Feb 18, 2025

NASA Nepal Hosts Welcoming and Recognition Event Showcasing Motorsports and Tourism Potential

NASA Nepal Hosts Welcoming and Recognition Event Showcasing Motorsports and Tourism Potential

KATHMANDU, Feb 02: The Nepal Automobiles’ Association (NASA Nepal) successfully hosted a prestigious Welcoming and Recognition Program at Hotel Royal Tulip Kathmandu, celebrating Nepal’s growing presence in international motorsports and its role in tourism development.  

The event was graced by Hon. Teju Lal Chaudhary, Minister of Youth and Sports, who served as the chief guest, along with newly appointed Vice President of the National Sports Council, Mr. Dhurva Acharya, and NASA Nepal Chairman Mr. Dasrath Rijal.

Diprash Shakya, Krishna Poudel, Pragya Kandel, and many other players were also in attendance alone with the Team Manager Yadu Raj Lamichhane, underscoring the importance of players and the team in the development of the motorsports of Nepal.

 

With the theme “Take the Speed and Appreciate the Speed Makers,” the event reinforced how motorsports can be a catalyst for Nepal’s tourism sector. NASA Nepal announced an ambitious calendar of events for 2025, including:  

- Racemandu – Nepal’s signature motorsport event  

- Nepal Road Racing Championship 2025  

- National Sim Racing Series  

- National Autocross Championship  

- College to Karts Talent Program  

- Motorsport Games 2025  

The slogan “Fly to Nepal, Drive in Nepal” was highlighted as a key initiative, positioning Nepal as a motorsports and adventure tourism destination. Officials stressed that motorsports can bring international travelers to Nepal, not just as spectators but also as participants in world-class competitions.  

Minister Teju Lal Chaudhary acknowledged that bureaucratic hurdles, high taxes, and fragmented policies remain obstacles. However, he assured the gathering that the government recognizes the economic potential of motorsports and adventure tourism and will work towards addressing these challenges.   

Vice President Dhurva Acharya echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Nepal, with its diverse geography—from the Himalayas to the Terai—can become a hub for global sports tourism. He highlighted that international sports events generate foreign revenue and called for stronger infrastructure to support the motorsports industry.

Mr. Govinda Bhattarai, FIA World Council Member, emphasized the need for policy reforms to allow Nepal to host international motorsports events. He pointed out that Nepal has high-performance vehicles stationed in Dubai and Malaysia that remain unused due to regulatory restrictions and advocated for sports-friendly policies that would help develop infrastructure, facilities, and athlete participation.    

 

As part of the recognition ceremony, athletes and officials who represented Nepal at the 2024 World Motorsport Games in Spain were honored. A video presentation showcased NASA Nepal’s two-decade-long journey, encapsulated in the theme “20 Years, 20 Dreams.”  

Adding to the spirit of motorsports development, NASA Nepal Secretary Mr. Diprash Shakya donated his personal rally vehicle to the association, symbolizing a commitment to nurturing young talent in the country.  

The evening concluded with a token of appreciation presented to key figures, followed by a networking dinner, reinforcing the collaboration between sports, tourism, and policy leaders.  

The event was also a showcase of Hotel Royal Tulip Kathmandu’s state-of-the-art facilities, as it gears up for a full-scale launch. The hotel’s spacious and well-equipped banquet hall proved to be the ideal venue for high-profile gatherings. 

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