Tihar Festival in Nepal: Celebrating Lights, Life, and Tradition

Published On : 24th Oct, 2025 By Himalayan Dream Team

Tihar is one of the most important festivals in Nepal, known as Deepawali or the festival of lights among Hindus. This colorful five-day festival is filled with religious rituals, cultural activities, and joyful family gatherings that make homes and communities shine with light and warmth. Each day in Tihar has a special meaning and delights various gods and animals: crows, dogs, and cows. The festival is bound with Hindu spirituality and respects life in every form. Houses are decorated with oil lamps, bright designs of rangoli, and flowers as signs of the victory of light over darkness.

Tihar is not only devoted to the gods but also involves the relationship between the family members, especially the bond between brothers and sisters, through Bhai Tika. In this ceremony, sisters put tika on their brothers' foreheads and pray for their long life and prosperity, while brothers return gifts. This heart-touching tradition keeps the family relations warmer and is one of the most treasured moments of the festival. While Tihar lights up Nepal, it at the same time shows a time for thanksgiving, seeking blessings, and enjoying the festive spirit through music, dances, and feasts.

Religious Importance

• Tihar honors Goddess Laxmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, and Yama, the god of death, the balance between life and afterlife.
• It's about thanks, wealth, and blessings one has received through the year via various religious rituals and family gatherings.
• In fact, each day of Tihar is a continuation of Hindu mythology and is devoted to various gods and animals for their importance in one's spiritual life.
• First Day - Kag Tihar: The first day is reserved for crows-a representation of the messengers of death hinting at the impermanence of life. Second Day - Kukur Tihar: This is a day when dogs are worshipped for their loyalty, protection, and companionship. Third Day - Gai Tihar: On this day, cows are worshipped since, according to Hindu culture, they hold a holy position. Laxmi Puja on the same day aims to seek blessings for wealth and prosperity.
• Goru Tihar, the fourth day, is set apart for oxen, which are helpful in agriculture, and Govardhan Puja remembers Lord Krishna's saving of his devotees.
• Bhai Tika, the last day of Tihar, is destined for family unity on which a sister prays for the longevity and prosperity of her brother. Further, this strengthens the bond of love between them.
• The religious functions of Tihar reveal the interrelationship that exists among humans, animals, gods, and nature in the more extensive relevant meaning of the festival.
• Thus, Tihar unites the family in worship, making it possible for the members to show gratitude, celebrate the gift of life, and pray for protection in the forthcoming year.

Key Elements of Tihar Festival in Nepal

The Tihar Festival in Nepal, also known as the Festival of Lights and Flowers, is full of symbolic traditions, colors, and joyful community activities. From sacred flower garlands to vibrant forehead tikas, every element of Tihar celebration holds deep spiritual meaning. Let’s explore the most iconic aspects that make Tihar in Nepal so special.

How to Celebrate Tihar in Nepal as a Tourist

• Join Deusi-Bhailo groups to enjoy traditional music and dance.
• Admire dazzling lights and vibrant rangoli artwork in streets and homes.
• Learn to make flower garlands and apply the seven-colored Saptarangi Tika.
• Enjoy authentic Nepali sweets and festival foods like sel roti.
• Visit temples and take part in religious and cultural rituals.
• Participate in Bhai Tika with a local family for an unforgettable cultural exchange.

Why is Tihar Celebrated in Nepal?

The Tihar Festival in Nepal is much more than a vibrant cultural event—it is a deeply spiritual celebration rooted in Hindu beliefs, ancestral traditions, and the harmonious connection between humans, nature, and divine beings. Known as the festival of lights and flowers, Tihar symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, prosperity over poverty, and love over ego. Celebrated over five days, Tihar honors not just gods and goddesses, but also animals, nature, and family relationships, making it one of the most meaningful festivals in Nepal.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance

At its core, Tihar in Nepal is a time of gratitude, renewal, and spiritual reflection. Each day of the festival is devoted to specific deities and sacred elements of life. Worship begins with Kaag Tihar, where crows are fed as messengers of the divine, followed by Kukur Tihar and Gai Tihar, where dogs and cows are worshipped for their loyalty and abundance. On Laxmi Puja, Goddess Laxmi—the deity of wealth—is welcomed into homes with oil lamps, candles, and prayers, inviting peace and prosperity into the household.

