In celebration of World Tourism Day, a mountain race was held in Pokhara, where Niroj Bhatta Chhetri from Sulikot Rural Municipality, Gorkha, emerged as the winner. The race was organized by Pokhara Click Pvt. Ltd. to promote several tourist destinations, including the World Peace Stupa, the giant Mahadev statue at Pumdikot, and the Buddha Garden in Pokhara Metropolitan City-22, all of which hold significant tourism potential.
In the men’s open category, Bhatta completed the 8 km race in 38 minutes and 23 seconds, securing the title along with a cash prize of NPR 25,000, a medal, and a certificate. Rudra Budhathoki from Kumakh Rural Municipality, Salyan, finished second with a time of 41 minutes and 22 seconds, earning a cash prize of NPR 15,000. Prakash Thik of Pokhara-17 came in third, completing the race in 42 minutes and 42 seconds and receiving a cash prize of NPR 7,000.
In the women’s category, Nitu Tamang from Chautara, Kavre, won the title by completing the designated distance in 55 minutes and 21 seconds. She was awarded a cash prize of NPR 7,000.
Additionally, in the under-16 category, Sagar Devkota from Pokhara-12 secured the first position and won NPR 7,000 and a medal. In the Pokhara-22 category, Sujil Pariyar completed the race in 53 minutes and 6 seconds, earning the title and a cash prize of NPR 7,000.
The race began at the World Peace Stupa and followed a route around the giant Mahadev statue at Pumdikot, passing through the ward office before concluding at Buddha Park (Nigale Danda).
The winners were honored by former Finance Minister of Gandaki Province, Ramji Prasad Baral, Ward Chairperson of Pokhara-22, Himalal Baral, President of Pokhara Tourism Council, Taranath Pahari, and competition coordinator, Dinanath Baral. The event was inaugurated by National Sports Council Member Secretary, Tanklal Ghising.
During the ceremony, philanthropist, and entrepreneur Chandrakant Baral, along with international runner Kusang Gurung—who achieved a hat-trick at the Mount Kinabalu Half Marathon in Malaysia—were especially honored for their contributions to tourism and social service.
Coordinator Dinanath Baral emphasized that the race aims to promote Pumdibhumdi, which holds immense tourism potential and has recently gained popularity as a tourist destination. The event was organized to boost both domestic and international tourism in Pokhara through sports.
