3rd Nepal Bird Fair in Lumbini, 2026

The 3rd Nepal Bird Fair was held in Lumbini, Rupandehi (Nepal) on 26–27 January 2026, bringing together bird lovers, conservationists, researchers, photographers, and eco-tourism promoters from Nepal and across South Asia. Organised by the Pokhara Bird Society, with Green Youth Lumbini as a local partner and supported by the Lumbini Sanskritik Municipality and Nepal Tourism Board, the fair marked a major celebration of Nepal’s rich birdlife and the importance of protecting avian habitats.

Nepal Bird Fair 2026

Lumbini: A Spiritual and Natural Haven

Lumbini is renowned worldwide as the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and is not only an iconic spiritual destination but also an important ecological zone. The region encompasses wetlands, farmland and forested spots that support a wide diversity of bird species, including the famed sarus crane, which thrives in the surrounding wetland areas.

A Two-Day Celebration of Birds and Nature

The 2026 Bird Fair was designed to be both educational and experiential. It offered a rich blend of activities targeted at enhancing appreciation for birds and raising awareness of conservation issues. Highlights included:

• Expert Talks & Symposiums
Several thematic forums and symposiums were held, focusing on topics such as bird ecology, migratory patterns, wetland conservation, and species monitoring. Special sessions included forums on waterbirds, vultures, and sarus crane conservation — acknowledging Lumbini’s ecological significance.

• Guided Birdwatching & Bird Race
Birdwatching tours and a “bird race” engaged participants in actively spotting and identifying different species across Lumbini’s wetlands and agricultural landscapes. These participatory events encouraged both novices and seasoned birders to connect directly with Nepal’s natural heritage.

• Youth Engagement & Training
Ahead of the fair, awareness and training programmes were conducted in local schools and for Lumbini nature guides — teaching bird identification skills and fostering conservation leadership among youth.

• Photo Exhibitions & Art
A highlight was a bird photography exhibition featuring stunning images submitted by local and international photographers, selected to celebrate Nepal’s avian wonders and support conservation messaging.

• Stalls, Eco-Products & Local Highlights
Visitors explored stalls showcasing bird art, conservation information, and local eco-products. These spaces facilitated community engagement and highlighted connections among culture, livelihoods, and biodiversity.

A Platform for Conservation Collaboration

The fair was more than a celebration as it served as a networking platform for conservation groups, tour operators, researchers, and policy advocates. Delegates and experts came from Nepal and neighbouring countries like India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Their presence reinforced the shared significance of migratory routes and biodiversity corridors across South Asia.

Organisations such as Bird Conservation Nepal, WWF Nepal, National Trust for Nature Conservation, and other wildlife and research groups supported the event, underscoring the broader effort to connect bird conservation with tourism development and sustainable livelihoods.

Why the Bird Fair Matters

Nepal’s diverse terrain — from the lowland wetlands of Lumbini to the high Himalayas — is home to hundreds of bird species. Events like the Nepal Bird Fair play an essential role in:

• Highlighting the importance of wetland and forest conservation

• Educating communities about the ecological value of birds

• Promoting bird and eco-tourism as sustainable economic opportunities

• Encouraging international collaboration on conservation science and policy

Conclusion

By showcasing the connections between culture, nature, and community stewardship in places like Lumbini, the 3rd Nepal Bird Fair helped reinforce Nepal’s identity as a key destination for birdwatchers and conservation advocates alike — a place where spiritual heritage and natural beauty coexist in harmony.