Do you love festivals? Do you agree that festivals show the cultural importance of a country?
We have already published numerous articles on our blog (you can view our blog archives here at Heaven Himalaya) about the natural beauty of Nepal, including the location of Heaven Himalaya. And Trekking in Nepal. But today, let’s talk about something dissimilar. This time, we are going to share about the most important 26 festivals of Nepal. So, let’s begin.
Nepal is a small country, but it is actually rich in culture and traditions. The two main religions here are Hinduism and Buddhism. Countless people also follow a mix of both, along with some old local beliefs. The traditions of these religions go back thousands of years. Nepal is also the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini, and Hindu rituals are still very strong today. That is why Nepal is often called a country of vibrant festivals.
People in Nepal love celebrating. For them, life is full of colors, and every moment is special. Festivals are one of the best ways to enjoy life. There are so many festivals here that it feels like there is always something to celebrate. The main aim people celebrate festivals is to honor their religion and traditions. But festivals are not only about worship. They also bring happiness, fun, and family time. During festivals, families gather, eat together, sing, dance, and share joy. It is also a time to relax and forget daily worries.
In Nepal, every community also respects the festivals of other communities. Hindus enjoy Buddhist festivals, and Buddhists join Hindu ones. This respect and sharing is the reason Nepal has such a harmonious lifestyle. Of course, there are so many festivals that it is not possible to name them all. But in this article, we will try to share the main festivals of Nepal, the ones that are most popular among locals and also very interesting for tourists from around the world.
Importance of Festivals in Nepal
a. Cultural Significance
Festivals in Nepal are not only yearly events; they are also a way to keep our culture alive. Every festival has a story and a meaning that connects people to their past. For example, Dashain is about the victory of good over evil, while Indra Jatra is about thanking the god of rain. These festivals remind people of old traditions and beliefs. They are celebrated with music, dance, rituals, and food. In this way, festivals help pass culture from parents to children, so that Nepal’s special traditions never disappear.
b. Religious Unity
Nepal has two main religions, Hinduism and Buddhism, and both live together in peace. Many festivals are shared by both religions, and this creates unity among people. For example, Buddha Jayanti (the birthday of Lord Buddha) is important for both Hindus and Buddhists. In the same way, Tihar is a festival where people worship Hindu gods and also show respect to animals like dogs, cows, oxen, and crows, which are loved by both faiths. This sharing of festivals brings people closer, no matter which religion they follow.
c. Social Gathering
Festivals are also a time when people come together. They give families and friends a chance to meet, especially when several people live away from home for work. For example, during Dashain, almost every family in Nepal folds to perform rituals, eat food, and give blessings to each other. In towns and villages, there are street dances, processions, and fairs. These gatherings create happiness, friendship, and a strong bond between people. Festivals are not just about religion or culture; they are also about togetherness and joy.
Major Festivals of Nepal
Nepal is often referred to as a land of festivals because people celebrate numerous festivals throughout the year. Festivals are a big part of daily life here. Some festivals are singular for certain communities, while others are celebrated by the whole country. No matter where you are, festivals bring joy, music, food, and togetherness. Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the most important festivals in Nepal that everyone loves to celebrate.
Dashain
Dashain is the major and longest festival in Nepal. Dashain is the longest and most important Hindu festival in Nepal. It is celebrated for 15 days, usually in September or October. During this time, schools, government offices, and many businesses remain closed so that everyone can celebrate. People from all backgrounds enjoy this festival. Families eat delicious food, buy new clothes, clean and decorate their homes, and spend time together. For shopkeepers and businessmen, Dashain is also a very busy and profitable time, because many people go shopping.
One of the most popular activities during Dashain is flying kites. It is believed that flying kites is a way to tell the gods to stop the rainy season. People also love playing cards and swinging on big bamboo swings, called ping, which are usually tied to tall trees or wooden poles. These activities bring joy to both children and adults.
