When is the Dashain Festival in Nepal- 2024?

Discover the cultural significance of Dashain Festival in Nepal -2024. Dashain is one of the biggest and most common festivals of the people of Nepal. It lasts for fifteen days and normally takes place between late September and October depending on the lunar calendar. Dashain has a great historic and religious importance as men celebrate the victory of the power of good over the power of evil as depicted by Durga over Mahishasura. 

The status of the event is celebrated throughout Nepal and involves a sequence of rites, family gathering, and community activities. Houses are swept and garnished for the convening of the goddess, and animals sacrifices common of which are goats, ducks and chickens are taken to be offered to Durga. 

The first one of the nine days of Dashain is called Ghatasthapana where people sow seeds of barley to have prosperity in their homes. On the tenth day referred to as Vijaya Dashami, elders put ‘tika’, which is the mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermillion color on the forehead of the younger ones ‘jamara’, which is the sprouted barley grass on the forehead. 

During the festivity, families attend the occasion, share gifts, and also fund themselves to delicious foods. Both children and adults like kite flying, to play on traditional swing (Ping) and to play card games etc. 

Dashain combines all the Nepalese people regardless of their regions and communities for celebration which make it a time of reformation and togetherness. The celebration has also a social economic importance as it encourages consumption with markets being filled with people buying new clothes, gifts and foods in preparations of the celebration. 

When is the Dashain festival in Nepal -2024?

Dashain festival in Nepal starts in the following Dates in 2024: 

• These dates are not the same each year. The Dashain festival starts on October 3rd and ends on October 12th in 2024 AD.
• The Dashain Festival occurs between the 17th and the 26th of Ashwin 2081 BS, which is according to the Nepali Calendar 2081.

In Nepal, it is recognized as the largest and most significant celebration. September or October (Ashwin or Kartik in the Bikram Sambat calendar) are the months in which it occurs. It begins on Ashwin’s brilliant lunar fortnight and finishes on Purnima, the full moon day.

In the year 2024, the festival of Dashain will comprise of significant dates of religious and cultural characteristics. This is celebrated for nine days and among them, the eighth day or the Maha Aastami is to worship the Goddess ‘Kali’, which is the destructive aspect of Durga. It is considered one of the biggest days as people offer a variety of animals in the temple and in their houses to the goddess with a prayer to shield them from evil.

The next day is also celebrated known as Maha Nawami which is the ninth day of Dashain. On this day, prayers are made to Durga Mata for safety and blessings whereas equipment and vehicles are prayed to be safe as well as to bring luck for the next year. 

The most celebrated day of Dashain is Vijaya Dashami which is on the 12th of October in 2024. It represents the win by the good over the evil doers, the triumph by the goddess Durga over Mahishasura. This is the day elderly members of any family draw tika and jamara on the forehead of the young people as a symbol of prosperity and good health.

Tika goes on to the next day and the eighth and ninth of October have been recognized as Dashain Tika days, family members go to each other’s place to receive tika, blessings, and tokens. 

What Are The  Days of Dashain ?

It is similar to Dashain that is a festival lasting for more than 15 days where each day has its set of sequence and events. Here’s an overview of the key days of Dashain: 

 Day 1 – Ghatasthapana: The festival starts with the sowing of barley seeds in a clay pot- the beginning of Dashain and invocation of Goddess Durga. 

 Day 7 – Fulpati: On this day, flowers and other offerings are fetched from Gorkha, the birthplace of King Pashupatinath, to Kathmandu symbolizing the entry of the festival. 

 Day 8 – Maha Aastami: A day from the calendar setting that is implied in sacrificing large animals to the Goddess Kali who is the terrible avatar of Durga. 

 Day 9 – Maha Nawami: The fest of Durga is very much performed, people pray for shield, tools and vehicles are also taken for blessings for safety in this coming year. 

 Day 10 – Vijaya Dashami: The principal day of celebration of Dashain, when most senior persons put tilak and jamara on other juniiors to indicate victory of good over evil. This practice is done for the next few days. 

 Day 11 to 14 – Tika Days: Relatives go to each other’s home esp. to get tika and blessings and this is the way family relationship is knitted and we celebrate togetherness. 

 Day 15 – Kojagrat Purnima: The last day of the festival of Dashain which falls on the day of full moon where people don’t sleep during the night to welcome the goddess of wealth Laxmi. 