The Nepali Tihar festival is also marked by Mha Puja, a unique Newar tradition where individuals honor their own body and soul. This act of self-purification and empowerment reflects the festival’s deeper spiritual purpose: recognizing the sacredness of all life. Through light, tika, and prayer, Tihar becomes a time to reconnect with spiritual values, express devotion, and seek inner clarity.

Honoring Animals, Nature, and Family

One of the most extraordinary aspects of Tihar celebration in Nepal is its respectful tribute to animals and nature. From birds and pets to livestock and even mountains, Tihar acknowledges the role of all living beings in the human journey. This reverence is rare among global festivals and highlights the Hindu principle of interconnectedness—that life in every form is sacred and worthy of love and respect.

The final day of Tihar, Bhai Tika, is devoted to the powerful bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters apply a Saptarangi Tika (seven-colored tika) to their brothers’ foreheads, pray for their well-being, and offer garlands of makhamali flowers. In return, brothers bless their sisters with love and gifts. This ceremony not only strengthens family ties but also reflects the essence of Tihar in Nepal—a celebration of love, protection, and lasting relationships.

Day-by-Day Celebrations of Tihar

Day 1: Kaag Tihar (Worship of Crows)

It starts with Kaag Tihar, dedicated to crows; they are believed to be carriers of information among the gods. The people will take food outdoors for the crows so that the birds will not carry any bad news and there is harmony. Feeding the crows signifies the communion between man and the divine, setting a trend for the days of gratitude and worship coming afterwards.

Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Worship of Dogs)

Kukur Tihar celebrates dogs, who are considered to be the messengers of Lord Yamaraj, the God of Death. On this day, dogs wear garlands and tikas, receiving delicious meals as a sign of respect and gratitude for the fact that they provide loyalty and companionship. The day depicts how dogs are important in Nepalese culture and play a protecting and friend role within it.

Day 3: Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Worship of Cows and Goddess Laxmi)

Day three is now called Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja. The cows, since they are held sacred-being the mothers of sustenance-are indeed very important in daily survival. They would be garlanded and fed special treats. Later in the evening, the houses are lit up with oil lamps and candles to invite Laxmi, the Goddess of Wealth, into their homes for prosperity throughout the coming year. Traditionally, women sing Bhailo songs while on house visits to bless and receive dakshina.

Day 4: Gobardhan Puja and Deusi Bhailo

The fourth day, Gobardhan Puja, is a time when the cow dung represents the oxen and the Govardhan Mountain and is worshipped. This is the day that underlines the agricultural roots of Nepal; therefore, it has to do something with oxen in one of its prime necessities related to the field plowing. The evening festivities also continue with Deusi Bhailo, a group of boys and girls who go around, singing traditional songs for visiting homes seeking blessings and funds for any social cause.

Day 5: Bhai Tika (Brothers' Day)

It concludes with Bhai Tika, where sisters put a special tika to their brothers' foreheads, praying for their long lives and protection. As a matter of fact, it's related to the ritualistic legend of Yamaraj that delineates attachment between sisters and brothers, telling about the importance of family ties. The delicious meal and gifts from the sisters are given to the brothers in return for protecting and supporting them throughout their lives.

How Tihar is Celebrated Across Nepal

The Tihar Festival in Nepal is celebrated with devotion, color, and joy throughout the country—but the way it’s observed can vary significantly between urban and rural regions, as well as within culturally diverse areas like the Kathmandu Valley. Despite regional variations, the spirit of Tihar celebration—honoring nature, gods, animals, and family—remains beautifully intact.

Urban vs. Rural Tihar Traditions

In urban areas, such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, and major towns, the Tihar celebration is marked by bright city lights, decorative displays, and organized community events. Homes are lit with electric lights and traditional oil lamps (diyos), and colorful rangoli designs adorn doorways. Children and youths perform Deusi-Bhailo in well-dressed groups, often incorporating modern instruments and sound systems. Supermarkets and shops offer festive sales, and Tihar has also become a time for social gatherings and cultural programs.

