Namo Nepal

Dashain – Nepal’s Biggest and Most Celebrated Festival

Join millions across Nepal as they celebrate Dashain festival Nepal, a powerful time of family reunion, spiritual blessings, and joyous festivities heralding the victory of good over evil.

Family receiving blessings with Tika and Jamara during Dashain ceremony

What is Dashain?

The Festival of Victory and Unity

Dashain is the most important Hindu festival in Nepal, lasting 15 days and symbolizing the triumph of goddess Durga over the demon Mahisasura. Celebrated with prayers, rituals, cultural fairs, and social bonding, it represents spiritual renewal and unity across Nepali society.

Key Dashain Rituals You Should Know

Ghatasthapana

The planting of sacred Jamara grass, marking the start of festivities.

Phulpati

Bringing flower offerings and holy plants to temples.

Maha Ashtami & Navami

Days of worship, fasting, and animal sacrifices to goddess Durga.

Vijaya Dashami Tika Ceremony

Elders bless younger family members with red Tika and Jamara.

Importance of Dashain in Nepalese Culture

Dashain strengthens family ties as people return home, exchanging blessings and indulging in feasts featuring traditional dishes like goat meat, *sel roti*, and *gundruk*. It fosters community cohesion while reviving ancient spiritual customs linking the present to the past.

Dashain Festival in 2025

Starts: September 22
Ends: October 6

This period marks Nepal's longest public holiday. Government offices, schools, and many businesses observe this holiday span.

Major cities like Kathmandu light up with celebrations, fairs, live performances, and temple ceremonies.

Culinary Traditions of Dashain

The festival features sumptuous meals that bring families together, often marked by preparations of goat curry, rice, lentils, and sweet treats. Feasting and sharing food symbolize prosperity and communal harmony.

How to Experience Dashain as a Visitor

  • ✓ Dress modestly and respectfully; participate in public rituals with sensitivity.
  • ✓ Attend temples during peak festival days, especially Vijaya Dashami.
  • ✓ Try traditional festival foods like *sel roti* and join cultural shows in cities.
  • ✓ Book accommodations well in advance to avoid crowding issues.
Traditional Nepalese food like sel roti and curry being shared during Dashain feast

Dashain Festival FAQs

Practical questions about Dashain festival Nepal 2025, rituals, and participation for visitors.

When is Dashain celebrated in 2025?
Dashain starts on September 22 and ends October 6, with Vijaya Dashami (Tika day) marking the principal day of celebration.
What is the Dashain Tika ceremony?
It involves elders blessing younger family members with red Tika (a mix of rice, yogurt, and vermillion) and yellow Jamara (sacred barley grass), wishing prosperity and protection.
What foods are traditionally eaten during Dashain?
Goat curry, *sel roti* (sweet rice bread), mixed vegetables, and sweets like *kheer* (rice pudding) are common festival dishes, emphasizing feasting and sharing.
Is Dashain a public holiday in Nepal?
Yes, Dashain is Nepal’s longest public holiday, typically lasting 10-15 days, during which most institutions and schools close down to allow for family travel and celebrations.
Can non-Hindus participate in Dashain?
Absolutely. Visitors can respectfully observe and join many public and community celebrations, cultural events, and fairs with local guidance. The focus is on joy and unity.
What is the significance of Jamara in Dashain?
Jamara is sacred barley or maize grass grown in darkness starting on Ghatasthapana. It symbolizes fertility, renewal, and is placed on the head during the Tika ceremony for protection.
Is animal sacrifice still practiced?
Yes, ritual animal sacrifice (often goats or buffaloes) is traditionally practiced on Maha Ashtami and Navami in honor of Goddess Durga, though many urban families now opt for symbolic offerings.
Why is Dashain so important to Nepali culture?
Dashain unites families and communities across the country, serving as a powerful annual renewal of religious traditions, cultural identity, and social bonds among the Nepali people.
Are there special events for tourists during Dashain?
Yes, public cultural performances, fairs, kite flying, and temple celebrations often invite visitors to experience Nepalese traditions. Local tour operators frequently offer organized festival packages.
How do people prepare for Dashain?
Families engage in extensive cleaning and painting of their homes (to welcome Goddess Durga), purchase new clothes, and stock up on essential festive food items days before the festival begins.

Experience the Joy and Tradition of Dashain in Nepal

Celebrate this grand festival with authentic rituals, joyful reunions, and vibrant cultural events. Start planning your Dashain trip today!

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