Kathmandu, August 14, 2025
The Kul Bahadur Gurung Group, contesting in the upcoming Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) elections, has announced a detailed policy framework aimed at strengthening Nepal’s mountain tourism through safe, responsible, and sustainable practices.
Unveiling its vision, the group stressed that the Himalayas are not only natural landscapes but also a lifeline for Nepal’s cultural identity, economy, and global reputation. The policy pledges transparent leadership, environmental stewardship, and the promotion of Nepal’s mountain tourism at the international level.
Key proposals include improving waste management in mountaineering routes and camps, reviewing climbing fees for peaks above 5,000 meters, and preserving the historical, cultural, and religious significance of mountain regions. The group has also committed to developing access infrastructure, upgrading NMA’s training and research facilities, and introducing skill development programs targeting youth, women, and international students.
On labor rights, the Gurung group promises to enforce the “Himalayan Workers Bill of Rights,” ensuring insurance coverage, health services, training, income growth, and social security for mountaineering workers.
Digital transformation is another priority, with plans to implement a “one-door service” system, introduce transparent information flow for mountain tourism, and establish a “Himalayan Presidential World Trade” platform for international cooperation.
Internationally, the group seeks to strengthen Nepal’s presence through global mountaineering competitions, annual mountain festivals, and collaborations with organizations such as UIAA and UAAA.
Founded on 1 November 1973 (2030 Kartik 16) as a non-governmental, non-profit, and non-political national alpine association, the Nepal Mountaineering Association works to promote mountain tourism, develop climbing sports, protect fragile mountain environments, and preserve the cultural heritage of mountain communities. It is the only national alpine club authorized to issue climbing permits for 27 mountain peaks of Nepal.
“Our commitment is clear - mountains are not just landscapes, they are lifelines,” the group stated, emphasizing the need for safety, respect, social development, and united action to safeguard Nepal’s Himalayas for future generations.
The Nepal Mountaineering Association elections are scheduled for 23rd August, 2025 this year, and the Kul Bahadur Gurung Group says it aims to bring “energy, excitement, and enthusiasm” into leadership while upholding the values of creation, curation, and communication.
