Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal, is gearing up to host the 21st edition of the Nepal Open Paragliding Competition from March 18 to 20 (5th to 7th Chaitra), organized by the Nepal Air Sports Association (NAA). The annual event, which has grown into a major attraction for both domestic and international paragliding enthusiasts, aims to promote adventure tourism while contributing to the economic prosperity of the country.
Promoting Tourism and Economic Growth
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, NAA President Anil KC emphasized that the competition has been continuously organized to boost tourism and support economic development through sports. “Paragliding has become one of Pokhara’s major attractions, drawing enthusiasts and tourists from around the world. Events like this not only encourage sports but also contribute to the state’s financial growth,” KC said.
The competition will feature three main events: Accuracy Men, Accuracy Women, and Team Competition. Winners in the men’s and women’s categories will receive cash prizes along with medals and certificates: first place will be awarded NPR 150,000, second NPR 100,000, and third NPR 50,000. In the team event, first, second, and third places will earn NPR 75,000, NPR 50,000, and NPR 25,000 respectively, along with medals and certificates.
Participants and Event Details
Organizers estimate that approximately 100 pilots, including both Nepalese and international athletes, will participate in this year’s competition. The event is projected to incur a budget of around NPR 3 million. Maniram Lamichhane, head of the Nepal Tourism Board, Gandaki Province, noted that paragliding has significantly contributed to Pokhara’s tourism and affirmed the board’s continued support for such events.
Technical Director Yogesh Bhattarai highlighted that while the competition focuses on the sport, safety remains the top priority. For this purpose, teams from the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police will be deployed. In addition, Manipal Teaching Hospital will provide a medical team to handle any emergencies.
Nepal’s Past Achievements in Paragliding
Paragliding has brought international recognition to Nepal in recent years. The country won a silver medal at the 18th Asian Games, showcasing the skill and potential of Nepalese pilots on the global stage. Beyond the national open competitions, the Nepal Air Sports Association has also organized internationally recognized events, including the FAI Category-2 sanctioned Championship, the Pre-World Cup Paragliding in Nepal, and the Asian Continental Paragliding Championship, establishing Nepal as a key player in global paragliding sports.
Selection and Preparations
During the three-day competition over Fewa Lake, provincial-level athletes from Gandaki Province will also be selected, providing a platform for emerging talent. According to Sports Coordinator Sunil Bahadur Bhattarai, the main organizing committee comprises seven members, supported by ten subcommittees to ensure smooth execution of the event.
Five years ago, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, paragliding in Nepal was restricted to solo flights. With restrictions lifted, open paragliding events have resumed, and the sport continues to be a major adventure tourism draw in Pokhara. Currently, the Nepal Air Sports Association has over 50 member paragliding companies operating in the region, reflecting the growing popularity and professionalization of the sport.
Collaboration and Support
The success of the competition relies on strong collaboration among multiple organizations. Key supporters include the Nepal Paragliding and Hang Gliding Association, Nepal Paragliding Pilots Club, Nepal Tourism Board (Gandaki Province), Pokhara Metropolitan City, Gandaki Provincial Sports Council, and the Pokhara Tourism Council. Their combined efforts ensure that both safety and quality standards are upheld, making the event a world-class experience for pilots and spectators alike.
With its stunning backdrop of the Annapurna mountain range and Fewa Lake, Pokhara is expected to witness thrilling aerial displays, attracting adventure tourists and promoting Nepal as a top destination for paragliding enthusiasts globally.