Another part of Dashain is the sacrifice of animals like goats, chickens, sheep, or buffalo to honor the goddess Durga. However, in recent years, some people have started offering fruits, vegetables, and other symbolic items in place of animals. This change is encouraged by animal rights supporters and is slowly becoming popular.
Tihar
Tihar is the second most important festival in Nepal after Dashain. It lasts for five days and is also called Yama Panchak. Tihar is a bright and colorful festival celebrated for five days in October or November. It is a time of happiness, light, and respect. In the Terai region, people call it Diwali, while the Newar community calls it Swanti. Tihar is known as the festival of lights because people decorate their homes with oil lamps, candles, and colorful lights. It is also famous for its delicious food, songs, and the special bond between brothers and sisters.
Tihar is unique because people also worship certain animals and birds that are very important in daily life. These include the crow, dog, cow, and ox. Each of them has a special day during the festival.
- Day 1 – Kaag Tihar (Crow Day): On this day, people give food to crows, usually rice and grains. The crow is believed to be a messenger, so feeding it is thought to bring good news.
- Day 2 – Kukur Tihar (Dog Day): Dogs are honored with garlands, tika, and good food for their loyalty and protection.
- Day 3 – Gai Tihar (Cow Day): Cows are worshipped as symbols of wealth and motherly love. Houses are decorated with lights, and in the evening, children and youths sing Deusi-Bhailo songs.
- Day 4 – Govardhan Puja / Ox Day: On this day, oxen are worshipped for their hard work in farming.
- Day 5 – Bhai Tika: This is the most special day of Tihar. Sisters put tika on their brothers’ foreheads, pray for their long life, and give them gifts. Brothers also give presents to their sisters as a sign of love and care.
Tihar is not only about lights and worship, but also about togetherness, happiness, and family love.
Buddha Jayanti
Buddha Jayanti is a very special day in Nepal, not only for Buddhists but also for Hindus. It is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Baisakh (April–May). On this day, people remember the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha, all of which are believed to have occurred on the same full moon.
People celebrate by giving daan (donations) to monks and priests, offering food, clothes, or other daily needs. At stupas and monasteries, there are prayers, chanting of mantras, and peaceful gatherings. Buddha Jayanti is a day of kindness, respect, and reflection.
Buddha was born in Nepal, in Kapilvastu, as Prince Siddhartha Gautama. According to legends, when Queen Maya Devi gave birth, Siddhartha immediately took seven steps. Some believe this presented that he was the supreme being of the world, while others say it meant his teachings would one day spread everywhere.
As a young prince, Siddhartha lived a life of comfort and wealth. He married Yasodhara at the age of 19 and had a son named Rahul. But at the age of 29, he left his royal life in search of the truth and an end to human sorrow. Later, he became the Buddha, the Enlightened One, whose teachings of peace and sympathy still guide people around the world.
Holi
Holi is one of the biggest and most colorful festivals of Nepal and India. It is also called the festival of colors because people throw colored powders and splash water on each other. Holi is celebrated to welcome spring, the season of flowers and new life. The many colors used during the festival show the beauty and variety of spring itself. Apart from Nepal and India, Holi is also celebrated in countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines.
Holi is not only about fun and colors; it also has a deep meaning. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil. There is a legend about a demon king named Hiranyakashyap and his sister Holika. Holika had a special power that made her safe from fire. To harm the young prince Prahlad, who was a great devotee of Lord Narayan, Holika took him into a burning fire. But because of Prahlad’s devotion, he came out unharmed, while Holika was burned. The name Holi comes from her. This story shows how truth and goodness always win.
During Holi, people gather in the streets, sing, dance, and celebrate with friends and family. Numerous events and parties are organized, and sometimes even famous people and artists join in, making the festival even more lively. Holi is a day full of joy, colors, and togetherness.
Maghe Sankranti
Maghe Sankranti is one of the major Hindu festivals in Nepal. It is celebrated every year on the 1st of Magh according to the Nepali Bikram Sambat calendar. This day is supposed to be the coldest day of the year, and people celebrate it with the hope that warmer spring days will arrive soon. In India, some Hindus also celebrate this festival as Makar Sankranti. From this day, according to the calendar, the sun begins to move northwards into Makar Rashi (Capricorn).