In contrast, rural Tihar celebrations remain closer to ancient traditions. Villages light up with earthen lamps, and Deusi-Bhailo songs are performed with madals and harmoniums, preserving the folk rhythm and communal joy. Families in rural regions often make their own garlands and food from locally grown ingredients, such as sel roti and makhamali flower garlands. The emphasis on spiritual rituals and familial bonding remains deeply rooted in these areas, giving the festival a more intimate and grounded atmosphere.

Tihar Festival in the Kathmandu Valley

The Kathmandu Valley offers a truly unique and vibrant experience of the Tihar festival in Nepal. Home to the Newar community, the valley adds additional cultural depth with rituals such as Mha Puja, a self-purification ceremony celebrated on the fourth day of Tihar. During this ritual, Newars honor the self (body and soul), marking the Newar New Year with beautifully decorated mandalas, oil lamps, and offerings.

Temples throughout Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan glow with rows of oil lamps and buzzing devotees. Bhai Tika, the final day, is especially colorful in the valley, with siblings dressed in traditional attire, exchanging blessings, tikas, and gifts. The streets of Thamel and Ason come alive with lights, music, and flower markets, turning the valley into a true festival of lights and culture.

Trekking to Mardi Himal: A Tranquil Adventure

In addition to experiencing Tihar, embark on a serene trek to Mardi Himal, nestled in Nepal’s Annapurna region. This Tihar Festival With Mardi Himal Trek offers a peaceful escape from the crowds, with tranquil walks through lush rhododendron forests, traditional Nepali villages, and panoramic mountain vistas. Witness the majestic views of Mt. Machhapuchhre, Himchuli, and Annapurna South, enhancing your connection with nature and the local ethnic culture of the Gurung people.

Trip Highlights:

• Experience the vibrant Tihar Festival, witnessing Nepal’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions.
• Explore Kathmandu’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.
• Enjoy the serene beauty of Fewa Lake and the enchanting city of Pokhara, with its stunning mountain views.
• Trek the less-traveled path to Mardi Himal Base Camp, experiencing peaceful walks and breathtaking mountain vistas.
• Discover the local ethnic culture of the Gurung people, gaining insights into their traditional way of life.
• Stay in local teahouses, savor traditional Nepali cuisine, and engage with the local communities.

Importance of the Tihar Festival in Nepal

Tihar is the Festival of Lights and one of the most important festivals in Nepal, signifying the triumph of good over evil. During this colorful festival, humans are drawn closer to animals, thereby appreciating the value of creatures such as crows, dogs, cows, and oxen in everyday life. Feasting, cleaning houses, wearing new clothes, and tasting different delicious foods are in vogue. Due to Tihar, schools, colleges, and offices declare a public holiday so that everyone can enjoy the festival.

At night, every house and shop is painted with colored lights; fireworks fill the sky. Friends and relatives gather together and exchange gifts and good wishes, enhancing social relationships. Nepalis wear new clothes and welcome their lives with a ray of hope and happiness.

It has a significant role in fostering community spirit and acting as a relief from daily monotonous routines. It also ensures that the cultural traditions are upheld. The special meals prepared, flying kites, decorating houses and streets, and enjoying card games immensely, as this is considered part of the holiday. In this way, Tihar contributes to keeping alive the rich cultural heritage of Nepal; classic songs and dances are also remembered.

Dhanteras: A Day of Prosperity

Dhanteras, or Dhan Trayodashi, coincides with Kaag Tihar, the first day of the festival. On this day, Hindus celebrate Dhanvantari, the goddess of healing and wealth. It is customary to purchase gold, silver, copper, and household items, as these are considered auspicious.

Are Diwali and Tihar the Same?

Names such as "Deepawali," "Yamapanchak," and "Swanti" have been used to identify Tihar in Nepal. Though similar, Tihar bears a few major differences from the Indian Diwali. Similarities such as light, rangoli, and sweets are used in the triumph of good over evil in both events. Tihar however focuses on giving thanks to the animals for services provided during one's life, whereas Diwali focuses a bit more on deities.

