Krishna Ashtami in Nepal

Krishna Ashtami, also known as Janmashtami, is a Hindu festival celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Krishna, who is considered the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Nepal, especially in the Kathmandu Valley and other regions with a significant Hindu population. The celebrations include fasting, singing devotional songs, visiting temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, performing midnight arati (rituals with lamps), sacred processions with kids dressed as Lord Krishna and Radha, and performing cultural programs with dances and drama. 

When?

Krishna Ashtami usually falls in the month of August or September, depending on the Hindu lunar calendar.

Where?

In the Kathmandu Valley, you can expect to see various rituals, musical performances, and cultural events in and around these temples and squares.

1. Krishna Mandir in Patan Durbar Square: This historic temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is a focal point for Janmashtami celebrations in the Patan area of Kathmandu.
2. Bal Gopaleshwar Temple in Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Another important temple where devotees gather to celebrate Janmashtami in Bhaktapur.
3. Changu Narayan Temple: Located in the Bhaktapur district, Changu Narayan is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Devotees also celebrate Janmashtami here.
4. Other Krishna temples: There are numerous smaller Krishna temples and shrines across Nepal where devotees observe Janmashtami with devotion and fervor.

If you’re interested in delving into any kind of cultural exploration in Nepal, feel free to reach out to us!