Api Himal tourism festival

The Api Himal Rural Municipality in Darchula has launched a three-day tourism festival designed to bolster the local economy and promote the region as a primary destination within Sudurpashchim Province. The event, which commenced on November 3, 2026, features a diverse program of cultural performances, literary symposiums, and wellness activities, including yoga and meditation camps. Organizers have also integrated sports into the schedule, hosting cricket and volleyball matches at the Api Himal Base Camp to showcase the area's potential for high-altitude adventure tourism. Rural Municipality Chairman Bhaktasingh Thekare Bohara stated that the festival aims to attract 10,000 visitors, ultimately fostering new employment opportunities and regional growth.

Beyond tourism promotion, the festival addresses environmental concerns, with a scheduled dialogue on climate change impacts in high-altitude regions. While Prime Minister Balendra Shah declined the invitation to attend due to scheduling conflicts, Minister for Education Sasmit Pokharel and Sudurpashchim Chief Minister Khagaraj Bhatta are participating. The event is managed by a committee with a budget of Rs 3.5 million.