Introduction
Dashain, also known as Bada Dashain, Vijaya Dashami, Bijaya Dashami, or Naurath , is Nepal’s longest and most widely celebrated festival. It is a time when families return home, gather together, worship Goddess Durga, receive blessings from elders, and enjoy traditional food and festivities. More than a religious celebration, Dashain is an important part of Nepalese culture and family life.
Dashain is primarily celebrated by Hindus and traditionally lasts for 15 days, usually falling in September or October. In 2026, Dashain begins on October 11 with Ghatasthapana and concludes on October 25 with Kojagrat Purnima. The main Vijaya Dashami and Tika day falls on October 21, 2026, when people visit their elders to receive Tika, Jamara, and blessings.
Although Dashain is deeply rooted in Nepal, its traditions are also observed by Nepalese communities in places such as Sikkim, Darjeeling, Bhutan, and Myanmar. For many people, the festival is closely associated with traveling back to their hometowns, meeting relatives, renewing family bonds, and passing cultural traditions from one generation to the next.
The festival begins with Ghatasthapana, when families establish a sacred place for worship and sow barley seeds to grow Jamara . The young yellow-green shoots are carefully nurtured throughout the festival and are later placed together with Tika during Vijaya Dashami. Jamara is traditionally associated with prosperity, good fortune, and blessings.
Several days of Dashain have their own religious and cultural significance. Phulpati, celebrated on the seventh day, marks an important stage of the festival. Maha Ashtami is observed on the eighth day, followed by Maha Navami on the ninth. The tenth day, Vijaya Dashami, is the main day for receiving Tika and Jamara from elders. Across Nepal, people also enjoy traditional dishes, buy new clothes, fly kites, play on swings, and spend time with family and friends.
Our complete Guide to Dashain 2026 explores the festival in greater detail, including its history, religious significance, important rituals, major celebration days, Dashain 2026 dates and timings, Tika Muhurta, traditional foods, cultural activities, and the customs followed by families across Nepal. Whether you are experiencing Dashain for the first time or want to understand its traditions more deeply, this guide provides a useful overview of one of Nepal’s most important festivals.
History of Dashain
Dashain is a major Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. Its stories are connected with several important victories of Hindu deities, including Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana and Goddess Durga’s defeat of the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
The first nine days of Dashain are associated with the battle between Goddess Durga and Mahishasura. Each day represents a different form of the goddess and her fight against evil. The tenth day, known as Vijaya Dashami, marks Durga’s victory over Mahishasura and symbolizes the triumph of truth, justice, and virtue over deception, injustice, and wrongdoing.
Dashain also carries an important spiritual message. It reminds people that good should ultimately prevail over evil and that truth and righteousness should guide human life. Devotees worship Goddess Durga during the festival and believe that sincere devotion brings prosperity, happiness, and good fortune. Traditionally, neglecting or disrespecting the goddess is believed to bring misfortune.
The Days of Dashain
Dashain is celebrated over several days, with each day having its own religious and cultural significance. The main days include Ghatasthapana, Phulpati, Maha Ashtami, Maha Nawami, and Vijaya Dashami. The celebrations continue for several days after Tika, bringing families and relatives together.
Day 1: Ghatasthapana
Ghatasthapana marks the beginning of Bada Dashain. On this day, Jamara seeds, usually barley, are sown in a mixture of moist soil and sand as part of the traditional Dashain rituals.
The seeds are placed in a special room known as the Dashain Ghar, where they are kept away from direct sunlight. They are covered and cared for so that the growing Jamara develops a yellowish color. By the ninth or tenth day, the seedlings usually grow several inches tall.
On Vijaya Dashami, the yellow Jamara is placed together with tika on the forehead of family members as a blessing for prosperity, good health, happiness, and long life.
Day 7: Phulpati
Phulpati is celebrated on the seventh day of Dashain and marks the beginning of the festival’s major celebrations. The word Phulpati is traditionally understood as referring to sacred flowers, leaves, and other offerings used during Dashain rituals.
