Balloon Fest Boost Pokhara

As an international tourists’ hub, Pokhara recently got creative to boost its tourism sector. From December 24, 2024 to January 1, 2025, the glorious city organised a balloon festival in which both national and international tourists were seen participating. Called as the BYD International Balloon Festival, it was the first-ever historic international balloon festival in Pokhara. As many as 30 nations including the UK, USA, South Korea, Spain and Japan featured in the event.  

Multi-coloured, vibrant and gigantic hot air balloons flew across a stretch of three kilometres from Lauruk to Pame and offered panoramic and scenic views of Pokhara Valley. Flyers could see the majestic peaks of Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre and Annapurna glistening in the warm glow of winter sun in the valley. Excited viewers took photos and selfies which soon enough trended on the social media. Apart from balloon flights, the festival highlights were fireworks, balloon glows and races as well as night camps. Famous actors Rajesh Hamal and Priyanka Karki were the allocated brand ambassadors who brought glamour of celebrity to the event. 

Citizens of the valley and its visitors were in thrall. As tourists poured in, so did income for the local organisers. Vendors were seen selling all sorts of items throughout the event. It definitely brought Pokhara not just on the national news but also on the global map. Pokhara is a small valley studded with mountain ranges that stand majestically and reflect glowingly in the Fewa Lake. Besides, Fewa Lake, there are Begnas Lake, Rupa Lake among others that attract tourists with mesmerising boat rides and glorious sights. Each year, thousands of tourists throng this valley known for its natural landscape and friendly, hospitable residents. 

Tourism has fueled Pokhara since the 20th century when it opened up to the world. Fast forward to today in the 21st century, visitors are welcome to sightseeing, boat-riding and now balloon-flying bonanza to create a life-time of memories in Pokhara. As such, never before in the history of Pokhara were balloons seen adorning its winter sky. One must applaud the vision of the organisers as no stones were left unturned to accommodate and entertain visitors. Given its economic opportunities to local vendors, artists, craftsman, cafes and restaurants, the balloon festival brought relief to tourism sector that had suffered greatly during the COVID pandemic. 

The economic impact of this festival was significant and is likely to boost even more of such events in the upcoming days. Pokhara positively made waves in the nation and the globe with the recent balloon festival but it was not without its challenges. The organisers had to consider logistical coordination in managing participants from 30 countries which demanded extensive coordination and planning. Then there were weather conditions to consider as clear skies and secure and safe flying conditions are required for a smooth balloon flight. 

Accommodation, transportation and emergency services too had to be robust. Overseeing a mix of national and international tourists and participants is not an easy feat. Then there is the matter of cultural sensitivity in an event that encompasses international participation amid local customs and traditions. Thankfully, as the festival concluded, visitors and participants couldn’t rave enough. Its success has certainly encouraged organisers to hold such events in the future as well.