In a picturesque ceremony at Barahi Ghat, overlooking the beautiful Phewa Lake, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamla Dahal declared Pokhara the "tourism capital of Nepal.

• He cited Pokhara's distinction in combining natural and cultural adventure zones as the basis for the award.
• The announcement came amidst efforts to secure Chinese aid for an industrial park in eastern Nepal.
• One of Nepal's top tourist destinations is Pokhara. With effect today (March 17, 2024) , the Nepali government has formally named it the nation's center of tourism.