Tihar Festival Nepal | Light Festival 2025, 2026 Dates

Tihar, also known as the festival of lights, is a five-day celebration observed by Hindus in Nepal and certain regions of India. This festival typically falls in the months of October or November (Kartik), in accordance with the lunar calendar. It is regarded as one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

Each day of Tihar holds special significance, with rituals and prayers dedicated to different animals, such as Crows, Dogs, Cows, and Oxes. The festival of Tihar involves decorating homes and streets with colorful lights and intricate rangoli designs. Families come together to eat, exchange gifts, and revel in the happiness and sense of community. It’s a time to share love and kindness with all beings.

When visiting Nepal during Tihar, be sure to know the Tihar festival dates for a firsthand experience of the celebrations. Join in on the festivities like making garlands and lighting oil lamps to honor the goddess Laxmi.

Join us for the Tihar Festival Tour! Get all the details on the Tihar Festival Dates for 2025/2026, the meaning behind the festival, helpful travel tips, and ways to join in on the Tihar festival rituals.

Brief Overview of Tihar Festival

Tihar is a Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal for five days, which is also known as Deepavali or Yama Panchak, or Festival of Lights. It is considered the second most important festival in the country, after Dashain, and is a time when people worship nature and animals.

The Tihar festival is celebrated with cultural rituals, colorful decorations, lights, and traditional food with family members.

In Tihar, people decorate their homes with flowers, rangoli designs, and oil lamps to welcome the Goddess Laxmi, who is believed to bring wealth & prosperity. The Tihar festival also includes worshipping animals and birds like cows, crows, and dogs as they hold great significance in Hindu Culture.

The five days of Tihar each have their own significance and rituals. The first day, known as Kag Tihar, is dedicated to worshiping crows. The second day is Kukur Tihar, where dogs are honored for their loyalty and companionship. The third day is Gai Tihar, where cows are known for their sacred nature. The fourth day, known as Govardhan Puja, is a day to worship oxen and celebrate the bond between humans and animals. The final day is Bhai Tika, where siblings come together to exchange gifts and blessings.

In Tihar, people also enjoy Traditional Tihar Foods like sel roti and kaju katli. Families gather to celebrate, play games, and take part in cultural activities.

Join us for the Tihar Festival and let us help you find homestays with local families. Experience the authentic Tihar celebrations and gain insight into the meaning of each day. Take part in cooking classes to discover the secrets of preparing traditional Tihar dishes and learn how to make garlands and rangolis.

Special Highlights of Tihar Festival:

1. Deusi and Bhailo

During Tihar, groups of young boys and girls go around singing traditional songs (Deusi for boys and Bhailo for girls) and collecting money and treats. It is a fun and festive tradition that brings the community together and spreads joy and happiness.

2. Rangoli and Light Decorations

Homes and streets are decorated with beautiful rangoli patterns and colorful lights during Tihar. The decorations symbolize prosperity, good luck, and the welcoming of Goddess Laxmi into the home.

3. Goddess Laxmi Puja

One of the main highlights of Tihar is the Goddess Laxmi Puja, where families gather to worship the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity. This puja is believed to bring blessings of wealth and prosperity to the household.

4. Kukur Tihar (Dog Festival):

On Kukur Tihar, the second day of the Tihar festival, dogs are celebrated for their unwavering loyalty and friendship. They are lovingly adorned with garlands, marked with tika on their foreheads, and offered delicious treats as a way of showing respect and appreciation for the dogs’ faithful companionship.

5. Bhai Tika:

On the final day of Tihar, sisters perform a special ceremony called Bhai Tika to honor and bless their brothers. Sisters apply tika on their brothers’ foreheads, offer them sweets, and pray for their long life and happiness.

6. Cultural Performances

Throughout Tihar, there are various cultural performances, including traditional dances, music, and dramas that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. These performances add to the festive atmosphere and provide entertainment for locals and visitors alike.

7. Traditional Nepali Food

Tihar is a time for feasting and enjoying delicious traditional dishes with family and friends. Special dishes like sel roti, kheer, and fruits are prepared and shared during the festival as a symbol of abundance and unity.

