Pokhara to Host Second Dragon Boat Race Festival as Part of Nepal-China Sports Ties
Pokhara, Gandaki Province - December 29, 2023: The second edition of the Dragon Boat Race Festival is underway in Phewatal, Pokhara, with participation from teams representing not only Nepal but also China and Singapore.
As part of strengthening sports ties between Nepal and China, Minister for Youth and Sports Tejulal Chaudhary inaugurated the festival, which marks a significant milestone in promoting cultural exchange through sports. The competition showcases the harmonious relationship between Nepali citizens and people from China, aiming to foster unity and understanding through competitive sport.
Gandaki Provincial Government, the Embassy of People's Republic of China in Nepal, Pokhara Metropolitan City, and the Nepal Tourism Board collaborated on organizing the event. Minister Chaudhary highlighted that this festival will enhance Pokhara's sports and tourism sector by showcasing its beauty and unique attractions to international visitors.
Pokhara is poised to be a top destination for tourists from around the world, with its stunning natural landscapes, art, and culture, making it an ideal spot for cross-country races and water activities like dragon boat racing. The event aims to promote Pokhara as a sports tourism hub in Nepal, drawing more international visitors by 2025.
Mayor of Pokhara Metropolitan City, Dhanraj Acharya, further emphasized the importance of these sporting events in boosting local economics and fostering global connections through cultural exchange programs.
Social Development Youth and Sports Minister Bindukumar Thapa from Gandaki Province expressed appreciation for Pokhara's potential in sports tourism and called on Chinese authorities to consider operating direct flights from major Chinese cities to Pokhara, further boosting tourist infrastructure.
With a total of 20 participating teams, the two-day 'Nepal-China Friendly Dragon Boat Race Festival' promises to be an exciting event showcasing teamwork, skills, and cultural exchange between Nepalese and Chinese athletes.