Pokhara Rangasala, also known as the Pokhara National Stadium, is a prominent multi-purpose sports stadium located in Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most scenic and rapidly developing cities. The stadium serves as a major venue for national and regional sports events, cultural programs, and public gatherings, making it a centerpiece of Pokhara’s athletic and civic life.

Overview

• Name: Pokhara Rangasala (Pokhara National Stadium)

• Location: Pokhara, Kaski District, Gandaki Province, Nepal

• Established: Originally constructed in the 1980s (major upgrades over the years)

• Type: Multi-purpose stadium

• Capacity: Estimated around 20,000 spectators (subject to renovations)

• Main Uses: Football (soccer), athletics, national tournaments, and public ceremonies

• Ownership: Government of Nepal (under the National Sports Council)

Historical Background

The idea of a national stadium in Pokhara emerged in the late 20th century as the city began to expand as a tourist and sports hub. The stadium was built to:

• Provide a platform for sports development in western Nepal

• Host inter-province and national-level sports events

• Serve as a training and competition ground for local athletes

• Promote regional pride and athletic excellence

Over time, Pokhara Rangasala has hosted many significant sporting events, including segments of the South Asian Games (SAG) and the National Games of Nepal.

Stadium Facilities and Features

Pokhara Rangasala is a multi-sport facility, with infrastructure that supports a variety of athletic disciplines.

Key Features:

• Main Football Ground: Natural grass surface with standard goalposts and fencing

• Athletic Track: Used for sprinting, long-distance, and field events like javelin and shotput

• Seating Stands: Concrete bleachers with covered VIP areas (in newer sections)

• Scoreboards and Lighting: Limited lighting for evening games (being modernized)

• Changing Rooms and Lockers: Available for athletes and officials

• Commentary Boxes and Press Area: For live match coverage and media use

Recent upgrades have aimed at increasing the stadium’s functionality and spectator comfort, especially during major events like the President’s Running Shield, SAF games, and Martyrs Memorial Leagues.

Major Events Hosted

Pokhara Rangasala has hosted some of Nepal’s most notable sporting events:

• 13th South Asian Games (SAG) – 2019

  • Pokhara was a key venue for women’s football and triathlon events.

  • This brought international attention to the stadium and led to upgrades.

• National Games of Nepal

  • The stadium has frequently been a venue for the opening and closing ceremonies, along with athletics and football.

• Martyr’s Memorial League (regional matches)

  • Local football clubs such as Pokhara Thunders and Gandaki Province teams use the stadium regularly.

Importance to Pokhara and Western Nepal

As the largest stadium in western Nepal, Pokhara Rangasala serves several key roles:

• Regional Sports Development Center

• Venue for School, College, and Inter-District Tournaments

• Training Ground for Provincial Athletes

• Cultural and Public Events: Dashain fairs, concerts, and civic programs

It also helps promote sports tourism, with visitors combining their love for athletics with Pokhara’s natural attractions like Phewa Lake, Sarangkot, and the Annapurna trekking circuit.

Challenges and Development Efforts

Despite its significance, Pokhara Rangasala faces some infrastructure challenges:

Challenges:

• Limited seating compared to international stadiums

• Inadequate lighting for night matches

• Aging facilities in certain sections

Recent Developments:

• Renovations ahead of the 13th South Asian Games

• Push for synthetic athletic tracks

• Government and local council interest in public-private partnerships for modernization

• Discussions of converting it into an international-grade stadium

Fun Facts and Trivia

• During the SAG 2019, women’s football matches in Pokhara had record-breaking female attendance, showcasing the city’s support for women in sports.

• The stadium is located just minutes from Lakeside Pokhara, making it one of the most scenic sports venues in South Asia.

• It is one of the few stadiums in Nepal where mountain views are visible from the spectator stands on clear days.

How to Visit or Participate

Whether you’re a spectator, athlete, or just a sports enthusiast, Pokhara Rangasala welcomes everyone:

• Ticketed Events: Usually available at the gate or through local promoters

• Community Access: Local teams can request permission for training or small tournaments through the Pokhara Sub-Metropolitan Sports Department

• Tourist Interest: Even without an event, visitors often drop by to take photos and witness local practice sessions

Conclusion

Pokhara Rangasala stands as a proud symbol of athleticism, community spirit, and cultural pride in Pokhara. As the city evolves, so does the stadium—playing a vital role in Nepal’s journey toward becoming a more sports-oriented nation. Whether you’re watching a thrilling football match or cheering for athletes under the Himalayan sky, Pokhara Rangasala offers an unforgettable experience at the heart of Nepal’s sports movement.