The Importance of Tihar Festival in Nepali Culture

The festival of Tihar in Nepal is a five-day event that is deeply connected to the country’s culture and religion, making it an important festival even throughout the country.

The bond between humans and nature is worshipped during the Tihar festival in Nepal. Kukur Tihar honors dogs for their loyalty, while Gai Tihar recognizes cows as symbols of prosperity. This custom reflects the profound respect for all living beings in Nepali culture.

Additionally, Tihar is a time when houses and streets are filled with colorful decorations of lights, unique designs of rangoli and flower garlands, creating a beautiful atmosphere for travelers.

Tihar is also a time when families come together to strengthen their relationships through shared meals, prayers, and celebrations. This creates a sense of unity and togetherness among Nepali family members.

Tihar festival in Nepal is all about bringing people closer and spreading joy & happiness. The customs and traditions of Tihar show the cultural values of Nepal, making it an important festival event for everyone in the country.

Historical Background & Cultural Significance of Tihar Festival in Nepal

Tihar festival in Nepal has a rich historical background and cultural significance that dates back hundreds of years. It is believed that the festival originated from the ancient Hindu scriptures and is deeply rooted in Nepali mythology and culture.

Tihar is also known as Deepawali or Yamapanchak, and it celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a time when people worship various deities, including Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, and Yama, the god of death, to seek blessings for prosperity and protection.

The festival is also associated with the legend of King Bali and Lord Vishnu, where Vishnu took the form of Vamana to defeat Bali, restoring balance and righteousness in the world. This story symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the importance of humility and devotion.

Tihar festival is not only a time for prayers and rituals but also a time for cultural performances, music, and dance. It is a time when traditional songs and dances are performed to celebrate the beauty and diversity of Nepali culture.

Overall, Tihar festival holds great significance in Nepali society as it promotes unity, harmony, and respect for nature and all living beings. It is a time when people come together to celebrate life, love, and the beauty of their cultural heritage.

How Nepali Families Prepare for Tihar Festival

Nepali families start preparing for the Tihar festival well in advance. They clean and decorate their homes with colorful rangoli designs, flowers, and lights. They also make sure to stock up on essential items such as sweets, fruits, and clothing for the festivities.

Families also start shopping for gifts and new clothes for themselves and their loved ones. They buy traditional attire such as kurta suruwal, sarees, and dhotis to wear during the festival. It is a time for shopping and exchanging gifts as a way to show love and respect to family and friends.

Families prepare tasty Traditional Tihar foods like sel roti, kheer, puri, ladoo, and pedas for the Tihar festival. This food is offered to the gods during the celebrations to share blessings with everyone.

Furthermore, families also gather necessary items such as marigold flowers, incense, oil lamps, and fruits for the rituals and prayers. These offerings are presented to the deities during the worship ceremonies.

Overall, Nepali families put in a lot of effort and love in their Tihar festival preparations. Tihar festival is a time for happiness, celebration, and being close with family. The festival is a meaningful part of Nepali culture and a time for reflection on all the good things in life.

Tihar Festival: 5 Days Celebration & Details

Tihar, known as the festival of lights, is a popular Hindu festival that is celebrated in Nepal and by Nepali individuals all over the world. This festive occasion lasts for five days, with each day set aside for the special worship and admiration of various animals and aspects of nature.

Day 1: Kaag Tihar (Crow Festival)

Kaag Tihar, which marks the beginning of the Tihar festival, is a day dedicated to honoring crows as sacred creatures in Hindu mythology. Through offerings of food like sweets, rice, and fruits to these birds, people seek to establish a connection with their ancestors and seek their blessings.

Kaag Tihar (Crow Festival) Date 2025: In 2025, Kaag Tihar, the festival dedicated to worshipping crows, will be celebrated on October 19, 2025 in Nepal.

This ritual of feeding crows is seen as a way to show gratitude for the presence of these birds in their lives and to ensure the well-being of their households.

Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Dog Festival)

Kukur Tihar, also known as the Day of the Dog, is a beautiful tradition observed on the second day of Tihar where dogs are honored for their incredible loyalty and companionship. It is a day filled with love, respect, and gratitude towards our four-legged friends.

