KATHMANDU: A prominent figure of Nepali tourism sector, Tek Chandra Pokharel has passed away.

Pokharel breathed his last at OM Hospital this morning. He had been associated with the tourism industry for more than fifty years.

He was a founding chairman of many tourism-related associations in Nepal including Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents, Trekking Agents Association of Nepal, and Himalaya Rescue Association. Well versed in tourism, he was involved in Nepal Tourism Masterplan.

Nepal Tourism Board has expressed its heartfelt condolences to Pokharel's family for their loss.

"Executive Committee of Nepal Association of Tour & Travel Agents is saddened to hear about the untimely demise of our Former President Tek Chandra Pokharel who served NATTA as president from 1977-1978/1980-1990," NATTA said, "NATTA has lost its visionary leader and prominent Guardian."

We express our deepest condolences to his bereaved family and pray that his Departed Soul Rest in Peace.

His final rites were performed at Pashupati Aaryaghat at 1 pm today.