Popular Festivals in Nepal: Dates, History And Significance

Nepal is a country popular worldwide for the stunning landscape and beautiful Himalayas. Along with its natural beauty, Nepal is also famous for its many festivals, which reflect the country’s rich culture, traditions, and diversity.

These celebrations are an important part of daily life in Nepal. Most festivals follow the Nepali calendar, which is also called the Nepali Patro.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the major festivals celebrated in Nepal. You’ll learn about the different traditions, religions, and happy moments that make each festival special. Get ready to enjoy the colors, music, and meaning behind these joyful events that bring people together across the country.

Hindu Festivals:

Dashain – The biggest Hindu festival, celebrating the victory of good over evil.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Rooted in Hindu mythology, this ten-day celebration commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.

How it is celebrated: It is celebrated for 10 Days. On the first day, Ghatasthapana barley seed is grown and worship of Goddess Durga continues as a ritual until Navaratri (nine nights). Then on 10th Day(Vijaya Dashami) the family gathers together to put Tika and Jamara from the elder to receive blessings for health, happiness, and long life with the mantra of Goddess Durga.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: Protection from negative influences, love, respect, and unity in family.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Mutton (Khasi Ko Masu), Sel Roti, Bara, Bara, Aloo Tama, Yogurt and Sweets etc

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Markets bustle as people buy new clothes, gifts, and decorations

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Throughout Nepal(September or October)

Tihar (Deepawali) – Festival of lights, honoring gods, animals, and siblings.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Rooted in Hindu mythology, Tihar pays homage to the goddess Laxmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.

How it is celebrated: It is celebrated for 5 Days. 1st day is Kaag Tihar (Crow Worship Day), Kukur Tihar (Dog Worship Day), Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Cow and Laxmi Worship), Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja (Self-Worship), Bhai Tika (Brother’s worship). At night, homes and streets glow with oil lamps, candles, and electric lights.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: Respect animals for their contribution. To get blessing for wealth, prosperity, and happiness in households from Lord Laxmi. Helps to create deep bonds between siblings.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Sel Roti, Anarsa, Fruits and Nuts, Meat Dishes etc

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Every corner of Nepal will be decorated with vibrant color and decoration. Families gather together to decorate homes, buying sweets, gifts, flowers, and colors for rangoli.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Throughout Nepal(October or November)

Teej – Women’s festival for marital bliss and well-being of husbands.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Teej is a sacred Hindu festival celebrated with great enthusiasm by women in Nepal. Dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, it symbolizes marital happiness, the well-being of husbands, and familial harmony.

How it is celebrated: Teej is a multi-day festival filled with fasting, prayers, dancing, and singing. First is Dar Khane Din (Feasting Day), Second is Fasting Day(without drinking water) and Rishi Panchami( bathe in holy water).

The significance of the rituals and traditions: The festival commemorates Goddess Parvati’s devotion and persistence in uniting with Lord Shiva after years of penance.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: During Dar Khane( feasting) women gather and enjoy a variety of dishes like Sel Roti, Mutton Curry, Aloo Ko Achar, Fruits and Desserts, Ghee-Laden Foods.

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Women dress in red Sari and visit different temples to worship lord Shiva and Parvati. Traditional Teej songs, sung across towns and villages, narrate stories of love, longing, and devotion, adding to the emotional depth of the festival.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Throughout Nepal(August or early September)

Holi – Festival of colors, celebrating the arrival of spring.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, it signifies the triumph of good over evil. The festival’s origin can be traced to the tale of Prahlad, a young devotee of Lord Vishnu, who survived an attempt on his life by his aunt Holika.

How it is celebrated: By putting color and splashing water with each other. There will be big concerts in various places in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Music, dancing, and gatherings are a big part of this holy festival.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: The bonfires of Holika Dahan serve as a reminder of the destruction of evil forces and the importance of faith and devotion.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Gujiya, Malpua, Thandai

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Streets, homes, public places turn colourful. You can see small children playing with water guns or balloons. 

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Across the nation but grand celebration in Urban areas(March).

