The 20th edition of the much-awaited Sauraha Food Festival is scheduled to take place on Chaitra 12, 13, and 14 in the tourist town of Sauraha.
The festival is being organized by the Restaurant and Bar Association Nepal (REBAN) Sauraha, which has confirmed that preparations have reached the final stage. According to REBAN Secretary General Naveen Nepal, the festival will be held at Chhatri Street in Gainda Chowk, Sauraha.
Promoting Tourism Through Culinary Celebration
Adopting the central theme of “Natural Beauty, Sauraha Chitwan’s Specialty,” the festival aims to promote both domestic and international tourism. Originally scheduled to coincide with Valentine’s Day, the event had been postponed due to election-related activities. Festival coordinator Krishna Prasad Khatri stated that the new dates were set to ensure safety, participation, and effective management of the event.
A Tradition of 19 Years
Held annually for the past 19 years, the Sauraha Food Festival has played a significant role in promoting tourism in Chitwan. Organizers hope that this year’s edition will rejuvenate the local tourism industry and bring renewed enthusiasm to local businesses and the community.
Attractions and Highlights
The festival will feature a variety of attractions, including:
- Multicultural parade performances
- Music programs by national and local artists
- Exhibitions and competitions of local and ethnic cuisine
- Waiter–Waitress competitions
Khatri emphasized that these events are designed to engage both tourists and locals, while showcasing the rich culture and culinary heritage of Chitwan.
Economic Impact
The total estimated expenditure for the festival is NPR 6 million, while organizers expect approximately NPR 10 million in business transactions during the three-day event. The festival anticipates around 5,000 visitors per day, offering a boost to local tourism and trade.
