Nepal Autumn Trekking festivals bring together the breathtaking mountain views, pleasant weather and vibrant cultural celebration making the trekking experience even more special as travelers walk through the scenic trails.
This is when autumn occasions happen in Nepal. From September to November, one gets into the best trekking season. During this time, heaven seems clear, temperature becomes pleasant, and the mountains look more splendid. But one more unparalleled aspect of trekking during this season is that it allows visitors to witness the grandest festivals across Hindu and Buddhist denominations in Nepal. From loud celebrations in cities to secret rituals in monasteries in secluded locations, autumn festivals in Nepal leave no visitor indifferent.
For trekking enthusiasts, below are the major festivals that one may witness during an October trek in Nepal:
1. Dashain (September/October) – The Great Festival of Nepal
Dashain is celebrated for 15 long days it is the longest and most important festival in the country. It is celebrated by Nepali Hindus for their victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura, the demon, and thus represents a victory of good over evil. It is the time of visiting home villages, receiving blessings from elders, feasting, and flying kites.
Celebration:
Day 1: Ghatasthapana
Dashain begins with Ghatasthapana, the initiation of worshiping the goddess Durga. A Kalash, or sacred vessel, filled with holy water is put into a prayer room with barley seeds sown in sand for growing Jamara, or sacred barley grass. Devotees worship the Kalash daily, praying for prosperity and strength. It marks the beginning of the religious observances of Dashain.
Day 2-6: Rituals and Preparations
The house is cleaned, food prepared, and the purchase of fresh cloth covers done these days. They also visit the temples of Devi Durga to pay their homage. The happiness culminates on the eve of the festival when so many people, relatives and families wake, buy gifts, and decorate homes for Dashain. Daily prayers still continue, and the Jamara starts growing taller, signifying progress and renewal.
Day 7: Fulpati
On this day, holy flowers, leaves, and offerings are brought from the ancient town of Gorkha to Kathmandu in a huge procession. The royal family and government officials also attend the event. Family members also bring Fulpati to their houses and keep it in their prayer room. Excitement fills the air as the major events are approaching.
Day 8: Maha Ashtami
It is the day of the most intense worship for Goddess Durga: special prayers are offered, and animals’ heads are sacrificed to pursue the form of the deity as a ferocious goddess. Many families prepare meat feasts, thinking that eating meat during Dashain provides strength. It has a devout atmosphere because temples are crowded with worshippers.
Day 9: Maha Navami
Maha Navami is devoted to the veneration of Durga Bhawani, the aspect of the Goddess related to power. In addition, people worship their tools, weapons, and vehicles (Vishwakarma Puja) seeking blessings for safety and success. Military processions and official ceremonies are held in some places, reiterating the deep connection of Nepal with the goddess.
Day 10: Vijaya Dashami
Vijaya Dashami is the most important, significant, and happiest day in Dashain. It signifies the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. Elders are putting Jamara and Tika on the foreheads of junior family members. It is for prosperity, good health, and happiness. Families unite with each other, give gifts, and enjoy large feasts. The day is full of love, laughter, and culture.
Day 11-14: Tika and Family Gatherings
Tika and blessings in gatherings from one to another relative and then respected elder continue. It is also a happy time when distant relatives can come together to enjoy the meal. Social celebrations and singing festive music add the feeling of comfortable unity to this atmosphere.
Day 15: Kojagrat Purnima
Dashain ends with Kojagrat Purnima, which is the full moon night. Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, is worshipped. They stay up and do all-night vigils because they believe Laxmi grants her blessings to those who keep awake. Houses are gaily hung with lights and candles, inviting prosperity. This concludes the fair ending of Dashain, with many fond memories and blessings for the year.
2. Tihar (October/ November) The festival of Lights
Tihar also known as Deepawali is the second most important Hindu Festivalls which lasts for five days. It celebrates the bond between the humans and animals and honors Goddess Laxmi , the goddess of wealth. Homes and streets are decorated with oil lamps, candles and colorful rangoli patterns
How it is Celebrated:
1. Kag Tihar (Day of Crows)- To Honor the Messengers of Death
The feast begins with the worship of crows, for they are between alive mortals and the dead. The day starts early, with women laying offerings of food on rooftops and in open spaces to please crows and get their shrieks to wake off bad luck and misfortunes that would befall them.