A special collection of sacred items, including Jamara, flowers, banana stalks, sugarcane, and other ritual objects, is traditionally brought from Gorkha Durbar to Hanuman Dhoka Durbar in Kathmandu. This tradition is associated with the former royal household and has continued for generations.
The arrival of Phulpati in Kathmandu is marked by a formal ceremony featuring the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, traditional Panche Baja, and military bands. Large crowds gather to witness the procession and ceremony.
Following the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, the tradition was adapted, and the Phulpati ceremony became associated with the Prime Minister’s official residence while continuing as an important part of Dashain celebrations.
During this period, families also clean their homes, decorate their surroundings, and prepare for the main days of the festival.
Day 8: Maha Ashtami
The eighth day is known as Maha Ashtami and is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her fierce manifestations, including Goddess Kali.
Traditionally, animal sacrifices have been performed at various temples during Maha Ashtami as offerings to the goddess. Goats, buffaloes, sheep, ducks, and chickens may be sacrificed in some communities and temples, although practices vary by place and family tradition.
The night of Maha Ashtami is known as Kal Ratri, meaning the “Black Night.” Devotees continue prayers and religious rituals throughout the night.
Among the Newar community, Kuchi Bhoye is another important tradition associated with this day. It is a communal feast featuring beaten rice and a variety of traditional dishes served on a large banana leaf.
Day 9: Maha Nawami
The ninth day of Dashain is called Maha Nawami. Devotees visit temples dedicated to Goddess Durga and other deities to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Maha Nawami is also associated with Vishwakarma, the deity traditionally connected with craftsmanship, construction, machinery, and tools. People worship vehicles, machinery, equipment, and working tools on this day, believing that the ritual will help protect them from accidents and bring safety in the coming year.
One of the notable traditions in Kathmandu is the opening of Taleju Temple at Hanuman Dhoka to the public on Maha Nawami. Since the temple is normally closed to the general public, this annual opening attracts thousands of devotees who come to offer prayers and receive blessings.
Day 10: Vijaya Dashami or Tika
The tenth day of Dashain is known as Vijaya Dashami and is the most important day for family gatherings and receiving blessings.
On this day, younger family members visit their elders to receive tika and Jamara. The tika is traditionally made from a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermilion. Elders place the tika and Jamara on the foreheads of younger relatives while offering blessings for health, happiness, prosperity, and a successful life.
Elders also give Dakshina, usually money, as a gesture of affection and goodwill. For many families, Vijaya Dashami is a time to travel long distances to reunite with parents, grandparents, relatives, and loved ones.
Although Tika Day is the main day of family blessings, Dashain celebrations continue until the full moon. During these remaining days, people visit relatives, share meals, exchange blessings, and spend time together.
The later days of Dashain are therefore just as important socially as the earlier days are religiously. Family reunions, traditional food, blessings, and cultural practices make Dashain a festival centered on family, faith, and togetherness.
The 15th Day: Kojagrat Purnima
The final day of Dashain falls on the full moon and is known as Kojagrat Purnima. The name Kojagrat comes from the Sanskrit phrase meaning “Who is awake?” According to Hindu tradition, Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is believed to visit the earth on this night.
It is traditionally believed that Goddess Laxmi blesses those who remain awake during the night with happiness, prosperity, and good fortune. On Kojagrat Purnima, devotees worship Goddess Laxmi, light oil lamps, offer prayers, and spend the evening with family and loved ones.
Kojagrat Purnima marks the official conclusion of the fifteen-day Dashain festival, bringing the celebrations to a peaceful end.
