Kathmandu Valley, the cultural heart of Nepal, comes alive during the months of August and September with a vibrant series of traditional festivals. These celebrations showcase the rich tapestry of Newari culture, Hindu devotion, and centuries-old customs that define the valley’s identity. If you happen to visit Kathmandu during this time, you’re in for a spectacular immersion into colorful rituals, lively processions, spiritual observances, and communal joy.
In this blog, we explore six prominent festivals celebrated in Kathmandu Valley during August and September: Gai Jatra, Krishna Jayanti, Gokarna Aunsi, Tij Brata, Ganesh Chaturthi, and the combined Indra and Kumari Jatra. We’ll delve into their origins, significance, rituals, and what makes each unique.
1. Gai Jatra - The Festival of Cows and Remembrance
Gai Jatra, also known as the “Festival of Cows,” is one of the most poignant yet vibrant festivals of the Kathmandu Valley. It is celebrated to honor deceased family members and help their souls find peace.
Families who lost loved ones during the past year participate in colorful processions where children dress as cows (or ride decorated cows) symbolizing the belief that cows help guide the departed souls to the afterlife. Streets fill with music, dance, and satirical performances that provide relief from grief through humor.
Key Highlights:
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Processions featuring children dressed as cows or accompanied by cows
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Satirical street plays and dances poking fun at social and political issues
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Community gatherings and offerings at temples
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Celebration of life, remembrance, and social satire intertwined
When: Bhadra Krishna Paksha Ashtami (August-September, based on lunar calendar)
Where: Kathmandu Valley, especially in cities like Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur
2. Krishna Jayanti - Celebrating the Birth of Lord Krishna
Krishna Jayanti, also called Janmashtami, commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, one of Hinduism’s most beloved deities. Devotees observe fasting, sing devotional songs, and reenact episodes from Krishna’s childhood.
Temples dedicated to Krishna, especially in the Kathmandu Valley, hold special pujas and midnight vigils marking the precise time of Krishna’s birth. The festival is filled with spiritual fervor, music, and traditional dances.
Key Highlights:
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Fasting and night-long vigils in Krishna temples
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Singing bhajans (devotional songs) and reciting Krishna’s stories
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Reenactments of Krishna’s playful childhood exploits
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Decorating homes and temples with flowers and lights
When: Bhadra Krishna Paksha Ashtami (August-September, lunar calendar)
Where: Prominently celebrated at Krishna temples in Kathmandu, Patan, and surrounding areas
3. Gokarna Aunsi - Father’s Day of Nepal
Gokarna Aunsi, also known as "Kukur Tihar" or Nepali Father's Day, is dedicated to honoring fathers and deceased paternal ancestors. The festival’s name comes from the Gokarna Mahadev Temple, where many devotees visit to offer prayers.
Children pay respect to their fathers by giving tika (a red mark on the forehead) and gifts, while families remember deceased fathers with offerings and rituals to ensure their peace in the afterlife.
Key Highlights:
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Worship of Lord Shiva at Gokarna Mahadev Temple
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Tika ceremony where children honor their fathers
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Offering of food and rituals for deceased paternal ancestors
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Family gatherings reinforcing filial bonds
When: Bhadra Krishna Paksha Amavasya (August-September, lunar calendar)
Where: Gokarna Mahadev Temple and throughout Kathmandu Valley
4. Tij Brata - The Festival of Women’s Fasting and Devotion
Tij is a major festival celebrated by Hindu women in Nepal, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley. It is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and commemorates her union with Lord Shiva.
Women observe strict fasting, dress in red sarees, and gather to sing traditional songs and perform dances. The festival celebrates marital bliss, the strength of womanhood, and wishes for good health and long life for husbands.
Key Highlights:
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Fasting by married and unmarried women
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Wearing red clothes and traditional jewelry
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Singing folk songs and performing dances in groups
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Worship of Goddess Parvati and Shiva
When: Bhadra Shukla Paksha Tritiya (August-September, lunar calendar)
Where: Widely celebrated in Kathmandu Valley and other parts of Nepal
5. Ganesh Chaturthi - Honoring the Elephant-Headed God
Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed deity who is the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and beginnings.
In Kathmandu Valley, elaborate Ganesh idols are installed in homes and temples, and devotees offer prayers, sweets, and flowers. Public celebrations include processions and cultural programs, showcasing devotion and community spirit.
Key Highlights:
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Installation and worship of Ganesh idols
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Offering of modak (sweet dumplings) and other delicacies
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Public processions and cultural performances
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Prayers for wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings
When: Bhadra Shukla Paksha Chaturthi (August-September, lunar calendar)
Where: Across Kathmandu Valley and Nepal
6. Indra Jatra and Kumari Jatra - The Festival of the Living Goddess and Lord of Rain
Indra Jatra is one of the most famous festivals in Kathmandu, dedicated to Lord Indra, the god of rain and king of heaven. It also celebrates the Kumari, the living goddess believed to embody divine feminine energy.
The festival features vibrant chariot processions of the Kumari and other deities, masked dances (Lakhey dance), and traditional music. It is a grand spectacle of faith, culture, and community bonding.
Key Highlights:
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Chariot procession of the Kumari and other deities through Kathmandu streets
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Lakhey masked dances and traditional performances
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Prayers to Lord Indra for timely rains and good harvests
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Community feasts and social celebrations
When: Bhadra Krishna Paksha Astami to Dashami (August-September)
Where: Kathmandu Durbar Square and surrounding areas
Conclusion: Experience Kathmandu’s Living Culture Through Its Festivals
August and September are vibrant months in Kathmandu Valley, brimming with festivals that reveal the valley’s rich cultural and religious heritage. From the solemn yet lively Gai Jatra to the colorful and joyous Indra and Kumari Jatra, each festival offers a unique glimpse into Nepali traditions.
For travelers and cultural explorers, witnessing these festivals is an unparalleled way to connect with the spirit of Nepal. If you want to explore these celebrations with expert guidance and immersive experiences, consider reaching out to Best Heritage Tour.
Contact Best Heritage Tour:
Visit: www.bestheritagetour.com
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Celebrate the spirit of Nepal’s festivals and make your journey truly unforgettable!
Author: Best Heraitage Tour
Date: 5th August, 2025