On Maghe Sankranti, Hindus wake up early and take a ritual bath in holy rivers and places across the country. Popular sites include the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Devghat in Chitwan, the Gandaki basin near the Indian border, the Koshi River in Dolalghat, and several others. After bathing, families prepare and eat special traditional foods like sweet potatoes, sesame laddoos (til KO laddu), and ghee. These dishes are believed to keep the body warm and strong in winter.
The festival is especially significant for the Newar community in Kathmandu Valley and the Tharu community in the western Terai, including districts like Kailali, Kanchanpur, Banke, Bardiya, and Dang. Among the Newars, the day is called Ghya Chaku Sanhlu, where ghya means ghee, chaku means molasses, and sanhlu means sankranti. Families gather and eat these foods together to mark the day.
For the Kirat community, Maghe Sankranti is celebrated as Yele Dhung, which is their New Year. It is said to remember the day when Kirant King Yalambar took control of Kathmandu Valley. People believe that worshipping idols during this festival brings prosperity, food, and wealth.
The festival is also linked to the story of Bhishma Pitamaha from the great Hindu epic Mahabharata. Bhishma was the grandfather of the Pandavas and Kauravas. He had chosen not to die until an auspicious time came. On Maghe Sankranti, lying on a bed of arrows, he finally left his body. Because of this, many people believe that those who die on this day go directly to heaven, free from the cycle of rebirth. Maghe Sankranti is therefore a festival of faith, family gatherings, and food, bringing warmth to the coldest time of the year.
Teej
Teej usually lasts for three days and is celebrated on the third day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Saawan, which falls around late July to early September. During the festival, women also offer flowers, fruits, and coins to the lingam (a symbol of Lord Shiva) while singing, dancing, and enjoying the festive spirit. Teej is not only about fasting and prayers; it is also a day full of joy, music, dance, and togetherness.
Teej is a very special festival in Nepal, especially for Hindu women. It is a time to celebrate, meet friends and family, and enjoy together. Women celebrate Teej to pray for the long life and happiness of their husbands and for a good married life.
The story behind Teej is about Goddess Parvati, who fasted with devotion so she could marry Lord Shiva. Women follow her example by performing fasts, showing their faith and love. Some women fast for 24 hours without eating or drinking, while others take fruits for energy so they can dance and enjoy the day.
Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri, often called Shivaratri, is one of the most important Hindu festivals in Nepal. It is celebrated in the month of Falgun (February–March) on the night of Krishna Chaturdasi according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This festival is devoted to Lord Shiva and is believed to be both the day of his birth and the day he married Goddess Parvati. Shivaratri is also considered one of the four great holy nights declared in Hindu scriptures, known as Kaalratri, Moharatri, Sukharatri, and Shivaratri.
On this day, people visit many Shiva temples across Nepal, but the most well-known celebration takes place at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. Thousands of devotees gather there to worship Lord Shiva. The temple stays open until midnight, unlike normal days when it usually opens early in the morning. Various people line up all night to get a chance to worship the god.
Another unique part of Shivaratri is the use of cannabis and marijuana. These items are usually illegal in Nepal, but on this festival day, they are openly used and offered as part of the rituals. Many devotees believe that these materials are sacred to Lord Shiva, and so it is common to see people smoking or using them around the temple. Maha Shivaratri is a night full of prayers, devotion, and faith, where people stay awake, chant mantras, and honor the great Lord Shiva.
Krishna Janmashtami
Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark half (Krishna Paksha) of the month of Bhadra in the Nepali calendar. This festival marks the birth of Lord Krishna and is celebrated by Hindus not only in Nepal but all over the world.
Many devotees fast until midnight, the time when Krishna was born. They read verses from the Bhagwat Gita, sing bhajans (spiritual songs), and offer prayers. Temples of Lord Krishna are decorated with lights and flowers, and people gather to sing and chant all night.
