The 9th edition of the Mountain Festival is set to take place from December 8 to December 12 at the International Mountain Museum in Pokhara. Organized jointly by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and the International Mountain Museum, this event aims to address challenges in mountain tourism, explore solutions, and utilize opportunities for the benefit of humanity.
In a press conference, Jinesh Sindurakar, Chief Executive Officer of NMA, highlighted the festival’s significance in raising awareness about mountaineering tourism, Nepal’s mountains, and Himalayan culture. The event promises to be a meaningful platform for enthusiasts and stakeholders to discuss ways to preserve the mountain environment and promote tourism.
Throughout the festival, daily interactive sessions will be held at the museum’s auditorium. Activities such as archery, sling shooting, zip-lining, and bouldering will be available on the museum premises, adding a recreational dimension to the event. Sindurakar emphasized the growing threats posed by industrialization, global warming, deforestation, and environmental changes in mountainous regions, which adversely impact mountaineering tourism and the overall economy. The festival seeks to foster awareness and advocate for mountain environment conservation.
Each day of the festival will focus on specific themes. On the opening day, December 8, a discussion titled Mountains for a Sustainable Future: Innovation, Adaptation, Youth, and Sustainability will take place. The second day will feature expert insights into opportunities and potential in mountain tourism, according to Nirmala Neupane, Executive Director of the International Mountain Museum. On the third day, interactions will focus on the importance of sanitation in Himalayan regions.
The fourth day will showcase experiences from mountaineers, discussing their thrilling adventures, preparations, challenges, and future possibilities. The festival will conclude with a dialogue on the impact of climate change in the Annapurna region.
Marking International Mountain Day, celebrated annually on December 11 since 2003, the festival aims to enhance awareness about the economic, environmental, and cultural significance of mountains. Ganesh Gurung, advisor to NMA and former member of the National Planning Commission, expressed that the event contributes to improving the livelihoods of mountain communities while highlighting the importance of mountain ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources.
This festival serves as a vibrant reminder of Nepal’s unparalleled mountain heritage and its potential to drive sustainable development and environmental conservation.
