KATHMANDU: The Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA) has commenced the second component of its IFMGA-accredited Aspirant Guide Course (AGC) 2025/26, marking another step in Nepal's effort to produce internationally certified mountain guiding professionals.

The 19-day training programme began with an orientation and theory session at the Himalayan Rescue Association Nepal (HRA) training hall in Kathmandu. Fifteen trainees who successfully completed earlier components of the course are participating in this phase, which will be conducted across Kathmandu Valley and Khijidemba in Okhaldhunga.

NNMGA Technical Committee Convener and Education Chief Pasang Kaji Sherpa briefed participants on the course curriculum, training schedule, and evaluation procedures during the orientation. NNMGA President Tul Singh Gurung, HRA President Dambar Parajuli, and former HRA President Bikram Neupane addressed the trainees, extending their encouragement for the weeks ahead.

The course combines theoretical and practical training across a range of mountain guiding disciplines, including Mountain Meteorology, Map Reading and Navigation, Trip Planning and Management, Nepal's Tourism Rules and Regulations, Rock Rescue Techniques, and Multi-Pitch Rock Climbing.

The programme is being conducted by NNMGA with support from HRA and the Nepal Mountaineering Instructors Association (NMIA).

The Aspirant Guide Course is part of NNMGA's ongoing effort to bring Nepal's mountain guiding profession in line with the standards of the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA) — the globally recognised body for certified mountain guides — strengthening the credibility and professional standing of Nepali guides in international mountaineering markets.