POKHARA: The Phewa Festival, organized by the Hotel Association of Pokhara, has officially begun today. Marking the arrival of the Nepali New Year 2082 BS, the tourism-focused event will continue until April 14.
As part of the 20th Phewa New Year Festival–2082, hotels in Pokhara are offering a 20 percent discount to visiting tourists.
According to Association President and Festival Coordinator Laxman Subedi, a major highlight of this year’s festival is the inclusion of Bhaktapur’s iconic Bisket Jatra, a centuries-old cultural celebration rooted in Newar tradition and widely observed in Bhaktapur of the Kathmandu Valley.
The festival will also showcase the authentic culture of 11 districts within Gandaki Province.
Visitors can enjoy traditional musical performances, including bhajans and ratyauli, representing the region’s cultural richness. Entry to the festival is free, and events are being held along a three-kilometre stretch from Khaharechowk to Damsite in Pokhara.
Tourism, culture, and cuisine form the core themes of the festival, which features indigenous and traditional foods, cultural shows, recreational sports, and a tourist race.
A newly introduced Badminton Cup has also been added to the list of attractions.
The festival is being promoted by the Nepal Tourism Board Gandaki Province and Pokhara Metropolitan City.
Subedi stated that hotel occupancy in Pokhara currently stands at 60 percent and is expected to rise to 90 percent during the festival period.
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