-driven tourism development in Nepal.