 Both these days are filled with rituals and celebrations and thus Dashain is all about reunion with families and presenting oneself before gods. 

 Yes, Dashain is a good time to travel to Nepal but this is depending on what kind of experience one is interested in. 

Is Dashain the suitable Time To Explore Nepal

Pros of Exploring Nepal During Dashain:

• Cultural Immersion: The festival of Dashain provides a golden chance of feeling the essence of this most important Nepalese festival. Tourists are able to observe traditional ceremonies, see the people taking their children to receive tika and join in the festivities. People decorate their homes, especially towns, villages and are happy to embrace the new year’s cheerful moments all over the country. 
• Milder Weather: Most often Dashain is celebrated in October, at the start of autumn in Nepal. This time is characterised with good weathers and clear skies, making this season appropriate for trekking and other related activities in the Himalayas. 
• Local Festivities: Kite flying, giant bamboo swings (ping), cultural shows and other culturally related activities can be observed by the visitors. It is a perfect occasion necessary for those who would like to witness Nepali traditions at first-hand.

Cons of Exploring Nepal During Dashain:

• Business Closures: Most of the shops, restaurants and other businesses shut down during Dashain festival especially during the Vijaya Dashami days. Road access in Nepal, traveling around the country may also be a little tricky because public transport is not very common and some infrastructures that may be of importance to tourists might not be fully functional.
• Higher Demand for Flights and Accommodation: Since Dashain is one of the most important festivals of Nepalis, people return back to their villages which might cause a high traffic of flights and other transport means. As recommended, travelling and booking accommodations should be done before the travelling period. 
• Limited Access to Attractions: There are tendencies that some of the heritage site, trekking permits offices and government offices will be closed during the days of the festival. This could be a concern to tourists planning to visit certain areas or apply for permits required for trekking. 

Overall, Dashain can be a fascinating time to visit Nepal if you’re looking to explore its cultural and festive side, but it requires some advance planning and flexibility in travel arrangements.

Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Nepal During Dashain

Here are the top 10 must-visit destinations in Nepal during Dashain, offering a mix of cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and festive atmosphere:Here are the top 10 must-visit destinations in Nepal during Dashain, offering a mix of cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and festive atmosphere: 

Kathmandu Valley:

During the festive season of Dashain, the capital city turns lively and even tourist sites such as Pashupatinath temple, Swayambhunath, and Durbar Square look active with different programs. It allows you to watch tika ceremonies, slaughtering of large animals, and people’s overall festivities during the event. 

Bhaktapur:

As expected this beautiful palace city of Bhaktapur is even more beautiful during Dashain especially due to its well preserved medieval architecture. The city’s lethality is compressed like a Newari marriage occasion, narrow street bustle, square, and the Temples, retain the spirit of festive ceremony of Newari people with cultural shows. 

Pokhara:

Pokhara thus offers Dashain celebration in an environment free from disturbances and more importantly with natural beauty. While families sit along the shores of the lakes and go to the temples such as Bindhyabasini Temple, one can enjoy the beauty of Phewa Lake and the great Himalayan range of Annapurnas. 

Gorkha:

The town of Gorkha is historically significant during the period of Dashain because the royalties used to organize grand Fulpati procession starting from Gorkha to Kathmandu. For instance, one can visit Gorkha Durbar which is considered to be an ancient palace as well as observe procession in Gorkha Kalika Temple.

Bandipur:

Bandipur is a beautiful town on top of hills that offers the sight of traditional buildings and beautiful surrounding. The locals enjoy dances, feasts, and rituals during the festival and this mainly take place during Dashain. And it is quite wonderful to feel the fairly-tale Christmas atmosphere amidst the feeling of the countryside with no clutter of city crowds. 

Chitwan National Park:

So if you are adventure lover and interested in exploring local cultures then Chitwan National Park is perfect place for you. Thus, on one hand, you can join Dashain local traditions, on the other hand, the park can offer the opportunity for wildlife tours where you can see rhinos, tigers and others exotic animals. 

Lumbini:

Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha is a religious pilgrimage site, even in Dashain festival. While it may be predominately Buddhist, there are monasteries and ancient stupas and if you want to see a less frantic side of the festal this is for you. 

