A Tourist Information Center has officially been launched in Sikles, a scenic heritage village located in Madi Rural Municipality–1 of Kaski district, marking a significant step toward strengthening community-based tourism in the region. The center has been established with the support of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) in coordination with the local ward office and tourism entrepreneurs, aiming to improve visitor services and promote sustainable tourism development.
The information center was inaugurated on Thursday to coincide with the arrival of the English New Year 2026, according to Ward Chairperson Devi Jung Gurung. He stated that the center will provide comprehensive information to visiting tourists about local attractions, trekking routes, hotels, homestays, cultural experiences, and essential travel services available in Sikles and surrounding destinations.
Supporting Accurate Data Collection and Visitor Management
With the operation of the information center, Sikles will now maintain verified records of both domestic and international tourist arrivals, helping local authorities better manage tourism flow and plan infrastructure development. The center will be staffed by two dedicated personnel, one provided by ACAP and another from the local community, ensuring smooth daily operations and prompt assistance to travelers.
Local tourism stakeholders believe that the establishment of the information center will not only enhance visitor convenience but also encourage longer stays, greater local spending, and stronger promotion of Sikles as an emerging trekking and cultural destination.
A Village of Natural Beauty and Gurung Heritage
Sikles is admired for its tranquil natural setting, surrounded by dense forests, stone-paved walking trails, and sacred Koibo shrines placed throughout the village, reflecting the spiritual beliefs of the Gurung community. The village is renowned for its well-preserved Gurung culture, traditions, festivals, and historical significance, offering visitors an authentic cultural experience combined with pristine Himalayan landscapes. Beyond its cultural appeal, Sikles also holds national importance as the birthplace of Nepal’s peace process, further enhancing its historical value and tourism significance.
Gateway to Gurung Heritage Trekking Routes
Located approximately 37 kilometers from Pokhara’s Kahunkhola and situated at an altitude of around 1,950 meters above sea level, Sikles serves as a major gateway to several scenic trekking destinations under the Gurung Heritage Trail. From Sikles, trekkers can access popular trekking routes leading to Kapuche Glacier Lake, Kori Hill, Kholasothar, and Dudhpokhari, making it an ideal base for adventure tourism, cultural exploration, and eco-travel.
Tourism experts believe that improved visitor services, combined with Sikles’ unique cultural identity and natural charm, will position the village as a leading model for sustainable rural tourism in the Annapurna region.
Boosting Rural Tourism Economy
The launch of the Tourist Information Center is expected to directly benefit local homestays, hotels, guides, porters, and small enterprises, contributing to livelihood opportunities and community development. By strengthening information access and visitor management, Sikles is poised to attract more responsible travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path Himalayan experiences.
With enhanced tourism infrastructure now in place, Sikles is steadily emerging as one of Kaski’s most promising rural tourism destinations, offering a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure trekking within the Annapurna Conservation Area.