In Nepal, celebrated temples like Krishna Mandir in Patan Durbar Square and Narayanhiti Krishna Mandir are the main places for celebrations. Devotees stay awake throughout the night, singing hymns, clapping, and praying. People slowly move up the temple steps to see the main idol of Lord Krishna. They bring flowers, coins, and food as offerings, and wait patiently for a glimpse of the idol. Krishna Janmashtami is a night of faith, devotion, and joy, where families and communities come together to honor Lord Krishna and celebrate his life.
Indra Jatra
Indra Jatra, also called Yenya by the Newar community, is one of the biggest street festivals in Kathmandu, Nepal. The name comes from the Newar language: Ye means Kathmandu, and ya means festival, so it is the festival of Kathmandu city.
Indra Jatra is celebrated every year from Bhadra Dwadasi to Ashwin Krishna Chaturdasi. Three days after the festival starts, a chariot procession takes place. Three chariots carry idols of the gods Ganesh, Bhairava, and the living goddess Kumari. These chariots are pulled through the streets of Kathmandu, trailed by musical bands, and people gather to watch and celebrate for three days.
The chariots move along Basantapur, Itchha, Nara Devi, Tangal, Bangemudha, Asan, and Indrachowk, before returning to Basantapur. After a short rest, the chariots are taken to Mahankal and then back to Hanumandhoka to end the festival.
Indra Jatra is not just a festival; it is a proud symbol of Newar culture and tradition. It displays how Nepal’s ancient culture and customs have developed over centuries and remain a significant part of life in Kathmandu.
Gai Jatra
Gai Jatra is a festival full of dancing, singing, and laughter. It is one of the greatest vital festivals in Nepal, especially in the Kathmandu Valley (Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur). The festival is celebrated by the Newar community to remember and honor family members who have passed away during the year.
During Gai Jatra, families who lost a loved one lead a procession through the streets. They usually take a cow in the parade. If a cow is not available, a young boy dressed as a cow can take its place. This tradition helps families share their grief and heal through humor, music, and community provision.
Gai Jatra usually falls in the month of Bhadra (August–September) according to the Nepali lunar calendar. People dress in funny costumes and perform satirical demonstrations on the streets. Even in ancient times, it is said that the king allowed people to speak freely and joke during the festival. The laughter and performances help everyone happily remember the deceased, knowing that their loved ones are safe in the afterlife. Gai Jatra is not just about fun; it is a festival of love, remembrance, and luxury for families who have lost someone dear.
Yomari Punhi
Yomari Punhi is an important festival of the Newar community in Nepal. It is celebrated on the full moon day of Thinlã, the second month of the Nepali lunar calendar. This festival marks the end of the rice harvest and is closely linked with a special Newari food called Yomari.
During the festival, people offer Yomari to Annapurna, the Goddess of Food, to thank her for a good harvest. In the evening, children go from house to house asking for Yomari, enjoying the sweet treat.
The word Yomari means “tasty bread.” It is made from freshly harvested rice flour shaped like a fig, filled with sesame seeds and brown sugar, and then steamed. People trust that eating Yomari keeps away the cold, and there is a fun tradition that the longer the tail of Yomari, the shorter the winter will be.
In some places, like Hari Siddhi and Thecho, singular masked dances are achieved during the festival. People also make Yomari in the shape of gods and goddesses, such as Laxmi, Kuber, and Ganesh, as a sign of devotion. Yomari is often compared to the Earth, with its two sides on behalf of the North and South Poles.
Yomari Punhi is a festival of thankfulness, delicious food, and joyful traditions, celebrated with family, friends, and community.
Chhath
Chhath is a main Hindu festival in Nepal, mainly celebrated in the Terai region. It is observed on the sixth day of Kartik (October–November) according to the Hindu lunar calendar, which is why it is called Chhath, meaning sixth. The exact day may be slightly different from the regular Nepali calendar. For example, this year, Chhath falls on Mangshir 1 in the Nepali calendar.
