Banskot:A new tourist information centre has been established at Banskot, the gateway to the Maurice Herzog Trek in Narchang, Annapurna Rural Municipality-4, Myagdi. This centre is a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing the trekking experience through better management and information dissemination.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the initiative is a joint undertaking by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and the Local Conservation Area Management Committee. The centre’s primary functions include gathering data on tourists, both domestic and international, and maintaining records while providing essential information about the trekking path and base camp.
The inauguration was led by Bharat Kumar Pun, Chairman of Annapurna Rural Municipality, and Ravin Kadariya, Director of ACAP. Bhim Paudel, responsible for conservation at ACAP Ghandruk, stated that the centre is designed to organize tourist statistics and offer crucial information about the trail and base camp, including rules and guidelines for trekkers.
Tej Gurung, Chairman of the Conservation Area Management Committee in Narchang, highlighted the centre’s role in informing tourists about the Annapurna Base Camp and Maurice Herzog Trail. Gurung, also the engineer for the Maurice Herzog trek, noted that the centre will facilitate the collection of tourist details, provide necessary information, and address any issues during the trek. The centre will operate with one to two employees until Tihar to ensure regular services.
The increased interest from domestic tourists is noteworthy, with the northern base camp of Annapurna First Mountain located at an elevation of 4,500 meters. Efforts are ongoing to develop the Maurice Herzog Trail, which leads to the base camp of the 8,091-meter-high Annapurna Base Camp, to enhance its appeal.