Kathmandu | Magh 29, 2082
The 14th Annual General Meeting and 5th National Convention of the Gurung Tourism Entrepreneurs Association, Nepal (GTIN), concluded successfully in Kathmandu, reinforcing the community’s growing engagement in sustainable and heritage-based tourism development.
The event was held at the Secretariat Building of Tamu Hyula Chhoj Dhi (Gurung National Council) and was graced by Honorable Juddha Bahadur Gurung, Acting Chairperson of the National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission, as the Chief Guest.
Promoting Ancestral Identity Through Tourism
A major highlight of the program was the launch of the souvenir publication “Gurung in Tourism” (Second Edition). The publication aims to promote the research-based initiative titled “The Ancestral Trail: Gurung Heritage Trail”, a strategic effort led by GTIN to document, preserve, and promote the traditional migration routes, settlements, culture, and heritage of the Gurung community.
According to organizers, the Gurung Heritage Trail is envisioned as a culturally immersive tourism product that integrates history, indigenous knowledge, community participation, and sustainable tourism practices. The initiative reflects an emerging model of heritage-driven tourism that aligns with broader national efforts toward inclusive and community-based tourism development.
New Leadership Elected Unanimously
The convention unanimously elected a new executive committee to lead the organization for the upcoming term:
President: Baburam Gurung
First Vice President: Bindu Gurung
Second Vice President: Dil Bahadur Gurung
General Secretary: Sanjiv Gurung
Secretary: Bikash Gurung
Treasurer: Ambir Gurung
Joint Treasurer: Mahabir Gurung
Members: Dhan Bahadur Gurung, Raju Gurung, Hari Bahadur Gurung, Sanjiv Gurung (Tanahu), Bhim Bahadur Gurung, Nirmal Gurung, and Durga Gurung
The newly elected leadership has expressed commitment to strengthening heritage-based tourism entrepreneurship, enhancing research and documentation, and fostering collaboration with government and private stakeholders.
Strengthening Indigenous Tourism Narratives
The gathering underscored the importance of preserving indigenous identity while creating economic opportunities through tourism. Speakers highlighted that community-led initiatives like the Gurung Heritage Trail can contribute to cultural conservation, rural livelihoods, and responsible tourism growth.
As Nepal continues to reposition itself as a destination for experiential and cultural tourism, initiatives emerging from ethnic and indigenous communities are increasingly shaping the country’s tourism narrative.
The convention concluded with a collective commitment to advance research-driven, culturally respectful, and environmentally conscious tourism models in the years ahead.
