Nepal hosts International Hot-Air Balloon Festival

With Nepal's snowy Himalayan peaks as a backdrop, the sky above Pokhara transformed into a vibrant canvas of colors for the country's first hot-air balloon festival.

Tourism is a major earner for Nepal, which saw over a million foreign visitors this year after a post-pandemic bounceback. Investments are being made in hotels and airports to cater to travelers.

"We felt that we must bring a balloon festival like this to Nepal," Sabin Maharjan, an event organizer, told AFP.

Participants prepare their hot-air balloon during the International Hot-Air Balloon festival in Pokhara on December 24, 2024Photo by PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP

Hot-air balloons from more than 10 countries participated in the festival.

"A ride here can be exhilarating as you can see mountains, hills, and lakes," Maharjan added.

"All passengers tell us they are pleased -- such a festival will boost our tourism."

Hot air balloons rise in sky during the international festival at Pokhara in Nepal on December 25, 2024. Photo by PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP

'Spectacular'

The balloons created a mesmerizing display against the stunning sight of the snow-capped Annapurna range.

"It is spectacular," American balloon pilot Derek Hamcock, 67, said.

"As soon as you go above the small range here, you see all the Himalayas. Unbelievable, every time you see them, it is unbelievable."

Balloons shaped like rats and frogs joined the fun, slowly drifting with the breeze.

Participants prepare their hot air balloon during the international festival at Pokhara in Nepal on December 25, 2024. Photo by PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP

"You never know where you are going," said Diego Criado del Rey, 29, a balloon pilot from Spain.

"So it is pretty much you and nature -- not fighting, but being together. You go where the nature tells you."

Nepal's Civil Aviation Authority issued a nine-day notice for the skies over Pokhara to allow balloon flights.

Although over two centuries have passed since France's Montgolfier brothers made the first manned flight, ballooning can still capture the imagination.