Tihar, also known as the festival of lights, is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in Nepal. It is not only a time for decorating homes with oil lamps and colorful rangoli but also a season for indulging in traditional foods that bring families together. The festival spans five days, and each day has its unique customs, rituals, and culinary delights.
From the preparation of **Sel Roti**, a traditional ring-shaped rice bread, to sweet treats like **Laddu**, **Anarsa**, and **Phini**, the festival is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Savory dishes such as **Dalmoth**, roasted **Soybeans**, and various pickles complement the sweets, creating a balance of flavors that everyone enjoys. Cooking these traditional foods is often a family activity, where elders pass down recipes to younger generations, and children learn the importance of food, culture, and togetherness.
The aroma of freshly made delicacies fills the homes, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere. Tihar foods are not just about eating; they are a reflection of Nepalese culture, community bonding, and the joy of sharing happiness with family, friends, and neighbors.
1. Introduction: The Joy of Tihar and Its Tasty Traditions
Tihar, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of Nepal’s most colorful and joyful celebrations. Families clean and decorate their homes with diyas (oil lamps) and bright lights to welcome happiness and prosperity. Every home glows with love, laughter, and the delicious smell of festive food cooking in the kitchen.
Food plays a very special role during Tihar. From crispy snacks to soft sweets, every dish brings families together. Kids help their parents prepare treats and learn about family traditions passed down through generations. The festival isn’t just about lights and songs—it’s about the happiness that comes from sharing meals and memories.
In every Nepali household, traditional recipes are prepared to celebrate each day of Tihar. These foods are made with care and shared with family, friends, and even animals. Whether it’s sweet Sel Roti or savory Masu Bhat, Tihar foods remind everyone of love, togetherness, and gratitude.
2. Why Food Plays an Important Role During Tihar
Food is not just for eating during Tihar—it’s a symbol of love, respect, and sharing. Each dish made during this time has a meaning. Sweets show happiness, rice dishes show unity, and fruits show good health. When families cook together, it makes their bond stronger and spreads joy all around.
Many people also prepare food as an offering to gods and goddesses. For example, during Laxmi Puja, sweets and fruits are offered to Goddess Laxmi to invite wealth and good fortune into the home. The smell of homemade food fills the air and makes the celebration more meaningful.
For kids, the food is a fun part of the festival. They enjoy helping in the kitchen, tasting new dishes, and sharing treats with friends. Through these foods, children learn the value of giving, respect, and togetherness—important lessons of Tihar that stay with them forever.
3. Preparing the Kitchen for the Festival of Lights
Before cooking begins, families clean and organize their kitchens to welcome the festival. A clean kitchen is believed to attract positive energy and blessings from Goddess Laxmi. Parents and children work together to wash utensils, arrange ingredients, and make everything sparkle for the big days ahead.
Once the kitchen is clean, families begin buying fresh ingredients. Markets become colorful with rice, flour, ghee, sugar, and fruits. The smell of spices like cardamom and cinnamon fills the air. It’s a happy time when everyone looks forward to the delicious dishes that will soon be made.
Preparing the kitchen also means preparing hearts. Families talk about which foods to make and who will visit. It’s a time of planning, excitement, and teamwork. Even kids get special tasks like mixing flour or decorating plates. The joy of cooking together makes the celebration more special and full of love.
4. Sweet Beginnings: The Importance of Mithai in Tihar
No festival in Nepal is complete without sweets, and Tihar is no exception! Mithai, or sweets, are shared with family, friends, and neighbors as a way to spread happiness. From soft laddus to golden jalebis, every bite brings smiles and joy.
During Tihar, sweets also have a spiritual meaning. They are offered to deities during pujas to show devotion and thankfulness. Offering something sweet is believed to bring sweetness into one’s life—more love, success, and peace. Kids especially look forward to mithai time, when they get to taste all kinds of sugary treats.
Today, families make both traditional and modern sweets. Some prepare homemade sel roti and khir, while others buy chocolates or cakes. What matters most is the feeling of sharing. When you give sweets during Tihar, you are not just giving food—you are spreading love, hope, and light.
5. Sel Roti: The Heart of Every Nepali Tihar Celebration
Sel Roti is one of the most loved foods during Tihar. It is a round, ring-shaped rice bread that looks like a doughnut but tastes completely unique. Made from rice flour, sugar, and ghee, Sel Roti is fried until it becomes golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft inside. The smell of freshly made Sel Roti fills every Nepali home during Tihar.
Families often make Sel Roti early in the morning together. Mothers and grandmothers mix the batter carefully, while children help by passing utensils or watching the frying process with excitement. Everyone enjoys eating it with yogurt, curry, or even just plain because it tastes amazing in every way.
