Lekhnath Festival draws over 300,000 visitors, records 100 million rupees in transactions

December 29, Kathmandu: The ongoing 21st Lekhnath Festival has recorded an economic transaction of approximately 100 million rupees, with more than 300,000 visitors attending the event so far.

According to the organisers, around 310,000 people have visited the festival by its 11th day, exceeding initial expectations. Chairperson of the Lekhnath Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Festival Coordinator, Januka Parajuli Adhikari, said the festival has achieved greater success than anticipated.

The festival is concluding today. On Sunday alone, about 22,000 visitors attended the festival, generating an estimated 9 million rupees in business transactions, said Publicity Coordinator Dhuvababu Bhattarai.

The festival has played a significant role in promoting local art, culture, and products, while also contributing to tourism promotion, job creation, and overall economic activity in the region, organisers said.

A total of 336 stalls have been set up at the festival, featuring products ranging from automobiles and agricultural produce to garments and medicinal herbs.

Popularly known as the “Festival of Festivals,” the Lekhnath Festival has consistently contributed to the social, cultural, economic, and educational development of the area, Chairperson Adhikari noted. Alongside entertainment, the festival includes a wide range of programs related to literature, culture, agriculture, technology, and education.

Due to the availability of both domestic and imported goods at reasonable prices, the festival venue has effectively turned into a commercial hub. Treasurer of the Lekhnath Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Hari Bastakoti, said most visitors return home with purchased goods, leading to increased business activity compared to previous days.

Organisers also clarified that although a mermaid show had been advertised as a major attraction, it could not be displayed for the time being due to technical issues.