The main purpose of Chhath is to thank the Sun God (Surya) for protecting and sustaining life on Earth. Devotees believe that Surya blesses them with health, prosperity, and happiness. The festival involves strict rituals and is not easy to perform, but people follow it with full devotion. The puja and prayers during the festival are dedicated to Surya (Sun), Kartik, Agni (Fire), and Chhathi Maiya.
The most important rituals happen on the sixth and seventh day during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon). Devotees fast strictly and make offerings to the Sun God, usually on the banks of rivers or lakes. It is also believed that performing Chhath benefits in slowing down aging and brings long-lasting health to the devotees.
Chhath is a festival of devotion, discipline, and gratitude, where families come together to honor the Sun God and celebrate life.
Ramadan
Ramadan is the most important festival for Muslims and is also one of the major festivals in Nepal for the Nepali Muslim community. It takes place in the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which begins with the sighting of the new moon. This month is actually special because it is believed that the Qur’an was first revealed during Ramadan, making it the holiest time of the year for Muslims.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is a way to become closer to God, practice self-control, and remember those who are less fortunate. Various Muslims also donate to charities and feed the hungry during this month.
Ramadan is also a time to focus on prayers, reflection, and spiritual growth. People often dress modestly, spend more time at the mosque, and recite the Qur’an, especially just before breaking their fast at sunset. Muslims try to pray on time and growth their remembrance of God during this holy month.
Ramadan is not just about fasting; it is a time of discipline, generosity, and connection with God, celebrated with family, community, and devotion.
Chaite Dashain
Chaite Dashain is a special Hindu festival in Nepal, celebrated mainly by Nepali Hindus. It receives place in the month of Chaitra (March–April) according to the Nepali calendar. This festival is considered a younger sibling of the main Dashain, so sometimes it is also called Sano Dashain or Chaitra Ashtami.
Chaite Dashain is celebrated for two days. The first day, called Ashtami, is known as Chaite Dashain, and the second day, called Navami, is celebrated as Ram Navami. The Ashtami day is observed six months after the Maha Ashtami of the main Dashain festival.
Even though Chaite Dashain is smaller than the main Dashain, it still celebrates the victory of good over evil. People enjoy small gatherings, prayers, and rituals, and it gives students and families a chance to celebrate after school activities end.
Chaite Dashain is less crowded than the main Dashain, but it is still a meaningful festival that keeps the tradition alive and brings people together in joy and devotion.
Gadhimai
Gadhimai is a very old Hindu festival in Nepal, celebrated in Bariyapur village, Bara district, in the southern part of the country. It is considered one of the largest animal sacrifice festivals in the world. The festival is held at Gadhimai Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Gadhimai, the goddess of power and strength. This festival occurs once every five years and lasts for about a month, although the main rituals take place over two big days.
During Gadhimai, devotees have faith that sacrificing animals will make the goddess happy and bring them good luck, health, and prosperity. Animals like buffaloes, goats, chickens, pigs, and pigeons are offered in the temple. Thousands of people from Nepal and India, especially from the northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, gather to take part in the festival. Many animals are transported from India, while others are bought from local farmers.
The festival includes prayers, chanting, and rituals, along with the sacrificial offerings. Devotees believe that participating in Gadhimai will remove bad luck and protect their families from problems. Over the years, the festival has drawn international attention, not only because of its large scale but also due to concerns about animal welfare and modern ethical views.
Even today, Gadhimai leftovers are an important part of Nepalese culture and religion, presenting how faith and tradition are celebrated in this part of the world. It is a festival full of devotion, rituals, and cultural significance, connecting people from different regions in shared faith.
Sonam Lhosar
Sonam Lhosar is an important festival in Nepal, especially for the Tamang community. It is celebrated as the New Year according to the calendar followed by the Tamang people. The word “Lho” means year, “Sar” means new, and “Sonam” refers to the Tamang people. So, Sonam Lhosar means the Tamang New Year.
