Pokhara: The International Balloon Festival, currently underway in the picturesque city of Pokhara, has revitalized the local tourism industry, drawing a surge of domestic and international visitors.

The festival, which began on December 24 and will run for nine days along the banks of Fewa Lake, coincides with the New Year 2025 and Christmas celebrations.

Chairman of Balloon Nepal, Bikram Bade, shared that the event aims to promote tourism through adventure sports. "We are thrilled by the participation of both local and international visitors," Bade said.

The festival offers a variety of attractions, including sunrise and sunset balloon flights, night balloon glows, fireworks, balloon races, and panoramic views of the Pokhara Valley and surrounding peaks such as Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. Cultural highlights include performances of the Kumari Dance and Bajrayogini.

The event has transformed the skies over Pokhara into a vibrant spectacle, featuring 17 hot air balloons of varying types and sizes, piloted by experts from 15 countries.

As Pokhara Metropolitan City prepares for its "Pokhara Visit Year 2025," the festival is expected to significantly boost the city's profile as a must-visit destination.

Balloon Nepal, which has been operating commercial hot air balloon flights in Pokhara since 2017, has played a pivotal role in organizing the event and promoting adventure tourism in the region.