The Dashain Festival of Nepal is the country’s biggest annual festival for many Nepali families, bringing together religious worship, family gatherings, blessings, food and travel. The festival is linked with Goddess Durga and the victory of good over evil, while the tenth day, Vijaya Dashami, is known for receiving Tika and Jamara from elders.

To visitors, Dashain is the opportunity to experience the other side of Nepal. The cities grow quieter when people head back to their hometowns, families spend more time together, and many of the traditional customs are added to everyday life.

Quick Facts About the Dashain Festival of Nepal

Fact	Details
Festival name	Dashain
Also known as	Bada Dashain, Vijaya Dashami
Main religious figure	Goddess Durga
Festival length	15 days
First day	Ghatasthapana
Main Tika day	Vijaya Dashami
Main symbols	Tika, Jamara and blessings
2026 starting date	October 11, 2026
2026 Vijaya Dashami	October 21, 2026
2026 Tika auspicious time	10:26 AM on October 21
Closing day	Kojagrat Purnima, October 25, 2026
Main activities	Worship, family visits, Tika, feasts, new clothes, kites and swings

What Is the Dashain Festival of Nepal?

Dashain festival of Nepal is the most important festival in Nepal, observed for 15 days with the aim of worshiping, giving blessings to relatives and celebrating the triumph of good over evil. The primary deity of the festival is Goddess Durga and the event is celebrated with prayers and offerings, as well as visiting elders.

Dashain is more than just a temple festival. A significant amount of its meaning is to be found in the interior of people’s houses. Families clean the house, make new clothes, visit relatives, prepare special meals, and gather.

The most well known tradition is on Vijaya Dashami. Elders are visited by younger members of the family, who are given blessings and Dakshina. This makes the religious festival the occasion of a family gathering, and reunites family members who might be residing in different parts of Nepal or abroad.

Although largely a Hindu festival, and though they celebrate it in very different ways, Dashain is primarily known for these Hindu practices. Newar people also have the similar festival in the Kathmandu Valley called Mohani that involves its unique rituals, family feasts and worship of local deities.

Why Is Dashain Celebrated in Nepal?

Dashain is also observed to honor Goddess Durga and the triumph of good over evil and is also a significant period of time for family get-togethers, blessings, feasting and worship. Nepal Tourism Board says that Dashain is a harvest festival and one of the greatest Hindu festivals.

The story of Goddess Durga

The Dashain story is full of several central narratives, one of which concerns the battle between Goddess Durga and Mahishasura, who had become a threat to the gods and the people. Durga is symbolized as divine strength and protection, and her victory signifies victory of good over evil.

In addition to its religious significance, this story also seeks to attach hopes of health, peace, prosperity and a better year ahead to Dashain for families.

Dashain as a family festival

Family reunion is one of the most important parts of Dashain in Nepal. Individuals who are working or studying outside their place of origin tend to plan for their return. Some come back to Nepal from abroad, others travel to villages and smaller towns from Kathmandu.

For many households, the important part is not a large public event. It is sitting together, eating a family meal, receiving blessings from elders and spending time with relatives.

Dashain and the harvest season

Agricultural cycle is also long to Dashain. The festival is usually held in the fall, following significant agricultural activities in numerous regions of Nepal.

It is one of the reasons why Dashain is always considered as a season when a family can rejoice in plenty, create wholesome and tasty foods and savor a few days of relaxation.

When Is Dashain Celebrated in Nepal?

The festival is celebrated in September/October, the exact dates vary from year to year, as it follows the Nepali lunar calendar. The Dashain festival of 2026 will start from October 11 with Ghatasthapana and will culminate October 21 with the main Tika day.

Dashain 2026 dates

The main 2026 dates are:

Dashain event	Date in 2026	Main meaning
Ghatasthapana	October 11	Beginning of Dashain and planting of Jamara
Phulpati	October 17	Major seventh-day ceremony
Maha Ashtami	October 18	Major day of Durga worship
Maha Navami	October 20	Ninth-day worship and ceremonies
Vijaya Dashami	October 21	Tika, Jamara, blessings and family visits
Kojagrat Purnima	October 25	Full moon and closing of the festival period

Dashain Ghatasthapana time and Tika time in 2026

Ghatasthapana Time

In 2026, the auspicious time for Ghatasthapana, when families plant the seeds that will grow into Jamara, is 11:47 AM on October 11, 2026. This falls on Ashwin 25, 2083 B.S.

