BYD International Balloon Festival 2024 takes off in Pokhara

Pokhara has started dazzling as the BYD International Balloon Festival 2024 kicks off at Pame Phat, Chankhapur, from yesterday to January 1, 2025. Organized by Balloon Nepal Pvt. Ltd., the event features 17 hot air balloons piloted by professionals from 15 countries, showcasing the beauty of Pokhara’s skies and landscapes.

Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri mountains, and the Pokhara Valley, with flights restricted to 5,000 feet for safety. The festival also includes food stalls, games, and daily musical performances by artists like Raju Lama and Deepak Bajracharya, with cultural dances adding to the New Year’s celebration.

Free shuttle buses will transport visitors to the festival, making it accessible for all. Balloon rides are priced at Rs. 11,000 for Nepalis, $120 for SAARC and Chinese nationals, and $150 for others.

Supported by Pokhara Metropolitan City, the Nepal Tourism Board, and the Gandaki Province, the festival aims to promote tourism and celebrate Pokhara’s vibrant culture.

Photo: Prem Thapa / AP Tolang