Sel Roti is more than just food—it is a symbol of togetherness and celebration. During Bhai Tika, sisters prepare Sel Roti to offer their brothers as a token of love. This special bread reminds everyone that festivals are not only about rituals but also about family bonding and sharing homemade goodness.
6. Anarsa: The Crispy Sweet Treat Made with Love
Anarsa is another traditional sweet that shines bright during Tihar. It is made using rice flour, jaggery, and sesame seeds, giving it a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. When fried, it turns beautifully golden and fills the kitchen with a sweet, comforting aroma that everyone loves.
The process of making Anarsa takes patience and care. Families soak rice overnight, grind it into fine flour, and mix it with melted jaggery. The dough is shaped into small round pieces and sprinkled with sesame seeds before frying. Kids often watch eagerly, waiting for their turn to taste the first one!
In many Nepali homes, Anarsa holds a special meaning. It represents blessings for prosperity and happiness in the year ahead. Sharing Anarsa with guests during Tihar shows kindness and generosity. This humble sweet teaches us that love and tradition are the main ingredients in every recipe.
7. Yomari: A Delight from Newar Households During Tihar
Yomari is a beloved dish from the Newar community, often made during Tihar and Yomari Punhi. It is a steamed dumpling made from rice flour and filled with sweet molasses or coconut. The outer shell is soft, and the filling is warm and gooey—making it a perfect festive treat.
Making Yomari is like an art. The dough is shaped into tiny fish-like designs, symbolizing good fortune and abundance. Parents teach kids how to form the perfect shape, and the whole family joins in to make dozens together. It becomes both a fun and meaningful activity.
Beyond its taste, Yomari carries cultural importance. It is offered to gods and ancestors as a symbol of gratitude for the harvest season. Eating Yomari during Tihar reminds families of Nepal’s rich heritage, delicious traditions, and the value of working together in harmony.
8. Lakhamari: The Crunchy Festival Snack Everyone Loves
Lakhamari is a special crunchy sweet that adds sparkle to every Tihar celebration. Made from flour, sugar, and ghee, it comes in beautiful shapes and patterns. It is deep-fried and coated with sugar syrup, making it sweet, crispy, and fun to eat.
In many Nepali communities, Lakhamari is also a symbol of celebration and good luck. It is not only eaten during Tihar but also used in weddings and other festivals. During Tihar, families prepare or buy Lakhamari to share with guests, especially when giving festive gifts and offerings.
Kids enjoy Lakhamari because of its unique texture and fun shapes. Breaking it apart and sharing pieces with siblings is part of the fun. It teaches children that happiness grows when shared. Just like the bright diyas that light up homes, Lakhamari adds sweetness and joy to every Tihar celebration.
9. Aloo Tama Bodi: A Traditional Savory Dish for Family Gatherings
Aloo Tama Bodi is a famous Nepali curry made from potatoes (aloo), bamboo shoots (tama), and black-eyed beans (bodi). It has a mix of tangy, spicy, and earthy flavors that make it stand out among Tihar dishes. This dish is often served with rice or Sel Roti and brings a balance to the festival’s many sweet foods.
During Tihar, families love cooking Aloo Tama Bodi because it feels warm and comforting. The bubbling pot fills the home with a wonderful aroma, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Grandparents often tell stories while stirring the pot, and kids watch eagerly for the first taste.
Aloo Tama Bodi is also a symbol of togetherness. It teaches kids that good food takes time, patience, and teamwork. Whether shared during Bhai Tika or offered to guests, this dish reminds everyone that Tihar is about unity, love, and caring for one another through home-cooked meals.
10. Masu Bhat: The Must-Have Non-Veg Feast of the Season
Masu Bhat, or rice with meat curry, is one of the most enjoyed meals during Tihar. Families cook mutton, chicken, or buffalo meat with spices and herbs to create rich flavors that make the festival feast complete. After days of fasting or light eating, Masu Bhat brings warmth and joy to everyone.
In many homes, this dish is prepared especially for brothers on Bhai Tika. Sisters cook with extra care, adding love to every bite. The sound of sizzling meat and the smell of spices fill the air, creating excitement for the big meal. Kids love watching the curry bubble and can’t wait to eat with their family.
Masu Bhat is more than just food—it represents celebration and blessings for the year ahead. Sharing it with family and neighbors shows gratitude for life’s goodness. This hearty dish brings everyone together, reminding us that Tihar is about joy, family, and the love we share through food.