Tika Time

The auspicious time for receiving Dashain Tika in 2026 is 10:26 AM on October 21. The committee has stated that people may receive Tika throughout Vijaya Dashami, although the stated auspicious time is 10:26 AM. Those receiving the Tika at the official auspicious time are advised to face west.

The 15 Days of Dashain Explained

Dashain lasts for 15 days, beginning with Ghatasthapana and ending with Kojagrat Purnima. Each part of the festival has its own customs, although the exact practices can differ from one family and community to another.

Day 1: Ghatasthapana

Ghatasthapana marks the beginning of Dashain and is the day when many families begin preparing Jamara and establish the sacred Kalash for worship.

The word Ghatasthapana refers to the establishment of the sacred vessel, known as a Kalash. Families prepare a clean and protected place for the ritual and sow seeds, especially barley, which later grow into Jamara.

The Jamara is kept away from direct sunlight in many households so that the shoots grow yellow or pale rather than green. Family members water and worship the seeds during the following days.

For many families, Ghatasthapana is a quiet beginning to Dashain. The large family gatherings come later, but the religious part of the festival has already started.

In 2026, Ghatasthapana falls on October 11. The Nepal Panchanga Nirnayak Development Committee has set 11:47 AM as the auspicious time for Ghatasthapana this year.

Days 2 to 6: Worship and Preparation

The days between Ghatasthapana and Phulpati are marked by continued worship, preparation and anticipation of the major Dashain days.

Families continue caring for Jamara and performing their household prayers. People may also visit temples dedicated to Durga and other forms of Shakti.

Outside the home, markets become busier as people purchase clothes, food and gifts. Families also begin their journeys back to their hometowns.

These days show an important part of Dashain that is easy to miss in a short festival guide: the festival does not suddenly begin on Tika day. The religious and family preparations develop over several days.

Day 7: Phulpati

Phulpati falls on the seventh day of Dashain and marks one of the major ceremonies before Tika.

The word Phulpati refers to an important collection of sacred plants and flowers that are traditionally brought for worship. In Kathmandu, the arrival of Phulpati has a long association with the former royal palace and the ceremonial traditions of Hanuman Dhoka.

In 2026, Phulpati falls on October 17. The Nepal Panchanga Nirnayak Development Committee has also published the year’s auspicious time for related ceremonies.

For visitors in Kathmandu, Phulpati can be one of the more interesting points in the festival calendar because it connects household worship with public ceremonies and historic traditions.

Day 8: Maha Ashtami

Maha Ashtami is one of the major worship days of Dashain and is closely associated with Goddess Durga and Shakti.

Families who follow the tradition may perform special puja and make offerings to the goddess. Temples dedicated to Durga and other forms of Shakti receive many devotees during this period.

In 2026, Maha Ashtami falls on October 18. Kalaratri is also observed during this part of the festival.

Customs vary between communities, so travelers should not assume that every temple or household follows the same practice.

Day 9: Maha Navami

Maha Navami is the ninth day of Dashain and is important for worship, household rituals and ceremonies connected with tools, vehicles and work.

In the Kathmandu Valley, some communities perform special worship of machines, tools and vehicles because these objects are connected with people’s daily work and livelihood.

Taleju temples also have a special place during this period. Nepal Tourism Board notes that the Taleju Temple, normally closed to the public, is opened during the ninth day in Kathmandu’s Dashain observances.

Some Dashain traditions also include animal sacrifice. These practices are religious customs followed by some communities, not a requirement for every Nepali family. Visitors should treat such rituals with respect and avoid assuming that the same practice occurs everywhere.

In 2026, Maha Navami falls on October 20.

Day 10: Vijaya Dashami

Vijaya Dashami is the main family day of Dashain and the day most people associate with Tika and Jamara.

Younger family members visit elders to receive Tika, Jamara and blessings. Elders may also give Dakshina or gifts.

A traditional Tika mixture often contains red vermilion along with yogurt and rice. Jamara, made from the shoots grown since Ghatasthapana, is placed with the Tika.

The day often involves several family visits. A person may receive Tika from parents in the morning, then visit grandparents, uncles, aunts and other senior relatives.

For families spread across different cities, Dashain Tika can become a full day of travel.

In 2026, Vijaya Dashami falls on October 21, and the official auspicious Tika time is 10:26 AM.

Days 11 to 14: Continuing Tika Visits

Dashain does not finish when Vijaya Dashami ends.

Tika visits can continue during the following days as people visit more relatives and receive blessings from older family members.

For large families, it may not be possible to visit everyone on the main Tika day. The days that follow give families more time to meet.

