To mark the occasion of Nepali New Year 2083, a “Thamel Street Festival” is set to be organized in Thamel, one of the major tourist destinations in the federal capital. The event aims to promote Nepal’s cultural identity on an international level by showcasing local traditions, cuisine, and cultural performances. The festival will be held in the Thamel area, Kathmandu Metropolitan City–26, Tri-Devi Marg, under the initiative of the Thamel Tourism Development Council.
Aim to Promote Nepal on the Global Stage
According to the Vice-Chairperson of the council, Sahadev Dhamala (Bimal), the main objective of the event is to promote the Nepali New Year internationally and strengthen Thamel’s identity as a global tourism hotspot. He stated that the street festival will highlight Nepal’s cultural richness through food stalls, traditional displays, and live cultural performances, especially on the eve of the New Year.
32 Food and Product Stalls to Be Set Up
As part of the celebration, a total of 32 stalls will be installed along Tri-Devi Marg. These stalls will feature a variety of Nepali cuisines and locally produced goods aimed at promoting domestic products and supporting local businesses. The festival is expected to provide a platform for entrepreneurs, food vendors, and cultural groups to showcase their offerings to both domestic and international visitors.
Cultural Programs and Nightlong Celebration
The council has announced that cultural programs will begin from 6:00 PM onwards, featuring traditional music, dance performances, and festive presentations reflecting Nepal’s diverse heritage. The celebration will continue into the night as visitors gather to welcome the New Year, with the event scheduled to conclude at 12:30 AM.
High Tourist Participation Expected
Thamel remains one of the most visited tourist areas in Nepal, with approximately 80 percent of foreign visitors to the country reportedly visiting the area during their stay. The council expects a large turnout of both domestic and international tourists for the festival, making it one of the key cultural events of the New Year celebrations in Kathmandu.
Boost to Tourism and Local Economy
Organizers believe the Thamel Street Festival will not only celebrate the New Year but also contribute to boosting tourism and local economic activity. By attracting visitors to a single cultural hub, the event is expected to enhance visibility for local businesses and strengthen Thamel’s reputation as a vibrant cultural destination. The council has expressed confidence that the festival will become a regular highlight of New Year celebrations in the coming years.