Janai Purnima (Raksha Bandhan) – Sacred thread ceremony and bond of protection.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Janai Purnima, also celebrated as Raksha Bandhan in Nepal, is a sacred Hindu festival steeped in spiritual and familial significance. The name “Janai” refers to the sacred thread worn by Hindu men, while “Purnima” signifies the full moon day on which this festival is celebrated.

How it is celebrated: Hindu men, particularly those of the Brahmin, Chhetri, and Newar communities, the day begins with a purification ritual. Men change their sacred thread (Janai), which signifies their spiritual commitment and duties.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: Siblings exchange Rakhis and gifts which helps to create a family bond, teaches values of respect, duty, and symbolic protection.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Kwati, Rice Dishes, Fresh Yogurt and Seasonal Fruits

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Temples and the holy river side remain busy by the devotees.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Across Nepal(July or early August)

Shivaratri – Worship of Lord Shiva.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Shivaratri, which translates to “The Night of Shiva,” because on this day Lord Shiva performed the Tandava, the celestial dance of creation, preservation, and destruction.

How it is celebrated: Pilgrims visit the famous Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu by chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” and offering prayers to Shivalingams. Fasting and Meditation is also done.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: Connect with the spiritual essence of the universe, represented by Lord Shiva.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Fruits and Nuts, Milk-Based Sweets, Sabudana Dishes

The atmosphere and cultural impact: The main focal point is Pashupatinath where Hindu people, Sadhu, Satha gather and chant dedicated to lord Shiva. Devotees light oil lamps and offer prayers near temples. Locals make fires which represent burning away of old patterns and the beginning of a new start in life. 

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Throughout Nepal( main hub is in Shiva temple Shivarati falls on February or March)

Krishna Janmashtami – Celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Krishna Janmashtami, marks the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

How it is celebrated: Devotees visit Lord Krishna Tempel and the main hub is the renowned Krishna Temple at Patan Durbar Square. Devotees fast throughout the day and celebrate at midnight by ringing bells, singing, and chanting “Hare Krishna.”

The significance of the rituals and traditions: Lord Krishna’s birth is cherished as he is believed to have come to Earth to destroy wickedness, spread dharma (righteousness), and protect his devotees.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Makhan (Butter) and Misri (Sugar), Sweets, Panjiri, Fasting Foods

The atmosphere and cultural impact: The atmosphere during Krishna Janmashtami in Nepal is a vibrant mix of spirituality and festivity.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Across Nepal( eighth day of the dark lunar fortnight of Bhadra).

Ram Navami – Celebration of Lord Ram’s birth.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Ram Navami marks the birth of Lord Ram, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the central figure in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana.

How it is celebrated: Fasting and visiting Ram Mandir and offering fruits, flowers, and sweets. The grand celebration is done in the famous Janaki Mandir in Janakpur, the birthplace of Sita, Lord Rama’s consort.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: Ram Navami celebrations hold spiritual and moral significance. Lord Ram’s story tells you to learn practices that reflect devotion, focus, and discipline.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Kheer (Rice Pudding), Fruits and Milk-Based Sweets, Vrat-Friendly Foods

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Streets near major temples like Janaki Mandir in Janakpur or Ram temples throughout the country light up with decorative banners, flower arrangements, and celebrations.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: All over Nepal and in Janaki Mandir in Janakpur, a UNESCO-listed site, is central to the festivities(ninth day of the bright fortnight in Chaitra).

Chhath – Sun worship festival, mainly celebrated in the Terai region.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Chhath, a prominent Hindu festival, is dedicated to worshipping the Sun God, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya (believed to be a form of Mother Nature).

How it is celebrated: Chhath is celebrated with strict discipline for four days of rituals that involve fasting, purity, and offering prayers to the sun near water bodies.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: The worship of the sun reflects the acknowledgment of its essential role in sustaining life on Earth.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Thekua, Kheer, Fruits, Rice Laddus

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Communities gather near rivers, ponds, and lakes, where the air vibrates with devotional songs and prayers.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Nepal’s Terai region(October or November)

Gai Jatra – Festival to honor deceased family members.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Gai Jatra or Cow festival is mainly celebrated by the Newari communities. It is believed that cows, seen as sacred and guiding souls to the afterlife, lead the departed toward liberation (moksha).

