Tihar Festival in Nepal: Celebrating Lights, Life, and Tradition

Published On : 2nd Dec, 2024 By Himalayan Dream Team

Tihar is one of the most important festivals in Nepal, known as Deepawali or the festival of lights among Hindus. This colorful five-day festival is filled with religious rituals, cultural activities, and joyful family gatherings that make homes and communities shine with light and warmth. Each day in Tihar has a special meaning and delights various gods and animals: crows, dogs, and cows. The festival is bound with Hindu spirituality and respects life in every form. Houses are decorated with oil lamps, bright designs of rangoli, and flowers as signs of the victory of light over darkness.

Tihar is not only devoted to the gods but also involves the relationship between the family members, especially the bond between brothers and sisters, through Bhai Tika. In this ceremony, sisters put tika on their brothers' foreheads and pray for their long life and prosperity, while brothers return gifts. This heart-touching tradition keeps the family relations warmer and is one of the most treasured moments of the festival. While Tihar lights up Nepal, it at the same time shows a time for thanksgiving, seeking blessings, and enjoying the festive spirit through music, dances, and feasts.

Religious Importance

• Tihar honors Goddess Laxmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, and Yama, the god of death, the balance between life and afterlife.
• It's about thanks, wealth, and blessings one has received through the year via various religious rituals and family gatherings.
• In fact, each day of Tihar is a continuation of Hindu mythology and is devoted to various gods and animals for their importance in one's spiritual life.
• First Day - Kag Tihar: The first day is reserved for crows-a representation of the messengers of death hinting at the impermanence of life. Second Day - Kukur Tihar: This is a day when dogs are worshipped for their loyalty, protection, and companionship. Third Day - Gai Tihar: On this day, cows are worshipped since, according to Hindu culture, they hold a holy position. Laxmi Puja on the same day aims to seek blessings for wealth and prosperity.
• Goru Tihar, the fourth day, is set apart for oxen, which are helpful in agriculture, and Govardhan Puja remembers Lord Krishna's saving of his devotees.
• Bhai Tika, the last day of Tihar, is destined for family unity on which a sister prays for the longevity and prosperity of her brother. Further, this strengthens the bond of love between them.
• The religious functions of Tihar reveal the interrelationship that exists among humans, animals, gods, and nature in the more extensive relevant meaning of the festival.
• Thus, Tihar unites the family in worship, making it possible for the members to show gratitude, celebrate the gift of life, and pray for protection in the forthcoming year.

Day-by-Day Celebrations of Tihar

Day 1: Kaag Tihar (Worship of Crows)

It starts with Kaag Tihar, dedicated to crows; they are believed to be carriers of information among the gods. The people will take food outdoors for the crows so that the birds will not carry any bad news and there is harmony. Feeding the crows signifies the communion between man and the divine, setting a trend for the days of gratitude and worship coming afterwards.

Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Worship of Dogs)

Kukur Tihar celebrates dogs, who are considered to be the messengers of Lord Yamaraj, the God of Death. On this day, dogs wear garlands and tikas, receiving delicious meals as a sign of respect and gratitude for the fact that they provide loyalty and companionship. The day depicts how dogs are important in Nepalese culture and play a protecting and friend role within it.

Day 3: Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Worship of Cows and Goddess Laxmi)

Day three is now called Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja. The cows, since they are held sacred-being the mothers of sustenance-are indeed very important in daily survival. They would be garlanded and fed special treats. Later in the evening, the houses are lit up with oil lamps and candles to invite Laxmi, the Goddess of Wealth, into their homes for prosperity throughout the coming year. Traditionally, women sing Bhailo songs while on house visits to bless and receive dakshina.

Day 4: Gobardhan Puja and Deusi Bhailo

The fourth day, Gobardhan Puja, is a time when the cow dung represents the oxen and the Govardhan Mountain and is worshipped. This is the day that underlines the agricultural roots of Nepal; therefore, it has to do something with oxen in one of its prime necessities related to the field plowing. The evening festivities also continue with Deusi Bhailo, a group of boys and girls who go around, singing traditional songs for visiting homes seeking blessings and funds for any social cause.

Day 5: Bhai Tika (Brothers' Day)

It concludes with Bhai Tika, where sisters put a special tika to their brothers' foreheads, praying for their long lives and protection. As a matter of fact, it's related to the ritualistic legend of Yamaraj that delineates attachment between sisters and brothers, telling about the importance of family ties. The delicious meal and gifts from the sisters are given to the brothers in return for protecting and supporting them throughout their lives.

Trekking to Mardi Himal: A Tranquil Adventure

In addition to experiencing Tihar, embark on a serene trek to Mardi Himal, nestled in Nepal’s Annapurna region. This Tihar Festival With Mardi Himal Trek offers a peaceful escape from the crowds, with tranquil walks through lush rhododendron forests, traditional Nepali villages, and panoramic mountain vistas. Witness the majestic views of Mt. Machhapuchhre, Himchuli, and Annapurna South, enhancing your connection with nature and the local ethnic culture of the Gurung people.

