Pokhara, December 21

The second Pokhara International Mountain Film Festival kicked off in the LakeCity today.

The festival organised by Pokhara Film Society will continue until December 23.

Tourism expert Jhalak Thapa inaugurated the festival. Speaking at the function, Thapa said that Pokhara lures hundreds of thousands of tourists each year because of the breathtaking scenic beauty of the mountains and lakes. “Tourism in Nepal is healthy because it’s a blend of nature and culture,” said Thapa.

As many as 52 foreign and local movies will be screened during this period. ‘A Song of Barpak’ directed by Pradeep Pokhrel was the first film shown at the festival.

Coordinator of the festival, Saroj Sapkota said that as many as 106 films had applied for the show. Films depicting lifestyle, culture, biodiversity, ecological protection of mountainous and hilly regions have been most carefully selected.

Ghanashyam Lamichhane, Chairperson of Pokhara Film Society, said movies do play a critical role in developing the lake city as a film site as well.