Author: explore_nepal
Kathmandu. For the first time, large-scale climbing expeditions are set to take place on Api Himal (7,132 meters) and Lhayaul Peak (6,395 meters), located within the Api Nampa Conservation Area of Sudurpaschim Province. Api Himal, the highest peak of the province situated in Api Himal Rural Municipality of Darchula, has long remained overshadowed despite its immense potential to attract thousands of mountaineers. The lack of infrastructure, promotional efforts, and accessible routes had limited its recognition. Recently, however, the federal government decided to open 97 peaks in Sudurpaschim and Karnali for free climbing for the next two years, creating new opportunities for mountain tourism.
As part of this initiative, the “Sustainable Tourism Project (STP),” jointly run by the Nepal Tourism Board and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nepal, in coordination with the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and Api Himal Rural Municipality, has launched training under the ‘Summer Skill for Professional Mountain Guide Course.’ After completing two weeks of theoretical training in Kathmandu, participants will undergo two weeks of practical training in the Api region. Graduates of the program will later serve as professional or assistant mountain guides on trekking peaks and other expeditions.
Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, bade farewell to the team in Kathmandu, calling the initiative “historic for Sudurpaschim.” He expressed confidence that the campaign would strengthen local coordination and cooperation while significantly contributing to tourism development in both provinces.
As part of the training, 14 trainees will independently carve their route to the summit of Lhayaul Peak, while afterward, a selected team of seven climbers including instructors will attempt Api Himal. Additionally, 15 local trekking guides will be trained in mountain navigation and camping.
Officials believe this step will play a vital role in promoting Api Himal and similar “virgin tourism destinations.” The expedition team also includes representatives from Api Rural Municipality. Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Tourism Board, Deepak Raj Joshi, stated that the program aims to improve tourism facilities and services, develop skilled human resources, and promote new destinations to generate employment and livelihood opportunities for local communities.
He remarked, “This initiative will promote the long-overlooked Api Himal, energize tourism in Sudurpaschim, and support sustainable tourism development while enhancing tourism-friendly services and infrastructure for local communities.”
