Maha Shivaratri at Pashupatinath (February-March (2026: February 15)). Hundreds of thousands of Hindu pilgrims and Sadhus from across Nepal and India gather at the sacred Pashupatinath Temple complex (UNESCO World Heritage Site) on the banks of the Bagmati River. All-night vigils, fire…
Indra Jatra (September (8 days; 2026 dates: September 23-30)). Kathmandu's biggest street festival, centered at Hanuman Dhoka/Kathmandu Durbar Square. Honors Lord Indra (rain god) and features the Kumari chariot procession (the living goddess), masked dances of Majipa Lakhey and…
Dashain (Vijaya Dashami) (October (15 days; 2026: October 11-25, Ghatasthapana to Kojagrat Purnima)). Nepal's most significant and widely celebrated Hindu festival. Commemorates Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura. Family reunions, tika blessings from elders, kite-flying, and animal offerings mark the 15…
Tihar (Festival of Lights) (October-November (5 days; 2026: November 7-11)). Nepal's second-largest Hindu festival, equivalent to Diwali. Five days honoring crows, dogs, cows, Lakshmi (goddess of wealth), and the sibling bond (Bhai Tika). Homes and streets are decorated with oil lamps (diyo),…