With the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas as a backdrop, Pokhara’s skies are transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors this week for Nepal’s first hot air balloon festival.
“We said to ourselves that we had to bring a hot air balloon festival like this back to Nepal” Sabin Maharjan, an organizer of the event, told AFP.
Hot air balloons from more than 10 countries were able to participate in the festival.
“A flight here can be really great as you can see mountains, hills and lakes,” assured M. Maharjan.
“All the passengers tell us that they are very happy, such a festival will stimulate our tourism industry. »

Hot air balloons rise into the sky during Nepal’s first hot air balloon festival, in Pokhara, December 24, 2024 / PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP
The balloons create a mesmerizing spectacle with the snow-capped Annapurna massif as a backdrop.
“It’s spectacular,” says Derek Hamcock, a 67-year-old hot air balloon pilot.
“As soon as you pass the small massif, you see the whole Himalayas. Amazing, every time you see it, it’s amazing”describes the sixty-year-old.
Although more than two centuries have passed since the Montgolfier brothers in France made the first manned flight, hot air balloons still spark the imagination.
Balloons in the shape of rats and frogs were also part of the party, slowly carried away by the breeze.
“You never know where you are going”says Diego Criado del Rey, a 29-year-old balloon pilot from Spain.

Participants in Nepal’s first hot air balloon festival in Pokhara, December 24, 2024 / Prakash MATHEMA / AFP
“It’s a bit like you and nature, there’s no struggle, you’re in harmony. You go where nature tells you to go”.
The Nepal Civil Aviation Authority has issued a nine-day sky advisory over Pokhara to allow hot air balloon flights.
Tourism is a major source of income for the country, which welcomed more than a million foreign visitors in 2024, and investments are being made in the hotel and airport sectors to meet the needs of travelers.