The third edition of Bhojan Lipi Swad, an initiative aimed at promoting agricultural tourism through indigenous cuisine from across Nepal, was successfully concluded today. The event brought together renowned chefs, tourism experts, and stakeholders who emphasized the critical role of Nepali food culture in boosting agro-tourism and attracting tourists both nationally and internationally.
3rd Edition Bhojan Lipi Swad
Internationally acclaimed chefs Ghanshyam Kandel and Durga Khadka showcased their culinary expertise, highlighting how traditional recipes can serve as a bridge to promote Nepal’s rich agricultural heritage. Participants stressed that Nepal’s diverse local produce, when creatively transformed into authentic dishes, can become a major tourism asset.
Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), was a keynote speaker at the event. He underscored the immense potential of Nepal’s indigenous food in promoting agricultural tourism. “If we succeed in globalizing nutritious and high-quality indigenous foods, we can attract a larger number of foreign tourists,” Dhakal said. He added that such initiatives would not only boost the agricultural sector but also empower local farmers and communities.
The event was organized under the umbrella of the Nepali Food Promotion Campaign, aiming to integrate culinary arts with tourism promotion nationwide. Sagar Pandey, President of the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), highlighted the importance of culinary culture in enhancing the overall tourism experience. “Food and trekking go hand-in-hand in Nepal. Promoting culinary arts across the country is vital to developing tourism sustainably,” he remarked.
Numerous dignitaries and prominent figures from diverse fields graced the occasion as guests. They had the opportunity to savor a wide array of traditional dishes prepared and presented with artistic flair by celebrated chefs including Govinda Narasingh KC and international culinary expert Ghanshyam Kandel. The chefs displayed an exquisite blend of traditional and innovative cooking techniques, offering a delightful gastronomic experience to attendees.
Devi Prasad Sapkota, the campaign coordinator, shared insights on the broader vision of the initiative. “Our goal is to elevate Nepali cuisine and its flavors to both national and international platforms. We plan to incorporate agricultural produce from all districts of Nepal progressively into this campaign,” Sapkota said. The campaign envisions organizing up to 100 editions of Bhojan Lipi Swad across Nepal and abroad, creating a global stage for Nepali food culture.
Cultural performances were also part of the program, adding vibrancy and a traditional touch to the event. Sadhana Kalakendra enchanted the audience with melodious renditions of Sarangi, Bansuri, and Madal, traditional Nepali musical instruments. The center’s founder, Milan Moktan, expressed the organization’s commitment to supporting the food promotion campaign through musical collaborations that highlight Nepal’s rich heritage.
The first two editions of Bhojan Lipi Swad had already made significant strides by showcasing dishes prepared from agricultural produce sourced from 15 districts. The campaign has since expanded to feature produce from over 30 districts, including Jhapa, Ilam, Panchthar, Dolakha, Dhanusha, Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Baglung, Rolpa, and Jumla.
“Our approach is to link Nepali cuisine with the country’s cultural and spiritual ethos,” Sapkota added. This initiative not only promotes food but also serves as a medium to convey Nepal’s deep-rooted traditions and values to tourists and locals alike.
Collaboration with farmers, hotels, and restaurant owners is a key pillar of the campaign. Arrangements are underway to enable people in Kathmandu to taste fresh agricultural products from various parts of Nepal throughout the year. Sapkota revealed plans to take the campaign to provincial capitals and major cities in all seven provinces, further expanding its reach.
The campaign has been warmly received by the hospitality sector. Rudra Sharma, Head of Nepal House, remarked, “Presenting Nepali cuisine with unique flavors will be a joyful experience for hoteliers and restaurateurs. It helps them showcase the richness of local culture while providing tourists with authentic tastes.”
Bhojan Lipi Swad’s emphasis on integrating agriculture, culinary arts, and tourism exemplifies Nepal’s innovative approach to sustainable development. By leveraging local produce and indigenous recipes, the campaign aspires to enhance farmers’ livelihoods, promote culinary tourism, and celebrate Nepal’s cultural identity on the global stage.
