“Two festivals. Fifteen days. Infinite colors, blessings, and joy.”
If you’re visiting Pokhara between October and November, you’re in for a cultural treat. Nepal comes alive during Dashain and Tihar, the country’s grandest and most widely celebrated festivals. From colorful rituals to family gatherings, animal blessings to sparkling lights, these festivals offer a heartfelt glimpse into Nepali life, spirituality, and joy.
Whether you’re here for trekking, relaxing by the lake, or exploring the city’s cultural sites, experiencing Dashain and Tihar will enrich your journey in unforgettable ways.
🏮 Dashain: Festival of Victory and Family (15 Days)
“Dashain is when families reunite, homes are blessed, and good triumphs over evil.”
🗓️ When: September–October (based on lunar calendar)
Dashain, also known as Vijaya Dashami, celebrates the victory of goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. It symbolizes good over evil, and is marked by family gatherings, animal sacrifices, and blessings from elders.
🌾 What You’ll See:
- 🐐 Local markets buzzing with goat and buffalo sales for ceremonial sacrifice
- 🌱 Families grow jamara (sacred barley grass) at home and temples
- 🎏 Homes decorated with red tika and jamara on the 10th day
- 🪁 Kids flying kites and playing traditional games
- 🛕 Temples like Bindhyabasini and Bhadrakali full of worshippers
🧭 As a tourist: Watch ceremonies, try festival foods like goat curry, or simply observe family rituals with local hosts if invited.
🪔 Tihar: Festival of Lights and Divine Bonds (5 Days)
“Tihar lights up the night—and the heart.”
🗓️ When: October–November (follows Dashain, based on lunar calendar)
Tihar, also called Deepawali, honors animals, prosperity, and siblings. It is known for its beautiful oil lamps (diyas), rangoli art, music, and five symbolic days.
🎊 5 Days of Tihar:
- 🐦 Kag Tihar – Crows are worshipped as messengers
- 🐶 Kukur Tihar – Dogs are honored with tika and garlands
- 🐄 Gai Tihar / Laxmi Puja – Cows are worshipped, and homes are lit up for Goddess Laxmi
- 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Govardhan Puja – Oxen and nature are revered
- 👫 Bhai Tika – Sisters bless their brothers in a beautiful bond of protection and gratitude
✨ What You’ll Experience:
- 🪔 Streets and homes glowing with colorful lights, candles, and diyas
- 🎶 Traditional Deusi-Bhailo groups singing and dancing door to door
- 🌸 Marigold flower garlands everywhere—on animals, doorways, and temples
- 🍬 Sweets like sel roti, anarsa, and ladoos shared with guests
💡 As a tourist: Join a Tihar dance, enjoy sweets, or walk through Old Pokhara at night to see lights and cultural performances.
🧭 Travel Tips for Tourists During Dashain & Tihar
- 🚖 Book transport and hotels in advance—many locals travel during this time
- ⛩️ Visit temples early to avoid crowds
- 🎁 If invited to a local home, bring small sweets or fruits as a gesture
- 📷 Be respectful while taking photos of rituals—ask for permission
- 🚪 Some shops and restaurants may be closed—check ahead during tika days