Dashain 2026 Dates
In Nepal, Dashain 2026 will be celebrated from Sunday, October 11 to Sunday, October 25, 2026 , lasting for 15 days.
| Day | Date | Day of Week | Festival |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | October 11, 2026 | Sunday | Ghatasthapana |
| 2 | October 12, 2026 | Monday | Dwitiya |
| 3 | October 13, 2026 | Tuesday | Tritiya |
| 4 | October 14, 2026 | Wednesday | Chaturthi |
| 5 | October 15, 2026 | Thursday | Panchami |
| 6 | October 16, 2026 | Friday | Shasthi |
| 7 | October 17, 2026 | Saturday | Phulpati |
| 8 | October 18, 2026 | Sunday | Saptami |
| 9 | October 19, 2026 | Monday | Maha Ashtami |
| 10 | October 20, 2026 | Tuesday | Maha Navami |
| 11 | October 21, 2026 | Wednesday | Vijaya Dashami |
| 12 | October 22, 2026 | Thursday | Ekadashi |
| 13 | October 23, 2026 | Friday | Dwadashi |
| 14 | October 24, 2026 | Saturday | Trayodashi |
| 15 | October 25, 2026 | Sunday | Kojagrat Purnima |
Dashain Tika 2026 Sait (Auspicious Time)
Every year, the Nepal Panchang Nirnayak Samiti announces the auspicious time for important Dashain rituals, including the time for receiving Dashain Tika on Vijaya Dashami.
For Dashain Tika 2026, Vijaya Dashami falls on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. The auspicious time for receiving tika is expected to be around 11:53 AM Nepal time, according to the official Nepali calendar.
The exact sait may vary slightly depending on the final astronomical calculations and official calendar announcements. Families may also continue the tika ceremony beyond the main auspicious time, as relatives visit one another throughout the day to receive tika, jamara, blessings, and good wishes.
If you find different dates or times published online, this can be due to differences in calendar calculations and the timing of lunar tithis. For the most reliable information, it is best to check the official Nepali calendar and the Nepal Panchang Nirnayak Samiti’s final announcement closer to Dashain.
Why Is It Called “Dashain”? Understanding the Name
The name Dashain is generally associated with Dashami, the tenth lunar day of the bright half of the month of Ashwin. The tenth day, known as Vijaya Dashami, is the central day of the festival and represents the victory of good over evil.
The word Vijaya means “victory,” while Dashami refers to the tenth lunar day. Together, Vijaya Dashami represents the celebration of victory and is one of the most important days of Dashain.
Dashain is also known by different names and has regional variations across Nepal. In the Kathmandu Valley, the Newar community celebrates Mohani, a festival with its own distinctive rituals and traditions, including the worship of Taleju Bhawani.
In some parts of Nepal, the festival is also associated with the term Nauratha, which is derived from Navaratri, referring to the nine nights of worship dedicated to the Goddess.
Although Dashain is often described as a festival centered around the tenth day, its traditions extend across fifteen days. It brings together religious rituals, family gatherings, blessings, feasts, travel, and cultural celebrations throughout Nepal.
Mythological Significance of Dashain
Dashain has deep roots in Hindu mythology and is primarily associated with the victory of good over evil. Several stories and traditions explain the religious significance of the festival.
Victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura
One of the most important legends behind Dashain tells the story of Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. According to Hindu tradition, Mahishasura had become a powerful demon and threatened both the gods and humans.
Goddess Durga fought Mahishasura for nine days and ultimately defeated him on the tenth day. This victory is celebrated as Vijaya Dashami, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
The first nine days are associated with different forms of Goddess Durga, while the tenth day marks her victory over Mahishasura. This story is central to the religious meaning of Dashain and is reflected in many rituals performed during the festival.
Connection to the Ramayana
Dashain is also connected with the story of Lord Rama and Ravana from the Ramayana. According to a widely followed tradition, Lord Rama worshipped Goddess Durga and sought her blessings before going into battle against Ravana, the king of Lanka.
After receiving divine blessings and defeating Ravana, Rama’s victory came to represent the triumph of righteousness over evil. This story is another reason why Vijaya Dashami is associated with victory and why the day holds such importance in Hindu tradition.