It is a five-day festival starting with Kaag Tihar on Trayodashi tithi of Kartika Krishna Paksha and ending with Bhai Tika on Dwitiya tithi of Kartika Sukla Paksha. Hence, it falls between the month of October and November every year.

Differences Between Diwali and Tihar

• Day 1: Kaag Tihar in Nepal honors crows, regarded as messengers of Lord Yama. In India, Dhanteras marks the start of Diwali, a day for cleaning homes and buying auspicious items.
• Day 2: Kukur Tihar celebrates dogs for their loyalty. Dogs are adorned with garlands and tikas, receiving special meals. In India, Choti Diwali involves decorating homes and preparing for the main festival.
• Day 3: Gai Tihar honors cows, followed by the evening Laxmi Puja. Homes are decorated with lights and garlands. In India, Diwali is celebrated with family gatherings, gift-giving, and worshiping Goddess Laxmi.
• Day 4: Goru Tihar celebrates oxen and varies by ethnic group. In India, Padwa is observed, with people opening new business accounts for prosperity.
• Day 5: Bhai Tika in Nepal honors sibling relationships through rituals and gifts. In India, Bhai Duj celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.

While both festivals aim to bring good fortune and family prosperity, Tihar emphasizes animals' role in supporting human life, whereas Diwali focuses more on divine blessings.

The Reason Behind Tihar's Celebration

Different communities in Nepal celebrate Tihar in diverse ways. The Newars call it Swanti, and the Madhesis refer to it as Deepawali. Tihar is Nepal's second-largest festival after Dashain, celebrated with vibrant lights, colorful rangoli, and joyful gatherings. But why do we celebrate Tihar?

The Story of Yama and Yamuna

One popular legend behind Tihar is the tale of Lord Yama, the God of Death, and his sister Yamuna. Yama, who judges souls after death, was too busy with his duties to visit his sister. Despite Yamuna sending messages through a crow, dog, and cow, Yama did not come. Finally, Yamuna visited him herself, leading to the celebration of Bhai Tika on the fifth day. This ritual symbolizes the bond between siblings, with sisters wishing their brothers well.

Govardhan Puja

Another story associated with Tihar is the Govardhan Puja, which commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Mountain to protect villagers from a flood. In gratitude, the villagers worshiped the mountain with offerings of food.

Main Attractions of the Tihar Festival

Tihar is unique in its celebration of animals and gods, creating a harmonious blend of spirituality and tradition. During the festival, Nepalis create intricate rangoli designs on the floors of their homes, welcoming gods and goddesses like Lakshmi. Firecrackers, though recently restricted for safety, add to the festive atmosphere. Children sing and play games like kauda, engaging in fun-filled activities.

Exploring Tihar in Nepal

Tihar is a wonderful time for tourists to visit Nepal, offering a chance to experience the culture and festivities firsthand. Visitors are often welcomed into Nepali homes for meals and celebrations. On Bhai Tika, the Rani Pokhari Temple in Kathmandu opens to the public, offering a unique glimpse into local traditions.

Kathmandu Street Visit

Explore the streets of Kathmandu, adorned with lights and decorations, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the festival. Experience the joy of participating in rituals, giving thanks to animals, and celebrating the unity of community and family.

Visit Markets

During Tihar, markets are abuzz with activity, offering a visual feast of lamps, garlands, and colorful displays. Shoppers buy gifts and festive supplies, adding to the lively atmosphere. Visiting local markets during Tihar provides a deeper insight into the cultural significance of the festival and its impact on daily life.

Celebrate Tihar & Trek Mardi Himal: A Unique Nepal Experience

Join Himalayan Dream Team Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd. for an unforgettable journey that combines the cultural richness of the Tihar Festival with the tranquility of the Mardi Himal Trek. This unique experience offers the perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable adventure in the heart of Nepal.

Itinerary Details:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Tihar Celebration

• Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
• Enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner and participate in Laxmi Puja celebrations.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley - UNESCO Heritage Sites

• Visit Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
• Experience Gobardhan Puja and Deusi Bhailo celebrations in the evening.