This festival is also celebrated by approximately other Himalayan communities, including Yolmo, Dura, Thakalis of Mustang, Dolpalis, and Sinsas from Sankhuwasabha. According to the Nepali lunar calendar, Sonam Lhosar falls in the month of Magh (January in the Gregorian calendar), on Magh Shukla Pakshya. This year marks the 2849th Sonam Lhosar celebration of the community.
During the festival, monasteries are beautifully decorated with colorful ornaments. People visit monks and priests to receive blessings for health, prosperity, and happiness. Families celebrate with big feasts at home, and daughters and sisters are asked to receive blessings and exchange greetings with relatives.
Sonam Lhosar is a festival of joy, family, and new beginnings, where communities come composed to celebrate the start of a fresh year with prayers, food, and happiness.
Tamu Lhosar
Tamu Lhosar is a festival of the Gurung community in Nepal. The word “Tamu” refers to the Gurung people, and “Lhosar” means New Year. So, Tamu Lhosar is the Gurung New Year. This festival is celebrated on 15th Poush (December–January) according to the Nepali calendar and is a public holiday in Nepal. It also marks the commencement of the Tamu Sambat, the calendar of the Gurung community.
Tamu Lhosar is the most important festival for the Gurungs. Families come together to celebrate, share love, and exchange greetings. In Kathmandu, many Gurung people gather at Tundikhel, dressed in their beautiful traditional clothes. They perform cultural programs, sing, dance, and carry out rituals together.
In the villages, people celebrate in their courtyards, enjoying meals, music, and the company of family and neighbors. Tamu Lhosar is a festival full of happiness, tradition, and togetherness, bringing the Gurung community closer every year.
Matya
Matya is an important festival of the Newar community in Lalitpur, Nepal. In the Newar language, Matya means festival of lights. This exciting festival begins early in the morning on the third day of the dark fortnight of Shrawan (August). Matya is celebrated after Qwati Punhi (Janai Purnima) and Gaijatra.
Mata is especially popular in the Kathmandu Valley, where it is celebrated with an extended parade of enthusiastic shrine-walkers. These people walk around all the Buddhist shrines in and around the city of Patan. Patan alone has more than 1,300 Buddhist shrines! The parade usually includes three to four thousand shrine-walkers, all dressed colorfully and participating with joy.
Every ten years, a local neighborhood group (Tolle) is responsible for organizing the parade. They also train a team of traditional drummers, called Naubaja Khalah, who perform their best skills in public during the festival. These drum presentations are a very special part of Matya, adding music, energy, and excitement to the celebrations. Matya is a festival of light, music, and culture, showing the deep traditions and devotion of the Newar people in the Kathmandu Valley.
Rato Machindranath Jatra
Rato Machindranath Jatra is one of the longest street festivals in Nepal. It lasts for a whole month and features a huge chariot, over 60 feet tall, decorated with flowers, garlands, and colorful ornaments.
The chariot is built at Pulchowk in the western part of Lalitpur. After it is ready, the idol of Rato Machindranath is placed inside. Machindranath is the god of rain, and people believe that when the chariot is pulled, it rains to show the god is happy with the devotees.
This festival is celebrated by both Hindus and Buddhists of the Newar community. The pulling of the chariot and all festival activities are done by the local Newar people themselves. People believe that Machindranath is the father of the Kathmandu Valley, a tradition that has continued since medieval times.
In Patan and Kathmandu, there are similar celebrations. In Kathmandu, the chariot is for Seto Machindranath, while in Patan it is for Rato Machindranath. The festival is full of joy, devotion, and community spirit, and it brings people together to honor the god of rain.
Bisket Jatra
Bisket Jatra is one of the most important festivals of Nepal. It is special to Bhaktapur and celebrates the Nepali New Year according to the Bikram Sambat calendar. The festival lasts for about a week and is full of joy, rituals, and colorful traditions.
