General Information | The Kathmandu Valley | Trekking in Nepal | Facts for Visitors

The rich cultural heritage of Nepal is best expressed in the many large and small festivals that occur throughout the year. Though the Nepalese have diverse beliefs and ethnic backgrounds, all unite in the celebration of the year's major festivals.

There are many kinds of festivals - some honor certain Hindu and Buddhist gods or goddesses, some recreate important events from ancient mythology and epic literature, some herald the seasons or mark important times in the agricultural calendar, and others support the minors that populate the spirit world of the country.

Festivals like Dashain and Tihar are of national significance, those such as Bisket or Red Machchhendranath Jatra, belong to the traditions of the old valley towns, whilst others, such as Mani Rimdu, are celebrated only in one particular countryside community.

It has been said that "In Nepal every other building is a temple and every other day is a festival." Whenever you may choose to visit Nepal, you can be sure that you will get a taste of the color and vivacity that are this country's festivals.