Dashain: The Biggest Festival of Nepal

Introduction to the Dashain Festival

Dashain, also called “Vijaya Dashami,” is one of the biggest and happiest festivals in Nepal. It is a time when families come together, celebrate their culture, and honor Goddess Durga. The festival is full of fun, rituals, decorations, and family reunions that make it very special in Nepalese tradition.

Dashain is mostly celebrated by Hindus and lasts for 15 days. It usually happens in September or October. In 2025, Dashain starts on September 22 (Ghatasthapana) and ends on October 6 (Kojagrat Purnima). The main day for Tika is October 2. During this festival, families pray to Goddess Durga, enjoy big celebrations, and show pride in Nepalese culture.

This festival is celebrated not only in Nepal but also by Nepalese people in places like Sikkim, Darjeeling, Bhutan, and Myanmar. It is a time for family gatherings, receiving blessings, and celebrating traditions that bring everyone together.

Dashain begins with a ritual called “Ghatasthapana.” On this day, people plant barley seeds called Jamara, which grow into yellow grass. This symbolizes growth, blessings, and prosperity. Jamara is used later during the Tika ceremony, where it represents the blessings of Goddess Durga for health and success.

Other important days include Phulpati (7th day), Maha Ashtami (8th day), and Bijaya Dashami (10th day). On Bijaya Dashami, families put Tika (a red mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermillion) and Jamara on each other and receive blessings from their elders. This is also a time for kite flying, playing swings, and enjoying delicious food.

Mythological Significance of Dashain

Dashain’s rich mythological roots are tied to the triumph of good over evil:

Victory of Goddess Durga

The main story of Dashain is about Goddess Durga defeating the demon Mahishasura. He was an evil buffalo demon who caused trouble on earth and in the heavens. After nine days of fighting, Durga finally defeated him on the tenth day. This victory is celebrated as Vijaya Dashami.

Connection to the Ramayana

Another story connects Dashain to Lord Rama, who prayed to Goddess Durga for strength before defeating the demon king Ravana on Vijaya Dashami.

These stories emphasize the values of courage, perseverance, and divine intervention, with the first nine days of Dashain dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, representing feminine divinity, strength, and protection.

Historical and Cultural Background

Agrarian Origins of Dashain

Dashain began as an agrarian festival, marking the end of the rainy season and the time for harvesting crops. For farming communities, this was an opportunity to give thanks for a good harvest and pray for future prosperity. The festival also symbolized a time to rest and celebrate after the hard work of the farming season. Families came together to honor the land and enjoy the fruits of their labor, making Dashain an occasion of unity and gratitude.

Dashain During Monarchical Times

In history, kings and rulers also celebrated Dashain as a way to showcase their power and devotion to Goddess Durga. They performed grand rituals, often involving elaborate ceremonies and offerings, to seek the goddess’s blessings for their kingdoms. These rituals symbolized strength, protection, and the divine authority of the monarchy. Feudal lords would distribute gifts and blessings to their subjects, promoting peace and harmony in their domains. This gesture reinforced their leadership and strengthened community ties.

Role of the Nepalese Royal Family

The Nepalese royal family, in particular, carried out significant traditions during Dashain, including animal sacrifices at temples and receiving Tika and Jamara as blessings. These acts not only continued royal customs but also demonstrated their connection to the people and their cultural heritage. Dashain, therefore, served as a bridge between rulers and their subjects, fostering unity and loyalty.

Cultural Significance of Dashain

Dashain is much more than a religious observance; it is a celebration of Nepalese identity, unity, and heritage.

Family Reunions

Dashain provides an opportunity for relatives to come together, exchange blessings, and strengthen family bonds. Families often travel long distances to reunite, sharing meals, laughter, and stories from the past year. 

For instance, grandparents eagerly await their children and grandchildren, preparing traditional foods and organizing the Tika ceremony, which becomes a cherished moment of connection and gratitude. It is a time for joy, laughter, and shared memories. No matter where people are, they often return home to be with their families during Dashain.

Feasting and Festivities

Food is a big part of Dashain. Traditional dishes like Sel Roti, mutton curries, and rice pudding are enjoyed. People also fly kites, play card games, and swing on bamboo swings (ping), adding to the fun atmosphere.

Preservation of Traditions

Through Dashain, important traditions and values are passed down from one generation to the next. This helps keep Nepalese culture alive and strong.

How Dashain is Celebrated in Nepal

Celebrations in Homes

Homes are cleaned, decorated, and prepared for the grand festivities. Families set up a sacred space for worship, plant Jamara, and offer daily prayers to Goddess Durga. The exchange of blessings during Tika ceremonies and feasting together strengthens familial bonds.

Temple Worship

Devotees visit temples dedicated to Goddess Durga, especially during Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami. Elaborate rituals, offerings, and animal sacrifices are performed to honor the goddess and seek her protection and blessings.

