In a historic move to promote Nepal’s cultural heritage on a global scale, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Nepal Art Council have announced the launch of the first-ever Nepal Art and Culture Festival – 2025. The festival, organized in collaboration with all four metropolitan cities of the Kathmandu Valley, Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, and Kirtipur, will run from Bhadra 20 to Ashwin 10, 2082 (September 5 to September 26, 2025). The official announcement was made during a press conference held on Sunday at the NTB auditorium.
Bringing Nepal’s Culture to the International Stage
Highlighting the festival’s objective, Sagar Shumsher Rana, President of the Nepal Art Council, explained that cultural festivals hold immense significance both domestically and internationally. He stressed that the event aims to position Nepal as a major cultural hub by showcasing its rich heritage to the world. According to him, the festival will not only preserve and promote Nepal’s traditional arts but also attract both domestic and foreign tourists, creating a platform for cross-cultural interaction. “Such festivals are of great importance even outside Nepal. We are organizing this event with the aim of elevating it to the international stage,” Rana said, adding that the event will serve as a magnet for art enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Repositioning Nepal Beyond Adventure Tourism
Deepak Raj Joshi, Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Tourism Board, noted that Nepal has long been recognized primarily as an adventure tourism destination due to its mountains, trekking trails, and adventure sports.
However, through the Nepal Art and Culture Festival, the country will also be presented as a treasure trove of cultural wealth and heritage. “We must safeguard our unique culture and showcase the grandeur of our heritage to the world. This festival will not only increase tourist arrivals but also contribute significantly to our economy,” Joshi said. He emphasized that cultural events such as this can play a vital role in diversifying Nepal’s tourism offerings and promoting sustainable tourism growth.
A Lifetime Experience Destination
Chairman of the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) and head of the festival’s operating committee, Binayak Shah, described Nepal as an ideal destination for a lifetime experience. He stated that the festival is part of an ongoing effort to merge tourism with Nepal’s vibrant festivals and traditional celebrations. “Nepal is the perfect destination for a lifetime experience. This festival, initiated under our mission to link tourism with cultural festivities, will contribute to the growth of experimental tourism in Nepal,” Shah said, expressing confidence that the event will attract a new segment of travelers seeking immersive and authentic cultural encounters.
Three Weeks of Cultural Celebration
Festival coordinator Ayusha Shrestha revealed that the event will span three weeks, featuring around 40 diverse programs. Coinciding with Indra Jatra, one of the most iconic festivals in Kathmandu, the Nepal Art and Culture Festival will serve as a comprehensive celebration of the Valley’s heritage, arts, and traditions. “The festival will be presented as a grand celebration of Kathmandu Valley’s heritage, art, and culture,” Shrestha said. She added that it will be held under the theme “Celebration of Nepal’s Eternal Art, Culture, Cuisine, and Heritage”, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the country’s living traditions.
Showcasing the Best of Nepal’s Heritage
According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the festival will bring together the four metropolitan cities along with various tourism-related associations, cultural institutions, and stakeholders. The program will feature a rich lineup of attractions, including cultural exhibitions, art and craft showcases, traditional music and dance performances, local cuisine fairs, and living heritage experiences. The goal is to create an immersive environment where visitors can explore and interact with Nepal’s cultural identity in a dynamic way.
Transforming the Valley into a Festive Hub
The festival is expected to transform the historic cities of Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, and Kirtipur into bustling cultural hubs, adorned with decorations, art installations, and open-air performances. Streets, courtyards, and public spaces will be filled with vibrant activities, creating an atmosphere of celebration that engages both locals and tourists. The event will not only provide entertainment but also offer economic benefits to local artisans, performers, hospitality businesses, and small vendors, creating a ripple effect across the community.
Final Preparations Underway
Organizers have confirmed that preparations for the Nepal Art and Culture Festival are in their final stages. Stakeholders from the tourism, arts, and hospitality sectors are working closely to ensure that the event becomes a landmark annual celebration. The collaboration between multiple municipalities, government agencies, and private organizations marks a significant step toward promoting cultural tourism as a core part of Nepal’s tourism industry.
With the backing of major tourism bodies and cultural institutions, the festival is set to be a milestone event that not only entertains but also educates and inspires. It is expected to become a signature attraction in the years to come, further solidifying Nepal’s position as a destination rich in both natural wonders and cultural treasures.