During Bisket Jatra, chariots (Raths) are built to honor diverse gods and goddesses. The chariots are made from big wooden wheels and thick wooden bases, and shrines of deities are placed on top. Sometimes, a lingo (pole) is also erected to mark the start of the New Year. In Bhaktapur, the festival is celebrated with great excitement. In Kathmandu and Lalitpur, smaller Raths are also made, usually for Kumari, Bhadrakali, and other deities. People gather to pray, enjoy the celebrations, and welcome the New Year.
Bisket Jatra is a festival of new beginnings, happiness, and hope. It is a way to leave behind the past year’s struggles and celebrate the promises and joys of the year ahead. People take part with devotion, believing that the prayers to the chariots and divinities will bring them prosperity and happiness in the coming year.
Mata Tirtha Aunshi
Mata Tirtha Aunshi is an important Hindu festival in Nepal that honors mothers. It is similar to Mother’s Day in other countries, but in Nepal, it is also a religious and cultural festival. People celebrate this day to show respect, love, and gratitude to their mothers for their care and sacrifices.
On this day, people give their mothers gifts, clothes, their favorite food, and other items as a way to express love and respect. It is considered a very auspicious day, and many people perform special rituals at home to honor their mothers.
Many devotees also visit Mata Tirtha, a sacred pilgrimage site. They take a holy bath and make offerings at the sacred pond, believing that the souls of their departed mothers come to receive the blessings. Some people also perform Pinda Daan or Sharadhha rituals at Pashupati Temple or nearby holy places, which is done for the peace of the departed souls. Mata Tirtha Aunshi is a festival of love, respect, and remembrance, showing the special bond between mothers and their children.
Bhoto Jatra
Bhoto Jatra is a special festival celebrated in Patan, Nepal, and it is part of the Raato Machindranath festival, which lasts for one month. Bhoto Jatra happens on a specific day during this month and is believed to bring good blessings and success to everyone.
The festival is named after the Bhoto, an ornamented vest with a long history. The Bhoto is kept with the idol of Raato Machindranath, the god of rain. Every year, at the end of the chariot (Rath) pulling festival, the Bhoto is shown to the public. People watch in hopes that someone might prove it belongs to them. Even today, no one has been able to claim the Bhoto, so it stays with the idol of Raato Machindranath. Each year, it is brought out and displayed for the people to see, keeping the tradition alive. Bhoto Jatra is a festival full of history, mystery, and devotion, and it is an important part of Patan’s cultural heritage.
Ghode Jatra
Ghode Jatra, also called the Festival of Horses, is a general festival in Nepal. It is also known as Horse Racing Day. Ghode Jatra is celebrated in the month of Chaitra on the new moon day (Aunsi Krishna Paksha) according to the Hindu or Nepali calendar. On the same day, another Newar festival called Pahachare is also celebrated.
During Ghode Jatra, the city is full of joy and excitement, and people’s faces are bright with happiness. Horses are decorated and raced, and many people gather to watch and celebrate together. During Pahachare, family members visit important temples in Kathmandu, such as Bhadrakali near Sahid Gate, Mahankaal near Tudhikhel, and Sankata in New Road. People worship the gods and offer prayers and gifts to ensure a happy, safe, and prosperous year for their families.
The origin of Ghode Jatra is not clearly known. Over the years, the story of how this festival started has changed, and the exact history remains a mystery. Ghode Jatra is a festival of horses, celebration, and community spirit, enjoyed by people of all ages in Kathmandu.
Pahachare
Pahachare is an important festival of the Newar community in Nepal. It is mostly celebrated in the Kathmandu Valley on the same day as Ghode Jatra, which is the new moon day of the second half of Chaitra (Krishna Paksha) according to the Nepali calendar.
On this day, family members come together, even if they usually live separately. The festival is a way to welcome family members back, leaving behind any problems or arguments. It is a festival of unity and happiness.
During Pahachare, the head of the family performs puja (prayers) for several important gods and goddesses. The main gods worshiped are Bhadrakali, Sankata, and Mahankaal, who are considered the primary deities of the Kathmandu Valley. Other gods worshiped include Seto Machindranath, Banglamukhi, Baghbhairab, Kaalbhairab, and Swethbhairab.
