Nepal Sambat is Nepal's historic lunisolar calendar and one of the most important symbols of Newar culture, identity and heritage. Established in 879 CE, this traditional calendar continues to hold a special place in the religious, cultural and historical life of the Kathmandu Valley.
The Nepal Sambat New Year is celebrated during the Tihar festival season, usually in October or November. It is closely associated with Mha Puja, a meaningful Newar ceremony honouring the self, spiritual renewal, well-being and the beginning of a new year.
For travellers visiting Nepal, the New Year celebrations provide a wonderful opportunity to discover traditional Newar culture, historic temples, colourful processions, family customs and the living heritage of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur.
In this guide, Himalayan Dream Team explains the history of Nepal Sambat, the legend of Sankhadhar Sakhwa, how the calendar works, the significance of Mha Puja, Nepal Sambat New Year dates for 2025, 2026 and 2027, and the best places to experience these traditions.
What Is Nepal Sambat?
Nepal Sambat, also written Nepal Samvat or Nepal Era, is a traditional lunisolar calendar that originated in Nepal in 879 CE. It has been used for centuries in religious observances, historical records, inscriptions and cultural traditions, particularly among the Newar communities of Kathmandu Valley.
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which follows the solar year, Nepal Sambat uses lunar months while incorporating adjustments to remain aligned with the seasons.
The calendar is especially important for understanding the history and cultural traditions of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, three historic cities where Newar architecture, language, art and religious customs remain deeply rooted in everyday life.
Nepal Sambat is more than a way of recording dates. It represents Nepal's cultural heritage, community identity and continuity between generations.
Nepal Sambat 1146, 1147 and 1148: Understanding the Calendar Years
Because Nepal Sambat New Year begins around October or November, a single Gregorian calendar year overlaps two Nepal Sambat years.
| Nepal Sambat Year | Gregorian Period | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Nepal Sambat 1146 | October 2025 – November 2026 | Newar calendar year beginning during Tihar 2025 |
| Nepal Sambat 1147 | November 2026 – approximately October/November 2027 | New Year beginning during Tihar 2026 |
| Nepal Sambat 1148 | Expected to begin in October/November 2027 | New Year beginning during Tihar 2027; exact date to be confirmed |
For example, October 2026 falls within Nepal Sambat 1146 until the next New Year celebration, after which Nepal Sambat 1147 begins.
This is why travellers searching for the Nepal Sambat calendar 2026 or 2027 may encounter two different Nepal Sambat year numbers within the same Gregorian year.
History of Nepal Sambat: When Did the Calendar Begin?
Nepal Sambat began in 879 CE, making it a historic calendar era with more than eleven centuries of continuous cultural significance.
The beginning of the calendar is traditionally associated with the reign of King Raghav Dev and the celebrated figure Sankhadhar Sakhwa.
Over the centuries, Nepal Sambat appeared in inscriptions, manuscripts, religious records and administrative documents. Its use was particularly important during the medieval period of Kathmandu Valley, including the Malla era.
Although other calendar systems later became dominant in government administration, Nepal Sambat remained important in Newar religious and cultural life.
The Legend of Sankhadhar Sakhwa – Founder of Nepal Sambat
One of the most meaningful stories connected with Nepal Sambat is the legend of Sankhadhar Sakhwa, a respected figure remembered for his generosity and compassion.
According to traditional accounts, Sankhadhar Sakhwa was a merchant from Kathmandu who discovered that sand collected from the Bishnumati River contained valuable gold.
The story says that he used this wealth to free people from debt, bringing financial relief and a new beginning to the community.
His extraordinary act of generosity became associated with the beginning of Nepal Sambat in 879 CE, traditionally linked with King Raghav Dev.
Because the story has been preserved through historical tradition and legend, individual details should not be treated as independently verified historical facts.
Nevertheless, its message remains powerful: the beginning of a new era represents freedom from hardship, compassion and hope for a better future.