How it is celebrated: Families who have lost loved ones in the previous year participate in processions, often including a cow, or if unavailable, a young boy dressed as one.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: By encouraging laughter, the festival acknowledges the duality of life and death, using humor as a means to overcome sorrow.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Milk-Based Sweets, Sel Roti, Fruits and Seasonal Dishes, Savory Snacks

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Streets in cities like Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur come alive with crowds participating in the colorful processions. Children dressed in costumes add energy and joy to the scenes.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur(fortnight of the lunar month of Bhadra)

Indra Jatra – Festival of rain and the living goddess Kumari.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Indra Jatra is dedicated to Hindu god Indra known as the king of heaven. 

How it is celebrated: The festival begins with the erection of a ceremonial wooden pole (lingo) at Kathmandu Durbar Square. The pole, adorned with flags, symbolizes Indra and his divine presence.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: Each aspect of Indra Jatra carries profound cultural and spiritual symbolism: Rain and Harvest, Chariot Procession of Kumari and Lakhey dance.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Yomari, Samay Baji, Sweets and Fruits

The atmosphere and cultural impact: The streets of Kathmandu come alive during Indra Jatra, bustling with music, dance, and vibrant decorations.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Kathmandu Valley. It is celebrated in Bhadra Shukla Dwitiya (the second day of the bright fortnight of Bhadra).

Buddhist Festivals:

Buddha Jayanti – Celebration of Lord Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Buddha Jayanti, also known as Buddha Purnima, is one of the most significant festivals in the Buddhist calendar. It commemorates three crucial events in the life of Siddhartha Gautama, who became Buddha: his birth, enlightenment (nirvana), and death (parinirvana).

How it is celebrated: Buddhist and Lama celebrate following the rituals by offering flowers, incense, candles, and fruits to Buddha. Devotees engage in meditation and prayers and visits to monasteries and stupas like Lumbini, the Maya Devi Temple, Boudhanath and Swayambhunath Stupa.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: Buddha Jayanti is more than a commemoration; it’s a reaffirmation of the timeless values Buddha taught.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Kheer (Rice Pudding), Seasonal Fruits and Refreshments, Sel Roti, Dal and Rice Meals

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Temples and stupas are adorned with candles, lanterns, and prayer flags. At Lumbini, thousands gather to honor the birthplace of Buddha.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Across Nepal but major celebrations can be seen in the places like Lumbini, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupas, Kopan Monastery and Namo Buddha. Buddha Jayanti falls on the full moon day of Baisakh.

Lhosar – Tibetan New Year, celebrated by Sherpas, Tamangs, and Gurungs.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Lhosar, the Tibetan New Year, is celebrated in Nepal in different communities of Nepal like Sherpas, Tamangs, and Gurungs. The word “Lhosar” is derived from two Tibetan words, “Lho,” meaning year, and “Sar,” meaning new.

How it is celebrated: On the day of Lhosar, families dress in traditional attire, with Sherpas donning “bakhu” and Tamangs and Gurungs wearing their distinct ethnic clothing. Community gatherings are integral to the celebration, whether through family feasts, cultural programs, or local events.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: Buddhist monasteries and stupas play a central role, with devotees gathering to offer prayers, light butter lamps, burn incense, and perform rituals. These sacred performances often narrate myths, invoke deities, and are believed to dispel negative energies and purify the community.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Guthuk, Butter tea, Chhyang(local alcohol)

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Temples, stupas, and monasteries are adorned with colorful prayer flags, and the air is filled with the sound of chanting monks and ceremonial bells.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Gyalpo Lhosar (celebrated by Sherpas) usually falls in February or March. Sonam Lhosar (celebrated by Tamangs) typically occurs in late January or early February, while Tamu Lhosar (celebrated by Gurungs) is observed in late December.

Indigenous and Ethnic Festivals:

Maghe Sankranti – Celebration of the winter solstice.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Maghe Sankranti marks the beginning of longer days which are celebrated as traditional rituals, family gatherings, and cultural festivities. Maghe Sankranti specifically celebrates the sun transitioning into Capricorn (Makara Rashi), marking the end of the colder, shorter days of winter.

