Nepal is distinctly known as the world of colorful vibrant festivals celebrated in pretext of socio-cultural heritages. It is said that “In Nepal every other building is a temple and every other day is a festival.” Nepalese are said to observe more festivals than there are days in a year. There are different kinds of festivals celebrated to honor Hindu and Buddhist gods/ goddesses and others to recreate important events from ancient mythology and epic literature.
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The rich cultural heritage of Nepal is best expressed in the many large and small festivals that occur throughout the year. Though the Nepalese have diverse beliefs and ethnic backgrounds, all unite in the celebration of the year’s major festivals. Festivals such as Dashain and Tihar are of national significance; such as Bisket Jatra or Red Machchhendranath Jatra, belong to the traditions of the old Valley towns and still others, such as Mani Rimdu, are observed only by a particular ethnic community.
Some of the traditional festivals observed in Kathmandu now are: Bada Dashain, Tihar , Maghe Sankranti : (January), Naga Panchami, Janai Poornima, Pancha Dan Teej/Rishi Panchani, Indrajatra, Ghanta Karna, Buddha Jayanti, Sri Panchami, Maha Shivaratri, Phagu Poornima , Ghodejatra, Chaite Dashain, Nava Varsha, Seto Machchhendranath and Matatirtha Aunsi, apart from those mentioned earlier. The festivities such as the Ghode (horse) jatra, Indra-Jatra, Loshar, Shivaratri and many more are observed by various communities of Kathmandu with great devotional fervor and enthusiasm.
Visit to Kathmandu, no matter which time of the year, promises a colorful and rewarding festive experience.