Speaking at a program organized by Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Sunday, Burch shared his experience of crossing nearly 2,000 km of the Great Himalayan Trail starting from Pashupatinagar in Ilam before ending at Hilsa in Humla. [break]He holds six world records -- two of which are listed in Guinness World Records -- for speed climbing and extreme marathons.
Burch informed the press that he completed the journey in 49 days, 6 hours and 8 minutes, walking more than 2.6 million steps. In doing so, Burch broke the record set in 2003 by 19 days.
Trekking operators say it takes a trek of 157 days to complete the journey.
“My journey will become useful for the promotion of Nepal Tourism Year (NTY) 2011 by placing focus on mountain tourism in Nepal. It will also encourage social groups, private sectors, government bodies and individuals to assist the local communities,” Burch added.
Sarad Pradhan of Nepal Tourism Board said they were preparing to appoint Burch as the goodwill ambassador for NTY 2011 campaign.
During the program, NTB named Guinness record holder Deepak Sharma Bajgain as the brand ambassador for the year-long tourism promotional campaign.
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