How it is celebrated: Devotees wake up early to take a holy dip in rivers like the Trishuli, Bagmati, or Kali Gandaki. This act is believed to cleanse the soul and invite good fortune. People pay homage to the gods, light oil lamps, and perform pujas (prayer rituals) to seek blessings for health and prosperity.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: The worship performed on this day, often dedicated to Lord Vishnu or Surya (the Sun God), signifies gratitude for the sun’s return to prominence, which is essential for agricultural communities.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Til Ko Laddu, Chaku, Ghee, Sweet Potatoes and Yams, Meats and Lentils

The atmosphere and cultural impact: It honors the agricultural roots of the society, reinforcing the balance between nature, faith, and the cycle of life.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Throughout Nepal(mid-January)

Ghode Jatra – Horse parade festival in Kathmandu.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Ghode Jatra, known as the “Festival of Horses. In this event there will be a cultural programme with horse parades and performances. Legend has it that the demon was crushed under the hooves of horses in Tudikhel, a large open ground in Kathmandu, and the annual horse parade is held to keep the demon’s spirit from rising again.

How it is celebrated: Nepal Army, showcasing their finest horses and skilled riders in Tudikhel. Musicians and cultural performers add to the festivities with traditional Nepali music and dance.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: The ceremonial horse parade represents vigilance against evil forces, serving as a reminder to protect the community.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Sel Roti, Yomari, Gundruk

The atmosphere and cultural impact: The atmosphere during Ghode Jatra is electric. The festival highlights Kathmandu’s unique identity and enhances its reputation as a city rich in history and culture.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: It is mainly celebrated in Tudikhel, Kathmandu(late March or early April).

Rato Machhindranath Jatra – Chariot festival in Patan.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Rato Machhindranath Jatra is one of the oldest and most significant festivals in Nepal, celebrated in the historic city of Patan. This grand chariot festival, dedicated to the rain and harvest deity Rato Machhindranath. It is celebrated for several weeks.

How it is celebrated: It has several stages. The centerpiece of the celebration is the construction and pulling of an enormous, towering chariot carrying the idol of Rato Machhindranath.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: Pulling the chariot is considered an act of devotion and a way to participate directly in the festival’s spiritual significance.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Samay Baji, Wo (Lentil Pancakes), Yomari, Chhoila

The atmosphere and cultural impact: Devotees light candles, offer flowers, and chant prayers, creating a profound sense of devotion and spirituality.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Patan(April or May)

National and Secular Festivals:

Nepalese New Year (Bikram Sambat) – Celebrated in mid-April.

The meaning and origin of the festival: Nepalese New Year, also known as “Nava Barsha,”. Like English New Year Nepal has their own Nepali New Year which is Celebrated in Nepali month Baisakh 1 according to Nepali Calendar.

How it is celebrated: Nepalese New Year is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. People clean and decorate their homes to welcome positive energy. Religious people visit temples and monasteries to offer prayers for health, prosperity, and happiness in the upcoming year. Communities organize fairs, parades, and cultural events where people come together to celebrate. Some people go for family picnics, trekking and hiking. Also some visit and consult astrologers or pandits during this time for horoscopes and predictions for the year ahead, an important tradition in Nepalese culture.

The significance of the rituals and traditions: The Nepalese New Year celebrates the arrival of new opportunities while expressing gratitude for the past year.

Food and special dishes associated with the festival: Newari Cuisine and Other Dish Depending upon location.

The atmosphere and cultural impact: In the village area you can experience folk dances like Tamang Selo and Deuda. While in the urban area Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Biratnagar see an infusion of contemporary celebrations, including concerts, parties, and public firework displays, reflecting the fusion of tradition and modernity.

Where and when it is celebrated in Nepal: Across Nepal. New Year is celebrated in Baisakh 1 which falls on April 13th or 14th of the Gregorian calendar.

Final Say

These are only some of Nepal’s largest celebrations. Every festival is some new window into Nepal’s soul, multicultural society, religious traditions, and deep-rooted customs. 

Whether you are spiritual practitioner or cultural aficionado, to witness these celebrations in Nepal is an enriching experience beyond anything, and you shall be left in awe of the country’s and the region’s beauty and richness. 

Plan your travel and be part of the rich canvas of Nepali celebrations. You will not be disappointed.