1. Introduction to Nepal’s Cultural Festivals
Nepal is a land full of mountains, rivers, towns, and villages—each with its own traditions and festivals. Across the year, Nepali people look forward to many special celebrations. These festivals bring families and friends together, brighten homes and streets, and remind everyone of stories from long ago. They aren’t just days off—they carry hopes, joy, and culture.
In Nepal, festivals are not only about fireworks or fun; they are about heritage and community. Whether you live in a busy city like Kathmandu or a quiet mountain village, the rhythm of life changes during festival times. Markets fill with activity, people buy new clothes, children fly kites or play on bamboo swings, homes glow with lights, and families travel to meet each other. For example, during the big festival Dashain, more than 600,000 people left the Kathmandu Valley to go home and celebrate with family.
Because Nepal has many ethnic groups—each with their own languages and customs—festival times become a wonderful mix of music, dance, food, prayer, and colour. This article will walk you through four of the major festivals you can’t miss: Dashain, Tihar, Holi and another big one next. You’ll learn what each is about, how it is celebrated today, and what makes it special. Get ready to explore Nepal’s joyful calendar!
2. Dashain: The Grand Celebration of Victory
Dashain is the biggest and most famous festival in Nepal. It lasts for around 10 to 15 days, and many people say it feels like the country’s biggest “homecoming” event. Homes are cleaned and decorated, new clothes are bought, and families gather for warmth, fun, and blessings.
One of the favourite parts for kids is the “Tika” day. On that day, children and younger relatives visit their elders. The elder places a red mark called tika (made with rice, yogurt and vermilion) on the younger person’s forehead. They also give a stalk of yellow grass called jamara, and some blessings or gifts. It’s a time of excitement because you dress up, visit grandparents, cousins come, and the meals are special.
Dashain also has fun outdoor traditions. In villages and towns you will see children flying colourful kites high in the sky. Bamboo swings (called ping) are set up so kids and adults both can swing and laugh together. These playful traditions remind us of the joyous side of the festival.
3. Tihar: Festival of Lights and Siblings’ Bond
Tihar is another very popular festival in Nepal and often comes just after Dashain. It lasts for five days and is full of lights, music, animals honoured, and sibling love. For 2025 the dates fall from October 19 to October 23.
Each day of Tihar has its special meaning. On one day people honour crows, then dogs, then cows and the goddess of wealth (Laxmi), and on the last day sisters and brothers celebrate together (Bhai Tika). Homes are decorated with oil lamps, colourful lights and candles. The whole atmosphere turns magical—neighbours greet each other, sweets are shared, and songs fill the air.
For siblings it is a very warm time. On Bhai Tika day the sister applies a colourful tika on her brother’s forehead, prays for his long life, and gives him gifts. The brother in return promises to look after his sister. It strengthens the bond between brothers and sisters in a joyful way.
4. Holi: The Festival of Colors
Holi is often called the “festival of colours” because on that day, people throw coloured powders and water at each other. In Nepal it is celebrated in March, and it marks the arrival of spring, the end of winter, and a time of playfulness and togetherness.
In Nepal two big parts mark the celebration: The first is Holika Dahan (a night gathering around a bonfire) where people remember the tale of good winning over evil. The second day is Rangwali Holi—colours everywhere, songs, laughter, friends and family coming together to enjoy. In Kathmandu’s Durbar Square and in many other places, big crowds gather to play.
It is fun for kids and grown‑ups alike! You will see people wearing white clothes so that the colours show up nicely, you might get splashed with water balloons, and you meet new people through this playful tradition. But don’t forget to be safe: use safe colours, keep your valuables safe, and enjoy the day of colours with care.
5. Losar: Tibetan New Year Celebrations
Losar is the New Year festival celebrated by the Tibetan and Sherpa communities in Nepal. It usually falls in February or March, depending on the lunar calendar. The word “Losar” means “new year” in Tibetan. People clean their homes, prepare special foods, and decorate their doors with colourful prayer flags.