Day 3: Tihar Festival Celebration with Family 

• Participate in Bhai Tika rituals with a local family, experiencing the warmth and joy of this special day.

Day 4: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

• Enjoy a scenic drive to Pokhara, a city known for its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance.

Day 5: Trekking Adventure Begins

• Drive to Kande and trek to Australian Base Camp, enjoying stunning views along the way.

Days 6-9: Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp and Return

• Trek through lush forests and traditional villages to Mardi Himal Base Camp.
• Soak in the breathtaking mountain vistas and experience the tranquility of the Annapurna region.

Day 10: Trek to Syauli Bazaar and Return to Pokhara

• Trek to Syauli Bazaar and drive back to Pokhara for a relaxing evening.

Day 11: Free Day in Pokhara

• Explore the charming city of Pokhara at your leisure, enjoying its serene lakes and vibrant culture.

Day 12: Return to Kathmandu

• Drive back to Kathmandu, with free time to explore the city or relax.

Day 13: Final Departure

• Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.

For personalized travel plans or itinerary adjustments, please contact us. We are happy to accommodate your preferences and specifications.

Tihar Festival Dates In Nepal 2026

Nepal Sambat: A Historical New Year

Nepal Sambat is one of the most treasured symbols of Nepal’s cultural identity and pride. Established in 879 AD by Shankhadhar Sakhwa — a visionary philanthropist from Kathmandu — it represents generosity, unity, and social renewal. According to legend, Shankhadhar Sakhwa used his fortune to free the people of the Kathmandu Valley from debt, giving birth to this unique lunar calendar system known as the Nepal Sambat.

Today, this historical calendar continues to mark not only the passage of time but also Nepal’s spirit of compassion and community. You can explore the full story in our detailed blog: Nepal Sambat – A Historical New Year.

For more information read our blog: Nepal Sambat

The Connection Between Nepal Sambat and the Tihar Festival

Nepal Sambat and Tihar are beautifully connected. The Nepal Sambat New Year begins on the fourth day of Tihar, celebrated as Mha Puja, a ritual that honors the self. While Tihar is known as the Festival of Lights—celebrating prosperity, animals, and family bonds—Nepal Sambat adds a deeper sense of reflection and spiritual renewal.

Together, these celebrations blend joy with mindfulness. The glowing oil lamps, songs of Deusi-Bhailo, and colorful decorations represent not just festivity, but also rebirth and gratitude. This shared timing between the two festivals highlights Nepal’s harmony between tradition, nature, and inner peace.

Mha Puja: Worship of the Self

Mha Puja, observed by the Newar community, translates to “worship of the self.” It’s one of the most meaningful parts of Tihar and the Nepal Sambat New Year. During the ceremony, each family member sits before a beautifully drawn mandala made of colored powders, flowers, and oil lamps. Prayers are offered for purity, strength, and prosperity in the year ahead.

This ritual reminds everyone to respect their own body and soul — a symbol of self-awareness, gratitude, and renewal. Mha Puja celebrates both individuality and unity, showing how spiritual health and cultural pride are deeply linked in Nepali tradition.

Legends and Myths of Tihar

The Tihar Festival is woven with timeless legends that give it spiritual depth. One of the most loved stories tells of Yama, the god of death, and his sister Yamuna. Out of love, Yamuna invited Yama home, applied tika on his forehead, and prayed for his long life. Touched by her devotion, Yama granted that any brother receiving tika from his sister on Bhai Tika would be blessed with longevity and protection.

Another tale tells of Goddess Laxmi, who visits homes during Laxmi Puja to bless families with fortune and happiness. Likewise, Govardhan Puja commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from a storm — a symbol of faith and divine shelter.

These myths capture the true essence of Tihar: love, light, and gratitude. Together with Nepal Sambat, they make this period one of the most meaningful and culturally rich times of the year in Nepal.

Best Time, Weather & Visibility During Tihar 2026

Tihar falls in early November — one of the most pleasant times to visit Nepal. The post-monsoon season brings clear blue skies, mild temperatures, and crisp evenings perfect for lighting diyos and watching the cities glow. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, daytime temperatures average 22–26°C, dropping to a cool 10–14°C at night, making light jackets ideal.

