The third edition of the Sokla Valley Rock Climbing Festival and Competition is set to take place on Baishakh 20 and 21, 2082 B.S. at Bhimeshwor Municipality Ward No. 2, Dolakha. The event aims to promote Sokla Valley as an emerging “Adventure Climbing Hub” in Nepal.
The festival is being organized by the Soklashwari Tourism Development Society, with financial support from the Nepal Tourism Board and collaboration from various local government bodies. According to Society President Arjun Pakhrin, the two-day festival is part of a broader initiative to develop adventure tourism in the region.
Promoting Adventure and Eco-Tourism
“The idea of rock climbing in Sokla was born from the desire to promote adventure tourism,” said Pakhrin. “We’re organizing this festival to develop the 420-meter-high Gumdada Cliff, located between Sokla and Chakpa, into a recognized rock climbing destination.”
This year, two single-pitch rock climbing routes, each measuring 25 meters, have been set up for the event. Organizers have stated that they aim to extend these routes to a height of 100 meters, adding new technical dimensions to the climbing experience.
A Region Rich in Culture and Nature
Located just eight kilometers from Charikot, the district headquarters, Sokla Gaja holds significant religious and cultural value. The area is not only important for its spiritual heritage but is also gaining recognition as a destination for eco-tourism, agri-tourism, bird-watching, and panoramic views of the Gaurishankar Himalayan range. The region also offers excellent prospects for religious studies and research.
Cultural Performances and Institutional Support
The Mountain Guide Association of Nepal will be handling the technical coordination of the festival. The opening ceremony will feature traditional cultural performances, including Tamba dance, Jhakri rituals, Maruni dance, and Panchai Baja music, adding a cultural touch to the adventurous event.
The festival will also see the participation of mountaineers, scouts, the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, and Tourist Police. In addition, tourism associations and related organizations are expected to actively take part in the event.
Rock Climbing Competition and Participation
A rock climbing competition will be a major highlight of the festival. Organizers expect the event to attract around 300 participants. Those who wish to participate in the competition will be required to pay an entry fee of Rs. 1,000 (Nepali rupees). Winners will receive cash prizes along with certificates of achievement.
This rock climbing festival is not just a competition; it is a celebration of Nepal’s growing adventure tourism sector and an effort to spotlight new and unexplored destinations like Sokla Valley.
