Pokhara, the heart of Nepal’s tourism, came alive yesterday as the city celebrated the 46th World Tourism Day with a series of cultural, recreational, and promotional programs. The events, organized under the theme of “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” were spread across popular destinations including Lakeside, Begnas Lake, and Pumdibhumdi. The celebrations highlighted Pokhara’s role as one of Nepal’s leading tourism hubs and emphasized the sector’s potential for sustainable growth.
Morning Procession Marks the Start
The day began with a colorful morning procession (Prabhat Feri) jointly organized by the Pokhara Tourism Council and the Nepal Tourism Board Gandaki Province, with the active collaboration of various tourism-related organizations in the city. The rally started from Ammat, Lakeside, and proceeded to the Nepal Tourism Board’s office in Damside. Both domestic and international tourists enthusiastically joined the march, showcasing the inclusive spirit of the event.
Discussions on Tourism’s Opportunities and Challenges
Following the procession, a formal program was hosted at the Nepal Tourism Board office. The event featured international guests including Tony Jones from the UK and Monika Chaudhary from Bangladesh, who shed light on Nepal’s tourism opportunities, challenges, and global potential. Speakers emphasized the need for infrastructure development, policy coordination, and collective efforts to address current challenges in the tourism sector.
Calls for Unified Efforts in Tourism Promotion
Prominent figures from Nepal’s tourism community also delivered their views.
- Taranath Pahari, President of Pokhara Tourism Council
- Maniraj Lamichhane, Head of Nepal Tourism Board Gandaki Province
- Gopi Bahadur Bhattarai, Coordinator of Pokhara Visit Year 2025 Committee
- Ganesh Bahadur Bhattarai, Former Member of NTB
- Jeevan Raj Sapkota, General Secretary of Pokhara Tourism Council
All stressed the importance of unity among stakeholders to overcome obstacles such as post-pandemic recovery, infrastructure gaps, and regional competition. They underscored that Pokhara Visit Year 2025 would be a milestone for the city, and preparations must begin with collective determination.
Special Welcome for Visitors to Pokhara
As part of the World Tourism Day celebrations, special arrangements were made for travelers arriving in Pokhara. Passengers arriving on a Yeti Airlines flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara International Airport were greeted with warm hospitality. These travelers received complimentary access to the International Mountain Museum and a 50% discount on Annapurna Cable Car tickets, enhancing their experience of Pokhara’s attractions.
Similarly, tourists who arrived via road on buses operated by Yeti Adventure Travels and New Road Travels were welcomed at the Pokhara Tourist Bus Park. Two lucky travelers were also awarded free return bus tickets to Kathmandu, courtesy of NATTA Gandaki Province.
Discounts and Special Offers Announced
To make the occasion even more memorable, several tourism-related associations announced special promotional packages and discount schemes for both domestic and international visitors. Hotels and restaurants offered reduced rates, encouraging more people to explore it’s hospitality services.
Begnas Lake Hosts Special Program
At Begnas Lake, the Hotel and Restaurant Association Lekhnath organized a unique celebration. The program included a morning procession from Nahar Chowk to Mandhare Park, followed by a motorboat journey to Begnas Baraha Temple, where a gathering was held.
During the program, speakers including Maniraj Lamichhane, Head of NTB Gandaki Province; Bir Bhadra Kandel, President of Hotel and Restaurant Association Lekhnath; former president Damodar Bhakta Thapa; and treasurer Shakti Shree Koirala, discussed the untapped potential of tourism in the Lekhnath area. They highlighted opportunities to develop eco-tourism, community-based homestays, and water-based recreation to diversify it’s appeal.
Mountain Run at Pumdibhumdi Adds Adventure Spirit
Adding an adventurous flair to the celebration, the second edition of the Mountain Run Competition was successfully held at Pumdibhumdi. The race, which attracted enthusiastic participation, not only promoted sports tourism but also showcased the natural beauty of Pokhara’s hillside landscapes. The event reflected Pokhara’s potential as a hub for adventure tourism, complementing its reputation for paragliding, trekking, and boating.
Strengthening Pokhara’s Role in Sustainable Tourism
Overall, the World Tourism Day celebrations in Pokhara highlighted the city’s determination to move beyond challenges and reinforce its position as Nepal’s premier tourism destination. By combining cultural festivities, international dialogues, discounts for tourists, and adventure activities, the programs reflected the core message of sustainability, inclusivity, and community involvement.
Speakers, organizers, and participants alike agreed that with the right planning and unified efforts, Pokhara can set a global example of how tourism can drive sustainable development, empower local communities, and preserve natural beauty.
