Bhaktapur – Aiming to promote tourism and showcase local arts, cuisine, and culture simultaneously, the Madhyapur Festival is set to take place in Madhyapur Thimi. The festival will be organized over an area spanning approximately 5.5 kilometers, according to Madhyapur Thimi Municipality’s Mayor Surendra Shrestha.
During a press conference held in Bhaktapur, the municipality announced that the Madhyapur Festival 2081 would be held on Poush 12, 13, and 14 (December 27-29, 2024).
The festival is being organized under the concept that tourism should be a partner in local development. By linking local heritage to employment and income, the aim is to make the local economy more dynamic and progressive. The municipality stated that understanding the direct, indirect, and induced economic impacts of tourism is necessary to achieve qualitative transformation in various aspects of the local economy. Festivals of various scales and opportunities are seen as sustainable foundations for tourism development and effective tools for its promotion.
Madhyapur Festival was first held in 2055 B.S., followed by the second in 2058 B.S., and the third in 2061 B.S., to promote the area as a tourist destination. Additionally, various events such as Wa Festival, Dhime Music Competitions, Flute Competitions, and Bhajan Singing Competitions have effectively brought both domestic and international tourists’ attention to the municipality.
Located in the heart of the Kathmandu Valley and serving as a gateway to popular tourist destinations like Bhaktapur, Changunarayan, Dhulikhel, and Jiri, Madhyapur Thimi Municipality is rich in archaeological and cultural heritage. It boasts ancient settlements from the Licchavi era, such as Thimi and Bode, along with other historical sites like Nagadesh, Tigani, Nikosera, and Lohakithali. Its art, culture, traditional crafts, scenic beauty, archaeological relics, and unique lifestyle have all contributed to its growing appeal to tourists.
The municipality is home to nearly 750 tangible heritage sites and more than 100 intangible ones. It is well-known for its 32 Khat (chariots) Biska Jatra, Mye Pwa Khonigu (Tongue Piercing) Festival, Lokeshwor Jatra, Chapya Khwa (Nilbarahi Dance), Pulukisi Jatra, Mahakali Dance, Bhailo Jatra, and Bhatimali Pyakhan (Indra Apsara Dance).
Additionally, the traditional professions and products like pottery, vegetable cultivation, and mask-making have made this municipality well-known. Despite modern advancements, Madhyapur Thimi has managed to preserve its art, culture, crafts, scenic beauty, archaeological monuments, and traditional way of life.
