The preparations for the second edition of the Nepal-China Friendship Dragon Boat Race Competition 2081 are in full swing in Pokhara. The event, scheduled to take place from Poush 13 to 15 (December 28–30) at Fewa Lake, promises to be an exciting festival featuring 20 participating teams—11 from Nepal, 8 from China, and 1 from Singapore.
This prestigious competition is being organized by the Gandaki Provincial Government, Pokhara Metropolitan City, the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, and the Nepal Tourism Board, with the Nepal Dragon Boat Association, Pokhara Tourism Council, and the Pokhara Overseas Chinese Association as co-organizers. The race aims to foster cultural exchange and strengthen Nepal-China relations through sports and tourism.
The competition will feature several cash prizes for the top-performing teams. The winner will receive a cash reward of USD 5,000 (approximately NPR 679,000), the runner-up will be awarded USD 2,000 (approximately NPR 271,000), and the third-place winner will take home USD 1,200 (approximately NPR 163,000).
Additionally, the remaining 17 teams will each receive USD 500 (approximately NPR 68,000) as a participation reward. The Dragon Boat Race, a traditional and highly popular event in China, was first introduced in Pokhara’s Fewa and Begnas Lakes last year. The competition quickly gained traction, drawing numerous national and international teams.
This year’s edition is expected to be even more exciting, attracting a larger crowd to Pokhara and contributing to the city’s growing reputation as a hub for international sports events and cultural exchanges.
The Nepal-China Friendship Dragon Boat Race will not only celebrate the rich cultural heritage of China but also promote tourism in the region, offering both local and international visitors a unique opportunity to witness the excitement of this traditional sport amidst the scenic beauty of Pokhara’s Fewa Lake.