Traditionally, people also use alcohol in rituals, believing that the strength and purity of alcohol show its spiritual power. This belief has been followed for a long time, although younger generations may not fully follow it today. Pahachare is a festival of family, faith, and togetherness, keeping Newar traditions alive in Kathmandu.
Jitiya
Jitiya is a very important festival in Nepal, especially for married women of the Tharu community. It is celebrated in the month of Ashwin on Krishna Ashtami according to the Mithilanchal and Nepali calendars.
The festival begins with a ritual called “Naha Kha”, which means taking a bath and then eating food. During Jitiya, women often visit their parents’ homes and fast for the health and long life of their children and husbands. There is another special ritual called “Othgan”, where fasting women put a small amount of food on their lips early in the morning before the cows start making noise.
The main purpose of Jitiya is to pray for the strength, happiness, and prosperity of the family. Women trust that their devotion will bring blessings for children, peace, and prosperity to the family. The festival has spiritual, cultural, and traditional importance, and it is celebrated with great energy and joy.
Gaura
Gaura is an important festival of Nepal that happens in the month of Bhadra, which is usually August or September in the English calendar. It is mainly celebrated in the mid-western and far western regions of Nepal.
The festival starts on Krishna Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna, who is considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Gaura lasts for three days, during which people worship Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha.
During the festival, men and women hold hands and dance together while singing traditional songs. This dance is called “Juhari” in their local language. Families participate in different groups, and close relatives such as brothers and sisters, nieces, and uncles are placed in separate groups so they do not dance together.
There are also different types of traditional dances, such as Raheri Deuda and Thadi Bhakha Deuda, which are performed during the celebrations. Gaura is a festival of dance, music, worship, and family unity, bringing communities together in joy and devotion.
Experience for Tourists
-
Cultural Immersion
Nepal’s festivals are a wonderful way for tourists to experience the local culture. By joining celebrations, visitors can see Nepal’s rich traditions up close. Tourists can watch colourful processions, traditional music and dance, and even take part in some rituals. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Holi are full of life and fun, letting tourists feel the warmth and friendliness of Nepali people. For example, during Dashain, tourists can see families reunite, apply tika, and celebrate the victory of good over evil. In Tihar, visitors can enjoy rituals that honour animals and learn the special meanings behind each ceremony.
-
Festivals as a Travel Attraction
Planning a trip to match major festivals can make visiting Nepal extra special. Festivals attract both local and international visitors and allow tourists to see traditions that are not always visible during other times. Events like Buddha Jayanti in Lumbini or Indra Jatra in Kathmandu show Nepal’s vibrant heritage. Tour companies like Heaven Himalaya often organize special tours during these festivals, helping tourists participate in authentic cultural experiences. These trips also support local communities, as festivals encourage tourism and bring people together.
Custom for Visitors
When joining festivals, tourists should respect local customs. Here are some simple tips:
- Dress Modestly: Cover shoulders and knees, especially in temples or religious events.
- Ask Before Taking Photos: Always check before photographing people or rituals. Some traditions do not allow pictures.
- Participate Respectfully: Join rituals with respect and interest, showing appreciation for the culture.
- Be Careful with Alcohol: Many festivals are religious, so avoid drinking unless it is part of the tradition.
Conclusion
Nepal’s festivals are full of colour, music, and tradition, showing the country’s rich culture. From Dashain and Tihar to regional festivals like Lhosar and Chhath Puja, each celebration has unique rituals that connect people to their community and religion. These festivals teach about Hinduism, Buddhism, and local traditions, and they help different communities live together in harmony.
Festivals also preserve Nepal’s culture by passing traditions to new generations. They give families and communities a reason to come together, celebrate, and bond. For tourists, joining these celebrations with Heaven Himalaya is a great way to understand Nepal’s history, culture, and values.
In short, festivals in Nepal are more than just fun events; they are important expressions of culture and unity. They show the joy of togetherness, respect, and learning from each other, making them an essential part of Nepali life and an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting the country.