Sankhadhar Sakhwa is recognised as a national hero of Nepal and remains an important symbol of Newar heritage and national pride.
How Does the Nepal Sambat Calendar Work?
Nepal Sambat is a lunisolar calendar, meaning that it follows the phases of the moon while making adjustments to remain connected with the solar year and changing seasons.
The calendar generally contains twelve lunar months. Because twelve lunar months are shorter than a solar year, an additional month is inserted in certain years to keep the calendar aligned with seasonal cycles.
Important Features of the Nepal Sambat Calendar
- Calendar type: Lunisolar.
- Historical beginning: 879 CE.
- New Year: Usually October or November.
- Months: Normally twelve lunar months.
- Intercalary month: An additional month is inserted when required by the calendar calculations.
- Cultural importance: Newar religious ceremonies, festivals, traditional records and community identity.
- New Year celebration: Closely associated with Mha Puja and the Tihar festival period.
The exact date of Nepal Sambat New Year changes from year to year because it follows lunar calculations rather than a fixed Gregorian date.
Names of the Twelve Nepal Sambat Months
The Nepal Sambat calendar uses traditional month names that differ from the Gregorian and Bikram Sambat systems.
| Month | Nepal Sambat Name | Approximate Gregorian Period |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kachhala | October–November |
| 2 | Thinla | November–December |
| 3 | Pohela | December–January |
| 4 | Silla | January–February |
| 5 | Chilla | February–March |
| 6 | Chaula | March–April |
| 7 | Bachhala | April–May |
| 8 | Tachhala | May–June |
| 9 | Dilla | June–July |
| 10 | Gunla | July–August |
| 11 | Yanla | August–September |
| 12 | Kaula | September–October |
Note: Month spellings vary according to transliteration and local usage. Gregorian periods are approximate because lunar month boundaries change each year.
Historical Significance of Nepal Sambat
Nepal Sambat has played an important role in recording the history of Kathmandu Valley. Dates written in this calendar appear in historical manuscripts, inscriptions, religious documents and other records.
During the Malla period, Nepal Sambat was widely used in the valley's administrative and cultural life. It provides historians with valuable evidence for understanding the chronology of temples, monuments, religious institutions and historical events.
The calendar also reflects the distinct cultural identity of the Newar civilisation, whose contributions to Nepalese architecture, craftsmanship, language, music and religious traditions remain visible throughout Kathmandu Valley.
Decline and Revival of Nepal Sambat
Over time, other calendar systems became more prominent in Nepal's administration. The Bikram Sambat calendar eventually became the principal calendar used for government records and everyday official purposes.
Despite these changes, Nepal Sambat continued to be preserved by Newar communities through festivals, religious rituals, cultural documents and traditional practices.
Cultural organisations, historians, writers and community leaders later played an important role in promoting its recognition and continued use.
In 2008, Nepal Sambat received recognition as a national era, marking an important milestone in the preservation of the country's historical heritage.
Today, Nepal Sambat remains visible in cultural events, community publications, traditional ceremonies and selected local-government communications.
Nepal Sambat New Year: Nhu Daya Bhintuna
The beginning of a new Nepal Sambat year is celebrated with the greeting "Nhu Daya Bhintuna", meaning "Happy New Year" or best wishes for the New Year.
Newar communities celebrate the occasion through cultural processions, traditional music, family ceremonies and community gatherings.
In Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, people may gather in historic streets and public squares to celebrate their cultural identity and welcome the new year.
The atmosphere is especially colourful because the celebration falls during the Tihar Festival in Nepal, when homes and neighbourhoods are decorated with lights and flowers.
Mha Puja: The Newar Festival of Self-Worship
Mha Puja is one of the most distinctive and spiritually meaningful Newar traditions associated with Nepal Sambat New Year.
The term Mha Puja is commonly understood as "worship of the self." It is a ceremony expressing respect for one's body, inner well-being, spiritual renewal and the beginning of a new year.
