A year long event- Visit Pokhara Year 2007 has been inaugurated by Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Pradeep Gyawali on January 01, 2007 in Pokhara, the western tourism hub of Nepal to promote the tourism industry in the post-conflict period by repositioning itself in the international market. Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA), Nepal Tourism Board and Pokhara Tourism Council are joint organizers of the event.

The main objectives of the event are to enhance the image of Pokhara as a must see tourist destination of Nepal; to help increase tourism activities in Nepal in the post-conflict political scenario of Nepal; to promote Pokhara, Lumbini, Palpa, Syangja, Tanahu and surrounding tourist destinations; to involve all key players and stakeholders for their active participation in enhancing the image of Pokhara and the surroundings; to help in conserving major products like Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Buddhist Circuits etc; and Identify and support in the area of improving Human Resources.

Inaugurating the event at a special function, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Pradeep Gyawali said, The celebration is being held to cash in on an opportunity brought about by the ongoing peace process. He said, With Visit Pokhara program, the government is attempting to spur tourism sector in the Western Region. The government is in the process of unveiling new Tourism Master Plan and Tourism Policy to boost the industry.

In response to the organizers` request, local leaders of major political parities pledged that they would reach a consensus among all political parities not to call for general strikes in Pokhara during the year-long celebration.

The campaign is the largest tourism event after restoration of peace in the country, will be marked by a series of celebrations throughout the year.