BHAKTAPUR, Sept 21 — Marking the convergence of World Tourism Day and EU Mobility Week 2026, a coalition of organizations led by StoryCycle and the Bhaktapur Tourism Development Committee (BTDC) – Go-Local hosted an immersive guided walk through Bhaktapur’s historic pedestrian core.
The event, held on Sunday, September 20, 2026 (corresponding to Ashoj 3, 2083 BS), brought together community members, technologists, and environmental advocates to explore a compelling question: How can active transit and open-source innovation decarbonize cultural heritage?
The 3.5 km low-impact pedestrian journey showcased how ancient urban design naturally aligns with modern low-carbon economic models. Participants gathered at Khauma Gate at 07:30 AM before embarking on the guided tour through the ancient city.
The success of the industrial and cultural heritage walk was made possible through a diverse partnership, featuring, HASERA Permaculture Learning Center, Fab Foundation Nepal, Nextdoor & Himalaya Innovate and Nepal Cycling Association (NCA).
Promoting Sustainable Urban Mobility
The walk emphasized the role of non-motorized transport—such as walking and cycling—in preserving heritage sites from pollution and congestion. By highlighting Bhaktapur as a living model of a pedestrian-first economy, the organizers demonstrated practical ways to integrate sustainability into tourism and urban planning.
The morning’s activities concluded at 11:15 AM with a closing program and a self-paid communal lunch at Bhadgaon, providing a space for participants to network and discuss open-source solutions for green transitions.