Unlike many religious ceremonies dedicated primarily to external deities, Mha Puja places special emphasis on the individual as part of a wider spiritual and family tradition.
How Is Mha Puja Celebrated?
Newar families gather at home for a carefully arranged ceremony. Each participant traditionally sits before a mandala prepared with coloured powders, flowers, grains and other ritual materials.
Oil lamps, offerings and symbolic foods may be included according to family customs.
The ceremony involves prayers, blessings and ritual actions representing purification, well-being, protection and prosperity for the coming year.
Family members of different generations participate together, making Mha Puja both a spiritual occasion and an important expression of family unity.
Meaning of the Mha Puja Mandala
The mandala is a central element of the ceremony. Its circular design and ritual arrangement symbolise spiritual wholeness and the relationship between the individual and the wider universe.
Different families may use slightly different arrangements and materials according to their traditions.
For visitors, understanding the meaning of the mandala adds valuable cultural context to the celebration.
How Are Nepal Sambat, Mha Puja and Tihar Connected?
Nepal Sambat New Year and Mha Puja are closely connected with the Tihar festival period, known as Swanti in Newar tradition.
Tihar is one of Nepal's most colourful celebrations, with rituals honouring animals, Goddess Laxmi and family relationships.
During this period, Newar communities celebrate Mha Puja and welcome the Nepal Sambat New Year.
| Celebration | Main Significance | Traditional Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Tihar | Light, prosperity, gratitude and family relationships | Oil lamps, marigold flowers, Laxmi Puja, Deusi-Bhailo and Bhai Tika |
| Nepal Sambat New Year | Beginning of the traditional Newar calendar year | New Year greetings, cultural processions and community celebrations |
| Mha Puja | Self-worship, spiritual renewal and well-being | Family mandalas, ritual offerings, prayers and blessings |
These interconnected traditions make the autumn festival season particularly interesting for travellers who want to understand Nepal's cultural diversity.
Nepal Sambat New Year Dates for 2025, 2026 and 2027
Because Nepal Sambat follows lunar calculations, its New Year date changes in the Gregorian calendar each year.
The table below provides the established dates used in the original article for 2025 and 2026, together with the expected period for 2027.
| Gregorian Year | Nepal Sambat New Year | New Year Date | Associated Celebration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Nepal Sambat 1146 | 22 October 2025 | Newar New Year and Mha Puja festival period |
| 2026 | Nepal Sambat 1147 | 10 November 2026 | Newar New Year and Mha Puja festival period |
| 2027 | Nepal Sambat 1148 | Expected October–November 2027; exact date awaiting confirmation | Newar New Year and Mha Puja festival period |
Important date information: The 2026 date shown follows the existing Nepal Sambat calendar information published by Himalayan Dream Team. Some published Tihar calendars differ on the exact Mha Puja observance. The 2027 date has not yet been confirmed here against an authoritative 2084 BS calendar. Travellers should reconfirm festival dates and ceremony times before booking arrangements that depend on a specific day.
How to Convert Nepal Sambat to Gregorian Years
Converting a Nepal Sambat year into a Gregorian year requires care because the Nepal Sambat New Year usually begins in October or November rather than on 1 January.
For a rough reference, adding 879 to the Nepal Sambat year gives the Gregorian year in which that Nepal Sambat year generally begins.
| Nepal Sambat Year | Approximate Starting Gregorian Year |
|---|---|
| 1146 | 2025 |
| 1147 | 2026 |
| 1148 | 2027 |
However, this is only a simple year-level calculation. It cannot be used to convert individual dates accurately.
For an exact date conversion, a reliable Nepal Sambat calendar or converter must account for lunar months, leap months and the relevant calendar rules.