Trip Highlights:

• Experience the vibrant Tihar Festival, witnessing Nepal’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions.
• Explore Kathmandu’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.
• Enjoy the serene beauty of Fewa Lake and the enchanting city of Pokhara, with its stunning mountain views.
• Trek the less-traveled path to Mardi Himal Base Camp, experiencing peaceful walks and breathtaking mountain vistas.
• Discover the local ethnic culture of the Gurung people, gaining insights into their traditional way of life.
• Stay in local teahouses, savor traditional Nepali cuisine, and engage with the local communities.

Importance of the Tihar Festival in Nepal

Tihar is the Festival of Lights and one of the most important festivals in Nepal, signifying the triumph of good over evil. During this colorful festival, humans are drawn closer to animals, thereby appreciating the value of creatures such as crows, dogs, cows, and oxen in everyday life. Feasting, cleaning houses, wearing new clothes, and tasting different delicious foods are in vogue. Due to Tihar, schools, colleges, and offices declare a public holiday so that everyone can enjoy the festival.

At night, every house and shop is painted with colored lights; fireworks fill the sky. Friends and relatives gather together and exchange gifts and good wishes, enhancing social relationships. Nepalis wear new clothes and welcome their lives with a ray of hope and happiness.

It has a significant role in fostering community spirit and acting as a relief from daily monotonous routines. It also ensures that the cultural traditions are upheld. The special meals prepared, flying kites, decorating houses and streets, and enjoying card games immensely, as this is considered part of the holiday. In this way, Tihar contributes to keeping alive the rich cultural heritage of Nepal; classic songs and dances are also remembered.

Dhanteras: A Day of Prosperity

Dhanteras, or Dhan Trayodashi, coincides with Kaag Tihar, the first day of the festival. On this day, Hindus celebrate Dhanvantari, the goddess of healing and wealth. It is customary to purchase gold, silver, copper, and household items, as these are considered auspicious.

Are Diwali and Tihar the Same?

Names such as "Deepawali," "Yamapanchak," and "Swanti" have been used to identify Tihar in Nepal. Though similar, Tihar bears a few major differences from the Indian Diwali. Similarities such as light, rangoli, and sweets are used in the triumph of good over evil in both events. Tihar however focuses on giving thanks to the animals for services provided during one's life, whereas Diwali focuses a bit more on deities.

It is a five-day festival starting with Kaag Tihar on Trayodashi tithi of Kartika Krishna Paksha and ending with Bhai Tika on Dwitiya tithi of Kartika Sukla Paksha. Hence, it falls between the month of October and November every year.

Differences Between Diwali and Tihar

• Day 1: Kaag Tihar in Nepal honors crows, regarded as messengers of Lord Yama. In India, Dhanteras marks the start of Diwali, a day for cleaning homes and buying auspicious items.
• Day 2: Kukur Tihar celebrates dogs for their loyalty. Dogs are adorned with garlands and tikas, receiving special meals. In India, Choti Diwali involves decorating homes and preparing for the main festival.
• Day 3: Gai Tihar honors cows, followed by the evening Laxmi Puja. Homes are decorated with lights and garlands. In India, Diwali is celebrated with family gatherings, gift-giving, and worshiping Goddess Laxmi.
• Day 4: Goru Tihar celebrates oxen and varies by ethnic group. In India, Padwa is observed, with people opening new business accounts for prosperity.
• Day 5: Bhai Tika in Nepal honors sibling relationships through rituals and gifts. In India, Bhai Duj celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.

While both festivals aim to bring good fortune and family prosperity, Tihar emphasizes animals' role in supporting human life, whereas Diwali focuses more on divine blessings.

The Reason Behind Tihar's Celebration

Different communities in Nepal celebrate Tihar in diverse ways. The Newars call it Swanti, and the Madhesis refer to it as Deepawali. Tihar is Nepal's second-largest festival after Dashain, celebrated with vibrant lights, colorful rangoli, and joyful gatherings. But why do we celebrate Tihar?

The Story of Yama and Yamuna

One popular legend behind Tihar is the tale of Lord Yama, the God of Death, and his sister Yamuna. Yama, who judges souls after death, was too busy with his duties to visit his sister. Despite Yamuna sending messages through a crow, dog, and cow, Yama did not come. Finally, Yamuna visited him herself, leading to the celebration of Bhai Tika on the fifth day. This ritual symbolizes the bond between siblings, with sisters wishing their brothers well.

Govardhan Puja

Another story associated with Tihar is the Govardhan Puja, which commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Mountain to protect villagers from a flood. In gratitude, the villagers worshiped the mountain with offerings of food.