11. Dhido and Gundruk: Classic Nepali Flavors on Tihar Plates
Dhido, a thick porridge made from millet or buckwheat flour, is a traditional Nepali staple. It’s often served with Gundruk, which is fermented leafy greens cooked into a spicy soup. During Tihar, many families enjoy this combination to celebrate their roots and connection to the land.
Preparing Dhido and Gundruk is simple but full of meaning. Parents show kids how to stir Dhido over the fire until it reaches the perfect texture. The Gundruk soup adds a sour and spicy touch, making it both healthy and delicious. Together, they create a dish that celebrates Nepal’s rural traditions.
Eating Dhido and Gundruk during Tihar reminds families of gratitude—thankfulness for food, harvest, and hard work. It teaches kids that traditional dishes are treasures from the past that should always be remembered and respected. Even in modern times, this humble meal continues to bring comfort and happiness to Nepali homes.
12. Khir: A Creamy Sweet Pudding for Good Luck and Blessings
Khir, or rice pudding, is one of the most popular Tihar desserts. Made from milk, rice, sugar, and cardamom, it’s rich, creamy, and loved by all ages. Many families prepare Khir during Laxmi Puja or Bhai Tika to symbolize purity, happiness, and prosperity.
The process of making Khir is both simple and joyful. Families cook it slowly over a low flame until it becomes thick and smooth. Kids enjoy helping by stirring the pot or adding nuts and raisins on top. The aroma of warm milk and spices fills the house, making everyone smile.
Khir is more than just a sweet dish—it’s an offering of love and hope. When shared with family and friends, it spreads blessings and good wishes for the year ahead. This creamy pudding reminds everyone that the sweetness of Tihar lies in kindness, sharing, and gratitude.
13. Samay Baji: A Newari Platter Full of Tradition and Taste
Samay Baji is one of the most famous dishes from the Newar community and a must-have during Tihar. It’s a traditional platter that includes beaten rice (chiura), boiled eggs, spicy meat, fried fish, and a variety of pickles. The dish is colorful, healthy, and full of flavor, making it a true celebration of Nepali culture.
Families prepare Samay Baji to offer to gods, ancestors, and guests during Tihar. Each item on the plate has meaning—chiura for simplicity, eggs for life, and meat for strength. The platter teaches kids about balance and the importance of appreciating every part of a meal.
Eating Samay Baji together also strengthens family bonds. Parents share stories of their ancestors while serving the food, and kids learn how these recipes have been passed down through generations. It’s more than just a dish—it’s a plate full of love, respect, and cultural pride that shines brightly during Tihar.
14. Homemade Snacks: Nimki, Furse, and Thekua for Guests
During Tihar, homes are filled with the smell of freshly fried snacks like Nimki, Furse, and Thekua. These crunchy treats are easy to make and perfect for sharing with guests. Nimki is a salty, diamond-shaped snack, while Furse is round and airy. Thekua, on the other hand, is sweet and made from wheat flour, sugar, and ghee.
Mothers and grandmothers start preparing these snacks days before Tihar begins. Kids often help by shaping the dough or sprinkling sugar. The joy of making and tasting these treats together creates some of the happiest festival memories. The laughter in the kitchen makes the celebration even more special.
These snacks are also gifted to friends, neighbors, and visiting families. Sharing homemade food spreads happiness and love—the true spirit of Tihar. They remind everyone that even simple recipes can create sweet bonds and beautiful memories when made with care and togetherness.
15. Tea and Drinks: Warming Beverages to Welcome Loved Ones
In the cool autumn evenings of Tihar, nothing feels better than a warm cup of tea. Families prepare special spiced teas using milk, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. These ingredients not only make the tea delicious but also help keep everyone healthy and cozy during the festival.
When guests arrive for Bhai Tika or Laxmi Puja, offering tea is a sign of respect and warmth. Many homes also serve fresh juices or milk-based drinks for children. These beverages add comfort to the lively atmosphere and help everyone relax after dancing, singing, or cooking all day.
Tea time during Tihar is more than a break—it’s a moment of connection. Families sit together, share stories, and laugh while sipping their favorite drinks. It reminds kids that simple gestures, like offering tea, can bring people closer and make the festival more meaningful.
16. Bhai Tika Special Foods: Cooking with Love for Brothers
Bhai Tika, the last and most emotional day of Tihar, is all about celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters prepare delicious foods for their brothers as a symbol of love and blessings. The meal often includes Sel Roti, Khir, fruits, and Masu Bhat—each dish made with care and affection.
Sisters wake up early to start cooking, decorating plates with colorful flowers and sweets. The food is served after the tika ceremony, where brothers receive blessings for long life and happiness. Kids enjoy helping decorate the plates and serving food to their loved ones.
