July 28, 2025

Dashain is the most widely celebrated and culturally significant Hindu festival in Nepal, spanning 15 days and usually falling in September or October (the month of Ashwin according to the lunar calendar). It commemorates the triumph of good over evil, symbolized by the goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. Dashain is a time of family reunions, religious rituals, and joyous celebrations across the country.

During Dashain, homes are cleaned and decorated, and families gather to receive blessings from elders. The festival’s central theme revolves around worship of Goddess Durga in her various fierce and protective forms. Temples dedicated to Durga, especially the famous Goddess Taleju temple in Kathmandu, become focal points of prayer and offerings. Many people receive tika—a mixture of red vermilion, yogurt, and rice—from their elders as a blessing for prosperity and protection.

Dashain’s rituals include animal sacrifices in honor of the goddess, symbolizing the removal of negativity and the ushering in of good fortune. The festival also features flying kites, feasting on traditional delicacies, and community gatherings. Open fields and rooftops burst with vibrant kites, filling the sky in a festive spirit.

For visitors, Dashain offers a unique window into Nepalese culture, family values, and religious devotion. It’s a time when the entire nation pauses to celebrate renewal, courage, and the bonds of kinship.

Time of Year: September or October (Ashwin month, lunar calendar)

Location: Nationwide celebrations across Nepal

Duration: 15 days

What to Expect: Worship of Goddess Durga, tika blessings, animal sacrifices, kite flying, family reunions, feasts

Interesting Facts:

  • Dashain is Nepal’s longest and most important festival
  • The tika ceremony symbolizes blessings and protection for the year ahead
  • The festival blends Hindu mythology with vibrant cultural practices