25 Years of Highlander Guides & Porters: Celebrating Tourism, Trekking, Safaris & Himalayan Adventures in Darjeeling
📍 Maneybhanjyang, Darjeeling | June 21, 2026
The Highlander Guides & Porters Welfare Association proudly celebrated its Silver Jubilee, marking 25 years of dedicated service to the trekking and mountain tourism industry in the Darjeeling Himalayas.
Since its establishment, the association has played an important role in supporting local trekking guides and porters while helping thousands of visitors explore the iconic Sandakphu Trek, Singalila National Park, and the Darjeeling Himalayas through guided treks, vintage Land Rover safaris, and authentic Himalayan tourism experiences. Visitors also have the opportunity to discover the rich biodiversity of the Singalila region, home to rare wildlife including the red panda.
Celebrating 25 Years of Tourism in the Darjeeling Himalayas
The Silver Jubilee celebration was held in Maneybhanjyang, the gateway to the world-famous Sandakphu Trek and Singalila National Park. The event brought together trekking professionals, tourism stakeholders, local communities, and adventure enthusiasts to celebrate the remarkable journey of the association.
For over two decades, Highlander Guides & Porters has contributed to promoting tourism in Darjeeling by supporting responsible trekking, local employment, community-based tourism, and authentic Himalayan experiences.
Distinguished Guests Grace the Silver Jubilee
The celebration was honoured by the presence of Chief Guest Dr. Dawa Gyalpo.
Distinguished guests included:
- Mingma Girmi (Dekho Darjeeling)
- Mr. Bharat Prakash Rai (FOSEP)
Their presence added significance to the occasion as members reflected on the association’s contribution to mountain tourism and responsible trekking across the Darjeeling region.
Bringing Together the Himalayan Trekking Community
The celebration witnessed enthusiastic participation from:
- Experienced trekking guides
- Dedicated mountain porters
- Trekkers and adventure enthusiasts
- Tourism stakeholders
- Veteran personalities associated with the Sandakphu and Singalila trekking routes
Originally scheduled for two to three hours, the programme extended well beyond its planned duration due to overwhelming participation and the emotional significance of the Silver Jubilee.
The gathering reflected the strong sense of unity and pride shared by the Himalayan trekking community.
Honouring the Guides Who Built a Legacy
One of the most memorable moments of the celebration was the felicitation of senior and retired trekking guides, recognising their decades of dedication to:
- Mountain safety
- Trekking hospitality
- Route knowledge
- Growth of tourism in the Darjeeling Himalayas
These veteran guides have played an invaluable role in introducing generations of trekkers to the breathtaking landscapes of the Sandakphu Trek and Singalila Trek, helping establish these trails among India’s most celebrated Himalayan adventures.
Paying Tribute to Departed Mountain Guides
The association also paid heartfelt tribute to guides who are no longer with us.
Family members of the departed guides were honoured as a mark of respect and gratitude for their lasting contribution to preserving the trekking culture and mountain heritage of the Darjeeling Himalayas.
The tribute reflected the deep sense of community and solidarity that has defined the association for the past 25 years.
Celebrating Community, Culture and Sustainable Tourism
Throughout the programme, speeches, cultural performances, and interactions among members highlighted the unity, resilience, and shared commitment of the Highlander community.
The event celebrated not only the association’s history but also the collective efforts of guides and porters who continue to make trekking in the Eastern Himalayas safe, authentic, and memorable for visitors from India and around the world.
25 Years of Supporting Tourism, Trekking and Local Communities
For a quarter of a century, the Highlander Guides & Porters Welfare Association has supported the livelihoods of local mountain guides and porters while promoting:
- Responsible trekking
- Sustainable tourism
- Conservation of Himalayan traditions
- Community-based tourism
- Safe and authentic mountain adventures
The Silver Jubilee stands as a significant milestone in the association’s continued commitment to strengthening the trekking and tourism sector in the Darjeeling Himalayas for generations to come.
Looking Ahead
As the celebrations concluded with a vote of thanks, members reaffirmed their commitment to supporting professional trekking guides, empowering local porters, and preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Sandakphu, Singalila National Park, and the Darjeeling Himalayas.
With a proud legacy spanning 25 years, the Highlander Guides & Porters Welfare Association continues to inspire confidence among travellers seeking authentic Himalayan experiences.
Plan Your Next Himalayan Adventure
Whether you’re planning the Sandakphu Trek, exploring Singalila National Park, enjoying a vintage Land Rover safari, discovering the beauty of Darjeeling, or creating a customised Himalayan itinerary, Highlander Guides & Porters is committed to providing safe, authentic, and community-driven travel experiences led by experienced local guides and porters.
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