Kukur Tihar (Dog Festival) Date 2025: In 2025, Kukur Tihar, the special day to honor and worship dogs, will be celebrated on October 20, 2025 in Nepal.

People show their appreciation by decorating dogs with fragrant garlands, applying a vibrant tika on their foreheads, and treating them to special delicacies. According to Hindu beliefs, dogs are considered as guardians of the afterlife, hence why they are worshiped with such reverence on this auspicious day.

Day 3: Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Cow Festival)

The third day of Tihar is dedicated to honoring cows, considered sacred animals in Hinduism. Cows are worshiped for their role in providing milk, an essential source of nourishment. People decorate cows with garlands, apply tika on their foreheads, and offer them special treats.

Gai Tihar (Cow Festival) / Laxmi Puja Date 2025: In 2025, Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja will be celebrated on October 20, 2025 across Nepal, honoring cows and welcoming the goddess of wealth, Laxmi.

Additionally, this day is also celebrated as Laxmi Puja, where the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Laxmi, is worshiped. Homes are decorated with lit oil lamps and colorful rangoli patterns to welcome Laxmi and seek her blessings for wealth and happiness.

Day 4: Goru Tihar and Govardhan Puja

The fourth day of Tihar, also known as Goru Tihar, is dedicated to worshiping oxen, who play a crucial role in agriculture and farming. Farmers decorate their oxen with garlands and tika, and in some regions, there are bullfights to celebrate their strength and power.

Goru Tihar Date 2025: Goru Tihar will be observed on October 22, 2025 in Nepal, a day dedicated to worshipping oxen for their hard work in farming and daily life.

This day is also observed as Govardhan Puja, where a mound of food is offered as a symbol of the Govardhan mountain, which Lord Krishna is believed to have lifted to protect the villagers from a storm.

Day 5: Bhai Tika (Brother-Sister Festival)

As the final day of Tihar, Bhai Tika holds a significant place in the hearts of Nepalese people, serving as a day dedicated to honoring and celebrating the profound bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters, with love and reverence, take part in a ceremonial ritual where they adorn their brothers’ foreheads with tika, present them with sweets and gifts, and offer heartfelt prayers for their happiness and prosperity.

In return, brothers bestow gifts upon their sisters, pledging to always support and safeguard them. This day serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted love and affection that siblings share, a bond that transcends time and distance.

Bhai Tika Date 2025: Bhai Tika will be celebrated on October 23, 2025 in Nepal, honoring the special bond between brothers and sisters with rituals, blessings, and tika.

To sum up, Tihar is a lively and joyful festival that celebrates the importance of family, relationships, and the connection between humans and nature. Various rituals and traditions bring people together to show gratitude, ask for blessings, and share happiness and positivity. Ultimately, Tihar is a vibrant and joyful festival that celebrates the unity between humans and nature and cultivates a sense of gratitude and respect for all living beings.

Tihar Festival 2025

The Tihar Festival in 2025 will be celebrated from 18th October to 23rd October. This five-day festival begins with Kaag Tihar (Crow Festival) and continues with Laxmi Puja and Kukur Tihar (Dog Festival), honoring animals and deities. The festival concludes with Bhai Tika on 23rd October 2025, a special day dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters.

Tihar Festival Dates for 2025

Tihar Festival 2026

In 2026, Tihar will probably take place from the 7th of November 2026, following the same five-day sequence of celebrations. The festival starts with Kaag Tihar on November 7 and includes Laxmi Puja and Kukur Tihar on November 8th. The celebrations culminate with Bhai Tika on November 11th, marking a heartfelt occasion for siblings across Nepal.

Tihar Festival Dates for 2026

Note: Dates are tentative.

Travel Tips for During Tihar Festival

For travelers looking to visit Nepal during Tihar, it’s crucial to understand certain travel suggestions that can enhance the overall enjoyment of the festival.

