festivals-and-events-in-Kathmandu

Local Festivals and Events in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festival scene. Throughout the year, the city comes alive with numerous local festivals and events that showcase the country’s unique traditions, customs, and history.

1. Bisket Jatra (Baisakh)

  • Date: April 13th - 15th
  • Description: A three-day festival celebrated in Bhaktapur to mark the beginning of Nepal Saka calendar. The festivities include colorful processions, masked dances, and fireworks.

2. Indra Jatra

  • Date: September 15th - 25th
  • Description: A week-long celebration in Kathmandu that honors the Hindu god Indra, king of the gods. The festival features vibrant masked dances, street performances, and a chariot procession.

3. Tihar (Deepawali)

  • Date: October - November
  • Description: A five-day festival celebrated across Nepal to honor the goddess Durga and her brother Lakshmi. The festivities include candle-lit processions, worship of cattle, and distribution of gifts.

4. Dashain

  • Date: September 21st - 29th
  • Description: A week-long celebration in Nepal that marks the victory of goddess Durga over the buffalo-demon Mahishasura. The festival features traditional games, feasting, and worship at temples.

5. Makar Sankranti

  • Date: January 14th - 15th
  • Description: A harvest festival celebrated across Nepal to mark the beginning of the sun’s journey northwards. The festivities include kite-flying, traditional games, and worship of the Sun god.

6. Losar (New Year)

  • Date: February 12th - 13th
  • Description: A three-day celebration in Kathmandu that marks the Tibetan New Year. The festival features traditional dances, music, and feasting.

7. Gai Jatra

  • Date: August 25th - September 1st
  • Description: A week-long celebration in Bhaktapur to honor the dead and bid farewell to ancestors. The festivities include colorful processions, masked dances, and offerings at temples.

These local festivals and events showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu and offer a unique glimpse into Nepal’s history, traditions, and customs.