A press meet held in Lamahi on Wednesday shared details of the upcoming Nepal Owl Festival 2026, which will take place on 1–2 May 2026 at Ajammari Biodiversity Green Park near Lamahi Bus Park, Dang. Organizers said the festival will have free entry and expect more than 5,000 visitors.
Speaking at the program, Pawan Rijal, chairperson of the organizing committee, said Ajammari Community Forest Users Group is proud to be part of a festival that can create a positive impact on owl and bird conservation. He said the event is being organized to help people better understand the importance of owls and nature.
Raju Acharya, Director of FON Nepal, said owls are facing serious threats such as habitat loss, hunting, illegal trade, catapult attacks, and negative social beliefs. He said the festival aims to spread a conservation message across Nepal and beyond so that people develop a more positive attitude toward owls and support their protection in the future.
According to the press note, the two-day festival will include bird watching, cultural programs, student dances and dramas, local games, school competitions, conservation displays, research posters, organizational stalls, local products, and local food promotion. A temporary owl exhibition with information, photos, videos, sounds, and creative materials related to owls will also be one of the main attractions.
The festival will also honor conservation workers and organizations. The Nature Conservation Award 2026 will be presented to Dr. Roar Solheim, Dr. Tulsi Ram Subedi, Mr. Dadi Sapkota, and Dr. Hum Bahadur Gurung. The event will also give local conservation awards to journalist and snake rescuer Kuldeep Nyaupane and Kalika Community Forest Users Group, Rapti Rural Municipality–2, Deukhuri, Dang. In addition, Khaireni Community Forest Users Group of Rampur, Palpa and Bird Conservation Nepal, Pokhara Branch will be felicitated for their contribution to conservation.
Organizers said the festival is not only a celebration but also a public awareness campaign to protect owls, challenge harmful beliefs, and encourage people to work together for nature conservation.