The air is clean and visibility excellent, offering perfect conditions for photography. Sunrise and sunset hours paint the sky golden, beautifully complementing the marigold garlands and flickering lamps. For travelers, Tihar 2026 offers not just cultural vibrancy but also the most photogenic landscapes of the year.

Where to Experience Tihar in Nepal

Tihar is celebrated across Nepal with local flavor in every region, from the bustling cities to peaceful villages.

• Kathmandu: Visit Ason and Indra Chowk early in the morning to see vibrant flower markets bursting with sayapatri (marigolds) and makhamali (globe amaranth). In the evenings, explore Thamel and Patan Durbar Square, where lights, candles, and rangoli patterns create a magical atmosphere.

• Bhaktapur: Known for its ancient charm, Bhaktapur’s Taumadhi Square and Nyatapola Temple area glow with oil lamps. The Rani Pokhari Temple, usually closed all year, opens on Bhai Tika day, drawing large crowds for blessings.

• Pokhara: The shores of Phewa Lake glimmer with floating diyos and reflections of lights from lakeside restaurants and homes.

• Village Experience: In rural areas, travelers can join families during Deusi-Bhailo, where children sing and dance door to door, spreading blessings and laughter — a truly authentic Tihar experience.

Tihar Decorations & Shopping Guide

Shopping for Tihar begins days before the festival, with markets overflowing with festive items. Streets are lined with marigold and makhamali garlands, symbolizing prosperity and long-lasting relationships. Families buy clay diyos (oil lamps), LED fairy lights, and colorful rangoli powders to decorate their homes.

You can find everything at Ason Bazaar in Kathmandu or Mahendrapul in Pokhara. Typical prices include:

• Marigold garland: NPR 50–150 per strand

• Clay diya set (10 pieces): NPR 150–300

• Rangoli color pack: NPR 80–200

• Sel roti (per ring): NPR 40–80

Shopping for Tihar is an experience in itself — a cheerful blend of color, scent, and community spirit.

Traditional Tihar Foods You Must Try

No festival in Nepal is complete without delicious food, and Tihar is especially famous for its homemade delicacies.

• Sel Roti: A crispy, ring-shaped rice bread deep-fried in ghee, made in every home.

• Anarsa: Sweet rice flour cakes with sesame seeds.

• Yomari: A steamed delicacy filled with jaggery and sesame paste, popular among Newars.

• Kheer and Fruits: Served during pujas and Bhai Tika rituals.

During Bhai Tika, sisters prepare an elaborate plate of sweets, dry fruits, and sel roti for their brothers, symbolizing love and prosperity.

Visitor Etiquette During Tihar

Travelers are warmly welcomed to join the celebrations, but respecting local customs ensures a meaningful experience:

• Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering homes or temples.

• Always ask permission before photographing rituals or people.

• During Deusi-Bhailo, offer small amounts of money or sweets to the singing groups as a gesture of goodwill.

• Be mindful of firecrackers, as loud noises can disturb elders and animals.

• On Kukur Tihar, approach dogs gently and never force garlands or tikas on frightened ones.

These small acts of respect make your Tihar experience both joyful and culturally sensitive.

How to Celebrate Tihar Respectfully

If you’re visiting Nepal during Tihar 2026, immerse yourself in the celebration step by step:

• Laxmi Puja (Day 3): Clean your doorway and make a rangoli to welcome Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth. Keep diyos and lamps lit all evening to invite prosperity.

• Deusi-Bhailo: Join or observe these neighborhood singing and dancing groups. Keep fruits, sweets, and small cash ready to give as blessings.

• Bhai Tika (Day 5): Watch or join a local family ceremony where sisters apply the seven-colored tika (Saptarangi Tika) on their brothers’ foreheads, wishing them long life and success.

Each ritual reflects gratitude, harmony, and the deep-rooted spirituality of Nepali life.

Practical Travel Tips for Tihar 2026

• Book hotels early, as both locals and tourists travel extensively during the festival.