2. Kukur Tihar (Day of Dogs)
On this day, dogs are worshipped for their loyalty, protection, and importance in Hindu mythology. Dogs are marked on the forehead with sacred red tika, garlanded with flowers, and given tasty treats. An extra caring circus serves stray dogs food and love on this special day. In Hindu belief, dogs are associated with Bhairab, a ferocious aspect of Lord Shiva, and some also consider them as the gatekeepers of heaven.”
3. Gai Tihar & Laxmi Puja (Day of Cows & Goddess Laxmi)
The third day is one of the significant days in Tihar. Worshipping cows in the morning signifies motherhood and symbolizes prosperity and abundance. They are decorated with garlands, given special food, and sometimes even paint their hoofs with natural dyes.
In the evening, cleaning houses and decorations welcome Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People light diyas, make rangoli at the entrance, and offer Laxmi Puja to receive her blessings. After the puja, they visit homes singing the Deusi-Bhailo, a cultural tradition in which groups of people go home, sing and dance, and receive the offered with joy. The night filled with singing, happiness, and brightened lights.
4. Govardhan Puja & Mha Puja (Day of Oxen and Self-Worship)
This day flourishes with celebration upon celebration. Farmers worship oxen who work through the year in the fields with flower garlands, tika, and food.
For the Newars, the day is celebrated as Mha Puja, which means worship of the self. People purify themselves and invoke blessings on their own bodies and souls, thereby appreciating their inner strength and self-worth.
5. Bhai Tika (Day of Brothers & Sisters)
Bhai Tika marks the last day of Tihar and is dedicated to the celebration of the everlasting bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters put a saptarangi tika on their brothers’ foreheads for an uninterrupted long life and prosperous future while giving sweets and gifts. In return, the brothers shower gifts on their sisters and vow to be their protector and guide. This day is the stony-paved strengthening relationship between siblings, and the whole of this process is one of the best in Nepali culture.
More than just a festival, Tihar is indeed a festival of thanksgiving, to be together, and joy. It symbolizes the relationship among men, animals, and gods, as well as illuminating Nepal with lights, music, and cheerfulness.
3. Chhath Puja (October/November) The Sun Worship Festivals
Chhath Puja is one of the most important and ancient Hindu celebrations, in which offerings are made to the Sun God (Surya) and his consort Usha (the goddess of dawn). The festival is mainly celebrated in the various states of India, such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand, and also in some parts of Nepal. The festival is celebrated in the months of October and November according to the lunar calendar and is observed for four days. It is known for its strict rituals and is one of the most significant festivals of the land.
Significance:
Chhath Puja is considered an offering to the Sun God, thanking him for sustaining life on earth and seeking his blessings for any well-being, prosperity, and longevity of family members. It is said that worship also brings health and happiness. The devotees strongly believe that by performing all the rituals properly, they are able to purify their minds and bodies.
Celebration:
Nahay Khay (Day 1):
The first day of the festival consists of ritual bathing in a river or pond. This bathing symbolizes cleansing of the devotee’s body and spirit. The devotee prepares some traditional offerings, which include rice, lentils, and vegetables. They partake of a simple meal and keep strict diet throughout the next few days.
Kharna (Day 2):
On this day, the devotees observe a fast throughout the day till the evening when it is broken after sunset. Breaking of the fast means preparation of a special sweet dish called “Kheer,” made from rice, milk, jaggery, and sugar. The Kheer is then offered to the Sun God and distributed among family and friends.
Sankalp and Evening Offerings (Day 3):
On the third day, the devotees fast without consuming any water. In the evening, they congregate on the riverbanks, ponds, or any nearby water bodies to offer their prayers to the setting Sun. The offering consists of fruits, sweets, and “Thekua” (a traditional sweet made of wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee), which they proffer to the Sun while standing in waist-deep water as a sense of gratitude and devotion.
Usha Arghya (Day 4):
On the last day of Chhath Puja, the devotees pray to the rising Sun, which is the main function, where the worshippers, especially women, stand in water and offer fruits and sweets. Arghya is offered to the Sun early at sunrise with the belief that Sun God will bless them with good health, prosperity, and removal of hurdles.
Other Traditions:
Puri and Chappal: The devotees also offer puris (deep-fried bread) and new clothes, preferably colored yellow or red, to symbolize purity.
