On August 29, 2024, the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) formalized a strategic partnership with Helvetas Nepal to launch the Trail-Based Tourism Development Project (TTDP) in Koshi Province. This initiative is part of a bilateral collaboration between the governments of Nepal and Switzerland, aimed at enhancing tourism through well-established trails.
The TTDP is a four-year project coordinated by the Ministry of Tourism of Koshi Province, in conjunction with 29 local governments and the federal government of Nepal. The project seeks to promote and develop trail-based tourism across four key trails within the province. These trails include the Tea Garden Trail in Ilam, the Falgunanda Trail spanning Ilam and Panchthar, the Mundum Trail covering Bhojpur and Khotang, and the Rhododendron (Laligurans) Trail extending through Sankhuwasabha, Tehrathum, and Taplejung.
As a consortium partner, TAAN will play a pivotal role in the development and promotion of these trails, contributing to their enhancement and broader visibility. This partnership aims to boost tourism by leveraging the natural and cultural assets of the region, thereby attracting visitors and supporting local economies. The project underscores a significant step towards sustainable tourism development and reflects the growing collaboration between Nepal and Switzerland in advancing tourism infrastructure.
