KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 18

The BYD International Balloon Festival is poised to elevate adventure tourism in Nepal, kicking off on 24 December in Pokhara's scenic Pame area. Organized by Balloon Nepal Pvt. Ltd., the nine-day event will feature nearly two dozen hot air balloons flying a 3-kilometer stretch from Lauruk to Changkpur, running until 1 January 2025.

The festival aims to bolster Nepal's post-pandemic tourism by attracting both domestic and international visitors. Companies from 10 countries, including the USA, UK, Spain, Japan, and South Korea, will participate. The event is expected to contribute significantly to Nepal's economy and promote adventure tourism on a global scale, the organizers said.

During a 40-minute flight, participants can enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with the Pokhara Valley. Highlights include stunning sunrise and sunset views, nightly balloon glows, fireworks displays, balloon races, and night camps.

Adding to the festivities, musical performances by renowned Nepali artists such as Deepak Bajracharya, Raju Lama, Alina Chauhan, and local Pokhara bands will entertain attendees daily.

The event is managed by Charismatic Digital Solutions with support from the Nepal Tourism Board, Pokhara Metropolitan City, and other tourism organizations. Notable actors Rajesh Hamal and Priyanka Karki will serve as brand ambassadors.

The festival positions Pokhara among global ballooning hubs, inspired by world-renowned events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in the USA and the Cappadocia International Balloon Festival in Turkey.

Since its establishment in 2015, Balloon Nepal Pvt. Ltd. has been a pioneer in commercial ballooning in Nepal, showcasing its presence in international events such as Thailand's Balloon Fiesta earlier this year.