Nepal is set to host its first-ever International Hot Air Balloon Festival from December 24 (Poush 9) in the tourist hub of Pokhara. The event is being organized by Balloon Nepal Pvt. Ltd. and will take place in the scenic Pame region.

The festival will feature participation from professional balloon companies representing 20 countries, including Nepal. The event is scheduled to coincide with Christmas and New Year celebrations and will run until January 1, 2025, according to the festival's international coordinator, Robert Wick.

The three-kilometer-long festival zone will stretch from Lauruk to Chankhpur in Pame. Notable participants include companies from the USA, Spain, Lithuania, Thailand, and Vietnam, as confirmed by Sabin Maharjan, the festival's managing director and coordinator.

The event will feature daily musical performances, food stalls, fairs, and games. Professional pilots representing various countries will operate hot air balloon flights in the morning, afternoon, and evening throughout the week-long festival. Around 500 professional flights are expected to take place, with a target of 3,000 passengers enjoying the rides. Additionally, 300 non-commercial flights are planned. A special mini-balloon show will also be held in Pokhara during the festival.

Renowned national artists such as Deepak Bajracharya & The Band, Raju Lama & Mongolian Heart, Alina Chauhan, Kuma Sagar & Band, and local Pokhara bands will perform at the festival.

The simultaneous launch of multiple balloons will create a unique spectacle. Traditional Nepali culture and art will be showcased alongside cultural exhibitions from participating countries. Visitors will also enjoy delicious food, entertaining tourist activities, and other attractions.

A typical hot air balloon ride lasts around 40 minutes, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, along with the picturesque Pokhara Valley.

Additional highlights include sunrise and sunset views, night balloon glows, 20-minute daily fireworks, balloon races, concerts, games, food courts, cultural dances, DJ music, and night camping..

Established in 2016 (2073 BS), Balloon Nepal Pvt. Ltd. has been offering commercial hot air balloon rides in Pokhara since 2018 (2075 BS). The company also represented Nepal at the International Balloon Fiesta 2024 held in Thailand earlier this year.