Pokhara marks 74th Annapurna Climbing Day

June 3, Kathmandu: The city of Pokhara celebrated the 74th Annapurna Climbing Day on June 3 with a series of events, including a morning rally. The event was organized by the Nepal Tourism Board Gandaki Province Office and featured traditional costumes, Panche Baja music, and a rally from the Fishtail Gate to the Barahi Sports Ground.

Addressing the event, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayankaji Shrestha said Pokhara’s role in nature, culture, and adventure tourism, and highlighted the government’s investment in tourism infrastructure.

DPM Shrestha also praised French climber Maurice Herzog for promoting Nepal’s tourism globally by climbing Annapurna in 1950.

Surendra Raj Pandey, the Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, advocated for sustainable tourism. 

China’s Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, also took part in the celebrations.

Hanan Goder, Israel’s Ambassador to Nepal, highlighted Pokhara’s global appeal and suggested that with improved management, the city could attract even more tourists.

Three climbers were honoured during the event: Purnima Shrestha, Dawa Yongjam Sherpa, and Lakpa Dendi Sherpa.

Diplomats, from China, the USA, and Israel among other countries, also participated in activities including a boat ride on Fewatal and a study visit to Sarangkot.

Additional activities included a hiking program in Raniban and an observation of the “View Phewa Round Phewa” trail.

The day commemorates the first ascent of Annapurna by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal on June 3, 1950, marking a pivotal moment in Nepal’s tourism history.