Community Gatherings

Dashain fosters a strong sense of community. People participate in local fairs, cultural programs, and public processions like the Fulpati parade. These gatherings bring neighbors and communities together in celebration.

Feasting and Special Foods

Dashain is synonymous with feasting. Families prepare special dishes like Sel Roti, mutton curries, goat liver (Bhutan), and rice pudding. Meals are shared with relatives, neighbors, and friends, symbolizing togetherness and abundance.

Tika Ceremony in Dashain

The Tika ceremony is the most anticipated and heartwarming part of Dashain. On Vijaya Dashami, the 10th day of the festival, family members gather to receive Tika and Jamara from their elders. The Tika is a red mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermillion, symbolizing prosperity, protection, and blessings. Elders place Tika on the foreheads of younger family members and offer Jamara, the sacred yellow grass planted on Ghatasthapana, as a sign of good fortune.

During this ceremony, elders also give “Dakshina” (monetary gifts) along with their blessings for health, success, and happiness. The act of receiving Tika strengthens familial bonds and reinforces the cultural tradition of respecting elders. It is common for families to travel long distances to reunite during this time, making the Tika ceremony a cherished moment of togetherness and gratitude.

Kite Flying

Kite flying is a popular activity during Dashain, symbolizing freedom and joy. Skies are filled with colorful kites, making it a delightful sight and a cherished tradition among children and adults alike.

Playing on Swings (Ping)

Traditional bamboo swings are set up in villages and cities alike. These swings, often referred to as “ping,” symbolize joy, freedom, and a connection to Nepalese heritage. Playing on these swings is considered an essential part of Dashain, believed to not only bring communities together but also to honor the agrarian roots of the festival by celebrating harmony with nature. For many, these swings are a nostalgic reminder of childhood and the festival’s enduring traditions.

Timeline of the Festival (The 15 Days of Dashain)

Dashain is the 15-day national festival starting from:

Day 1: Ghatasthapana

The festival begins with the sowing of Jamara (barley seeds) and the establishment of a Kalash (sacred pot) filled with holy water. This ritual invokes Goddess Durga and marks the beginning of the festival. The sacred Kalash is placed in a prayer room, and rituals are performed daily to ensure its sanctity.

Day 7: Fulpati

On this day, sacred flowers, plants, and other offerings are brought to households and temples, symbolizing prosperity, peace, and strength. Processions carrying Fulpati are often a highlight in towns and villages.

One of the most significant processions takes place at Hanuman Dhoka in Kathmandu, the ancient royal palace. Here, Fulpati is carried in a grand ceremony accompanied by traditional music, military parades, and religious rituals. This event highlights the cultural and historical importance of Dashain, drawing large crowds to witness and participate in the festivities.

Day 8: Maha Ashtami

This is one of the most important days, marked by the worship of Goddess Durga. Animal sacrifices are traditionally performed to honor the goddess and seek her blessings for protection and prosperity. Families gather to offer prayers and partake in feasts.

Day 9: Maha Navami

On this day, people worship tools, machinery, and vehicles, seeking the goddess’s blessings for safety and productivity in their daily lives. In many places, vehicles are decorated and rituals are performed to ensure their continued functionality and safety.

Day 10: Vijaya Dashami

This is the main day of Dashain when family members receive Tika (a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermillion) and Jamara from elders. This act is accompanied by blessings for health, wealth, and happiness, making it a heartwarming tradition of familial bonding. Families often travel long distances to reunite for this special occasion.

Day 15: Kojagrat Purnima

The festival concludes with prayers to Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth. Families gather to celebrate with feasts, lights, and community activities, ensuring the festival ends on a joyful note. Kojagrat Purnima is also associated with staying awake all night to welcome prosperity into the home.

When is Dashain in 2025? Exact Date and Time

Tika Sahit (Auspicious Time for Dashain Tika in 2025)

Following the timeline, the Tika Sahit for Vijaya Dashami in 2024 is between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM. In 2025, it falls between 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM. These auspicious times are determined by astrologers and hold great significance for receiving Tika and Jamara during the festival.

Rituals Performed on Different Days of the Dashain Festival

Each day of Dashain carries unique rituals and traditions, making the festival deeply meaningful:

• Ghatasthapana: This marks the beginning of Dashain, where families establish a Kalash and plant Jamara. The Kalash is worshipped daily with mantras and offerings.
• Durga Puja (Day 2 to Day 6): These days involve daily prayers and offerings to Goddess Durga, symbolizing her different forms. Families often visit temples to seek blessings.
• Fulpati (Day 7): On this day, a sacred procession takes place, especially in Kathmandu, where Fulpati is carried to the royal palace. Homes are decorated with flowers and sacred plants.
• Maha Ashtami (Day 8): The most intense prayers and rituals take place, including animal sacrifices in honor of Durga. Families offer special dishes and conduct traditional feasts.
• Maha Navami (Day 9): Machinery and tools are worshipped, signifying Durga’s protection over one’s livelihood. Sacrifices are also made to ensure safety and prosperity.
• Vijaya Dashami (Day 10): The highlight of Dashain, where Tika and Jamara rituals take place. Elders give blessings to younger family members, accompanied by Dakshina (monetary gifts).
• Kojagrat Purnima (Day 15): The final day focuses on worshipping Goddess Laxmi. Homes are lit with lamps and candles to invite wealth and prosperity.

