Kathmandu. The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) has signed a partnership agreement with HELVETAS Nepal to implement the ‘Trail-Based Tourism Development Project’ (TTDP) in Koshi Province. This initiative is funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and aims to enhance sustainable tourism in the region over the next four years.

The project will be executed under the leadership of the Ministry of Tourism of Koshi Province, in collaboration with 29 local governments and the federal government of Nepal. As a key partner in the consortium, TAAN will focus on developing and promoting trail-based tourism along four selected trails within the province: the Tea Garden Trail (Ilam), Falgunanda Trail (Ilam Panchthar), Mundum Trail (Bhojpur, Khotang), and the Rhododendron (Laligurans) Trail (Sankhuwasabha, Tehrathum, Taplejung).

This partnership seeks to strengthen the tourism infrastructure, create employment opportunities, and promote local culture and biodiversity conservation in Koshi Province. The project is also expected to bolster local economies by attracting both domestic and international tourists to explore these unique trails.

The TTDP aligns with Nepal’s broader goals of sustainable tourism development, aiming to ensure a positive impact on the environment, economy, and local communities.