• Carry cash, as smaller shops and markets may not accept cards.

• Expect heavy traffic during evenings due to processions and street celebrations.

• Major tourist sites may have shorter visiting hours during Tihar week.

• Electricity cuts can occur; keep a torch or power bank handy.

• The airport and bus stations are busiest two days before Tihar begins—plan travel accordingly.

These small preparations will make your Tihar experience smooth and enjoyable.

Photography Tips for Tihar Nights

Tihar offers some of the most stunning visuals for photographers. Capture its essence with these tips:

• Use tripod or phone night mode to capture diyos and rangoli without blur.

• Golden hour (5–6 PM) and blue hour (6–7 PM) are ideal for soft lighting.

• Frame reflections of lamps in water or people lighting diyos.

• Always ask permission before close-up shots, especially of Bhai Tika rituals.

• Focus on emotions, colors, and cultural details rather than only fireworks.

These photos will tell the real story of light, love, and Nepalese spirit.

Safety, Sustainability & Animal Welfare During Tihar

Tihar emphasizes compassion toward all beings — an ideal time to celebrate responsibly:

• Avoid plastic-based decorations; choose natural flowers and clay diyas.

• Dispose of used oil and flowers respectfully to keep the environment clean.

• Refrain from loud firecrackers that frighten pets and wildlife.

• On Kukur Tihar, feed and care for street dogs gently instead of overwhelming them.

• Support local artisans and florists by purchasing handmade goods.

By celebrating mindfully, you contribute to keeping the true spirit of Tihar alive — a festival of harmony between humans, nature, and divinity.
 

Tihar Festival Calendar Dates 2025 (2082 B.S)

Plan Your Trip with Himalayan Dream Team Treks and Tours

Service Included in Trip Cost:

• Arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle.
• Welcome dinner upon arrival in Kathmandu.
• Accommodation in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast.
• Cultural guide and private transport for sightseeing in Kathmandu.
• Tihar celebrations with meals included.
• Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back.
• Meals during the trek.
• Experienced trekking guide and porters.
• Permits for Annapurna Conservation Area and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS).
• Government taxes and travel arrangements.

Cost Excludes:

• International airfare.
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
• Nepal entry visa.
• Beverages and personal expenses.
• Monument entrance fees during sightseeing.
• Personal trekking equipment and insurance.
• Tips for staff.

Join us in celebrating Tihar and exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal on a journey that promises unforgettable memories and cultural enrichment.

This blog provides an engaging overview of the Tihar Festival, its cultural significance, and the unique trekking experience offered by Himalayan Dream Team Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd. Let me know if you need any more details or adjustments!

Celebration Month

Tihar usually falls in the month of Kartik according to the Hindu lunar calendar, which generally happens around October or November according to the Gregorian calendar. As the month of Kartik ushers in the closing of the monsoon period and the beginning of the harvest period, this happens to be a quite propitious time for celebrations. The sheer clarity of the skies and the pleasantness of the weather add to the festivity as the whole country bathes in a light of color and decorations.

Kartik is a month of religious and cultural activities that prelude to Tihar. The houses are cleaned and decorated to welcome the festival, hence purifying mind and soul. People mob the markets to buy sweets, flowers, and other various decorative items. The fervor before Tihar reflects the anticipation and joy that comes with the festival, hence setting the stage for five days of heartfelt celebration.

Food

Food is probably the prime focus during Tihar, as various traditional and seasonal delicacies are prepared to celebrate Tihar. Different types of sweets and popcorns are distributed among relatives and friends, symbolizing the sweetness and prosperities of life. Sel roti, a homemade rice doughnut, and different kinds of sweets like ladoo and barfi are very famous during Tihar. And people make them in their homes, giving time to Tihar a personal touch.

Each day of Tihar has special food for the gods and animals that are being worshipped. On Kukur Tihar, dogs are provided a special meal of meat and rice in reverence for their ability to provide service with loyalty. During Laxmi Puja, the families prepare a sumptuous feast to invite the goddess of wealth into their homes. These traditions of food contribute to the festive atmosphere and, at the same time, bring people closer to the divine, animals, and others.

