Nepal International Film Festival (NIFF)

Overview

The Nepal International Film Festival (NIFF) is Nepal's most important general international film festival. Founded in 2006 and held annually in Kathmandu, the festival presents international and Nepali cinema in a competitive program, complementing the more specialized mountain-focused Kathmandu International Mountain Film Festival.

Nepal's film industry, known as Kollywood, has been developing alongside the country's modernization and democratization. Nepali-language films have found domestic audiences and the festival provides the most important showcase for both Nepali and international cinema in the country.

Kathmandu's position as a global gateway for trekking and mountaineering tourism means the city has a large international community passing through, providing audiences that include both Nepali citizens and visiting international travelers.

Key Sections

• International Competition -- films from around the world competing for prizes
• Nepali Film Competition -- new Nepali features and shorts
• South Asian Panorama -- films from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the region
• Documentary Program -- nonfiction features
• Short Films -- competitive short programs

What Filmmakers Should Know

NIFF accepts open submissions. For Nepali filmmakers, this is the most important domestic international platform alongside KIMFF. For South Asian filmmakers, the festival provides exposure in the Himalayan market.

Major Awards

• Best International Film -- jury prize
• Best Nepali Film
• Audience Award

Festival History

NIFF was founded in 2006 alongside Nepal's democratic transition and has operated as a platform for Nepal's growing film culture.

See Also

For the specialized mountain film festival, see Kathmandu International Mountain Film Festival. For South Asian cinema, see International Film Markets.