KHOTANG: The district of Khotang marked the start of the first-ever Red Panda and Thar Festival on New Year’s Day, 2082 BS, as part of the “Mundum Trail Visit Year.”
Organized by Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality, the two-day event is being held in Hurlung, a popular local tourist destination.
The festival aims to raise awareness and promote the conservation of endangered species such as the red panda and the Himalayan thar, a rare mountain goat native to the region.
The event features a variety of attractions including cultural performances, traditional attire, organic cuisine, and displays of local products.
Marking the New Year, the festival also showcases photographs and videos highlighting endangered wildlife.
Local enthusiasm is high, with community members actively participating in organizing and presenting the event. Many volunteered to perform cultural acts and manage exhibition stalls.
Nepal Academy Chancellor Bhupal Rai inaugurated the festival, emphasizing the importance of wildlife conservation in preserving the environment and ecological balance.
The opening ceremony was attended by local officials, political leaders, economists, artists, and researchers from both the district and national levels.
Mayor Tirtha Raj Bhattarai announced that the “Mundum Trail Red Panda-Thar Route,” a new trekking path, was officially opened in conjunction with the festival.
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