Palpa (Tansen):

Tansen, a historical town with number of houses having traditional Nepalese architectures, and local people with lot of enthusiasm enjoy Dashain festival. It is located in the relatively unheard of region and, due to this, with the beautiful view of the hills, as well as the Rani Mahal Palace by the Kali Gandaki River, it is an ideal place for this purpose. 

Dhulikhel:

Dhulikhel, only an hour or so’s drive from Kathmandu, is perfect for those who want to view awe inspiring mountains during Dashain. You could also visit temples like Kali temple and Namobuddha and you can observe and enjoy and more importantly participate in Nepali function or festivals in an environment that is as close to nature as it can get. 

Nagarkot:

Located near Kathmandu, Nagarkot has been one of the most favourite places for tourists as it has magnificent views of the Himalayas particularly the Mount Everest during the clear autumn days of Dashain. It is a perfect place to enjoy the festival without disturbances of crowds while at the same time, enjoy the beauty of Nature in Nepal. 

These places offer rich cultural experience as well as natural scenery hence they are perfect to visit Nepal on Dashain festival.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Manaslu Circuit Trek :

The Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Manaslu Circuit Trek are two of Nepal’s most iconic trekking routes, offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. During the Dashain festival, Nepal’s biggest and most widely celebrated event, these treks provide a unique cultural experience alongside the adventure. Dashain, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil, brings vibrant celebrations throughout the country, including in the mountain villages.

On the Annapurna Circuit Trek, trekkers pass through remote villages where local communities celebrate Dashain with traditional rituals, family gatherings, and festivities. The trek offers panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare, while allowing trekkers to witness the rich culture of the Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi people during the festive season.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you through rugged terrains around Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world. During Dashain, trekkers experience the warm hospitality of the Tamang and Sherpa communities, who engage in kite flying, animal sacrifices, and special meals to mark the festival. This trek also features stunning mountain views, secluded trails, and culturally rich villages.

Trekking during Dashain adds a festive charm to the Annapurna and Manaslu circuits, making it a memorable time for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Why celebrate Dashain ?

From the cultural, religious and social importance, Dashain is celebrated in Nepal for several factors that are based on victory, renewal and togetherness.

Here are some key reasons why Dashain is celebrated: 

Victory of Good Over Evil:

Dashain represents the positive victory over negative forces in society and in general the triumph of good over evil, which is a significant aspect learnt from the story of Durga defeating Mahishasura. It means the festival that prevail during the period of Dashain celebration is focused on Durga’s aspect of strength and power. This message of victory symbolises the triumph of light and good over the dark and evil, which is the key theme of the event. 

Harvest Festival:

Dashain is usually held in September or October each year and as goes cultural and traditional practices in Nepal, Dashain is normally celebrated during the harvest season. and what a time it is, that farmers have yielded the fruits of their labor and the fertility of the land for the prosperity of the year. 

Family and Community Bonding:

Hindu festivals in Nepal, Dashain is one of the biggest family oriented festivals celebrated by the Nepalese. It brings together families which not only gives a chance to meet for a very long time but also allows families to sit and have meals together.

The ritual of tika ceremony where elderly people put tika which is a mixture of rice, yogurt and vermillion and wheat steam popularly known as jamara on the center of the forehead of the young people symbolizes blessings for good health, wealth and happiness.

Worship and Renewal:

It is a festival that is associated with focus on concern, reverence, and worship. They clean and decorate their homes and buy new dresses and celebrate rituals to get a new contact with divine powers, especially goddess Durga.

The act of worshiping various tools, vehicles and other materialistic things on Maha Nawami is a tradition which holds assurance of protection and prosperity in the forthcoming year.

Cultural Heritage:

Dashain festival is very much popular and it holds a significant place in the Cultural and Religious Calendar of Nepal. This perhaps is the time when communities were able to make sure people observe traditions, traditions were taken full circle to the young and everyone felt connected to a group of people possessing similar origin or culture.

National Festival:

Fest is based on the Hindu calendar but Nepalese of all casts and creeds celebrates Dashain. It can unify the Nepalis from different part of the country, different castes, and from different background making it a symbolic festival of the country.

Therefore, Dashain is a festival of Gods, thanksgiving for success, reestablishment of family and cultural values. It became the time of happiness, meditation and rejuvenation, so important, considered to be one of the main remarkable time in the Nepali calendar. 

