On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Thamel Nakha Festival will be held in Thamel, a prominent tourist hub of Kathmandu, on September 27 (Asoj 11). The festival aims to revitalize tourism in Thamel and create an immersive cultural experience, as revealed during a press conference today.
Organized by the Thamel Tourism Development Council in collaboration with The Kathmandu Post, the festival will feature a blend of culture, music, art, and food. Festival coordinator Rajiv Pandey stated that the event is designed to bring together locals and tourists, fostering a lively and interactive atmosphere.
Unlike previous years, when the event was limited to the Employees Provident Fund area, this year’s festival will expand to seven different zones across Thamel. Key attractions will include a cultural exhibition at the Employees Provident Fund premises, artistic displays at Narshingh Chowk, and a sky filled with kites along Tourism Street. Other highlights include a culinary journey at Saat Ghumti and a martial arts demonstration by Muay Thai fighters. Additional events like a musical showcase and a tattoo festival will further enhance the celebrations.
Dhruva Adhikari, President of the Thamel Tourism Development Council, noted that the festival will serve to elevate Thamel’s reputation as a vibrant tourist destination, promoting the area as a cultural and recreational hub. He expressed confidence that the festival will reflect the community’s collective commitment to enhancing tourism.
Sangharsha Bista, President of the Restaurant and Bar Association of Nepal (REBAN), echoed similar sentiments, stating that the festival will showcase Thamel’s rich culture and culinary traditions, contributing significantly to tourism promotion.
The festival will run from 10 AM to 10 PM, with an estimated budget of around NPR 1.8 million. Organizers expect over 10,000 visitors to participate. Given the start of the tourist season, it is anticipated that the Thamel Nakha Festival and similar events will play a vital role in boosting Nepal’s tourism industry.
