18th Annual Food Festival Set to Delight in Sauraha

The vibrant town of Sauraha in Chitwan is gearing up for the 18th edition of its annual food festival, scheduled to kick off on February 11 and run until February 15. Organized by the Restaurant and Bar Association of Nepal (REBAN), Sauraha Chapter, this culinary extravaganza coincides with the celebration of Valentine’s Day.

Dhruv Giri, the President of REBAN Sauraha, shared that the festival aims to blend the flavors of food, music, and culture to enthrall both domestic and international tourists. Anticipating a daily attendance of 5000 tourists, the event is expected to generate a turnover of Rs 30 million.

Program Coordinator Surya Bahadur Rimal highlighted the festival’s objectives, focusing on the promotion of traditional, local, and native food delicacies, along with showcasing the richness of local art, culture, and costumes. The goal is to elevate Sauraha’s profile as a tourist destination on both the national and international stages.

Over the course of the five-day festival, attendees can enjoy a tableau display featuring various castes, musical performances by both national and local artists, including the Axis Band. Additionally, there will be food exhibitions and competitions among local tribes, as well as a lively contest between waiters and waitresses. Special events like a Valentine’s Day program, a tug-of-war competition, the REBAN Cup municipal level volleyball competition, and an inter-school dance competition are also on the festival agenda.

REBAN Sauraha reported that approximately three hundred thousand tourists visited Chitwan National Park in the previous financial year 2079-080. The park has already welcomed around 150,000 visitors in the current financial year, indicating a continued interest in the region’s natural beauty and cultural offerings. The 18th Food Festival promises to add another layer of excitement to the area’s allure, providing a delightful experience for all who attend.