An International Mountain Museum is in the process of being constructed by the Nepal Mountaineering Association, at Rato Pairo, Ward No 17 in Pokhara sub-metropolis.

As construction work is still underway, it will only be able to partially open on May 29. It is expected that it will also be instrumental in the development of tourism in Pokhara, a major world tourist destination. In addition, it will be first of its kind in the world, claim its builders.

The museum will cover the area of 106 ropanis, but the actual building will take up an area of 4,000 sq metres. It is estimated that the construction would cost Rs 2,700,000 in total.

It is to be built in three phases, of which the first should be completed within four years. Construction work began in 1995, but even the first phase has not even been completed yet.

The museum is now going to be opened, albeit partially so, as comments have been raised that funds given by the donors were not properly used.

Japan Mountaineering Association, Japanese Alpine Club, Indian Mountaineering Academy, Japan-Nepal Himalayan Society, and the Himalayan Adventure Trust Japan, the China-Tibet Mountaineering Association and the Nepal government have provided financial assistance.

The museum will display attractive pictures of mountains and in particular, the Himalayas, where Mt Everest will be the centre of attraction. The flags of about 90 countries and that of alpine clubs related to the museum, audio-visual pictures of rock climbing and medals for climbing awards, will also be on the show. There will be a library with a collection of 1300 books.

Persons interested in acquiring information on mountaineers, their adventures and techniques, will benefit greatly from the museum. Information will also be available on films about mountaineering, textbooks, experiences and preparation for climbing expeditions.

Equipment and material used by the mountaineers and the overall climate whilst climbing mountains as well as information on base camp temperatures will also be suggested and explained in another part of the museum, chief of the museum Nawin Ghimire informed.

The international mountain museum will be partially inaugurated on May 29, Mt Everest Day, but the grand opening is expected to take place in 2003.