This extended period also explains why Dashain has such a large effect on travel inside Nepal. People may remain away from work and school while visiting family.

Day 15: Kojagrat Purnima

Kojagrat Purnima is the full moon day that closes the 15-day Dashain period.

The name refers to being awake during the night, and the day has its own religious meaning and customs.

By this stage, the main family Tika period has ended, but the festival season is drawing to a close.

In 2026, Kojagrat Purnima falls on October 25.

What Do Tika and Jamara Mean During Dashain?

Tika is a blessing that comes from elders and Jamara is a sacred shoot that is cultivated with seeds that are sown on the day of Ghatasthapana. In all, the two Tika and Jamara are significant symbols of Vijaya Dashami. In Tika, elders put a paste of rice, yogurt and vermilion on the forehead and bless for health, happiness, long life, and success.

Jamara is typically grown from barley and other grains, and is placed with Tika during the festival. Sometimes, after Tika, people also receive Dakshina (typically a monetary gift from elders). The giving is more important than the quantity, and the family relationship is the issue behind it.

Dashain Food in Nepal

Dashain food is closely connected with family gatherings and celebration. Families often prepare special meals when relatives return home, with dishes varying by family and community. People eat together, share food with guests and spend more time with their loved ones during the festival.

Mutton, chicken, sel roti, achar, rice, dal and various sweets are common Dashain delicacies. There are also many families that cook their own local cuisine and offer it to the visiting family members. Food plays an essential role in Dashain as it unites people and enhances the fun of family reuniting.

Main Dashain Traditions in Nepal

Dashain is not only about religious rituals. Family visits, Tika, Jamara, new clothes, special food, travel, kite flying and traditional swings are also a big part of the festival. These customs make Dashain a special time for families to meet, eat together and receive blessings from elders.

Receiving Tika and Jamara

One of the most vital Dashain tradition in Nepal is to get Tika and Jamara. On Vijaya Dashami, the younger members of the family visit their elders (parents, grandparents, etc.) and get Tika and Jamara from them, and also get blessings from them. The Tika is generally worn on the forehead and the Jamara is worn with it. During this festival, the younger generation is joined by the older generation.

Giving Blessings

The blessing of the elders is an integral part of Dashain. Parents, grandparents and senior family members place blessings on younger family members when they put Tika and Jamara on them. They can pray for health, longevity, happiness, peace and success. This is one of the most significant events of Dashain for many families.

Giving Dakshina

After giving Tika, the older family members give Dakshina which is money or a small gift to the younger family members. During Dashain time, children are excited for Dakshina and adults can receive it from elder relatives also. It’s not about the quantity. The essence of Dakshina is in the act of giving, and it is a tradition of Dashain.

Wearing New Clothes

Another common Dashain tradition in Nepal is to wear new clothes. Many parents purchase new clothing for their children and adults can make new wardrobe choices for themselves as well. They are commonly worn by individuals when going to visit their relatives or receiving Tika. Children receive new clothes, which also brings excitement to the festival.

Visiting Relatives

One of the biggest time-consuming aspects of Dashain is visiting relatives. Visits made to parents/grandparents’ houses, and visits with family members who aren’t seen throughout the year. From Vijaya Dashami onwards there are a few houses where relatives can come to get Tika, exchange blessings, and meet each other.

Eating Together

The celebration of Dashain is a time when the family is united by food. Special meals are prepared at homes due to the presence of relatives and their stay for several days. Families gather around, eat traditional foods and have lengthy discussions. The food can vary from family to family or area to area but it is certainly a key part of the celebration and it is important to eat together.

Flying Kites

During the time of Dashain, people like to fly kite which is a common practice among young and children. Usually the weather is favorable for kite flying as the skies are clear during autumn. Friends and family fly kites together on rooftops, open spaces and on fields. It adds a fun and relaxed side to the festival.

Playing on Traditional Swings

Many places in Nepal it is customary to construct traditional swings made of bamboo called “ping” during Dashain. Children and adults come together around them and celebrate the festival with their friends, neighbors, and family. These swings can be a popular meeting place in the villages and smaller towns during the Dashain holidays.

Phulpati Celebrations in Dashain

Phulpati is one of the most significant days of Dashain, which is celebrated during the seventh day of the celebration. It’s an important part of the Dashain festival. A traditional Phulpati ceremony takes place at Hanuman Dhoka in Kathmandu, during which a formal procession is made to bring the Phulpati and offer it as a part of the traditional Dashain ceremony.