These rituals not only honor the deities but also bring families and communities together in celebration and spiritual harmony.

Dashain and Nepalese Society

Dashain is an auspicious festival of conquering good over evil. Basically, people have this belief that wearing new clothes means leaving behind all the negative energy, starting fresh with good vibes, and embracing good fortune. Additionally, homes are thoroughly cleaned and decorated, signifying the cleansing of past misfortunes and welcoming prosperity. Families also prepare special offerings and organize rituals that symbolize renewal and gratitude, making Dashain a celebration of both spiritual and material rejuvenation.

This is why Nepalese people do shopping, businesses, and markets thrive during Dashain. People purchase gifts, new clothes, gifts, and offerings. 

This festival is very enjoyable for an extended family. This is why Dashain is the festival of gatherings and blessings. 

No matter in which part of the country Nepalese people are studying or working or settled, they return to their home just for the blessings from elders. This is the main beauty of Dashain. 

Such prospects strengthen the bond, maintaining the connection to their roots and traditions extending to the Nepalese diaspora worldwide.

Dashain in Modern Times

Dashain has adapted to modern times while retaining its traditional essence:

• Animal Sacrifice Alternatives: Growing awareness of animal rights has led some families to adopt symbolic rituals instead of animal sacrifices.
• Technological Influence: Virtual celebrations, online blessings, and digital Dakshina have become popular, especially post-pandemic.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: Efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainable celebrations are gaining momentum.

Trekking During Dashain

Dashain is not only a time for family gatherings but also a great season for trekking in Nepal. The festival falls during autumn, one of the best times for trekking due to clear skies and pleasant weather. Many people take advantage of the holiday season to explore Nepal’s beautiful landscapes, combining cultural festivities with adventure.

Popular Trekking Routes During Dashain

Popular trekking destinations during Dashain include the Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Valley, Everest Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit, and the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. These trails offer breathtaking views of towering peaks, lush valleys, and picturesque villages, making them suitable for trekkers of all experience levels. The Annapurna Circuit, for example, provides a mix of dramatic scenery and cultural interaction, while the Langtang Valley Trek is known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

The Everest Base Camp trek remains a top choice for adventure enthusiasts, offering a close-up view of Mount Everest and an opportunity to explore Sherpa culture. Meanwhile, the Manaslu Circuit is ideal for those seeking a more remote and peaceful experience, away from crowded paths. For beginners or those with limited time, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is perfect, offering spectacular sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Villages along the trekking routes are often decorated for Dashain, giving travelers a chance to experience the festival in rural areas. Trekking during Dashain also brings a unique charm, as locals along the trails celebrate the festival by offering Tika and Jamara to visitors. This cultural interaction creates a memorable experience for trekkers, blending the spirit of adventure with Nepalese hospitality.

Popular Destinations to Visit During Dashain

While many people spend Dashain with their families, others take the opportunity to travel and explore Nepal. Popular destinations to visit during the festival include:

• Pokhara: Known for its stunning lakes and mountain views, Pokhara is a favorite destination for families and tourists during Dashain. The city offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with activities like boating, paragliding, and hiking.
• Chitwan National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for those who want to experience wildlife and nature. Visitors can enjoy jungle safaris, bird watching, and canoe rides.
• Lumbini: As the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is a peaceful and spiritual destination to visit during Dashain. The serene monasteries and historic sites make it an ideal getaway.
• Kathmandu Valley: The capital city, Kathmandu and surrounding areas are rich in cultural heritage, with temples, palaces, and festivals in full swing during Dashain. Key spots include Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Traveling during Dashain offers a chance to see Nepal’s diverse beauty while also experiencing the joy and excitement of the festival. Whether trekking in the mountains or exploring historic sites, Dashain adds a festive touch to every journey.

Conclusion: Dashain Festival in Nepal

Dashain is celebrated connecting happiness in every corner of Nepal. This festival reflects the core values of the Nepalese culture and community spirit. 

Wearing new clothes, feeding the family, playing cards, flying kites, flying kites and mainly putting Tika and Jamara from the elders promotes the culture and traditions.

This tradition is passed on by ancestors and hope there is cultural continuity for future generations because there is no other festival like Dashain that brings harmony, peace, and joy among families.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) About Dashain Festival in Nepal