The Nine Forms of Goddess Durga (Navadurga)
The first nine days of Dashain are traditionally associated with the nine forms of Goddess Durga collectively known as Navadurga. Each form represents different qualities, virtues, and aspects of divine feminine power.
| Day | Form of Goddess Durga |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Shailaputri |
| Day 2 | Brahmacharini |
| Day 3 | Chandraghanta |
| Day 4 | Kushmanda |
| Day 5 | Skandamata |
| Day 6 | Katyayani |
| Day 7 | Kalaratri |
| Day 8 | Mahagauri |
| Day 9 | Siddhidatri |
Each form of Goddess Durga holds its own religious significance and is associated with particular virtues, strengths, and blessings. Together, the nine forms represent different aspects of Goddess Durga and are an important part of Hindu traditions surrounding Navaratri and Dashain.
The Nava Durga: Nine Goddesses for Nine Nights
One of the most often-overlooked aspects of Dashain is the personality of the goddess that gets worshipped each day of Navaratri. Honestly, even some of the Nepalis I’ve met haven’t ever really taken the time to figure out who Durga is each day. But each form of Durga has a pretty distinct character, and in yoga, each one has a special connection to a chakra in the body. Here’s the order:
Shailaputri (Day 1) — “The Mountain Princess” for want of a better translation. Rides around on a bull and’s got a trident and a lotus in her hands. She’s all about being grounded and stable – and her connection points to the root chakra.
Brahmacharini (Day 2) — The ascetic who’s all about discipline and devotion. In yogic terms, she’s the fire that burns from within.
Chandraghanta (Day 3) — That’s warrior-mother with the crescent bell on her forehead – and she’s all about courage and being ready to put up a fight when the need arises.
Kushmanda (Day 4) — This is the goddess who brought the cosmic egg into being, and she’s all about that life force energy.
Skandamata (Day 5) — This is the protective maternal force – the one who looks out for her kids. In yogic terms, she’s on the fourth chakra – the heart centre.
Katyayani (Day 6) — Now here’s one who’s got quite a bit of punch – she’s got the look of a slayer, fierce and decisive, and with a swing of her hand, she’ll clear the decks.
Kalaratri (Day 7 – Phulpati) — This night goddess is as dark as it gets – and she’s on a job to get rid of all the ignorance and fear that gets in the way. And yes, sometimes you’ll see her being worshipped at midnight in isolated spots like Guhyeshwari and Dakshinkali.
Mahagauri (Day 8 – Maha Ashtami) — This is the white-clad goddess of purity and beauty that’s got the real fight out of her system now.
Siddhidatri (Day 9 – Maha Navami) — And then there’s the goddess who’s going to hand over the goodies – all the siddhis or spiritual tricks you need. Amazingly, she’s worshipped with tools of all kinds – from farming tools to cars to anything that’ll help bring in a living for the family.
And that’s the real reason some families do a daily puja all the way up to the ninth night, rather than just the big-name day. Every day has its own little goddess and its own point – and its own mantra.
Other important days and events during the festival
In addition to the main days of the Dashain Festival that have already been discussed, there are other important days and events that hold cultural and religious significance. Some of these days and events include:
Durga Puja and Navaratri: During the entire 15-day Dashain Festival, special attention is given to the worship of Goddess Durga. In particular, the first nine days are dedicated to the goddess, who is believed to embody power, strength, and protection. Devotees visit Durga temples, perform rituals, and make offerings to seek her blessings.
Phoolpati Badhai: Phoolpati Badhai is a traditional practice during the Dashain Festival, where people exchange Phoolpati (flowers, leaves, and fruits) with their neighbors, friends, and relatives. This custom strengthens social bonds and promotes unity and togetherness in the community.
Swinging (Ping): During the Dashain Festival, swings made of bamboo or wood, known as “Ping” or “Linge Ping,” are set up in various communities and villages across Nepal. People of all ages, especially children, enjoy swinging on these temporary structures, which symbolize joy, freedom, and the carefree spirit of the festival.