• First, It is crucial to show respect for the traditions and customs of the Nepali people during Tihar. This involves dressing in a manner that is considered appropriate and being considerate of cultural practices when participating in the festivities.
• Try the genuine Tihar dishes and sweets that are made during the festival. The tasty food forms a crucial aspect of the festivities, and experimenting with the various dishes will allow you to gain a glimpse into Nepali culture and cuisine.
• Make sure to stop by the local markets and shops during Tihar. You’ll find beautifully decorated homes, colorful lights, and festive decorations throughout the city. It’s a great chance to immerse yourself in the festive vibes and witness the true spirit of Tihar.
• Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see the Deusi and Bhailo traditions up close. Join in the singing and dancing with young groups as they go around spreading happiness and well-wishes. It’s a unique experience that will surely leave you with lasting memories of your time in Nepal during Tihar.
• Make sure to take part in lighting diyas and candles during Tihar. It’s a powerful symbol of light winning over darkness and it’s really beautiful to see. This tradition is a big deal for Nepali people, so getting involved will give you a true feel for the festival.
• Overall, traveling to Nepal during Tihar is a wonderful experience that will give you a deeper understanding of Nepali culture and traditions. By following these travel tips, you can fully enjoy the celebrations and blessings of this special festival while creating unforgettable memories.

Best Places To Experience Tihar Festival in Nepal

Nepal is a vibrant country with a rich cultural heritage, and one of the best times to experience its traditions is during the festival of Tihar. This five-day festival, also known as the Festival of lights, is a time to honor different animals and the bond between humans and nature.

If you’re planning a trip to Nepal during Tihar, here are some of the best places to experience the festival:

1. Kathmandu: The capital city of Nepal comes alive during Tihar with colorful decorations, beautiful lights, anTihar Festival Details and Dates for 2025/2026 festive events. You can visit the temples and shrines around the city to witness special rituals and ceremonies, and enjoy delicious traditional dishes at the local markets.

2. Pokhara: Known for its stunning natural beauty, Pokhara is a great place to experience Tihar in a more relaxed and serene setting. You can take part in the Deusi and Bhailo tradition here, and enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere during the festival.

3. Bhaktapur: This ancient city near Kathmandu is famous for its well-preserved medieval temples and architecture. During Tihar, the city is decorated with intricate rangoli designs and colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere that shouldn’t be missed.

4. Janakpur: Located in the Terai region of Nepal, Janakpur is a sacred city for Hindus and is a popular destination for pilgrims during Tihar. You can witness traditional rituals and ceremonies at the famous Janaki Mandir temple, and experience the festive atmosphere of the city.

5. Lumbini: As the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is a significant spiritual destination during Tihar. You can visit the monasteries and temples in the area, and participate in meditation and prayer sessions to experience the peaceful and contemplative side of the festival.

No matter where you choose to celebrate Tihar in Nepal, you’re sure to be mesmerized by the vibrant culture, delicious food, and heartwarming traditions of this special festival. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, and create unforgettable memories in the land of the Himalayas.

Accommodation and Travel arrangements

If you are considering a trip to Nepal during the Tihar festival and have questions about where to stay and how to get around, then We, Namaste Nepal is the answer to all your needs! Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your accommodation and travel arrangements are taken care of, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the celebrations without any worries.

For those seeking an unforgettable adventure in Nepal, we are the ideal choice. We provide a range of services tailored to your interests, like trekking, hiking, guided tours, or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of this captivating country. Our experienced team will handle all your accommodation needs, ensuring that your stay during the Tihar festival is both comfortable and unforgettable.

From comfortable guest houses to luxurious hotels, we will find the perfect accommodation option that suits your preferences and budget. Let us take care of booking your accommodations,airport transfers, transportation, and guided tours for your trip to Nepal. Enjoy the magic of the Tihar festival without the stress of planning – contact us today to start your dream trip.

How Namaste Nepal Can Make Your Tihar Festival Memorable

Besides helping you with accommodation and transportation, we also offer cultural experiences during the Tihar festival. Our guides will lead you through traditional ceremonies, local rituals, and show you how to cook traditional Nepali dishes.

During the Tihar festival, come trekking and hiking with us in Nepal. You can select from options such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, or a tour of Kathmandu Valley. Our team will create a personalized itinerary based on your interests and physical fitness.

