Religious Festivals in Katmandu, Pokhara and elsewhere in Nepal

Festival Information

Festivals form an integral part of life in Nepal. They are not only eagerly awaited by the people as times of entertainment, rest, celebrating and eating - they carry great spiritual significance for individuals. Festival times offer all the fun of the fair and more - a 'must see' for anyone visiting.

Equally, they show the devotional side of Nepal - a country reputed to have over 350,000 temples and shrines.

Many festivals have specific themes, from self-examination to re-enactment of past triumphs over evil, to paying homage to other family members and so on. One of the most spectacular festivals is the Holi or fagu Purnima festival which takes place in March. On the first day of Fagu, the Chir Pole decorated with colourful flags is erected in Kathmandu's Durbar Square, announcing the beginning of a week in which everyone may be plastered in red vermillion powder and water balloons.