KATHMANDU: A two-day free training on tourism photojournalism has concluded in Kathmandu, bringing together journalists keen to sharpen their visual storytelling skills and better capture Nepal’s tourism potential.

The programme was designed to strengthen the capacity of journalists working in tourism and photojournalism across Bagmati Province. It was organised under the Sustainable Tourism Project (STP), a joint initiative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Nepal Tourism Board.

Held in collaboration with the National Photojournalists Group Nepal (NFPJ) and coordinated by the Kathmandu branch of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), the training saw the participation of 30 journalists from different districts of the province.

Opening the event, Project Manager Dharma Raj Dawadi emphasised that strong, responsible journalism is essential for tourism promotion. He said powerful images help shape how destinations are seen and remembered, adding that the project is working to improve infrastructure, services and human resources along the Api–Saipal, Manaslu and Kanchenjunga trekking routes.

FNJ Kathmandu Chairperson Shobha Aryal noted that Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural diversity offer immense storytelling opportunities. She said photojournalism can play a greater role in tourism promotion and added that the federation is ready to support similar training programmes across the country.

NFPJ President Pradip Raj Onta said telling stories through photographs is one of the most effective ways to introduce Nepal to the global tourism audience.

During the sessions, Nepal Tourism Board communication consultant Dilip Prakash Karki spoke about the purpose, practice and impact of tourism journalism. The second day focused on hands-on learning, with participants taking part in photo story exercises and a field visit. Participants described the training as both practical and inspiring, saying it boosted their confidence and gave them fresh ideas and direction for their future work. Many expressed interest in advanced-level training to further develop their skills.