Ramlila: In some parts of Nepal, Ramlila, the dramatic re-enactment of the life of Lord Rama, is performed during the Dashain Festival. This theatrical performance depicts the victory of good over evil, as Lord Rama defeats the demon king Ravana, and is often performed in open grounds or community spaces.
Why Is Dashain Such a Big Festival in Nepal?
Dashain is one of the biggest and most widely celebrated festivals in Nepal. More than a religious celebration, it is a time for family reunions, blessings, traditional rituals, and shared happiness. People who live away from their hometowns or abroad often travel back home to spend Dashain with their families.
One of the most important traditions is visiting elders to receive Dashain tika, jamara, and blessings . Family members gather together, share meals, exchange gifts, and enjoy time with relatives. For many people, Dashain is also an opportunity to put aside old disagreements and strengthen family relationships.
Children especially look forward to Dashain. Wearing new clothes, receiving tika and blessings from elders, flying kites, playing on bamboo swings, and enjoying special foods are some of the experiences that make the festival exciting for them.
Cultural Significance of Dashain
Dashain has deep religious and cultural importance in Nepal. It is traditionally associated with the victory of good over evil and is closely connected with Goddess Durga and other Hindu traditions. At the same time, the festival has a strong social meaning as a period of reunion, togetherness, and family bonding.
Traditional activities such as flying kites, playing cards, building bamboo swings, buying new clothes, preparing festive meals, and visiting relatives have become an important part of the Dashain experience. Some traditions also vary among Nepal’s different ethnic and cultural communities.
Celebration of Dashain in Nepal
Playing Malshree Dhun
Music is an important part of Dashain celebrations. One traditional musical form associated with the festival is Malshree Dhun , an old musical tradition of Nepal.
Malshree Dhun has historical connections with the Newar community and was traditionally performed during religious and cultural occasions. Over time, it became widely associated with Dashain and can now be heard during the festival in many parts of Nepal.
Receiving Tika and blessings from elders
On Vijaya Dashami, family members gather together, and younger members receive Tika from their elders. Tika is a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermilion, which is applied to the forehead as a blessing. Along with the Tika, the elders give blessings called “Jamara,” which are the sprouted barley, wheat, or corn seeds that were sown on Ghatasthapana. The Tika and blessings symbolize the transfer of power, strength, wisdom, and good fortune from the elders to the younger generation.
Family reunions and gatherings
Vijaya Dashami is a time for family reunions, as people travel back to their hometowns and ancestral homes to be with their loved ones. Family gatherings are an essential part of the celebration, with people exchanging greetings, blessings, and indulging in festive feasts. Traditional dishes, such as goat meat, known as “Khasi Ko Masu,” are prepared and shared among family members.
Kite flying and cultural programs
In addition to the family-oriented celebrations, Vijaya Dashami is marked by various outdoor activities, such as kite flying, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Cultural programs, dance performances, and music events are also organized in communities and cities throughout Nepal, showcasing the rich and vibrant culture of the country.
Auspicious beginnings
Many people believe that Vijaya Dashami is an auspicious day to start new ventures, businesses, or projects. People often initiate important tasks, make significant purchases, or lay the foundation for new constructions on this day, hoping for success and prosperity.
Dashain Rituals
The rituals of Dashain very among communities and regions. The most familiar tradition for many people is receiving tika and jamara from elders along with their blessings.
The color and style of tika can also differ among communities. For example, some communities traditionally use white tika, while red tika is common among many Hindu communities in Nepal.
As Dashain approaches, another familiar sight is kites filling the sky. Kite flying has become a popular Dashain tradition, particularly among children and young people. A traditional belief connects kite flying with the end of the monsoon season. People fly kites from rooftops and open spaces and often compete to cut one another’s kites. When a kite is cut, people commonly shout “Changa Chet!”