Decorations

Houses and streets get filled with lights and colors, making them a feast to the eyes during Tihar. Every nook and corner is lit up either with oil lamps or electric lights as a symbolic representation of the victory of light over darkness. Designs made of colored powder, flowers, and rice, inscribed with rangoli, are drawn at the door of every house to invite prosperity and happiness.

Flowers, especially marigolds, are a major part of the decoration in Tihar. The marigold and other seasonal flowers are made into garlands, which are used to beautify the houses and temples, not to mention the animals too. These bright decorations exude warmth and welcome, evoking the joyous and positive attitude of the festival. Natural elements of decoration signify the harmonious relationship of humans with nature, hence being the major part of the idea for Tihar celebrations.

Best Places to See Tihar Festivities

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is one of the best places to see the festivities of Tihar. The whole city looks dazzling with lights, decorations, and cultural performances. The narrow alleys of Thamel, the traditional marketplaces, and historical temples like Pashupatinath and Swayambhunath are beautifully decorated, creating a festive ambiance that is breathtakingly awesome and inviting.

The celebrations of Tihar are also visibly well seen in Bhaktapur, which is really famous for its well-preserved culture and traditions. For its elaborate celebration, traditional music, and different dance performances, ancient town Bhaktapur is noted. In Bhaktapur, the Durbar Square is captivating, especially during Tihar, when its medieval architecture gets illuminated by thousands of oil lamps, hence giving a magical atmosphere which quickly takes one back in time.

Tihar Festival 2026 Dates in Nepal

The Tihar Festival 2026 in Nepal will be celebrated from November 6 to November 11, 2026 (Bikram Sambat: Kartik 21 to Kartik 26, 2083). Each day represents unique rituals and spiritual meanings that highlight the connection between humans, animals, and divine energy:

Note: The Bikram Sambat (BS) dates are based on the Nepali lunar calendar for the year 2083 and may slightly vary according to official announcements.

Tihar Festival 2083 BS Dates

The Tihar Festival in Nepal (2083 BS) will fall in the month of Kartik, coinciding with the English dates of November 2026. This five-day festival, also known as Deepawali or Yamapanchak, will be celebrated as follows:

Note: Dates are aligned with the Nepali lunar calendar for 2083 BS. Variations of one day may occur depending on the official government calendar announcement.

Conclusion

Tihar is not just a festival; it is a celebration of life, relationships, and gratitude. It brings together religious devotion, cultural heritage, and communal harmony, making it a cherished occasion for Nepalese people. The festival's rituals, foods, and decorations all contribute to its unique charm, creating memories that last a lifetime. As the lights of Tihar illuminate the night, they also kindle the light of love, unity, and prosperity in the hearts of all who celebrate. Whether you are in bustling Kathmandu or the historic city of Bhaktapur, the Tihar festival offers a unique and unforgettable experience that beautifully captures the spirit of Nepal.

Experience the magic of the Tihar Festival with us. Celebrate Tihar while trekking through Nepal's stunning landscapes for a unique and unforgettable journey. You can combine the Tihar Festival with various trekking adventures, including:

• 14 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Tihar celebrations and then embark on a trek to the breathtaking Annapurna Base Camp.
• 16 Days Everest Base Camp Trek: Join the festivities before setting off on an exhilarating trek to the iconic Everest Base Camp.
• 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek: Celebrate Tihar and then explore the remote and beautiful trails of the Manaslu Circuit.

Additionally, you can join special trips tailored to specific preferences:

• Women Only Trip: Trek with like-minded women and enjoy the supportive and empowering environment of a women-only group.
• Premium Comfort Annapurna - Bandipur Trek: Indulge in premium comfort while trekking from Annapurna to the charming village of Bandipur.

Join us for the Tihar Festival and trek Mardi Himal for a truly unique Nepal experience, combining festive celebrations with an unforgettable journey through Nepal’s cultural and natural wonders.

If there's anything else you’d like to add or adjust, please let us know. For more details and to book your dream trips, visit our website and begin your adventure today!

Tihar Festival in Nepal -FAQs