Nepal is known for its vibrant culture and deep-rooted traditions. People of Nepal celebrate a wide range of festivals throughout the year. Similarly, these festivals not only showcase the nation’s rich heritage but also reflect the strong sense of religious harmony and communal spirit that brings people together.
Likewise, Nepal’s festivals offer something unique for its citizens as well as every traveler. Witnessing a perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and joy makes each festival an unforgettable experience.
To help you make the most of these remarkable events, the people of this nation will make you feel at home and treat you the best they can. In addition, exploring Nepal’s festivals is a top-notch experience for any travelers, as they are undoubtedly never going to forget this. Therefore, while in Nepal, make yourself ready for every unrealistic adventure as possible and enjoy your time to the fullest.
Best 5 Festivals to Experience in Nepal as an Outsider
Visitors to Nepal often experience cultural shock when they get to witness the deeply rooted traditions, elaborated rituals, and intense devotion displayed during local celebrations. Not to mention, despite the initial cultural shock, many visitors embrace the vibrant culture, rhythmic music, warmth of people, and their sense of unity while performing at festivals.
Read more: Bites-of-Kathmandu-a-tasting-tour-of-local-flavors
Dashain: The Grandest Festival of Nepal
- Location: Celebrated nationwide, with major events in Kathmandu
- Best Time to Visit: September-October
Why Visit?
Dashain is considered the longest and most significant festival in Nepal. Particularly, it symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Families reunite, temples are beautifully decorated, and people celebrate with kite flying, animal sacrifices (especially goats), and traditional feasts. Outsiders can witness grand ceremonies in Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur, and Patan, where devotees gather for blessings and cultural performances.
Accommodation & Stay Facilities
- Hotels and guesthouses in Kathmandu offer special festival packages.
- Many homestays welcome tourists to experience Dashain in a family setting.
Travel Tips
- Visit temples and heritage sites early to avoid large crowds.
- Try traditional foods like sel roti and goat curry served during the festival.
- Many businesses close during Dashain, so plan ahead for transportation and shopping.
Tihar: The Festival of Lights
- Location: Celebrated across Nepal, best experienced in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur
- Best Time to Visit: October – November
Why Visit?
The Tihar festival is also known as Deepawali, which is Nepal’s version of Diwali. During this festival, homes and streets are illuminated with oil lamps, candles, electric lights, and rangoli (decorative art made with colored powders or flowers inside/outside of the house). As an outsider, you’ll feel instantly welcomed, as locals invite everyone to join in the fun. The best places to experience Holi are Kathmandu Durbar Square, Thamel, and Lakeside Pokhara, where crowds gather for music, dancing, and festivities.
Accommodation & Stay Facilities
- Hotels and hostels in Thamel (Kathmandu) and Lakeside (Pokhara) offer Holi parties for guests.
- Some boutique hotels provide safe spaces for enjoying Holi with a local touch.
Travel Tips
- Wear white clothes to fully enjoy the colors, but don’t wear expensive outfits.
- Keep your electronics in waterproof covers to avoid damage.
- Be cautious of overcrowded areas, as Holi can get wild.
Indra Jatra: The Festival of Living Goddess Kumari
- Location: Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Best Time to Visit: September
Why Visit?
Indra Jatra is one of Kathmandu’s most spectacular festivals, known for its masked dances, chariot processions, and the appearance of the kumari, Nepal’s living goddess. Similarly, this festival honors Indra, the god of rain, and is marked by cultural performances, sacred rituals, and the rising of the Linga (wooden pole) at Basantapur.
Accommodation & Stay Facilities
- Stay in heritage hotels near Kathmandu Durbar Square for the best views of the festival.
- Many guesthouses in Thamel provide easy access to the event.
Travel Tips
- Arrive early at Durbar Square to secure a good viewing spot.
- Keep valuables safe, as the festival draws large crowds.
- Respect cultural customs when watching the Kumari chariot procession.
Buddha Jayanti: The Birth Anniversary of Buddha
- Location: Best experience in Lumbini and Swayambhunath (Kathmandu)
- Best Time to Visit: April-May
Why Visit?
Buddha Jayanti is an important festival marking the birth of Lord Buddha, celebrated with prayers, processions, and peace gatherings. The best places to experience this festival are Lumbini, Buddha’s birthplace, and Swayambhunath Stupa in Kathmandu, where thousands of monks and devotees gather for rituals.
Accommodation & Stay Facilities
- Luxury hotels and monasteries in Lumbini offer a peaceful stay during the festival.
- Kathmandu’s heritage hotels near Swayambhunath provide easy access to celebrations.
Travel Tips
- Visit Lumbini early in the morning to witness special rituals.
- Wear modest clothing when visiting monasteries and temples.
- Enjoy a meditative experience by joining Buddhist chanting sessions.
Read more: Journey-through-the-monasteries-of-Kathmandu-valley
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