Buying New Clothes
Buying and wearing new clothes is one of the most anticipated parts of Dashain, especially for children. Families often purchase new clothes for themselves and their children before the festival.
Children may wear their new outfits when visiting relatives to receive tika and blessings. Because shopping increases before Dashain, many shops and businesses offer seasonal discounts, special deals, gift hampers, lucky draws, and other promotions.
Playing on Traditional Bamboo Swings
Traditional bamboo swings , known as ping , are another familiar feature of Dashain, particularly in rural areas.
Communities often build large swings using locally available materials such as bamboo, wood, rope, and strong grass. In many places, the swings are prepared around Ghatasthapana , the first day of the Dashain festival, and remain in use throughout the festive period.
People of different ages enjoy playing on the swings. For children especially, the large village swings are one of the most exciting parts of Dashain.
Fairs and Festive Celebrations
Dashain brings a festive atmosphere to cities, towns, and villages across Nepal. Local fairs and community events are organized in many places, providing opportunities for people to shop, eat, meet friends, and enjoy traditional games and entertainment.
Children often enjoy the games and activities at these fairs, while families may purchase clothes, household goods, decorations, and other items. Businesses also commonly introduce special Dashain discounts and promotional offers during the festival season.
Foods of Dashain: A Closer Look at the Feast
Food is an important part of Dashain in Nepal. During the festival, families prepare special dishes, share meals with relatives, and enjoy traditional foods that are rarely prepared on ordinary days. Although dishes vary from one community and household to another, several foods are closely associated with Dashain celebrations.
Khasi Ko Masu (Goat Curry)
Khasi ko masu, or goat curry, is one of the most popular Dashain dishes in Nepal. Many families prepare goat meat during the festival, often using their own traditional recipes and cooking methods.
The meat is usually cooked with onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and a blend of spices until it becomes tender and flavorful. It is commonly served with rice, beaten rice, or other festive dishes and is often shared among family members and guests.
Bhutan (Sautéed Goat Innards)
Bhutan is a traditional dish prepared from goat innards such as liver, heart, kidney, and other edible parts. The ingredients are usually cut into small pieces and fried with garlic, ginger, chilies, and spices such as timur.
For many families, Bhutan is a traditional part of preparing and sharing goat meat during Dashain. It is particularly popular among people who enjoy strongly seasoned meat dishes.
Sel Roti
Sel roti is a traditional Nepali rice-flour bread with a distinctive ring shape. It is crispy on the outside and soft and slightly chewy inside.
During Dashain and other major festivals, families often prepare sel roti in large batches. It is commonly served with meat, vegetables, achar, yogurt, or other festive foods. Making sel roti can also become a family activity, with several generations helping in the kitchen.
Kheer (Khir)
Kheer, also known as khir, is a traditional rice pudding prepared by slowly cooking rice with milk and sugar. Cardamom, nuts, dried fruits, and other ingredients may be added according to family preference.
Kheer is served during various festivals and religious occasions in Nepal. It is also associated with Kojagrat Purnima, which marks the final day of the main Dashain period.
Newari Bhoye: The Newari people of Kathmandu Valley prepare a traditional feast called “Bhoye” during Dashain. This elaborate meal consists of various dishes such as beaten rice (chiura), curries, pickles (achaar), leafy greens (saag), lentils, and sweets.
Aloo Tama: Aloo Tama is a delicious Nepalese curry made with potatoes, bamboo shoots, and black-eyed peas. This dish is often prepared during Dashain and other festivals and is served with steamed rice or roti.
Achar (Pickles)
No traditional Nepali feast feels complete without achar. During Dashain, families may serve several varieties of pickle alongside their main dishes.
Popular options include tomato achar, radish achar, sesame-based achar, and gundruk ko achar, made with fermented leafy greens. The spicy and tangy flavors of achar provide a strong contrast to rich meat dishes and rice-based foods.
