The serene waters of Fewa Lake, one of Nepal’s most iconic tourist attractions, witnessed a thrilling display of skill and competition today as it hosted a national-level open boat race. Organized by the Nepal Tourism Board Gandaki Province Office and managed by the Fewa Boat Entrepreneurs’ Organization, the event aimed to promote local tourism while emphasizing the need for conservation of Fewa Lake.
Open Boat Race In Fewa Lake
The competition concluded with impressive performances in both men’s and women’s categories. In the men’s division, Fewa Harpan Cooperative’s Team B clinched the top spot, while in the women’s category, Tal Pari Group’s Team B emerged victorious.
Among the men’s teams, Barahi Boat Ghat secured second place and Swimming Pool Ghat took third position. Fishtail Ghat received the consolation prize. On the women’s side, Gaurighat finished second, followed by Pahari Ghat in third place, while the Jalari Sisters Group earned the consolation award.
Winners in both men’s and women’s categories received NPR 40,000 each along with trophies, medals, and certificates. The runners-up took home NPR 30,000, while the third-place winners received NPR 20,000. The teams securing consolation positions were awarded NPR 10,000.
The opening ceremony of the event was graced by Surendra Raj Pandey, Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, who highlighted the importance of preserving Fewa Lake as a vital part of Pokhara’s tourism identity. “Fewa Lake is the crown jewel of Pokhara. All three levels of government have initiated efforts to protect it. Collaboration with all stakeholders is essential for its long-term conservation,” he said.
He also revealed that in partnership with Pokhara Metropolitan City, work has begun to mark the lake boundaries (Talghar) by installing pillars, an important step toward managing encroachment and maintaining the lake’s ecological balance.
Speaking at the event, Pokhara Mayor Dhanraj Acharya reiterated that Fewa Lake remains a defining landmark of Pokhara and plays a crucial role in branding the city as the tourism capital of Nepal. “Its conservation is not only a matter of pride but also a necessity for sustainable tourism,” he emphasized.
The event also featured remarks from Balaram Giri, President of the Fewa Boat Entrepreneurs’ Organization, who shared the core objectives of the race. “Beyond promoting tourism, this event aims to raise awareness about the significance of Fewa Lake. We want to encourage more responsible behavior among boaters and visitors,” Giri stated.
The competition was not only a sporting event but also a platform for environmental advocacy. The organizers designed the event to sensitize both locals and tourists about the possible risks to the lake and to inspire collaborative efforts for its protection.
Sagar Shrestha, Senior Officer at the Nepal Tourism Board Gandaki Province Office, expressed confidence that the race would contribute to promoting Fewa Lake on both the national and international stage. “This initiative will add momentum to our campaign to elevate the identity of Fewa Lake globally. Events like this enhance visibility and attract more sustainable tourism,” Shrestha said.
Fewa Lake, a natural freshwater lake located in the heart of Pokhara, is not only a scenic destination but also a hub of local livelihoods, particularly for boat operators, hoteliers, and tour operators. Its tranquil waters, with views of the Annapurna range reflected on its surface, make it a must-visit for domestic and international tourists alike.
The boat race introduced an engaging and inclusive element to Pokhara’s tourism landscape, drawing attention to local traditions and competitive spirit while underlining the urgent need for environmental preservation. The involvement of grassroots organizations and public-private partnerships was a strong demonstration of how tourism, culture, and conservation can go hand in hand.
As the boats glided across the sparkling waters, the event resonated with the message that protecting natural heritage like Fewa Lake is integral to sustaining the very foundation of tourism in Nepal. With growing attention from government authorities and community organizations, Fewa Lake continues to stand as a beacon of natural beauty and cultural pride.
The successful organization of this national-level boat race not only delighted spectators but also set a precedent for how local tourism can be promoted with a strong conservation message. With continued efforts, Fewa Lake is poised to remain a symbol of Pokhara’s charm for generations to come.
