Bada Dashain is Nepal’s longest running festival and it’s a time to celebrate unity in diversity and bonds of love and friendship. The festival coincides with the summer harvest, and pays tribute to Durga, the Mother Goddess, the Divine Feminine Energy and a giver of life.

The Kathmandu Valley is the epicentre of the event, and there are several celebrations and elaborate ceremonies depicting the strength and fortitude of the Nepalese. Pilgrims worship at the confluence of major rivers in the day time, and pay tribute to the Gods at various temples in the evenings.

Bhakta means pilgrim, and Bhaktapur is an important spiritual centre in the Kathmandu Valley. At the Taleju Bhawani Temple in Bhaktapur, the priests dress up in traditional regalia and move the idol to a special podium in an elaborate procession. Hanuman Dhoka in Kathmandu’s historic Durbar Square, is also an important place of worship. Patan’s Taleju temple, which is usually closed to the public, opens its doors on this day. while the streets of Patan are filled with masked and costumed dancers, musicians and revellers.

We recommend staying in Kathmandu during the festival forthnight and experiencing the celebrations in different parts of the valley. Every town has its own unique Dashain touch, such as Bhaktapur’s famous Juju Dhau, a creamy yoghurt based dish, which is a festive delicacy.

In Newari, the festival is also called Mohani Nakha. During the festival, Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu, which pays tribute to Newari culture and cuisine, is transformed! Each courtyard turns into a celebration of music, dance and ceremonial cuisine.

At Orange, Nepal is a country that lies close to our hearts. Curious about Nepalese traditions? Reach out to us today to plan your trip!