Nepal Sambat vs Bikram Sambat vs Gregorian Calendar
Nepal uses several calendar systems, each serving different historical, administrative and cultural purposes.
| Calendar | Calendar Type | New Year Period | Main Use in Nepal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nepal Sambat (NS) | Lunisolar | October–November | Newar cultural traditions, historical records and religious observances |
| Bikram Sambat (BS) | Solar-based civil calendar with traditional religious calendar connections | Mid-April | Government administration, official dates and everyday use |
| Gregorian Calendar (AD/CE) | Solar | 1 January | International travel, tourism, global business and international communication |
For example, a traveller visiting Kathmandu in November 2026 may see dates expressed in Gregorian years, Bikram Sambat 2083 and Nepal Sambat 1147.
To learn about the country's other major New Year celebration, read our Nepali New Year and Bikram Sambat guide.
Where to Experience Nepal Sambat New Year in Kathmandu Valley
The Kathmandu Valley is the cultural heart of Nepal Sambat celebrations. Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur are particularly meaningful places to explore Newar heritage and observe public New Year activities.
Kathmandu – Basantapur and Historic Newar Neighbourhoods
Kathmandu's historic centre is an important location for Nepal Sambat New Year celebrations.
Depending on the annual programme, visitors may encounter community processions, traditional music, cultural performances and New Year greetings in and around Basantapur and historic Newar neighbourhoods.
Kathmandu Durbar Square, Ason and Indra Chowk are also worthwhile places to explore the city's traditional architecture and markets.
Patan – Newar Art, Temples and Living Traditions
Patan, also known as Lalitpur, is renowned for its Newar architecture, Buddhist and Hindu heritage, traditional craftsmanship and historic courtyards.
The Nepal Sambat New Year period offers an opportunity to appreciate the city's living traditions, although many Mha Puja ceremonies take place privately within family homes.
Patan Durbar Square and surrounding neighbourhoods are excellent places for cultural sightseeing with a knowledgeable local guide.
Bhaktapur – Traditional Newar Heritage
Bhaktapur is one of Nepal's most beautifully preserved historic cities, with brick-lined streets, traditional houses, temples and public squares.
The New Year period provides an opportunity to experience local culture and explore the city's distinctive Newar identity.
Visitors can combine the festive atmosphere with sightseeing at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square and the surrounding old town.
Can Tourists Participate in Mha Puja?
Mha Puja is primarily a private family ceremony. Travellers may be able to observe or participate when personally invited by a local family or when suitable arrangements have been made through trusted local hosts.
Visitors should never assume that a household ceremony is open to the public.
If invited, it is important to follow the host's guidance regarding seating, footwear, photography, ritual participation and respectful behaviour.
For most visitors, public Nepal Sambat New Year events and guided cultural sightseeing provide the most accessible ways to experience the celebrations.
Traditional Newar Food During Nepal Sambat New Year
Food is an important part of Newar family and community celebrations. During the New Year period, households may prepare traditional meals, ritual offerings and festive dishes.
Depending on family customs, celebrations may include dishes such as beaten rice, lentil preparations, seasonal vegetables, eggs, meat dishes and traditional Newar accompaniments.
The exact foods served during Mha Puja vary by household, religious tradition and community.
Visitors interested in Nepalese cuisine can also explore traditional Newar restaurants and food experiences during their stay in Kathmandu Valley.
Traditional Music, Processions and New Year Greetings
Public Nepal Sambat New Year celebrations may feature traditional Newar music, community processions, cultural performances and festive greetings.
The sound of dhime drums and other traditional instruments adds to the atmosphere in neighbourhoods where cultural events are organised.
People exchange New Year wishes and celebrate the continuity of their language, history and community traditions.
The greeting "Nhu Daya Bhintuna" is widely associated with the occasion.
Why Nepal Sambat Matters for Cultural Heritage and Tourism
Nepal Sambat has significance beyond the New Year celebration. It provides a valuable connection between Nepal's historical records and the cultural traditions that continue today.
- Historical identity: Nepal Sambat helps preserve the history of Kathmandu Valley and the Newar civilisation.
