KATHMANDU, MARCH 12
The 21st Nepal Open Paragliding Competition (NOPC) – Accuracy is set to be held in Pokhara from March 18 to March 21, marking the revival of one of Nepal's most prestigious paragliding events after years of disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and airspace restrictions.
The competition is being organised by the Nepal Airsports Association, the country's regulatory authority for paragliding and recreational airsports.
Organisers said the event will focus on paragliding accuracy, a discipline in which Nepal has gained international recognition. The competition also aims to restore Pokhara's reputation as a global hub for paragliding following the temporary closure of airspace after the operation of the Pokhara International Airport.
The Nepal Open Paragliding Competition has long attracted pilots from around the world. Its continuity was disrupted during the pandemic and further affected by aviation operational changes related to the new airport. Organisers said extensive coordination with aviation authorities was required to safely reopen airspace for paragliding activities.
The competition will feature multiple rounds of accuracy landing events, with a minimum of one round and a maximum of eight rounds depending on weather conditions. The event is expected to help pilots prepare for upcoming international competitions, including World Cup and Asian championship events.
Registration and equipment checks are scheduled for March 17, followed by a technical meeting the same day. Official competition rounds will begin on March 18, with the closing ceremony scheduled for March 21.
Pokhara is widely regarded as one of the world's premier paragliding destinations due to its stable thermals, favourable wind conditions, safe launch sites and scenic Himalayan backdrop around Phewa Lake.
The competition will award cash prizes in multiple categories. In the overall men's category, the gold medal winner will receive Rs 150,000, followed by Rs 100,000 for silver and Rs 50,000 for bronze. In the women's category, prizes include Rs 75,000 for gold, Rs 50,000 for silver, and Rs 25,000 for bronze.
Team category winners will receive Rs 75,000 for gold, Rs 50,000 for silver, and Rs 25,000 for bronze, organisers said.
Organisers said efforts are also underway to regain active membership with the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, with plans to host future editions of the competition as an official FAI Category 2 event.