Main Attractions of the Tihar Festival

Tihar is unique in its celebration of animals and gods, creating a harmonious blend of spirituality and tradition. During the festival, Nepalis create intricate rangoli designs on the floors of their homes, welcoming gods and goddesses like Lakshmi. Firecrackers, though recently restricted for safety, add to the festive atmosphere. Children sing and play games like kauda, engaging in fun-filled activities.

Exploring Tihar in Nepal

Tihar is a wonderful time for tourists to visit Nepal, offering a chance to experience the culture and festivities firsthand. Visitors are often welcomed into Nepali homes for meals and celebrations. On Bhai Tika, the Rani Pokhari Temple in Kathmandu opens to the public, offering a unique glimpse into local traditions.

Kathmandu Street Visit

Explore the streets of Kathmandu, adorned with lights and decorations, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the festival. Experience the joy of participating in rituals, giving thanks to animals, and celebrating the unity of community and family.

Visit Markets

During Tihar, markets are abuzz with activity, offering a visual feast of lamps, garlands, and colorful displays. Shoppers buy gifts and festive supplies, adding to the lively atmosphere. Visiting local markets during Tihar provides a deeper insight into the cultural significance of the festival and its impact on daily life.

Celebrate Tihar & Trek Mardi Himal: A Unique Nepal Experience

Join Himalayan Dream Team Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd. for an unforgettable journey that combines the cultural richness of the Tihar Festival with the tranquility of the Mardi Himal Trek. This unique experience offers the perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable adventure in the heart of Nepal.

Itinerary Details:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Tihar Celebration (November 1st, 2024)

• Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
• Enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner and participate in Laxmi Puja celebrations.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley - UNESCO Heritage Sites (November 2nd, 2024)

• Visit Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
• Experience Gobardhan Puja and Deusi Bhailo celebrations in the evening.

Day 3: Tihar Festival Celebration with Family (November 3rd, 2024)

• Participate in Bhai Tika rituals with a local family, experiencing the warmth and joy of this special day.

Day 4: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (November 4th, 2024)

• Enjoy a scenic drive to Pokhara, a city known for its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance.

Day 5: Trekking Adventure Begins (November 5th, 2024)

• Drive to Kande and trek to Australian Base Camp, enjoying stunning views along the way.

Days 6-9: Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp and Return (November 6th-9th, 2024)

• Trek through lush forests and traditional villages to Mardi Himal Base Camp.
• Soak in the breathtaking mountain vistas and experience the tranquility of the Annapurna region.

Day 10: Trek to Syauli Bazaar and Return to Pokhara (November 10th, 2024)

• Trek to Syauli Bazaar and drive back to Pokhara for a relaxing evening.

Day 11: Free Day in Pokhara (November 11th, 2024)

• Explore the charming city of Pokhara at your leisure, enjoying its serene lakes and vibrant culture.

Day 12: Return to Kathmandu (November 12th, 2024)

• Drive back to Kathmandu, with free time to explore the city or relax.

Day 13: Final Departure (November 13th, 2024)

• Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.

For personalized travel plans or itinerary adjustments, please contact us. We are happy to accommodate your preferences and specifications.

Tihar Festival Dates in Nepal 2024,2025 and 2026

Tihar Festival in Nepal is, essentially, the equivalent of Deepavali in India and other Hindu lands.

Previous Years Tihar Dates

Plan Your Trip with Himalayan Dream Team Treks and Tours

Service Included in Trip Cost:

• Arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle.
• Welcome dinner upon arrival in Kathmandu.
• Accommodation in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast.
• Cultural guide and private transport for sightseeing in Kathmandu.
• Tihar celebrations with meals included.
• Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back.
• Meals during the trek.
• Experienced trekking guide and porters.
• Permits for Annapurna Conservation Area and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS).
• Government taxes and travel arrangements.

Cost Excludes:

• International airfare.
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
• Nepal entry visa.
• Beverages and personal expenses.
• Monument entrance fees during sightseeing.
• Personal trekking equipment and insurance.
• Tips for staff.

Join us in celebrating Tihar and exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal on a journey that promises unforgettable memories and cultural enrichment.

This blog provides an engaging overview of the Tihar Festival, its cultural significance, and the unique trekking experience offered by Himalayan Dream Team Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd. Let me know if you need any more details or adjustments!

Celebration Month

Tihar usually falls in the month of Kartik according to the Hindu lunar calendar, which generally happens around October or November according to the Gregorian calendar. As the month of Kartik ushers in the closing of the monsoon period and the beginning of the harvest period, this happens to be a quite propitious time for celebrations. The sheer clarity of the skies and the pleasantness of the weather add to the festivity as the whole country bathes in a light of color and decorations.

