Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon announces Royal Trek Triathlon to revive Nepal tourism

KATHMANDU: The internationally renowned organisation, Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon, has announced the trial launch of a new marathon, swimming, and cycling event, the 'Royal Trek Triathlon'. Scheduled for December 8, 2026, the initiative aims to revive the tourism sector of Nepal following devastating floods and landslides.

The organisation will operate the event on the proven model of Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon. Tourism entrepreneur Bikram Pandey Kaji introduced the original race during the Maoist insurgency to help heal the struggling industry, and it was later renamed to honour the two great mountaineers.

The new triathlon highlights the historical ties between Nepal and the United Kingdom. It commemorates the first Himalayan trek undertaken by the then Crown Prince of Wales 46 years ago in the Begnas Lake area of the Pokhara valley. Proceeds from paintings he created during this journey were given to relevant authorities to combat the trafficking of Nepali girls and women.

Beyond the athletic competition, the Royal Trek Triathlon plans to support environmental and social causes. International participants will facilitate tree planting, climate change prevention, and sponsorships for schoolchildren. The event will also help local residents establish income-generating open fair markets, known locally as haat bazaars, alongside opportunities to provide home-woven handicrafts and food services.

Tej Bahadur Gurung, an education expert, will manage local coordination and support for school education in Pokhara, assisted by Bishnumani Bhandari. Modest competition prizes will be named after notable figures such as Dr Harka Bahadur Gurung, Chandra Prasad Gurung, and Bhupi Sherchan to honour their significant societal contributions.