During Losar, families gather for prayers and blessings. Monks chant and perform rituals at monasteries, and villagers make offerings to gods for health, happiness, and good harvest. Children enjoy the festival by joining traditional dances and songs. Markets are full of festive foods like sweet rice, meat, and barley drinks.
Losar is also a time for community and friendship. People visit neighbours, give small gifts, and share meals. In the Everest region, the colourful celebrations attract tourists who want to experience Tibetan culture. The festival is joyful, full of music, bright clothes, and laughter. It is a perfect example of Nepal’s cultural diversity.
6. Maghe Sankranti: Welcoming the Sun
Maghe Sankranti is a traditional Nepali festival celebrated in January. It marks the winter solstice and the sun’s journey into the longer days. Farmers and villagers observe it to bring prosperity and health. People wake up early, take ritual baths in rivers, and offer prayers to the sun.
The festival is famous for its special food. People eat sesame seeds, molasses, and yams, which are believed to give strength and warmth during winter. Families gather for breakfast and share meals together. Kids love the sweet treats, while adults enjoy the cultural stories behind the festival.
Maghe Sankranti also encourages social harmony. Neighbours visit each other, exchange greetings, and celebrate together. It is a simple festival but full of meaning, reminding everyone of the importance of sunlight, health, and community. Even today, in cities like Kathmandu, people celebrate with rituals and traditional foods.
7. Indra Jatra: Honoring the God of Rain
Indra Jatra is one of Kathmandu’s oldest and most lively festivals. It is celebrated in September to honour Indra, the Hindu god of rain. The festival combines prayers, traditional dances, and fun street processions. People hope for good rains, a good harvest, and happiness throughout the year.
During Indra Jatra, the main attractions are masked dances, chariot processions, and musical performances. The living goddess Kumari appears on a chariot, and people gather to see her blessing the city. Kids enjoy the dances, the colourful streets, and the playful atmosphere. People of all ages join in, making it a city-wide celebration.
The festival also shows the unity of different communities. Both Hindus and Buddhists participate, celebrating traditions passed down for generations. Food stalls sell sweets and snacks, families share meals, and everyone enjoys the vibrant culture of Kathmandu. Indra Jatra is a festival that mixes religion, joy, and city life beautifully.
8. Buddha Jayanti: Celebrating Lord Buddha’s Birth
Buddha Jayanti is celebrated in April or May to mark the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. In Nepal, the festival is especially important in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. People visit temples, offer flowers, light candles, and chant prayers.
Monks and devotees walk around stupas, spin prayer wheels, and sing hymns. Families and children also participate by decorating homes with lights and colourful flags. Schools and communities often organize cultural programs, storytelling, and exhibitions about Buddha’s life.
Buddha Jayanti is a day of peace, kindness, and reflection. People think about helping others, being honest, and living a simple life. It is both a religious and cultural event, enjoyed by Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike. Children learn lessons about peace and compassion while joining in the festive activities.
9. Teej: Women’s Festival of Fasting and Joy
Teej is a very special festival celebrated mostly by women in Nepal. It usually falls in August or September and is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and her husband Lord Shiva. Women dress in red sarees, wear bangles, and gather to sing, dance, and pray for happiness and long life for their families.
A key part of Teej is fasting. Women fast without food or water to show devotion and respect. Even though fasting may sound hard, it is done joyfully with friends and relatives. People also tell stories, sing traditional songs, and perform group dances called “Dohori.” Children enjoy watching these celebrations and sometimes join in with small dances or colourful clothes.
Teej is not just about fasting; it is also about friendship and sharing. Women visit each other’s homes, exchange gifts, and eat together after the fast. This festival shows the strength of women, their love for family, and the happiness that comes from cultural traditions. Everyone in the community participates in the colourful celebrations.
10. Gai Jatra: Festival of Cows and Humor
Gai Jatra is celebrated mostly in the Kathmandu Valley and is a festival of remembrance and laughter. Families who have lost loved ones during the year participate to honour them. The festival usually takes place in August. People dress in colourful costumes and cows, or people dressed as cows, are paraded through the streets.
