The Third Nepal Bird Fair, organised by the Pokhara Bird Society, concluded in Lumbini with a significant announcement that Nepal is likely to host the 16th Asian Bird Fair (ABF) in 2027. The move highlights the country’s growing prominence in bird conservation and ecotourism.
Major Announcement at Closing Ceremony
Victor Yu, Executive Member of the World Bird Fair Council, made the announcement during the closing ceremony. Conservationists and tourism stakeholders present at the event pledged to work collaboratively to promote bird conservation while positioning Nepal as a premier destination for birdwatching-based tourism.
Participation of Experts and Conservationists
The fair, held at the birthplace of Lord Buddha, brought together over 200 Nepali ornithologists, nature guides, wildlife photographers, researchers, and conservationists, along with 15 international experts from India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Singapore, Hong Kong, Spain, and Taiwan. Discussions focused on conservation challenges, research, and sustainable ecotourism.
Experts highlighted that Nepal is home to 903 bird species, of which nearly 19 percent (172 species) are currently threatened. This underscores the urgency for coordinated conservation efforts in the country.
Next Nepal Bird Fair Scheduled in Bardiya
Organisers also announced that the Fourth Nepal Bird Fair will be held next year at Thakurdwara, Bardiya, with the Bardiya Nature Conservation Club (BNCC) coordinating local arrangements.
Speaking at the event, Manshanta Ghimire, President of the Pokhara Bird Society, said the fair aims to make Lumbini a hub not only for spiritual tourism but also for birdwatching and ecotourism. Arjun Kurmi of the Lumbini Green Youth Club added that local communities are gradually developing a positive attitude toward bird and habitat conservation.
Recognition of Contributions
As part of the programme, a senior Nepali journalist was honoured for over a decade of contributions to reporting on birds, wildlife, ecotourism, and environmental conservation. The award, presented by Victor Yu, included a certificate and a cash prize.
About the Asian Bird Fair
The Asian Bird Fair is an annual regional platform that promotes bird conservation, birdwatching, and ecotourism across Asia. To date, it has attracted more than 140,000 participants from over 26 countries. The 15th Asian Bird Fair is scheduled in Xiamen, China, from November 26 to 30, 2026.
According to the ABF Executive Committee, hosting the 16th Asian Bird Fair in 2027 requires prospective hosts to submit a letter of intent by June 30, 2026, endorsed by local or national government agencies. Host cities must organise a five-day programme including a welcome dinner, a two-day bird fair, ecotourism and cultural tours, and provide logistical support for participating organisations and Executive Committee members.
The criteria also emphasise partnerships with local governments, community participation, international coordination, and the promotion of ecotourism, areas that Nepal has actively strengthened through events such as the Nepal Bird Fair.
Nepal’s Growing Role in Bird Conservation
With the successful conclusion of the Third Nepal Bird Fair and preparations underway for the next edition in Bardiya, organisers expressed confidence that Nepal is well-positioned to host the 16th Asian Bird Fair in 2027, following the 2026 event in China.
