KATHMANDU, May 26: US Ambassador to Nepal Dean Thompson visited Mustang to showcase the United States' enduring commitment to cultural preservation in Nepal, underscoring a 78-year-long partnership that continues to foster sustainable tourism, economic development, and community resilience.
Ambassador Thompson's visit centers around the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP)-a key initiative supporting the restoration and protection of Nepal's ancient and sacred heritage. The trip included visits to several important cultural and religious sites in Mustang that have been restored through AFCP funding. The Ambassador is also attending the vibrant Tiji Festival, a celebration of Mustang's living traditions and spiritual heritage.
"Every time I visit Mustang, I'm reminded that cultural heritage isn't just about the past-it's a living part of community identity," said Ambassador Thompson. "AFCP restoration efforts help safeguard that identity while opening the door to new opportunities in tourism, education, and economic development. It's a tangible example of how our two nations can grow stronger together."
'Nepal’s progress in heritage reconstruction is remarkable '
Among the sites on the itinerary is Dzong Monastery, restored in 2021 through a $100,000 AFCP grant and a $23,681 contribution from the local Gompa Management Committee. An additional $45,000 was granted in FY 2024 to restore wall paintings and enhance its use for daily rituals. Ambassador Thompson also visited Gongpa Gang Monastery, where the U.S. contributed $215,000 for seismic strengthening and architectural restoration. The project was completed in December 2024. A formal completion ceremony was held with local leaders.
Another highlight is the Lo Gekar Monastery (Ghar Gumba)-believed to be the oldest monastery in Tibetan Buddhism-which received $285,000 for a comprehensive restoration, including artifact documentation and seismic retrofitting. The restoration concluded in 2023, with further architectural adjustments in 2024.
In Lo Manthang, the Ambassador visited Jampa Lhakhang, Thupchen, and Chode Monasteries-some dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. In 2024, the U.S. Embassy provided $40,000 to Chode Monastery for the creation of a museum dedicated to Tibetan arts and artifacts, currently under development.
The US also supported Mustang's Tiji Festival, a unique cultural and religious celebration that attracts international tourists. In FY 2022, the U.S. Embassy contributed $24,000 to help preserve the festival's traditional costumes and instruments.
