Buddha Jayanti
When: April/May
Buddha Jayanti, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. In Pokhara, this auspicious day is celebrated with a grand procession known as the Buddha Jayanti Rally. Devotees and monks gather at Buddhist monasteries and stupas, including the World Peace Pagoda, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The rally moves through the city, accompanied by chanting and prayers, creating a serene atmosphere that reflects the profound spiritual significance of Buddha’s teachings.
Newari New Year Rally
When: October/November
The Newari community, indigenous to the Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara, celebrates Nepal Sambat as their traditional New Year. This festival marks the beginning of a new lunar year with a vibrant rally known as “Nepal Sambat Jatra.” Participants dressed in traditional attire, including elaborate costumes and jewelry, gather for processions featuring traditional music, dances (like the famous Lakhe dance), and cultural performances. The festivities highlight Newari heritage, cuisine (such as the delicious Newari feast), and rituals, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Newar community in Pokhara.
Ropai Festival
When: June
The Ropain Festival, or Rice Planting Festival, is a unique agricultural celebration in Pokhara. Held in rural areas surrounding the city, this festival marks the beginning of the rice planting season. Visitors can participate in planting rice seedlings in the muddy fields, accompanied by folk music and traditional songs. The festival also features cultural programs that showcase traditional farming practices and local cuisine, providing an authentic glimpse into rural Nepali life.
Mahashivaratri
When: February/March
Maha Shivaratri is a big celebration at Bindhyabasini Temple in Pokhara, Nepal. It’s all about honoring Lord Shiva with prayers and songs throughout the night. The temple looks beautiful with decorations and lights. People also burn sugarcane on the streets to show that winter is ending soon. This festival brings everyone together to celebrate their culture and look forward to spring.
Pokhara Street Festival
When: Last week of December to the first week of January
The Pokhara Street Festival is a lively event organized by the Restaurant and Bar Association of Nepal (REBAN). This festival turns the streets of Lakeside, Pokhara’s main tourist hub, into a bustling carnival. Visitors can enjoy traditional music, cultural dances, and delicious local food. The festival also features various competitions and games, making it a fun-filled event for all ages. This festival is a great way to experience the local culture and hospitality of Pokhara
Tamu Lhosar
When: 30th December
Tamu Lhosar is the New Year festival of the Gurung community, one of the indigenous ethnic groups of Nepal. Celebrated with great enthusiasm in Pokhara, this festival marks the beginning of the Gurung New Year. The celebration includes traditional dances, music, and the vibrant display of traditional Gurung attire. Visitors can witness cultural processions and enjoy delicious Gurung cuisine, making it a unique cultural experience in Pokhara
Gaijatra
When: Usually in August/September
Gai Jatra is a lively festival celebrated by the Newari people in Pokhara. Families who have lost a loved one in the past year participate in a procession. They lead a cow or a boy dressed as a cow through the streets, symbolizing the journey to the afterlife. The festival is filled with colorful costumes, music, and performances that bring humor and joy to the community. There’s also a friendly competition among groups for the most creative procession, adding to the festive spirit. Gai Jatra celebrates life, honors the departed, and showcases the cultural vibrancy of Pokhara.
Teej Festival
When: Late August or early September
Teej is a vibrant festival celebrated by Hindu women in Pokhara. Women dress in red saris, fast, and pray for the well-being of their husbands. They gather at temples like Bindhyabasini, swing on decorated swings (jhulas), and sing traditional songs. Teej celebrates marital happiness, women’s unity, and the cultural heritage of Nepal with joyous processions and lively festivities.
Bhailo
When: October/ November
Bhailo during Tihar in Pokhara is a traditional Nepali custom where groups of young girls and boys visit homes carrying oil lamps (diyo) and singing bhailini songs. This custom, observed on the third day of Tihar known as Gai Tihar or Laxmi Puja, has evolved to include organized dancing groups performing on the streets. The festival creates a festive atmosphere with music, dance, and the glow of oil lamps, highlighting unity and celebrating prosperity. It enriches Nepali culture by passing down traditions that symbolize community bonds and the belief that these songs bring blessings and good fortune.
