The Ultimate Guide to Nepali Festivals in 2083 BS
Nepal is famously known as the land of festivals, where it is often said there are more festivals than days in the year. Because Nepali festivals are dictated by lunar cycles (Tithi) rather than solar dates, they shift every year on the Gregorian calendar. Here is your definitive guide for 2083 BS.
1. Bisket Jatra & Nepali New Year (Baisakh 1)
The year kicks off in mid-April with Baisakh 1. While the entire country celebrates the New Year, the ancient city of Bhaktapur comes alive with the spectacular Bisket Jatra, featuring massive wooden chariots and dramatic tugs-of-war.
2. Dashain (Ashwin/Kartik)
Dashain is the longest and most auspicious festival in the Nepalese calendar, celebrating the victory of the Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. Spanning 15 days, it is characterized by family reunions, the receiving of "Tika" (a mix of yogurt, rice, and vermilion) from elders, and the flying of vibrant kites across the autumn sky.
3. Tihar (Kartik)
Often referred to as the Festival of Lights, Tihar immediately follows Dashain. It is unique globally because it devotes specific days to worshipping animals—crows, dogs, and cows—acknowledging their deep connection to human survival. The festival culminates in Bhai Tika, a day celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters.
4. Chhath Parva (Kartik/Mangshir)
Primarily celebrated in the Terai region, Chhath is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and his wife (Usha) to thank them for bestowing the bounties of life on earth. Devotees offer prayers and elaborate food offerings while standing waist-deep in rivers during sunset and sunrise.
To see exactly when these festivals fall in the English calendar for your travel planning, use our Interactive Nepali Patro.