The International Balloon Festival commenced in Pokhara on Tuesday. Organised by Balloon Nepal, the event, which runs until January 1, coincides with Christmas and New Year celebrations, aims to revitalise tourism in the region.

Covering a three-kilometre route from Lauruk in Pokhara to Chankhapur in Pame, the festival features professional pilots from 15 countries.

Organisers estimate a budget of Rs68.3 million, with the event expected to contribute significantly to Pokhara’s post-pandemic tourism recovery.

Hot air balloon rides, lasting around 40 minutes, offer breathtaking views of the Pokhara Valley, including the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Visitors can enjoy sunrise and sunset views, night balloon glows, daily 20-minute fireworks displays, balloon races, concerts, cultural performances, DJ music, food courts, and night camps.