Tihar Festival in Nepal – Celebrate with Locals in Bhaktapur

Tihar, also known as Deepawali or Yamapanchak, is one of Nepal’s most beautiful and meaningful festivals. Often compared to Diwali in India, Tihar holds a unique charm of its own — a five-day celebration that honors the bond between humans, animals, and gods through light, music, and heartfelt rituals.

As the autumn air fills Bhaktapur’s ancient streets, every home and courtyard begins to glow with rows of flickering oil lamps, colorful rangoli, and the sound of laughter. Tihar is more than a festival — it is a feeling of gratitude, love, and joy shared among family and friends.

The Five Days of Tihar

Each day of Tihar carries a special significance:

  1. Kaag Tihar – Worship of crows, the messengers of death.

  2. Kukur Tihar – Worship of dogs, our loyal companions.

  3. Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja – Worship of cows and the goddess of wealth, Laxmi.

  4. Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja – Honoring the self and the sacred mountain.

  5. Bhai Tika – Celebrating the loving bond between brothers and sisters.

From bhailo and deusi performances to the sweet aroma of homemade delicacies like sel roti, anarasa, and barfi, every corner of Bhaktapur comes alive with happiness and togetherness.

Join Mha Puja and Bhai Tika Celebrations with Us

At Nepal In Style Travel, we believe the best way to experience Nepal is by living its traditions. During the Tihar festival, we warmly welcome our guests to join us in two of the most heartfelt celebrations — Mha Puja and Bhai Tika.

Mha Puja (Worship of the Self):
On this day, we celebrate the Newar tradition of honoring the self — cleansing the soul and welcoming positivity for the new year. Guests are invited to take part in this beautiful ceremony, sitting beside locals, surrounded by colorful mandalas, flowers, and lights. It’s a deeply spiritual and unforgettable moment.

Bhai Tika (Brother-Sister Ceremony):
The final day of Tihar celebrates the loving bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters put tika on their brothers’ foreheads, pray for their long life, and exchange gifts. We invite our guests to witness or even take part in this emotional celebration, where family, respect, and blessings come together in the most heartwarming way.

Let us make your visit a celebration to remember — full of light, laughter, and cultural connection.

Plan Your Festival Experience

At Nepal In Style Travel, we offer a special opportunity to:

  •  Participate in local lighting and Laxmi Puja rituals
  •  Join traditional deusi-bhailo celebrations
  • Taste festive Newari and Nepali cuisines
  • Capture the festival’s beauty through guided cultural walks
  • Join us with our Mha puja and Bhaitika celebration

Location: Bhaktapur, Nepal

 

Book your Tihar experience: Message us on WhatsApp ( 977-9841795422)

Come and experience Tihar, where every lamp tells a story and every smile welcomes you home. Let’s celebrate together and create glowing memories that last a lifetime.