The festival is full of fun and humour. People perform satirical plays, joke, and make others laugh. This is done to show that life continues even after sadness. Children love the parades, costumes, and street performances. Everyone joins in, making the city lively and colourful.
Gai Jatra also teaches an important lesson: it is okay to grieve, but laughter helps heal. Families gather, visit temples, and share stories about those who have passed. The festival balances respect for the dead with joy for the living, and it is an event that brings communities together in a unique way.
11. Rato Machindranath Jatra: Chariot Festival of Patan
Rato Machindranath Jatra is a famous festival in Patan, celebrated to honour Lord Rato Machindranath, the god of rain and harvest. It usually happens in April or May. The highlight of the festival is a big chariot parade where the deity is pulled through the streets by villagers.
People decorate the streets with flowers and colourful flags. Kids enjoy riding along the chariot, watching dancers and musicians, and tasting festival foods. The chariot procession can last for several days, and everyone participates with excitement. It is one of the most lively and visually stunning festivals in Nepal.
The festival also has a spiritual side. Devotees pray for good rainfall, healthy crops, and family well-being. Families and neighbours share meals, sing songs, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Rato Machindranath Jatra combines culture, religion, and community fun in a way that children and adults can enjoy together.
12. Mani Rimdu: Sherpa Buddhist Festival in Everest Region
Mani Rimdu is a colorful and spiritual festival celebrated in the Everest region, especially in Tengboche Monastery. It usually takes place in November and is important for Sherpa Buddhists. Monks perform dances wearing elaborate masks to tell stories about good versus evil.
The festival lasts several days, with prayers, masked dances, and rituals. Children and tourists love the colourful costumes, music, and drama. Families from nearby villages visit the monastery, and the atmosphere is lively and joyful. Everyone comes together to celebrate both spirituality and community.
Mani Rimdu also teaches kindness, compassion, and the importance of tradition. People offer food and gifts to monks, pray for health and happiness, and share meals with friends and relatives. It is a beautiful mix of religion, storytelling, and celebration in the stunning Everest region.
13. Lhosar Festivals: Tamang and Gurung New Year
Lhosar is the New Year festival celebrated by different ethnic communities in Nepal, including the Tamang and Gurung people. It usually falls in February or March and marks the start of a fresh year with new hopes. The festival is celebrated with prayers, dances, music, and family gatherings.
During Lhosar, people clean and decorate their homes. They prepare special foods like sweet rice, meat dishes, and local drinks. Children enjoy helping in the kitchen and joining the dances. Villagers also visit monasteries or temples to offer prayers and receive blessings from elders or monks.
The festival is also a time of friendship and community. People visit neighbours, exchange greetings, and share meals. Traditional songs, dances, and colourful costumes make Lhosar exciting for both young and old. It is a celebration that shows Nepal’s rich diversity and the joy of starting a new year together.
14. Bhoto Jatra: The Traditional Vest Ceremony
Bhoto Jatra is a unique festival in Bhaktapur, celebrated to display a sacred vest called “Bhoto.” It usually takes place in August and is part of the larger Biska Jatra celebrations. Locals gather in the town square to see the vest displayed, and the festival is full of rituals, music, and fun.
The festival is colourful and exciting. Children and families watch traditional dances, parades, and drum performances. The Bhoto itself is said to be a sacred symbol, and showing it publicly is a highlight of the community. People also enjoy local snacks and street food during the event.
Bhoto Jatra teaches respect for traditions and history. While the vest is the centre of attention, the festival is also about community gathering. Families meet, children play in the streets, and everyone enjoys the vibrant atmosphere. It is a fun and cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
15. Janai Purnima: Sacred Thread Festival
Janai Purnima, also called Raksha Bandhan for some communities, is celebrated in August. It is a sacred thread festival for Hindu men and women. Men change their “Janai” (sacred thread) and take blessings for health, long life, and protection. Women pray for their brothers and families.
On this day, rivers and temples are busy with people bathing and performing rituals. Devotees wear new clothes and offer food, flowers, and prayers. Children enjoy the festival by accompanying family members to temples and learning about the importance of traditions.
