Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN), with the generous support of RSPB, Tiger Tops Nepal, Lions Manaram Foundation 2005 Nepal, Travel-to-Nature Asia, Map House, and Adtech Media House, successfully concluded the Photo Exhibition of the National Bird Photo Contest 2026 with a closing and award distribution ceremony at Nepal Art Council, Babarmahal, Kathmandu.

The five-day exhibition, held from 13–17 August 2026, brought together more than 90 bird photographers, researchers, university graduates, BCN members, nature enthusiasts, and bird lovers, providing a platform to celebrate Nepal’s remarkable avian diversity through photography.

The exhibition was inaugurated on 13 August by Mr. Vimal Kumar Thapa, President of Bird Conservation Nepal. The inauguration ceremony also featured the announcement of the contest winners by Mr. Rajendra Suwal, Executive Member of the Nepal Zoological Society, Head of Partnerships Development at WWF Nepal, and a member of the jury for the National Bird Photo Contest 2026. The exhibition showcased a diverse collection of photographs capturing the beauty and diversity of Nepal’s birds. Each photograph not only highlighted the aesthetic value of Nepal’s avifauna but also conveyed the importance of protecting bird habitats and biodiversity.

The exhibition concluded on 17 August with a closing and award distribution ceremony chaired by Mr. Vimal Kumar Thapa, President of Bird Conservation Nepal. Dr. Ganesh Gurung, Executive Chairman of the Policy Research Institute Nepal and Advisor of BCN, attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest. In his remarks, Dr. Gurung highlighted the importance of photography in raising awareness about birds and biodiversity and emphasized the broader significance of conservation.

Mr. Steve from Tiger Tops Nepal also congratulated BCN for its efforts to promote bird conservation through the National Bird Photo Contest and exhibition. A key highlight of the closing ceremony was the announcement of the Viewer’s Choice Award, which was awarded to Mr. Sudeep KC for his photograph of a Common Kingfisher. Ms. Ishana Thapa, Chief Executive Officer of BCN, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and supporters whose contributions helped make the event a grand success.

All winners received certificates of appreciation and cash prizes, while the Viewer’s Choice Award winner also received a special package voucher from Tiger Tops Nepal. Participants of the National Bird Photo Contest 2026 were also presented with certificates of appreciation during the ceremony.

Winners of the National Bird Photo Contest 2026

• First Prize: Mr. Ishor Gurung — Red-headed Vulture
• Second Prize: Mr. Ambish Kaji Shakya — Great Cormorant
• Third Prize: Mr. Pratap Gurung — Savanna Nightjar
• Rare Record Award: Mr. Chudamani Chaudhary — Black-tailed Godwit
• Viewer’s Choice Award: Mr. Sudeep KC — Common Kingfisher

BCN warmly congratulates all the winners and appreciates every participant who contributed to making the exhibition a celebration of Nepal’s birds and bird photography. BCN also extends its sincere gratitude to all sponsors and supporters for their generous support in bringing this celebration of Nepal’s birds and biodiversity to the public.