- Language and culture: The calendar remains closely connected with Nepal Bhasa and Newar cultural expression.
- Religious heritage: Traditional dates are important for festivals, ceremonies and community observances.
- Historical research: Nepal Sambat dates help scholars interpret manuscripts, inscriptions and historical records.
- Cultural tourism: New Year celebrations offer visitors opportunities to learn about Nepal's living traditions.
- Community pride: The preservation of Nepal Sambat reflects the importance of protecting cultural diversity for future generations.
Best Time to Visit Nepal for Nepal Sambat New Year
The Nepal Sambat New Year falls in October or November, during Nepal's popular autumn travel season.
This is generally an excellent period for sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, with comfortable daytime temperatures and often clearer skies after the summer monsoon.
It is also one of the most popular periods for Himalayan trekking, including the Everest, Annapurna, Langtang and Manaslu regions.
However, festival dates change annually, and transport availability may be affected by public holidays. Travellers should book important services in advance.
Combine Nepal Sambat New Year with a Cultural Tour or Himalayan Trek
Travellers visiting Nepal during the New Year period can combine Kathmandu Valley's cultural heritage with an autumn trekking adventure.
For example, you can explore Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur before travelling to the mountains, or return from a trek in time to experience Tihar lights and Nepal Sambat celebrations.
Recommended Autumn Trekking Experiences
- Everest Base Camp Trek: Explore the famous Khumbu region, Sherpa villages and dramatic Himalayan scenery.
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Experience traditional villages, mountain forests and panoramic views of the Annapurna range.
- Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: A rewarding shorter trekking option with beautiful Himalayan sunrise views.
- Langtang Valley Trek: Discover Tamang culture, Buddhist heritage and mountain landscapes north of Kathmandu.
- Manaslu Circuit Trek: Explore remote mountain villages and high-altitude scenery on a challenging Himalayan circuit.
For more inspiration, read our Festival Treks and Tours in Nepal guide.
Travel planning tip: October and November are popular trekking months, but weather at high altitude remains unpredictable. Allow sufficient acclimatization and contingency days, especially when using domestic mountain flights.
Practical Travel Tips for Nepal Sambat New Year
- Confirm the festival date: Nepal Sambat New Year follows the lunar calendar, so check the official date before booking.
- Book accommodation early: October and November are popular months for international visitors.
- Expect holiday closures: Some offices, shops and services may operate reduced hours during Tihar.
- Respect private ceremonies: Mha Puja is usually celebrated within family homes.
- Ask before taking photographs: Seek permission before photographing individuals or religious activities.
- Dress respectfully: Modest clothing is recommended when visiting temples and cultural sites.
- Travel with a local guide: A knowledgeable guide can explain the meaning of Newar customs, historic places and public celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nepal Sambat
1. What is Nepal Sambat?
Nepal Sambat is a traditional lunisolar calendar that began in Nepal in 879 CE. It remains particularly important in Newar cultural and religious traditions.
2. When did Nepal Sambat begin?
Nepal Sambat began in 879 CE and is traditionally associated with Sankhadhar Sakhwa and King Raghav Dev.
3. Who founded Nepal Sambat?
The origin of Nepal Sambat is traditionally linked with Sankhadhar Sakhwa, a celebrated figure remembered for freeing people from debt. The story is part of Nepal's historical and cultural tradition.
4. What is Nepal Sambat 1146?
Nepal Sambat 1146 is the traditional calendar year that began in October 2025 and continues until the next Nepal Sambat New Year in November 2026.
5. What is Nepal Sambat 1147?
Nepal Sambat 1147 is the calendar year beginning during the New Year celebrations in November 2026.
6. When is Nepal Sambat New Year in 2026?
The existing Nepal Sambat calendar reference used by Himalayan Dream Team lists the New Year on 10 November 2026. The final observance should be checked against the official Nepali calendar.