Janai Purnima is also a time for community connection. People visit friends, exchange greetings, and share meals. The festival blends spirituality, family bonding, and cultural traditions, making it a meaningful day for everyone. It teaches values like respect, care, and devotion.
16. Chhath Puja: Worshiping Sun God
Chhath Puja is an important festival celebrated mainly by the Madhesi community in Nepal. It usually happens in October or November and honours the Sun God. Devotees offer prayers to the rising and setting sun for health, wealth, and prosperity.
The festival involves four days of fasting, holy baths, and rituals. Families gather on riverbanks to offer fruits and flowers to the sun. Children enjoy watching the colourful processions and helping with decorations. The festival also includes singing traditional songs and storytelling about the Sun God’s importance.
Chhath Puja is a community event. Neighbours and friends join together, share meals after fasting, and celebrate in harmony. It teaches patience, devotion, and respect for nature. The beautiful rituals at rivers during sunrise and sunset make it one of Nepal’s most visually striking festivals.
17. Kumari Jatra: Living Goddess Procession
Kumari Jatra is a unique festival celebrated in Kathmandu and Patan, dedicated to the living goddess Kumari. It usually happens in September during Indra Jatra. The Kumari, a young girl believed to be the goddess, is placed on a beautifully decorated chariot and paraded through the streets.
The festival is colourful and full of energy. Children and adults line the streets to see the chariot and enjoy traditional dances, music, and masked performances. People also buy sweets and small toys for kids, making it a fun day for the whole family. Schools and local communities often organize activities to let children learn about the history of the Kumari.
Kumari Jatra teaches respect for traditions and culture. The parade encourages people to come together and celebrate community spirit. Children especially enjoy seeing the chariot, costumes, and festivities while learning about Nepal’s rich religious heritage. The event is a perfect mix of devotion, fun, and cultural pride.
18. Biska Jatra: New Year Festivities in Bhaktapur
Biska Jatra is a lively festival celebrated in Bhaktapur to mark the Nepali New Year, usually in April. It is famous for its chariot processions, swinging bamboo poles, and joyous crowd celebrations. Villagers and visitors come together to enjoy the colourful rituals.
During the festival, children love watching the big chariots being pulled through the streets, listening to drums, and participating in small dances. Families share meals, and locals prepare traditional foods. The festival brings together neighbours and friends in a cheerful atmosphere.
Biska Jatra is more than fun—it teaches teamwork and community spirit. People from different ages help with the chariot, decorate streets, and organize cultural programs. The festival is a lively start to the New Year, full of laughter, music, and tradition.
19. Fasnacht: Newari Carnival and Cultural Parade
Fasnacht is the Newari carnival celebrated before the Holi festival. It usually happens in February or March and is famous for colourful parades, traditional masks, and delicious foods. People wear costumes, play music, and enjoy performances in the streets.
Children enjoy the festival by joining masked dances, helping decorate homes, and tasting sweet treats like “pancakes” and local snacks. Neighbourhoods come alive with music, drum performances, and playful competitions. Schools and cultural clubs often participate in organising fun events for kids.
Fasnacht teaches history, culture, and creativity. The masks and dances tell stories from myths and traditions. Families celebrate together, children learn about Newari heritage, and everyone enjoys a cheerful and educational experience.
20. Conclusion: Embracing Nepal’s Rich Cultural Heritage
Nepal’s festivals are full of colour, music, dance, and joy. From Dashain and Tihar to Holi, Losar, and Teej, each festival is unique and teaches values of family, friendship, and community. Festivals also keep traditions alive and help children understand their cultural heritage.
Participating in these festivals is a way to connect with local people and learn about Nepal’s diversity. Every celebration shows the importance of sharing, helping others, and enjoying life. Children, families, and tourists alike can experience something new and exciting.
By celebrating these festivals, Nepal keeps its rich history, beliefs, and traditions alive. Bright colours, joyful music, delicious foods, and shared happiness make every festival memorable. Visiting Nepal during festival time is a perfect way to see the country’s heart, spirit, and culture.
