KATHMANDU: The Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki has issued a formal response expressing serious concern over a recent news report regarding qualifications of the trekking guides. The report reportedly portrayed trekking guides and assistants as unqualified, inadequately trained, and incompetent, which TAAN Gandaki strongly refutes.

In an official statement, TAAN Gandaki emphasized that the association, in collaboration with the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM), Nepal Tourism Board, the Gandaki provincial government, and related stakeholders, is committed to promoting underrepresented trekking destinations and ensuring quality guiding services. The association highlighted its ongoing training programs that cover essential areas such as health, communication, first aid, route guidance, cultural knowledge, geography, technical skills, human relations, and adherence to international standards.

TAAN Gandaki assured that guides trained through its programs perform their duties with honesty and reliability, delivering excellent service to tourists without any shortcomings. The association acknowledged the invaluable contribution and excellence of guides produced under its guidance and expressed regret over the misleading and incorrect information published in the recent news article.

The statement concluded with TAAN Gandaki reiterating its dedication to working transparently and fairly alongside all member agencies and stakeholders to promote the sustainable growth and development of Nepal’s tourism industry.