Corporate Houses Rally Behind the “Festival of the Himalayas”

The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has high expectations for the second season of the Siddhartha Bank Nepal Premier League (NPL), projecting record revenue and unprecedented corporate participation as the tournament, which began on November 17, continues through December 13. Dubbed the “Festival of the Himalayas,” the NPL is quickly establishing itself as Nepal’s largest homegrown sporting and economic spectacle.

Siddhartha Bank continues to serve as the title sponsor of NPL, while brands such as Ncell, Omoda Jaecoo Nepal, Bajaj Pulsar and Xtep Nepal have partnered with CAN. More than 60 corporate houses are directly involved in the event this season, said Paras Khadka, secretary of Nepal's cricket governing body. 

All eight franchises from the first season have returned, each supported by their own sponsors. Lumbini Lions are backed by ride-hailing platform Yango. Kathmandu Gorkhas are sponsored by WorldLink Communications. Karnali Yaks have Asian Paints as one of their sponsors. The Sudurpaschim Royals are supported by Dabur Nepal. Biratnagar Kings include Everest Bank among their sponsors. Janakpur Bolts, the defending champions, have secured Cloud Educations & Visa Services as a key partner.

CAN officials say the breadth of sponsorship reflects renewed private-sector confidence in the NPL brand.

After earning Rs 276.8 million in the first season, CAN expects revenue to surpass Rs 400 million this year. Treasurer Padam Khadka said two days before the tournament began that sponsorship agreements worth Rs 154 million had been signed, while franchise owners will contribute Rs 90 million under their 10-year agreement with CAN.

Broadcast earnings are also climbing. The OTT streaming rights have been sold to DishHome Go for Rs 53 million, with CAN set to receive 71 percent of revenue beyond that threshold. On the eve of the tournament, Kantipur Max HD was announced as the official linear television partner for Nepal.

Ticket sales are expected to generate Rs 80–120 million, supported by upgraded infrastructure including new floodlights and a newly built 10,000-seat parapet.

CAN spokesperson Chhumbi Lama said each franchise spent Rs 80–100 million during the first edition, contributing to nearly Rs 1 billion in collective spending on team purchases, player signings, coaching staff, equipment, and accommodations.

Beyond cricket, the NPL has energized multiple sectors. The advertising market has grown, while hotels, restaurants and transport operators are reporting increased business.

Binayak Shah, president of the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN), said occupancy has rebounded sharply following a slump caused by the Gen Z protests in early September. “All teams are staying in star hotels, and the league has brought a welcome surge in activity,” he said.

CAN officials say the increasing involvement of major business houses highlights the emergence of sports as a viable commercial sector in Nepal. With rising audience enthusiasm, stronger investment and an improved league structure, the NPL is positioning itself not just as a sporting event but as a nationwide celebration of economic and cultural vitality.

As the second season progresses, expectations remain high that the NPL will strengthen its status as one of Nepal’s most influential and transformative annual events — both on and off the field.