The Bhai Tika feast is not just about eating—it’s about gratitude and family unity. It teaches children that food made with love carries special meaning. Each bite reminds brothers and sisters of their lifelong bond, making Tihar one of the most heartwarming festivals in Nepal.
17. Laxmi Puja Delights: Offering Sweets to the Goddess of Wealth
Laxmi Puja is one of the most beautiful evenings of Tihar. On this day, homes shine with lights and diyas to welcome Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Families prepare delicious sweets like Sel Roti, Khir, and laddus as offerings to the goddess. These sweets symbolize gratitude and hope for a bright and happy future.
The kitchen becomes lively with everyone helping out. Parents prepare the main dishes while children decorate plates with flowers, fruits, and lamps. The smell of ghee and sugar fills the air, making everyone excited. The sweets are placed in front of the goddess during puja, along with coins and candles, to invite her blessings.
After the rituals, the whole family enjoys the prasad together. Sharing the sweets reminds everyone of kindness and thankfulness. Kids learn that Laxmi Puja is not just about wealth—it’s about sharing happiness and light with others. The sweetness of the offerings fills both hearts and homes with joy.
18. Sharing Food with Neighbors and Animals During Tihar
Tihar is a festival that celebrates kindness and compassion, not just toward humans but also animals. During Kukur Tihar, dogs are honored with garlands and special treats. On Gai Tihar, cows are fed with fresh grass, fruits, and homemade sweets to thank them for their service. Kids enjoy feeding the animals and learn the importance of love and care for all living beings.
Sharing food with neighbors is also a wonderful Tihar tradition. Families exchange plates filled with Sel Roti, Nimki, and fruits to spread friendship and blessings. The act of giving food teaches children generosity and helps strengthen community bonds.
These small acts of kindness make Tihar special. Whether it’s feeding a street dog, giving sweets to friends, or helping the poor, sharing food brings happiness to everyone. It reminds us that true celebration comes from sharing what we have with love and an open heart.
19. Modern Twists on Traditional Tihar Recipes
While traditional recipes remain the heart of Tihar, many families now enjoy adding modern touches to their festive foods. Some replace sugar with honey or jaggery for a healthier option. Others bake Sel Roti instead of frying it, or make Khir with coconut milk for a creamy twist. These small changes make the dishes fun and suitable for everyone.
Young cooks love experimenting during Tihar. Kids help decorate sweets with colorful toppings or make chocolate laddus. Parents also try fusion recipes, like making Thekua-shaped cookies or spicy versions of Nimki. The mix of old and new flavors brings creativity to the kitchen and keeps traditions alive.
Modern recipes show that Tihar is about joy, not perfection. Whether it’s a traditional dish or a new version, the love behind the food is what matters most. It teaches kids that traditions can grow and adapt while still keeping the same spirit of togetherness.
20. Conclusion: The Flavor of Togetherness During Tihar
Tihar is more than just a festival of lights—it’s a celebration of love, kindness, and delicious food. Every dish made during this time carries a story of tradition and care. From the crispy Sel Roti to the creamy Khir, each recipe brings families closer and fills homes with laughter and happiness.
Cooking and eating together make the festival more joyful. Kids learn to appreciate their culture while enjoying every sweet and savory bite. The act of sharing food reminds everyone that the greatest joy comes from giving and being together.
As the diyas flicker and songs fill the air, the flavors of Tihar bring warmth to every heart. The festival teaches that food is not just for the stomach—it’s for the soul. Each meal shared during Tihar becomes a memory of love, light, and togetherness that lasts all year long.
The traditional foods cooked during Tihar hold a special place in the hearts of Nepali people, as they symbolize more than just nourishment—they represent culture, love, and togetherness. Each dish, whether sweet or savory, carries a story and a tradition, passed down from generation to generation. The act of cooking and sharing these foods strengthens family bonds and fosters a sense of community, making the festival truly memorable.
Children eagerly participate in making treats like **Sel Roti** or decorating sweets, learning cultural values while enjoying the process. Adults take pride in preparing intricate dishes, ensuring that the authentic flavors are preserved. Beyond the home, sharing Tihar delicacies with neighbors and friends spreads joy and unity, reinforcing the essence of the festival. Moreover, Tihar foods are visually appealing, aromatic, and full of rich flavors, appealing to all ages.
In a fast-paced modern world, these traditional foods serve as a reminder of simpler times and the importance of celebrating heritage. Ultimately, the culinary delights of Tihar enrich the festival experience, creating lasting memories and deepening the love for Nepalese traditions. The festival’s magic is incomplete without the joy of cooking, tasting, and sharing these special dishes.
