Ecotourism has a significant contribution to conservation and development in the form of nature based tourism. This plays a huge role in protecting natural areas, promoting and improving quality of tourism and empowering local community that also helps in uplifting local economy. Ecotourism, a nature based tourism creates a sustainable path for economic, environmental and sustainable development. To support, develop and flourish ecotourism, WCN has been actively facilitating various activities focused on local cultures, wilderness adventures, volunteering, personal growth and learning new sustainable ways to live.

WCN’s Ecotourism program is extensively working to establish a responsible ecotourism system that includes programs that minimize the adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural environment, enhance the cultural integrity of local people and build capacities on entrepreneurship and enterprise. After the earthquake in 2015, WCN with the support of SOS Malta, prioritized in reconstructing lodge at Gatlang Village.

In addition, a 10-day training on Eco Tourism, Cooking and Hospitality was given to 10 young entrepreneurs from Gatlang Village, Rasuwa, to strengthen the capacity of the local community in Eco Tourism of Gatlang. Also, hospitality providers were also trained in promote recycling, energy efficiency, water re-use. WCN also conducted a one-day training workshop on responsibilities and ethics of a nature guide for 20 participants. The workshop stressed on exploring the potential of ecotourism and opportunities and challenges for developing an ecotourism destination.

As an initiative of WCN, women group of Padmapur Community forest in Chitwan has started Homestay Program, targeting several groups on national and international visitors. To expand the ecotourism activity and build its essence, the visitors are encouraged to plant a tree per individual and be the part of forest growers.