Tourism is a major earner for Nepal, which saw over a million foreign visitors this year after a post-pandemic bounceback, and investments are being made in hotels and airports to cater to travellers.
“We felt that we must bring a balloon festival like this to Nepal,” Sabin Maharjan, an organiser of the event, told AFP.
Hot-air balloons from more than 10 countries participated in the festival.
“A ride here can be very exciting as you can see mountains, hills and lakes,” Maharjan added.
“All passengers tell us that they are very happy — such a festival will boost our tourism.”
‘Spectacular’