Chatamari
Chatamari is a traditional Newari rice-flour dish that is particularly popular among Newar families during festivals and special occasions. Sometimes described as a Nepali-style rice-flour pancake, it can be prepared with minced meat, eggs, vegetables, and spices.
Among Newar communities, Dashain is known as Mohani, and traditional foods such as chatamari are an important part of the festival’s culinary traditions.
Raksi
Raksi is a traditional homemade alcoholic drink commonly produced from fermented grains such as rice or millet. It has a strong taste and is traditionally prepared in many Nepali households and communities.
Its role in Dashain varies according to family, community, and personal practice. In some households, it may be served during gatherings and celebrations alongside traditional food.
Animal Sacrifice
Animal sacrifice is a traditional practice associated with Dashain in some communities and temples, particularly as offerings to Goddess Durga and other deities. Goats, buffaloes, ducks, and other animals may be offered during specific rituals.
The practice has historical and religious roots, but it remains a subject of debate in modern Nepal. While some communities continue the tradition as part of their religious practices, others oppose animal sacrifice on ethical or animal-welfare grounds. Practices also vary considerably from one community and temple to another.
Animal offerings are particularly associated with Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami , although specific practices depend on local traditions.
Kumari and Ganesh Puja
Dashain traditions are not the same throughout Nepal. In the Newar community, for example, some families and communities observe distinctive rituals involving the worship of Kumari and Ganesh.
Young girls may be honored as representations of Kumari, while young boys may be symbolically associated with Ganesh during particular rituals. These practices reflect the rich cultural diversity found within Nepal’s Dashain celebrations.
Spending Time with Family and Relatives
Family reunion is one of the most important social aspects of Dashain. People travel from cities and abroad to return to their hometowns and villages, making the roads and airports particularly busy during the festival season.
Families gather together for meals, conversations, celebrations, and traditional rituals. Younger family members visit elders to receive tika, jamara, blessings, and gifts of money. Visiting relatives and receiving their blessings is an important part of the festival for many Nepalese families.
A Festival of Enjoyment and Togetherness
Nepal is home to many ethnic groups, languages, religions, and cultural traditions. Dashain is one of the festivals that brings people together across different parts of the country.
Although its religious traditions are important, Dashain is also valued for its social meaning. It gives people an opportunity to reconnect with family members, visit relatives, share meals, exchange blessings, and enjoy traditional activities.
Nepalese communities living abroad also continue to celebrate Dashain, helping maintain cultural connections even when families live far from Nepal.
Playing Cards During Dashain
Playing card has become a common form of entertainment during Dashain. Family members and friends often sit together and play cards during their free time, adding a relaxed and social element to the festival.
However, card games involving large amounts of money can create financial and social problems. Gambling for significant amounts of money is not a necessary part of Dashain traditions, and excessive gambling can lead to serious consequences.
For most families, the value of playing cards during Dashain is simply spending time together, talking, laughing, and enjoying the holiday.
Why Dashain Matters to Nepalese People
Dashain is much more than a series of religious rituals. It is a time when people return home, meet their loved ones, receive blessings from elders, enjoy traditional food, and reconnect with their culture.
From tika and jamara to kites, bamboo swings, family gatherings, music, fairs, and festive meals, Dashain brings together many aspects of Nepalese life. This combination of religious tradition, family reunion, and community celebration is what makes Dashain such an important festival in Nepal.
Popular tourist destinations and activities during Dashain
During Dashain, some popular tourist destinations and activities may be less crowded due to the festive atmosphere and locals spending time with their families. However, this can also be a great opportunity to explore Nepal and experience its rich cultural heritage. Here are some popular tourist destinations and activities to consider during Dashain:
Kathmandu Valley: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and the ancient Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. These sites are rich in history and showcase traditional Nepalese architecture.
Pokhara: Don’t miss Pokhara on your trip, a picturesque city located by the Phewa Lake, which offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. You can participate in activities such as boating on the lake, paragliding, visiting the World Peace Pagoda, or exploring the Mahendra and Bat Caves.
