KATHMANDU: The government has honoured tourism entrepreneur Wanchu Sherpa with the 'Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) Conservation Campaigner Award-2072' for his contribution in the field of tourism in the Capital on Thursday.

Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Ananda Prasad Pokharel honoured Sherpa amid a function today.

Sherpa was honoured at the Nepal Cancer Hospital, Lalitpur, where he has been going undergoing treatment for cancer for the past two years.

Speaking at the event, Minister Pokharel said that Sherpa's contribution to tourism is incomparable, while also acknowledging the contribution of mountaineers Tenjing Norge Sherpa and Pasang Lhamu Sherpa.

He also pledged his best to provide financial help in Sherpa's treatment.

On the occasion, former Chief of Army Staffs Rookmangud Katawal said he was glad to witness the Nepal's posthumous tradition of honouring people working for the nation was coming to an end.

Likewise, lawmakers Ramhari Khatiwada, Yagyaraj Sunuwar and Madan Amatya among others also praised Sherpa for his contribution to tourism and wished him for his sooner recovery.

Minister Pokharel also announced the launch of 'Sagarmatha Conservationist Wanchu Sherpa Trust’, stating that money deposited in the trust would be spent in the conservation of the highest peak, in education, health and tourism.

Also, lawmaker Bal Bahadur KC, Himalayan Rescue Association Nepal and Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal announced to provide Rs 100,000 each to the trust.