Foods during Dashain Festival in Nepal

Over those days of Dashain, food is very much important as families get together for feasting and rejoicing. Food and drinks served during festive period is usually lavish, diverse and the eating habits are symbolic of prosperity.

Here’s a look at some of the traditional foods enjoyed during Dashain in Nepal:

1. The Khasi delicacy Goat Meat or (Khasi Ko Masu) as it popularly called among the Khasis of Meghalaya. 

 In celebration of Dashain, Goat meat or ‘khasi ko masu’ is one of the favorite foods of the people. This means that in families which perform Durga puja, a live goat is sacrificed and the meat is cooked on grills, deep fried or turn into curry. Essentially, it is a staple food in many families celebrate this festival. 

 2. Mutton Curry 

 Other popular dishes include goat meat which has usually been grilled or fried and mutton curry. This tasty curry with/details of cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garlic is served with rice or bread during gatherings. 

 3. Sel Roti 

 Sel roti is kind of Nepali doughnut which is made with rice flour and had crispy layer outside while soft and fluffy inside. They are dominantly seen during the festival seasons like Dashain and Tihar and can be eaten with other fried foods or taken singly without any other accompaniment. The preparation of sel roti at home is part of the festivity. 

 4. Aloo Tama 

 Aloo Tama is a dish of Nepal that has a unique taste because of that this dish is made up of potatoes, bamboo shoots, and black-eyed peas. This is typically consumed in Dashin festival and is consumed best with rice and other meals, especially meat dishes. Some of the popular items include the sour bamboo shoots’ mixture together with the spicy potato preparation.

5. Gundruk and Achar (Fermented Leafy Greens with Pickle)

Gundruk, a fermented leafy inexperienced vegetable, is typically served as a side dish along with achar (pickle) during Dashain. It provides a tangy and savory taste that enhances the rich and highly spiced meat dishes at the festive table.

6. Rice and Dal (Bhat and Dal)

Rice and lentil soup, called “bhat” and “dal,” shape the staple a part of the Nepali weight-reduction plan. During Dashain, rice is served along mutton curry, veggies, and fried dishes. Despite being a simple dish, it is central to festive food.

7. Sukuti (Dried Meat)

Sukuti, or dried meat, is another popular dish throughout Dashain, especially in rural areas. The meat is dried and later cooked with spices to make a flavorful snack or facet dish, frequently loved with raksi (a conventional alcoholic drink).

8. Fried Fish

Fried fish is a common Dashain food in areas in which fish is effortlessly handy. The crispy and spicy fried fish is a cherished addition to festive food, often eaten with rice and pickles.

9. Yomari

Though usually related to other festivals, yomari, a sweet dumpling made of rice flour and full of molasses or sesame seeds, is likewise enjoyed for the duration of Dashain via some communities, particularly within the Newar tradition.

10. Dhido

Dhido, a traditional Nepali dish made from buckwheat or millet flour, is served with mutton or vegetable curry. It is a more healthy opportunity to rice and is enjoyed in rural areas of Nepal for the duration of Dashain.

11. Achaar (Pickles)

Various kinds of achaar (pickles) are crafted from substances like tomatoes, radishes, or timmur (Sichuan pepper) and are usually served during Dashain. The tangy and spicy taste of pickles balances out the richness of the festive meals.

12. Curd (Dahi)

Curd or yogurt is frequently eaten up all through the tika ceremony and family gatherings. It’s used as a part of the tika combination (along with rice and vermillion) and also enjoyed as a cooling accompaniment to the heavier, spicier dishes.

13. Raksi and Jaand

Traditional homemade alcoholic drinks like raksi (distilled liquor) and jaand (fermented rice beer) are regularly served all throughout Dashain feasts. These drinks are commonly fed on with meat dishes and fried snacks, adding to the celebratory mood.

These meals are a crucial part of Dashain celebrations, symbolizing abundance, sharing, and harmony. Meals are usually prepared with love and shared with an extended circle of relatives, developing an surroundings of joyful celebration and togetherness.

Conclusion:

Dashain Festival in Nepal- 2024 will be a vibrant celebration of culture, family, and tradition. Marking the victory of good over evil, this festival unites communities in joyful rituals and festive gatherings across the country.