Why Travelling in Nepal During Tihar Festival?

Travelling in Nepal During Tihar Festival 

Travelling in Nepal during the Tihar Festival also popular as Dipawali, offers a unique blend of cultural vibrance and natural beauty. Known as the "Festival of Lights," Tihar( Dipawali) spans five days and celebrates birds, animals, gods, and human relationships, which trekkers may witness in the villages along the trails. 

You can also visit our blog on : Trekking in Nepal during Dashain Festival if you like to travel in Nepal during Dashain. 

As you hike through the Annapurna or Everest and any other trekking regions of Nepal, villages are illuminated with oil lamps(electric laps are popular these days) and marigold garlands, creating a warm, festive atmosphere. Homes and trails sparkle in lights, adding an enchanting glow to the already breathtaking landscapes of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.

The third day, known as Lakshmi Puja, is particularly special, as local families honor the goddess of wealth with elaborate offerings and decorations. This day is also marked by Bhailo and Deusi, traditional songs sung by villagers, which trekkers can enjoy as they pass through the festive scenes.

Animal worship is another highlight, as people adorn crows, dogs, and cows with flower garlands, paint, and treats. These ceremonies, rich with symbolism, bring trekkers closer to the spiritual and cultural essence of Nepal, fostering a deeper connection to the region.

Travelling in Nepal during Tihar offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual side of Nepalese life, adding depth to the physical journey. With majestic mountain vistas paired with the colorful celebrations, a trek during Tihar becomes an unforgettable experience that combines the best of nature and culture.

Not only trekking trip is exciting, but also, city tours are magnificent doing during Tihar/Dipawali festival with unique cultural shows, dances and various items of local foods. 

the major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan illuminated with colorful lights and local people are found celebrating cultural shows with festive mood and excitements.

It is beautiful to observe Newari people of Nepal doing Maha Puja ( the puja of their own body) during Tihar festival and it is the date to begin their New Year. So that, the NEwa 

Travelling in Nepal during the Tihar Festival is an incredible cultural and scenic experience, blending adventure with one of the country's most vibrant celebrations. Here are some highlights of travelling in Nepal during this special time.

Highlights of Travelling in Nepal during Tihar Festival

1. Cultural Festivities Along the Trails: As you trek through various villages, you’ll witness homes and lodges adorned with lights, flowers, and intricate rangolis (colorful designs). Villagers celebrate with enthusiasm, sharing their traditions with visitors.

2. Traditional Music and Dance: Throughout the festival, local communities perform traditional dances like Deusi-Bhailo, a custom where groups sing, dance, and bless homes for prosperity. This gives trekkers a unique chance to enjoy authentic music and dancing in the hills.

3. Special Festive Meals: Tihar is celebrated with an abundance of traditional food. As a trekker, you’ll often be invited to join locals for special festive treats like sel roti (Nepali rice doughnut), sweets, and other homemade snacks, offering a taste of Nepalese hospitality.

4. Festival of Lights: Known as the “Festival of Lights,” Tihar sees every home, temple, and pathway lit up with oil lamps and candles, creating a magical atmosphere in the mountains. Watching the lights flicker against the night sky in the Himalayas is mesmerizing.

5. Animal Worship Ceremonies: Each day of Tihar is dedicated to different animals, including crows, dogs, cows, and oxen. This cultural aspect brings you closer to local beliefs and customs, as you witness villagers honoring animals with garlands, food, and blessings.

6. Clear Views and Ideal Weather: Tihar falls in late autumn when the skies are clear, and the temperatures are pleasant, perfect for trekking. This season offers some of the best views of the snow-capped peaks, making it an ideal time for both high-altitude and low-altitude treks.

Trekking during Tihar is a blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, allowing you to experience Nepal’s heartwarming traditions amid breathtaking landscapes.

Why Travelling in Nepal during Tihar Festival? 

