Nepal observes a variety of public holidays throughout the year, reflecting its rich cultural and religious diversity. The major public holidays are:
New Year's Day (Bikram Sambat New Year)
Date: April 13 or 14
Description: Marks the start of the Nepali New Year according to the Bikram Sambat calendar.
Maha Shivaratri
Date: February or March (varies each year)
Description: A Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated with fasting and night-long vigils.
Holi
Date: March (varies each year)
Description: The festival of colors, celebrating the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil.
Buddha Jayanti
Date: April or May (varies each year)
Description: Celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha.
Indra Jatra
Date: August or September (varies each year)
Description: A traditional festival in Kathmandu honoring the god Indra and marking the end of the monsoon season.
Dashain (Vijaya Dashami)
Date: September or October (varies each year)
Description: The biggest Hindu festival in Nepal, celebrating the victory of good over evil. It lasts for 15 days.
Tihar (Deepawali)
Date: October or November (varies each year)
Description: The Hindu festival of lights, celebrated over five days with the worship of different animals and deities.
Christmas
Date: December 25
Description: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, observed by the Christian community in Nepal.
Eid al-Fitr
Date: Date varies based on the Islamic lunar calendar
Description: Marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
Eid al-Adha
Date: Date varies based on the Islamic lunar calendar
Description: Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, it commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
Nepali Congress Day
Date: December 7
Description: Marks the establishment of the Nepali Congress party.
Dates for some holidays vary each year based on lunar calendars or other traditional systems. It's always a good idea to check the specific dates for each year to stay informed.