7. When is Nepal Sambat New Year in 2027?
Nepal Sambat 1148 is expected to begin during the Tihar festival period in October or November 2027. The precise date should be confirmed against the official 2084 BS calendar.
8. What is Mha Puja?
Mha Puja is a traditional Newar ceremony of self-worship, spiritual renewal and well-being. It is closely associated with Nepal Sambat New Year.
9. What does Nhu Daya Bhintuna mean?
Nhu Daya Bhintuna is a traditional Newar greeting expressing good wishes for the New Year.
10. Is Nepal Sambat the same as Bikram Sambat?
No. Nepal Sambat and Bikram Sambat are different calendar systems. Nepal Sambat New Year generally falls in October or November, while the Bikram Sambat civil New Year falls in mid-April.
11. Is Nepal Sambat a lunar calendar?
Nepal Sambat is a lunisolar calendar. It follows lunar months and uses periodic adjustments to remain aligned with the solar year.
12. How do you convert Nepal Sambat to AD?
Adding 879 to a Nepal Sambat year gives an approximate Gregorian starting year. Exact date conversion requires a reliable calendar because the New Year falls in October or November.
13. Where is Nepal Sambat New Year celebrated?
The celebrations are particularly important in Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, where Newar communities preserve many traditional ceremonies and cultural practices.
14. Can tourists attend Nepal Sambat New Year celebrations?
Yes. Travellers can enjoy public processions, cultural activities and historic neighbourhoods. Private Mha Puja ceremonies should only be attended by invitation.
15. Is Nepal Sambat New Year part of Tihar?
Nepal Sambat New Year takes place during the Tihar festival period and is closely associated with Mha Puja in Newar tradition.
16. What is the best time to visit Kathmandu for Nepal Sambat New Year?
Plan your visit around the confirmed New Year date in October or November. This is generally a favourable season for cultural sightseeing and Himalayan trekking.
17. What is the difference between Mha Puja and Bhai Tika?
Mha Puja is a Newar ceremony focusing on self-worship and spiritual renewal. Bhai Tika is a family ceremony celebrating the relationship between brothers and sisters.
18. Why is Sankhadhar Sakhwa important?
Sankhadhar Sakhwa is remembered as a national hero associated with the beginning of Nepal Sambat and the traditional story of relieving people from debt.
19. Is Nepal Sambat still used today?
Yes. Nepal Sambat continues to be used in Newar cultural life, religious observances, traditional publications and some community and local-government contexts.
20. Can Nepal Sambat New Year be combined with trekking in Nepal?
Yes. October and November are popular trekking months. Visitors can combine Kathmandu Valley cultural sightseeing with routes such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang Valley or Manaslu Circuit.
Conclusion: Nepal Sambat – A Living Symbol of Nepal's Heritage
Nepal Sambat is much more than an ancient calendar. It represents centuries of Newar culture, historical identity, community pride and spiritual tradition.
From the inspiring legend of Sankhadhar Sakhwa to the meaningful family rituals of Mha Puja, Nepal Sambat connects the past with the present and continues to bring communities together every New Year.
For travellers, experiencing Nepal Sambat New Year in Kathmandu Valley is a wonderful way to discover Nepal's cultural diversity beyond its famous Himalayan landscapes.
Whether you wish to explore the historic streets of Kathmandu, admire the architecture of Patan, discover traditional Bhaktapur or combine autumn festivals with a Himalayan trek, Himalayan Dream Team Treks & Tours Pvt. Ltd. can help you plan a personalised journey.
Discover more about Nepal's culture and festivals:
- Tihar Festival in Nepal – Festival of Lights
- Dashain Festival in Nepal – Traditions and Celebrations
- Nepali New Year – Bikram Sambat Calendar
- Festival Treks and Tours in Nepal
- Explore Nepal Tours and Trekking Holidays
Last reviewed: October 2026. Nepal Sambat New Year dates and individual ceremonies should be reconfirmed against the official Nepali calendar before travel.