In celebration of Valentine’s Day, a Food Festival has officially begun in Sauraha today. This event, organized by the Restaurant & Bar Association Nepal Sauraha Chitwan (REWAN), marks the 19th edition of the festival, which is held annually to showcase the rich culinary heritage and tourism potential of the region.
The festival is an important initiative aimed at promoting tourism development in Chitwan, especially in Sauraha, which is a popular tourist destination. Dhruva Giri, the President of REWAN Sauraha, shared that the festival not only offers a platform to highlight local food and culture but also contributes to the overall tourism growth in the area. The funds generated from the sale of entry tickets will be used for the beautification of tourism pathways in Sauraha, continuing the efforts to enhance the destination’s appeal.
The festival is expected to boost tourist arrivals in Sauraha by an estimated 40%. It will run until the 3rd of Falgun (February 15) and promises to be a vibrant event filled with diverse activities. The festival will feature cultural performances representing a wide variety of ethnic groups, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural diversity of Nepal. One of the major highlights will be a special performance by the Kanne Magar Baja group from Sindhuli, adding a unique musical flavor to the festival.
In addition to the cultural presentations, the food festival will also include several exciting competitions and activities. These will include live musical performances by local artists, a food exhibition showcasing a variety of culinary delights, and a series of competitions such as a “waiter/waitress” competition, a tug-of-war contest, and the first-ever REWAN Cup women’s football competition. There will also be an inter-school dance competition and a badminton tournament, providing entertainment and engagement for both locals and visitors alike.
The festival is a celebration of not only food and culture but also the spirit of unity and community in Sauraha. By attracting more tourists and generating revenue for further development, the event aims to boost the local economy and reinforce Sauraha’s position as a leading tourism hub in Nepal.