Let us take care of all the arrangements so you can focus on truly experiencing the magic of the Tihar festival in Nepal. Reach out to us today to begin planning your dream trip and ensure that this year’s festival is a special one.

FAQs

When is Tihar in 2025?

Tihar in 2025 will begin on October 18, 2025, and will last for five days, ending on October 23, 2025.

When is Tihar in 2026?

Tihar in 2026 is expected to be celebrated in early November from November 7 to November 11, but exact dates depend on the Nepali calendar. we will update again when the actual dates are announced!

What is Tihar?

Tihar, or Deepawali, is a festival of lights that lasts for five days in Nepal. It’s a time to show appreciation for animals like crows, dogs, cows, and oxen, as well as celebrate the Goddess Laxmi and the bond between siblings.

Why is Tihar celebrated in Nepal?

During Tihar, people come together to honor nature, animals, and family. Worshiping Goddess Laxmi is believed to bring prosperity and wealth. The rituals practiced during Tihar help strengthen the bond between people and nature.

What is the difference between Tihar and Diwali?

Tihar is the Nepali version of Diwali, but it has five distinct days dedicated to different animals and traditions, whereas Diwali in India mainly focuses on Laxmi Puja and the victory of good over evil.

When does Tihar start in 2025?

Tihar 2025 will start on October 18, 2025, with Kaag Tihar (Crow Festival).

When is Kukur Tihar in 2025?

Kukur Tihar (Day of the Dogs) will be celebrated on October 19, 2025.

When is Tihar Bhai Tika in 2025?

Bhai Tika, the final day of Tihar dedicated to brother-sister bonds, will be on October 22, 2025.

What are the five days of Tihar and their significance?

Tihar, a festival in Nepal, honors different animals and goddesses each day. Crows are worshipped on the first day, dogs on the second day, cows and Goddess Laxmi on the third day, Govardhan Puja and worship of Oxes on the fourth day, and brothers and sisters ritual (Bhai Tika)on the final day.

How is Laxmi Puja performed during Tihar?

During Tihar, families perform Laxmi Puja by cleaning and decorating their homes with rangoli and oil lamps, while also offering prayers to the Goddess Laxmi for wealth and prosperity.

How are homes decorated during Tihar?

Houses are decorated with oil lamps (diyas), candles, rangoli (colorful floor art), and flower garlands to welcome Goddess Laxmi and bring wealth and prosperity.

What music and dance are performed during Tihar?

Deusi and Bhailo are traditional songs and dances performed by groups who visit homes, singing and blessing families in exchange for money and treats.

What traditional foods do people enjoy during Tihar?

During Tihar, people like to eat special dishes like Sel Roti (rice flour doughnuts), Yomari (sweet dumplings), sweets, dried fruits, and tasty meat curries.

What is Sel Roti, and why is it important during Tihar?

Sel Roti is a crispy ring-shaped bread made from rice flour. It is a popular food during the Tihar festival in Nepal and is often given to guests and offered to Gods.

Where is the best place to experience Tihar in Nepal?

The best places to experience Tihar Festivals are Kathmandu (for live celebrations), Bhaktapur (for cultural performances), Pokhara (for beautiful experience), and Janakpur (for religious ceremonies).

Is it a good time for tourists to visit Nepal during Tihar?

Yes! Tihar is one of the best times to Visit Nepal as the country is beautifully decorated, there are many live cultural performances, and you can participate in the celebrations.

What are the best things for tourists to do during Tihar?

For tourists during Tihar, there are fun activities like watching Deusi-Bhailo performances, visiting temples, lighting diyas, tasting traditional food, and walking through the streets and markets.

How can We Namaste Nepal help travelers experience Tihar?

We at Namaste Nepal can help you experience the Tihar Festival in Nepal like never before with guided tours, cultural experiences, visits to celebrations, performances, traditional activities, accommodation, transportation assistance, and food recommendations.

When should I book a trip to Nepal for Tihar 2025 or 2026?

If you’re planning to go to Nepal for Tihar in 2025 or 2026, it’s a good idea to book your trip early, at least 1-2 months ahead of time. This will help you avoid any last-minute problems and find a good place to stay.