Traveling in Nepal during Tihar is a magical experience with vibrant festivities. This five-day Hindu festival, also known as Deepawali, celebrates light, life, and family. 

Houses and temples are decorated with oil lamps, candles, and colorful rangolis.

Each day of Tihar honors different animals, like crows, dogs, cows, and oxen. The second day, known as Kukur Tihar, celebrates dogs with garlands and treats. 

You’ll witness locals expressing gratitude to these animals for their companionship.

Tihar also celebrates siblings' bond, with sisters and brothers exchanging blessings and gifts. 

The Bhai Tika ceremony, held on the last day, strengthens family ties. It's a beautiful tradition showcasing Nepal’s deep-rooted respect for relationships.

During Tihar, streets come alive with traditional music and Deusi-Bhailo singing. People, especially children, go house to house singing and dancing.

 This unique tradition unites the community and spreads joy.

Experiencing Tihar allows visitors to immerse themselves in Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. The festival’s vibrant colors, lights, and traditions leave a lasting impression. 

Traveling during Tihar provides insight into Nepalese spirituality and joyful customs.

Can I celebrate Tihar though I am not a Hindu? 

Yes, you can celebrate Tihar even if you’re not Hindu. Tihar, also known as the Festival of Lights, is widely inclusive, with celebrations often open to everyone, regardless of religious background. It’s a time to honor relationships between humans, animals, and gods, and the festival encourages positive connections and appreciation for life. Participating in traditions like lighting oil lamps, decorating with rangoli, and honoring animals such as crows, dogs, and cows can be a beautiful, respectful experience. Just approach the festivities with an open heart, respect the cultural significance, and enjoy the vibrant joy that Tihar brings. Even the non-hindus like Buddhists, Muslims and Christian can participate in celebration of Dipawali as it is all inclclusive and open to all the people around the globe. 

What activities can I experience during Dipawali? 

 During Dipawali, lighting diyas and candles in homes symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.

In recent years, people decorate their homes and offices with electric multi color lights in ordr to impart the good festive vibes

 Families create intricate rangoli designs at doorsteps using colored powders, flowers, and rice to welcome prosperity.

 People clean and decorate their homes to attract good fortune and blessings from the goddess Lakshmi.

 In the evenings, firecrackers are lit, filling the night sky with dazzling displays of light and sound.

 Temples and homes are adorned with vibrant flowers, garlands, and lights, creating a festive and spiritual atmosphere.

Families come together to perform traditional Lakshmi Puja, praying for health, wealth, and happiness.

 Exchanging sweets, gifts, and warm wishes among brothers and sisters and the loved ones strengthens bonds and celebrates unity.

 Children enjoy games and activities, adding joy and excitement to the colorful and lively Dipawali celebrations.

Most importantly, sisters and brothers come together and make stronger bonds by exchanging love on this very occasion

How travelers are benefitted while traveling in Nepal During Tihar festival? 

Travelling in Nepal during festival like Tihar and Dahsain with festive vibes is always better than travelling in other time of the year 

Travelling in Nepal with local cultural celebrations is magnificent and distinct 

Travelling in Nepal with colorful lights, religious ceremonies and authentic local cuisines is spectacular 

Travelling in Nepal during Tihar and Dashain festival can offer you an opportunity to become more intimate with local people and experience their way of life 

Travelers can directly involve in cultural, religious and spiritual celebrations 

The entire hills, mountains and cities have festive modes and you will have better excitements of traveling 

Final Words

Both trekking trips and city tours are more exhilarating to experience during the festivals like Dashain and Tihar in Nepal. The festive modes and the festive vibes add special charm in your vacation trips. Wherever you , either in the mountain or in the cities, you can see local people jolly and having fun together and you will experience and capture those moments while travelling in Nepal during Tihar festival. Therefore, travelling during Tihar festival in Nepal is always distinct, more marvelous and lets you experience the ones which you have never experienced before. So, trekking in Nepal during Tihar festival is highly recommended than in other time of the year.