Pokhara witnessed a significant event in its tourism calendar as the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki successfully concluded the Trekking Guide Training and Trekking Porter Guide Training 2082. The training program, which was launched on Jestha 26, 2082, officially came to an end with a closing ceremony and certificate distribution program held on Bhadra 3, 2082, at Bar Peepal Resort, Pokhara.
The event was organized by TAAN Gandaki, promoted by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Gandaki Province Office, and conducted in collaboration with the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM). The program not only celebrated the successful completion of the training but also emphasized the importance of skilled manpower in the trekking sector, a backbone of Nepal’s tourism industry.
Distinguished Guests and Leadership Presence
The closing ceremony was graced by the presence of several high-profile dignitaries. Honorable Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pandey of Gandaki Province attended as the chief guest, while the program was chaired by Mr. Krishna Prasad Acharya, President of TAAN Gandaki. Adding further significance, Honorable Minister of Industry, Tourism and Environment of Gandaki Province, Mitra Lal Basyal, was present as the special guest.
The event also saw the participation of former presidents and advisors of TAAN Gandaki, department heads of NATHM, senior officials from Nepal Tourism Board, chairpersons and representatives of various tourism-related associations in Pokhara, leaders of tourism labor organizations, along with government and non-government representatives and media personnel. Their presence reflected the collective effort of different stakeholders in enhancing the professional standards of Nepal’s trekking sector.
Large Participation and Certification
The highlight of the program was the distribution of certificates to 281 participants who had successfully completed the Trekking Guide Training and Porter Guide Training 2082. The training, conducted over several weeks, was designed to equip participants with essential knowledge and skills required to excel as professional trekking guides and porters in Nepal’s growing adventure tourism market.
Participants were trained in multiple aspects of trekking, including navigation, first aid, environmental awareness, communication skills, leadership, client handling, and safety protocols. The certificate distribution marked the beginning of new opportunities for these trainees, enabling them to contribute more effectively to the trekking and mountaineering sector.
Importance of Training in Strengthening Tourism
In his keynote speech, Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pandey emphasized the need for sustainable tourism development in Gandaki Province, where Pokhara serves as the gateway to some of Nepal’s most famous trekking routes, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri regions. He highlighted that well-trained guides and porters not only ensure the safety and satisfaction of tourists but also play a crucial role in promoting Nepal’s reputation as a world-class trekking destination.
Similarly, Tourism Minister Mitra Lal Basyal underlined the importance of collaborative efforts between government, tourism institutions, and private stakeholders to uplift the standard of tourism services. He expressed optimism that such training initiatives would empower local youth with employment opportunities while strengthening Nepal’s competitive edge in the global adventure tourism market.
Role of TAAN Gandaki and Collaborating Institutions
TAAN Gandaki, as the organizing body, has consistently worked towards professionalizing the trekking industry. Through partnerships with institutions like NATHM and support from the Nepal Tourism Board, TAAN Gandaki aims to enhance the quality of trekking services while ensuring the welfare and recognition of trekking workers.
NATHM’s role in delivering technical expertise and training modules was equally noteworthy. Its experienced faculty ensured that the participants received not only theoretical knowledge but also practical exposure that aligns with international tourism standards. The collaboration was a testament to the shared commitment of government and private bodies in producing a skilled tourism workforce.
Building a Skilled Tourism Workforce
The successful completion of the training program adds to the pool of competent trekking professionals in Nepal. With 281 new certified guides and porters, the industry is expected to see improved service quality, better client experiences, and enhanced safety measures during treks.
This initiative also supports the broader vision of Visit Pokhara Year 2025, where Gandaki Province is preparing to attract a larger influx of domestic and international tourists. By investing in human resources, the province is laying a strong foundation for a sustainable and competitive tourism economy.
The closing ceremony of the Trekking Guide and Trekking Porter Guide Training 2082 was not just a formal conclusion of a program but a celebration of Nepal’s commitment to excellence in adventure tourism. The event brought together policymakers, tourism professionals, trainers, and aspiring guides under one platform, reflecting unity in promoting Nepal’s trekking sector.
With the distribution of certificates to 281 participants, the program symbolized empowerment, opportunity, and growth for the local tourism workforce. As these newly certified professionals begin their journeys, they are expected to play a vital role in enhancing the trekking experiences of visitors while contributing to the prosperity of Nepal’s tourism industry.
