As the New Year begins, Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal, has come alive with a series of exciting festivals that are not only attracting both domestic and international tourists but also revitalizing the city’s tourism activities.
Currently, Pokhara is hosting the 26th Street Festival, the BYD International Balloon Festival, and the 2nd International Dragon Boat Race. Following the Christmas celebrations, these festivals have added a new dimension to the city’s bustling atmosphere. These events are expected to further elevate Pokhara’s global recognition as a prime tourist destination.
The Pokhara Street Festival, first organized by the Restaurant and Bar Association of Nepal (REBAN) in 1998, has now become a significant brand of the city. Embracing the slogan “Eat on the street, dance on the street, have fun on the street,” the festival has attracted thousands of tourists. The three-kilometer stretch of Lakeside is filled with musical performances, traditional parades, costume exhibitions, and international food stalls, offering a rich cultural experience.
REBAN Pokhara President Bishworaj Poudel emphasized that the festival not only showcases Pokhara’s cultural and natural beauty but also supports the promotion of local products. According to Poudel, the festival is a key platform for placing Nepali tourism on the international map. Exhibitions of agricultural products, handicrafts, and plants are among the key attractions, helping local farmers, businesses, and artists reach new markets.
The festival has played a vital role in boosting the local economy while highlighting the region’s cultural diversity through performances from various ethnic groups. Coordinator Bikash Bhattarai pointed out that the event has been instrumental in promoting the city’s local economy and strengthening the tourism sector.
Another major attraction this year, the BYD International Balloon Festival, has significantly boosted Pokhara’s reputation as a top tourist destination. Taking place on the shores of Phewa Lake, this event has seen participation from 15 countries, with pilots flying 17 colorful and uniquely designed balloons in the skies. The view from the balloons offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range, greenery, and Phewa Lake, providing tourists with an unforgettable experience.
Tourism Council President Taranath Pahari stated, “The festival has not only extended tourists’ stays but also attracted international media attention.” He added that the festival has positioned Pokhara as a hub for adventure and recreational tourism. The combination of the balloon festival, dragon boat races, and street festival has added a new dimension to the city’s tourism, taking it to greater heights.
Vikram Bada from Balloon Nepal Pvt. Ltd. highlighted that the balloon festival not only offers entertainment but also opens new doors for adventure tourism, aiming to establish Pokhara as an international center for tourism.
Today marks the start of the 2nd International Dragon Boat Race on Phewa Lake, where teams from Nepal, China, and Singapore will compete, further enhancing the region’s tourism appeal. This event connects sports with tourism, creating a unique blend of excitement and cultural exchange.
BB Dhakal from Balloon Nepal Pvt. Ltd. noted that Nepal’s hot air balloons have gained international attention, with major international newspapers covering the event, which is seen as a significant boost for promoting Nepali tourism.
The festival is being organized with support from the Pokhara Metropolitan City, Gandaki Provincial Government, Nepal Tourism Board, and the Chinese Embassy in Nepal. It is expected that the event will further establish Phewa Lake as an international sports and tourism destination.
Pokhara’s Mayor Dhanraj Acharya expressed confidence that the festivals will expand the city’s role in adventure tourism. “The excitement of the Dragon Boat Race, the adventure of the Balloon Festival, and the cultural showcase of the Street Festival have made Pokhara a perfect example of a triangular festival,” he stated.
The triangular festival, combining cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local products, is expected to make a lasting impact on both the economy and tourism in Pokhara, contributing to long-term growth.
Tourism entrepreneur and former Provincial Assembly Member Debaka Pahari believes that the three festivals Street Festival, Balloon Festival, and Dragon Boat Race have provided new energy and recognition to Pokhara’s tourism sector. She highlighted that these events not only expose the city’s cultural and natural treasures but also invigorate the local economy while introducing Pokhara on the international stage.
Pahari also added, “These festivals have elevated Pokhara to new heights, showcasing Phewa Lake, the Himalayas, and the region’s cultural diversity. With thrilling adventure sports, music celebrations, and unique local products, Pokhara is now on the path to becoming one of the top global destinations for adventure, cultural, and recreational tourism.”
As these festivals unfold, Pokhara is poised to further establish itself as a top destination, setting new standards for Nepal’s tourism industry and demonstrating its bright future in the global tourism landscape.
Source: RSS