Tourism Info Nepal

Pokhara Hosts 2024 International Dragon Boat Race Festival with Global Participation

Pokhara Hosts 2024 International Dragon Boat Race Festival with Global Participation

The much-anticipated 2024 Pokhara International Dragon Boat Race Festival, along with the 2nd edition of the Nepal-China Friendship Dragon Boat Race, commenced today at the picturesque Fewa Lake. The two-day festival was inaugurated by Honorable Teju Lal Chaudhary, Minister of Youth and Sports, and His Excellency Chen Song, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nepal. The grand opening ceremony witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries, adding to the event’s prestige.

The festival, designed to bolster Nepal’s tourism industry, is a collaborative effort between the Gandaki Provincial Government, Pokhara Metropolitan City, the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, and the Nepal Tourism Board. Supporting organizations include the Nepal Dragon Boat Association, Pokhara Tourism Council, and the Pokhara Overseas Chinese Association, reflecting a strong partnership aimed at enhancing cultural and tourism ties.

The dragon boat race features intense competition, with 20 teams battling for glory in 200-meter and 500-meter categories. Among the participants, 11 teams hail from Nepal, 8 from China, and 1 from Singapore. The race has already seen high-energy performances, with eight teams in each category advancing to the semi-finals, scheduled for tomorrow.

The festival offers enticing prizes to encourage competitive spirit and international camaraderie. The winners in each category will receive a cash prize of $5,000, while the runners-up and third-place finishers will be awarded $2,000 and $1,200, respectively. To honor their efforts, the remaining 17 teams will each receive a $500 participation prize.

This event is more than a competition; it represents a blend of cultural exchange and sporting excellence, fostering friendship and collaboration between Nepal, China, and other participating nations. With Fewa Lake’s serene backdrop and the vibrant atmosphere of Pokhara, the festival is poised to become a significant milestone in promoting Nepal as a prime destination for international events. The grand finale tomorrow promises thrilling action as the best teams compete for the coveted titles. The festival is a testament to Nepal’s potential in hosting world-class sporting events, contributing to the nation’s tourism and cultural prosperity.

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