Kartik is a month of religious and cultural activities that prelude to Tihar. The houses are cleaned and decorated to welcome the festival, hence purifying mind and soul. People mob the markets to buy sweets, flowers, and other various decorative items. The fervor before Tihar reflects the anticipation and joy that comes with the festival, hence setting the stage for five days of heartfelt celebration.

Food

Food is probably the prime focus during Tihar, as various traditional and seasonal delicacies are prepared to celebrate Tihar. Different types of sweets and popcorns are distributed among relatives and friends, symbolizing the sweetness and prosperities of life. Sel roti, a homemade rice doughnut, and different kinds of sweets like ladoo and barfi are very famous during Tihar. And people make them in their homes, giving time to Tihar a personal touch.

Each day of Tihar has special food for the gods and animals that are being worshipped. On Kukur Tihar, dogs are provided a special meal of meat and rice in reverence for their ability to provide service with loyalty. During Laxmi Puja, the families prepare a sumptuous feast to invite the goddess of wealth into their homes. These traditions of food contribute to the festive atmosphere and, at the same time, bring people closer to the divine, animals, and others.

Decorations

Houses and streets get filled with lights and colors, making them a feast to the eyes during Tihar. Every nook and corner is lit up either with oil lamps or electric lights as a symbolic representation of the victory of light over darkness. Designs made of colored powder, flowers, and rice, inscribed with rangoli, are drawn at the door of every house to invite prosperity and happiness.

Flowers, especially marigolds, are a major part of the decoration in Tihar. The marigold and other seasonal flowers are made into garlands, which are used to beautify the houses and temples, not to mention the animals too. These bright decorations exude warmth and welcome, evoking the joyous and positive attitude of the festival. Natural elements of decoration signify the harmonious relationship of humans with nature, hence being the major part of the idea for Tihar celebrations.

Best Places to See Tihar Festivities

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is one of the best places to see the festivities of Tihar. The whole city looks dazzling with lights, decorations, and cultural performances. The narrow alleys of Thamel, the traditional marketplaces, and historical temples like Pashupatinath and Swayambhunath are beautifully decorated, creating a festive ambiance that is breathtakingly awesome and inviting.

The celebrations of Tihar are also visibly well seen in Bhaktapur, which is really famous for its well-preserved culture and traditions. For its elaborate celebration, traditional music, and different dance performances, ancient town Bhaktapur is noted. In Bhaktapur, the Durbar Square is captivating, especially during Tihar, when its medieval architecture gets illuminated by thousands of oil lamps, hence giving a magical atmosphere which quickly takes one back in time.

Tihar Festival 2024 Date

The Tihar festival in 2024 will be celebrated from November 1st to November 5th. Here are the specific dates for each day of the festival:

1. Kaag Tihar (Crow Worship): November 1, 2024
2. Kukur Tihar (Dog Worship): November 2, 2024
3. Gai Tihar & Laxmi Puja (Cow Worship & Laxmi Puja): November 3, 2024
4. Govardhan Puja (Govardhan Worship): November 4, 2024
5. Bhai Tika (Brother-Sister Bond): November 5, 2024

These dates mark the five-day celebration of Tihar, also known as the festival of lights, observed with great enthusiasm across Nepal.

Conclusion

Tihar is not just a festival; it is a celebration of life, relationships, and gratitude. It brings together religious devotion, cultural heritage, and communal harmony, making it a cherished occasion for Nepalese people. The festival's rituals, foods, and decorations all contribute to its unique charm, creating memories that last a lifetime. As the lights of Tihar illuminate the night, they also kindle the light of love, unity, and prosperity in the hearts of all who celebrate. Whether you are in bustling Kathmandu or the historic city of Bhaktapur, the Tihar festival offers a unique and unforgettable experience that beautifully captures the spirit of Nepal.

Experience the magic of the Tihar Festival with us. Celebrate Tihar while trekking through Nepal's stunning landscapes for a unique and unforgettable journey. You can combine the Tihar Festival with various trekking adventures, including:

• 14 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Tihar celebrations and then embark on a trek to the breathtaking Annapurna Base Camp.
• 16 Days Everest Base Camp Trek: Join the festivities before setting off on an exhilarating trek to the iconic Everest Base Camp.
• 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek: Celebrate Tihar and then explore the remote and beautiful trails of the Manaslu Circuit.

Additionally, you can join special trips tailored to specific preferences:

• Women Only Trip: Trek with like-minded women and enjoy the supportive and empowering environment of a women-only group.
• Premium Comfort Annapurna - Bandipur Trek: Indulge in premium comfort while trekking from Annapurna to the charming village of Bandipur.

Join us for the Tihar Festival and trek Mardi Himal for a truly unique Nepal experience, combining festive celebrations with an unforgettable journey through Nepal’s cultural and natural wonders.

If there's anything else you’d like to add or adjust, please let us know. For more details and to book your dream trips, visit our website and begin your adventure today!