Living culture
Festivals of Nepal
Most festivals follow the lunar calendar, so their dates move each year. Pick a month to see what is celebrated.
- BaishakhBuddhist
Buddha Jayanti (Buddha Purnima)
Marks the birth, enlightenment and passing of Gautama Buddha on the full moon day.
Baishakh · Apr–May
Across Nepal
- BaishakhHindu
Matatirtha Aunsi (Mother's Day)
Mother's Day; children honour their mothers, with pilgrims visiting Matatirtha pond.
Baishakh · Apr–May
Across Nepal
- JesthaNewar
Sithi Nakha
Newar festival dedicated to Kumar Kartikeya and the cleaning of water sources.
Jestha · May–Jun
Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur
- JesthaBuddhist
Tiji
Three-day masked-dance festival in Lo Manthang re-enacting the triumph of good over evil.
Jestha · May
Mustang
- BaishakhKirat
Ubhauli
Kirat festival marking the upward seasonal migration, praying for good crops.
Baishakh · Apr–May
Eastern hills
