Admin UserFestivals are one of the best reasons to visit Nepal. Many follow the lunar calendar, so exact dates change every year. This Nepal festivals calendar gives a planning overview of the main celebrations, with the reported dates for Dashain and Tihar in 2026, typical timing for others, what happens at each, how festivals affect travel and what to know before you go. Always confirm dates with a current Nepali calendar or your travel agency.
Major festivals at a glance
| Festival | Typical timing | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Maha Shivaratri | February–March | Pilgrims gather at Pashupatinath |
| Losar | February–March | Tibetan New Year |
| Holi | March | Festival of colours |
| Bisket Jatra | April | Bhaktapur's New Year chariot festival |
| Buddha Jayanti | April–May | Celebrating Buddha's birth in Lumbini |
| Tiji | May | Mustang's masked dance festival |
| Teej | August–September | Women's festival of fasting and dance |
| Indra Jatra | September | Kathmandu's chariot procession and the Kumari |
| Dashain | September–October | Nepal's biggest festival, 15 days |
| Tihar | October–November | Festival of lights |
| Mani Rimdu | October–November | Sherpa festival at Tengboche |
Video: Dashain Tika -2082 | festival in Nepal | Kathmandu | Nepal (Prabha Kala Rai Shrestha on YouTube)
Dashain
Dashain is a 15-day Hindu festival celebrating the victory of good over evil. Families reunite, elders give tika blessings and kite flying fills the sky. Reported dates for 2026 are 11–25 October, with Phulpati on 17 October, Maha Ashtami on 18 October and the main tika day, Vijaya Dashami, on 21 October. Many shops and offices close, and transport is busy as people travel home, so plan flights and buses well in advance. Dates can differ by a day between sources, so confirm with an official panchang.
Tihar
Tihar is five days of lights, flowers and honouring crows, dogs, cows and siblings. Reported dates for 2026 place Laxmi Puja around 8 November and Bhai Tika around 10–11 November, though sources vary by a day. Streets and homes are decorated with oil lamps and rangoli, and groups sing and dance from house to house. It is one of the best times to be in Kathmandu.
Mani Rimdu
Mani Rimdu is a Sherpa Buddhist festival in the Khumbu, celebrated with masked dances at Tengboche Monastery, usually in October or November. If you want to combine it with an Everest trek, check the dates well in advance and book lodges early, because they fill up.
Tiji in Mustang
Tiji is a three-day masked-dance festival in Lo Manthang, held in spring according to the Tibetan lunar calendar; it was reported for 14–16 May in 2026. Plan ahead for the Upper Mustang trek, as permits and lodgings are limited.
Holi, Buddha Jayanti and Indra Jatra
Holi brings coloured powder and water play to the streets, so wear old clothes. Buddha Jayanti celebrates the Buddha's birth, with special ceremonies at Lumbini (Lumbini guide). Indra Jatra in September features chariot processions in Kathmandu Durbar Square and the appearance of the living goddess, the Kumari.
How festivals affect travel
Festival periods can mean full hotels, busy roads and closed offices. During Dashain and Tihar, domestic and international flights fill up, and prices may rise. On the positive side, you can see traditions in action and share in the festive spirit. Plan flexible timings, book early and allow extra time for transport.
Etiquette at festivals
Dress modestly, ask before taking photos and follow the lead of locals. Respect restrictions at temples and processions, and avoid blocking worshippers. See our etiquette guide.
Planning around festivals
See the full best time to visit Nepal for seasonal planning. Official tourism information is available from the Nepal Tourism Board.
Smaller festivals worth knowing
Besides the headline events, many smaller festivals brighten the calendar: Gai Jatra in August or September, when people dress as cows to honour the departed; Janai Purnima, when Hindus renew the sacred thread; Fagu Purnima in March, which launches Holi; Rato Machhindranath, a chariot festival in Patan; and the Newar New Year, celebrated with processions. Ask your guide or hotel what is happening on your dates, because local events are easy to miss.
How to join a festival respectfully
Wear modest clothes, stand where you do not block the procession and ask before photographing people or rituals. Accept offerings with your right hand, remove shoes where required and follow the crowd's lead when to stand or sit. Offer a smile and a small donation if there is a donation box. Festival days are busy for families, so choose quieter spots to rest and eat.
Planning a trip around festivals
If you want to experience a particular festival, book flights, hotels and any treks several months in advance. Confirm the festival dates with the current Nepali calendar, and allow a day either side for flexibility. Be aware of public holidays when banks, offices and some restaurants close, and keep some cash on hand. If crowds are not your thing, choose festivals that are more local, such as village fairs, rather than the headline events.
Safety and comfort at festivals
Crowds can be dense, so keep valuables secure and agree on a meeting point if you travel in a group. Carry water, sunscreen and small notes, and wear sturdy shoes. At colour or water festivals, protect your phone and camera in a waterproof pouch. If you feel overwhelmed, step back to a quieter lane, and remember that most festivals have a joyful, welcoming atmosphere.
FAQ
When is Dashain in 2026?
Reported dates for 2026 are 11–25 October, with Vijaya Dashami on 21 October. Confirm with the official calendar.
What is the best festival for visitors?
Tihar and Holi are lively and visitor-friendly.
Can I take part?
Yes, with respect and invitations.
Are festivals crowded?
Yes, so book early.
Do festival dates change every year?
Yes, most follow the lunar calendar, so dates move each year.
Plan it with local experts: see our guide to this destination, or talk to an Aadiyogi Travels specialist for a free custom quote.
