"Hot Air Balloon Festival" revitalizing Pokhara tourism

The International Balloon Festival in the tourist city of Pokhara seems to be brining renewed vibrancy to the local market, attracting a surge of domestic and international visitors.

Coinciding with the festive season leading up to Christmas and New Year 2025, the festival began on December 24 along the banks of Fewa Lake and will run for nine days.

Chairman of Balloon Nepal, Bikram Bade, expressed enthusiasm about the event's success. “We are thrilled with the participation of both domestic and international visitors,” he remarked. The festival aims to promote tourism in Pokhara through adventure sports and unique experiences.

Key attractions of the event include sunrise and sunset views, night balloon glows, fireworks, balloon races, and panoramic hot air balloon flights offering breathtaking views of the Pokhara Valley, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Kumari Dance performances. Additionally, the Bajrayogini cultural showcase adds a traditional touch to the festivities.

The festival is expected to significantly boost tourist arrivals in Pokhara, aligning with the city’s initiative to celebrate Pokhara Visit Year 2025.

Pilots from 15 countries are participating in the event, and the skies above Pokhara are adorned with 17 colorful hot air balloons of varying types and sizes, creating a stunning spectacle.

Balloon Nepal, which has been conducting commercial hot air balloon flights in Pokhara since 2017, is the organizer of this vibrant festival.