Chitwan National Park: Enjoy a safari experience in Chitwan National Park, where you can spot various wildlife, including Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, and different species of deer. You can also take part in other activities such as bird watching, canoeing, and visiting the local Tharu villages.
Lumbini: Visit Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and explore the numerous monasteries, temples, and the sacred garden surrounding the Mayadevi Temple.
Bandipur: Discover the charming hilltop town of Bandipur, known for its traditional Newari architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Nagarkot: Take a short trip to Nagarkot, a popular hill station close to Kathmandu, which offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, and beautiful sunrise and sunset panoramas.
Trekking: Although the Dashain festival falls during the start of the trekking season, some popular trekking routes may be less crowded. Consider short treks, such as the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, the Langtang Valley Trek, or the Tamang Heritage Trail, which showcase the natural beauty of Nepal and offer stunning mountain views.
Cultural experiences: Attend Dashain community events, including cultural programs, traditional music, and dance performances. Also, explore local markets to shop for handicrafts and traditional clothing.
Mountain flights: If you’re short on time or unable to trek, you can take a mountain flight to enjoy an up-close view of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.
Adventure sports: For thrill-seekers, there are various adventure sports available, such as bungee jumping, zip-lining, paragliding, and white-water rafting.
Keep in mind that some businesses and attractions may be closed or operate for limited hours during Dashain. It is essential to plan your itinerary accordingly and be flexible with your travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dashain 2026
When is Dashain 2026 in Nepal?
Dashain 2026 is scheduled to begin with Ghatasthapana in October and continue for 15 days until Kojagrat Purnima. The exact dates should be confirmed with the official Nepali calendar.
When is Dashain Tika in 2026?
Vijaya Dashami, the main Tika day, falls on October 21, 2026, according to the dates used in this guide.
What is Dashain Tika?
Dashain Tika is a traditional blessing ceremony in which elders place Tika and Jamara on younger family members and offer blessings for health, happiness, prosperity, and long life.
What is Jamara?
Jamara consists of young barley shoots traditionally grown from Ghatasthapana. They are placed with Tika on Vijaya Dashami as part of the blessing ceremony.
Why is Dashain celebrated?
Dashain is primarily associated with the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura and, in broader Hindu tradition, the triumph of good over evil.
How many days does Dashain last?
Dashain is traditionally celebrated over 15 days, beginning with Ghatasthapana and ending with Kojagrat Purnima.
What food is eaten during Dashain?
Popular Dashain foods include Khasi ko masu, sel roti, kheer, achar, and various traditional dishes prepared according to family and community customs.
Do Nepalis travel during Dashain?
Yes. A large number of people travel from cities to their hometowns and villages to celebrate Dashain with their families.
Can foreigners celebrate Dashain in Nepal?
Visitors can experience Dashain respectfully, especially when invited by Nepali families or participating in appropriate cultural activities and public celebrations.
What happens on Kojagrat Purnima?
Kojagrat Purnima is the full-moon day that marks the conclusion of the traditional 15-day Dashain period. It is associated with Goddess Laxmi and the traditional practice of staying awake during the night.
What is Phulpati in Dashain?
Phulpati is an important seventh-day Dashain observance involving a ceremonial collection of sacred plants and ritual items. It marks an important stage of the festival’s major celebrations.
What is Maha Ashtami?
Maha Ashtami is the eighth day of Dashain and is associated with the worship of Goddess Durga and various religious rituals. Animal sacrifice is practiced in some communities and temples but not by all families.
What is Maha Nawami?
Maha Nawami is the ninth day of Dashain. It is associated with worship, temple visits, and the traditional worship of tools, vehicles, machinery, and equipment in some communities.
What is the most important day of Dashain?
Vijaya Dashami is the central day of Dashain and is particularly important for receiving Tika, Jamara, Dakshina, and blessings from elders.
