Pokhara is gearing up for the “First Mountain Race Championship–2081,” scheduled for September 27, 2024 (Ashoj 12). Competitors can register online from August 15 to September 24, 2024. This event is organized by Pokhara Click Pvt. Ltd., to promote sports tourism in Pokhara, particularly Ward No. 22 and its surrounding areas.
Domestic and international athletes can register online during the designated period. The race, themed “Pumdikot Mountain Run for Sports Tourism Promotion,” will feature an 8-kilometer course. Participants are required to submit their identity details as part of the registration process, according to Dinanath Baral, Chairman of Pokhara Click Pvt. Ltd. and coordinator of the event.
The race route will begin at World Peace Stupa, a popular tourist destination, and pass through the Pumdikot Mahadev Statue and Buddha Park (Nigale Danda), ending at Ward No. 22 office. These landmarks have become prominent attractions in Pokhara in recent years, contributing to the area’s growing appeal as a tourist destination.
To further promote the event and encourage athletes, local residents will offer a grand welcome, and all participants will be insured. The race offers cash prizes for top runners in various categories. The open category winners will receive NPR 25,000 for first place, NPR 15,000 for second, and NPR 7,000 for third, along with trophies, medals, and certificates. Additional incentive prizes of NPR 7,000 will be awarded to the top female runner, the top under-16 runner, and the best runner from Ward No. 22.
The race coincides with the International Day of Peace on September 21 and the World Tourism Day on September 27, making it a special occasion for the region. “This is our first attempt at organizing a race to mark these global events,” said Baral. Sagar Sunar, the manager of Pokhara Click Pvt. Ltd., also highlighted that the company’s news portal, Pokhara Click.com, is actively covering the event.
This initiative not only promotes sports tourism but also showcases the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Pokhara, attracting both athletes and tourists from across Nepal and beyond.