KATHMANDU: With the opening of a new museum in the sacred area of Mustang district, local stakeholders hope that the new initiative will become a major attraction for tourists visiting the area.

The Monchoe Antique Museum, inside the Chode Monastery’s premises in Lo Manthang, was opened amidst a grand ceremony as local leaders, monks, tourism entrepreneurs, and diplomats were present.

According to the US Embassy in Kathmandu, Public Affairs Chief Mike Harker also joined local leaders in Lo Manthang to celebrate the opening of the Monchoe Antique Museum, established by a grant from the US Embassy.

Former lawmaker Indradhara Bista from Mustang said that the opening of the new museum will attract more tourists to the region. It is believed that the museum will preserve historic Nepali art and artifacts, strengthen local cultural tourism, and give future generations a deeper understanding of Mustang’s unique heritage.

The new museum is part of a much larger story. For more than 20 years, the United States has supported cultural preservation across Nepal, according to Harker.

During the visit, Harker met with monastic leaders at other US-supported heritage sites, including Lo Gekar (Ghar Gumba), Dzong Gompa, and Gönpa Gang, where American support has helped restore and protect historic monasteries, chortens, artwork, and architecture, according to the embassy.

“These projects preserve more than buildings and artifacts, and they strengthen the US-Nepal partnership by supporting tourism and protecting the places and traditions that matter to Nepalis.”