Phulpati is made up of different sacred plants, flowers and leaves that are carried into homes as part of the festival. Families decorate their houses and create a space for Dashain ceremony. It is also a day that brings people together; families get ready for the main Tika celebration.

Temples and Religious Sites

During Dashain, many people visit temples and religious sites, pray, worship Goddess Durga and other gods and observe special rituals. People can find quite a few places of interest in Kathmandu Valley which get more lively during the festival.

Taleju Temple, Kathmandu

Taleju Temple is one of the religious places related with Dashain in Kathmandu. The temple is related to Goddess Taleju, the family deity of Malla kings. The temple is opened to the public on special occasions during Dashain.

Bangalamukhi Temple

Patan Bangalamukhi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bangalamukhi, one of the forms of Goddess. During Dashain, many devotees visit the temple to pray and get blessings for their families.

Maitidevi

Maitidevi Temple is another religious shrine in Kathmandu. The environment around the temple becomes active during the period of Dashain and people come in and worship the Goddess, offering prayers. The decorations and lights around Maitidevi also enhance the festive atmosphere.

Dakshinkali Temple

The Goddess temple of Dakshinkali is one of the most popular Goddess temples in Nepal situated south of Kathmandu. Devotees visit many times during Dashain, particularly on special days like Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami, to pray and participate in religious activities.

Other Shakti Peethas

In Kathmandu Valley, there are several Shakti sites that are visited during Dashain. There are a number of well-known sites in which devotees pay their vows to various forms of the Goddess, such as Bhadrakali, Shobha Bhagawati, Naradevi, Raktakali and Guhyeshwari.

Trekking in Nepal During Dashain

Another reason is that Dashain is also the best time for trekking in Nepal as it comes in the autumn trekking season, when most of the mountain areas would have clear skies and great mountain views. Not all trekking regions were affected by the major floods in 2026, instead they mainly impacted the Rasuwa and Trishuli corridors. It was reported that Everest Base Camp and a few Annapurna routes remained unaffected from the flood in August while Langtang, Gosaikunda and other nearby routes suffered severe access issues.

Trekking Routes Not Affected by the Recent Floods

• Everest Base Camp Trek is among the popular treks for Dashain. The Everest region is quite far from the flood hit area of Rasuwa and Trishuli corridor and the latest news indicated that the trail and Lukla access are in normal condition.
• Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal and Ghorepani Poon Hill were not directly affected by the August flood. However, road and weather conditions can change during the autumn season, so the latest access information should be checked before departure.
• The Manaslu Circuit Trek did not experience the same flood in the month of August in Rasuwa, but later on it changed its status following another flood near Namrung in September. Due to the changes in the season of 2026, it is advised that the current conditions of the trail and bridge be confirmed prior to booking this route.
• Langtang and Gosaikunda never be seen as unaffected routes in Dashain 2026. The trails might still be there but the normal road route to Rasuwa and Syabrubesi was severely affected during the flood of August.
• Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek is another option for trekkers looking for a remote Himalayan experience during Dashain. The route lies in eastern Nepal, far from the Rasuwa and Trishuli areas affected by the recent floods. The trek passes through quiet mountain villages and offers views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. Due to its remote location, trekkers should still check the latest trail, road and weather conditions before starting the journey.

Is Dashain a Good Time to Visit Nepal?

While it can be a fantastic occasion for travellers who want to experience everyday Nepali culture, it also involves their careful planning due to the festival’s impact on the normal travel pattern.

Reasons to visit Nepal during Dashain

• Celebrate the largest of all the festivals in Nepal
• Experience traditional customs of Tika and Jamara
• Visit Temples during the festival time
• Take advantage of local holidays and seasonal foods
• Visit Kathmandu during a less busy time
• Combine cultural experiences with autumn travel

Final Thoughts on the Dashain Festival of Nepal

The Dashain festival of Nepal is truly a festival that understands nothing from the calendar but is deeply interwoven with the lives of the family and religion. The festival starts slowly with Ghatasthapana, builds up during the Phulpati days and the worship days and culminates in the most familiar Vijaya Dashami, where families come together for Tika and blessings.

For many Nepali families, the heart of Dashain is the journey home. Someone may travel for hours from Kathmandu to a village, return from another country or simply cross the city to sit with parents and grandparents. The distance traveled matters less than being together.

Dashain is a period for travelers to discover Nepal amidst Nepal’s family traditions besides the well-known mountains and heritage sites. If it is planned respectfully, a temple visit, the celebration of the festival, seasonal food, etc., and the slower rhythm of the Nepal life can be enjoyed during one of the most significant festivals of the country.

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