KATHMANDU: The Third Nepal Bird Fair, organised by the Pokhara Bird Society, concluded in Lumbini with a major announcement that Nepal is likely to host the 16th Asian Bird Fair (ABF) in 2027, reinforcing the country’s growing profile in bird conservation and ecotourism.

The announcement was reportedly made at the closing ceremony by Victor Yu, Executive Member of the World Bird Fair Council. Conservationists and tourism stakeholders attending the event committed to working jointly to promote bird conservation while positioning Nepal as a leading destination for birdwatching-based tourism.

Held at the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the Third Nepal Bird Fair brought together more than 200 Nepali ornithologists, nature guides, wildlife photographers, researchers and conservationists, alongside 15 international experts from countries including India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Singapore, Hong Kong, Spain and Taiwan. Discussions focused on conservation challenges, research and sustainable ecotourism.

Experts at the fair noted that Nepal has recorded 903 bird species, of which nearly 19 percent (172 species) are currently threatened, underlining the urgency of coordinated conservation efforts.

The organisers also announced that the Fourth Nepal Bird Fair will be held next year at Thakurdwara, Bardiya, with the Bardiya Nature Conservation Club (BNCC) taking responsibility for local coordination.

Speaking at the event, Manshanta Ghimire, President of the Pokhara Bird Society, said the fair aims to make Lumbini a centre not only of peace and spiritual tourism, but also of birdwatching and ecotourism. Arjun Kurmi of the Lumbini Green Youth Club said local communities are gradually developing a positive attitude toward bird and habitat conservation.

As part of the programme, a senior Nepali journalist was honoured for over a decade of contributions to reporting on birds, wildlife, ecotourism and environmental conservation. The award was presented by Victor Yu with a certificate and cash prize.

The Asian Bird Fair is an annual regional platform promoting bird conservation, birdwatching and ecotourism across Asia. To date, it has attracted more than 140,000 participants from over 26 countries. The 15th Asian Bird Fair is scheduled to be held in Xiamen, China, from November 26 to 30, 2026.

According to the Asian Bird Fair Executive Committee, hosting the 16th Asian Bird Fair in 2027 requires prospective hosts to submit a letter of intent by June 30, 2026, endorsed by local or national government agencies. Host cities must also organise a five-day programme including a welcome dinner, a two-day bird fair, ecotourism and cultural tours, and provide logistical support for participating organisations and Executive Committee members.

The criteria further emphasise partnerships with local governments, community participation, international coordination and the promotion of ecotourism, areas that organisers say Nepal has been actively strengthening through events such as the Nepal Bird Fair.

With the successful conclusion of the Third Nepal Bird Fair and preparations underway for the next edition in Bardiya, organisers expressed confidence that Nepal is well-positioned to host the 16th Asian Bird Fair in 2027, following the 2026 event in China.