Chhath Vrat: Women, especially the ones who observe Chhath Puja, take an irrevocable vow (Vrat). Fasting is an important facet of this festival; hence, in observation, its owe it to the women to stay fasting without food or water for 36 hours.
Community Gatherings: The whole community would gather together while groups sing devotional songs called “Chhath Geet” and pray together.Purely characterized by solemnity, purity, and devotion, Chhath Puja sees participants following strict codes of customs and rituals. It honors the Sun God and unites families and communities in celebration.
4.Indra Jatra (September )
Indra Jatra is one of the brightest events in the year-round festivals celebrated in Nepal, especially in Kathmandu, where it takes place usually in the month of September, indicating the end of the rainy season. It worships Indra, the king of the heavens and the god of rains, to bless and ensure the protection and well-being of the Kathmandu valley. He is most popularly remembered during this festival for the cultural and religious significance it holds for the people of Nepal, tying together different and interesting traditions with rituals and celebratory activities.
Importance:
The festival Indra Jatra is essentially a festival of thanksgiving and veneration towards Indra, who would shower rain and ensure agricultural prosperity in this region. Coupled with the harvest season, it is intended to give gratitude to deities for a fruitful year. As per Hindu mythology, Lord Indra came to Kathmandu to visit his mother on Earth, but people in the city rejected him thinking he was only a human. Angered, he ordered flood on the valley, but people realized their folly and offered him tribute before the disaster happened.
How It Is Celebrated:
Kumari Jatra:
One of the major attractions of Indra Jatra is the Kumari (living goddess) procession that includes the Kumari, a girl child believed to soul the image of goddess Taleju on earth, drawn on chariot through narrow streets of the Kathmandu. Various expressions of traditional music adorn the Kumari chariot procession with one of the most colourful and thrilling events of the festival.
Procession of Gods and Goddesses:
During the festival, a multitude of gods and goddesses from Hindu pantheon is exhibited through the city; The Gods will be honored inside the shrines during the festival and be escorted to and from their temples through the old seething streets of Kathmandu.
Linga Puja:
The first day of the festival sees all kathmanduites doing the Linga Puja-worship of Lord Shiva-to seek prosperity for all lands as well as for the inhabitants’ protection.
The Yosin and Yosin Dance:
The Yosin-the traditional dancers-perform during the festival with a very special performance for the honor of Lord Indra. Their existence contributes to this joy with their traditional costumes and masks, giving meaning to diverse characters from Nepali mythology.
Traditional Rituals and Offerings:
The devout will make their offerings of fruits, flowers, and incense to the gods during Indra Jatra. All over Kathmandu Valley, prayers and rituals are held in various temples to ask the gods for good harvests, well-being for the community, and protection against natural calamity.
Bhoto Jatra:
The last day of Indra Jatra involves Bhoto Jatra where a special ceremony will take place awarding kumari with a “ Bhoto” (traditional vest or ornament). This event is expected to mark the end of the festival and is an important tradition to the people of kathmandu,
Other Highlights:
Street Performances and Celebrations: As always, the festival comes to a people-inviting atmosphere and lively participation of tourists in the street activities. Traditional dances, music, and performances happen all across the city, beautifying it with a jubilant feel.
Wear Masks: Many of the mask dances, where the performer wears a mask that represents a different deity, demon, or mythical character, will be seen in this festival. Such masks add the mystic and dramatic element in the festivities.
Traditional Foods: Within the festival, the people prepare and share traditional food types such as sel roti (a ring-shaped sweet rice doughnut), momo (dumplings), and other local delicacies.
Born Indra Jatra is a fabulous festival. It thrives in delight and joy. It speaks of the rich culture, religion, and community spirit of the people of Nepal.
5. Mani Rimdu (October/ November)- A Sherpa Buddhist Festival in Everest Region.
Mani Rimdu dates back centuries and is a much-celebrated and rather important Sherpa Buddhist festival held at the magnificent Tengboche Monastery in the Everest region in October or November. The festival commemorates the conquest of Buddhism over Bon, an ancient faith and an important celebration for the Sherpa community. It lasts for 19 days, but the main event runs over three days when monks, locals, and the trekking industry arrive at the monastery.
Ways of Celebrating Mani Rimdu
Preparations & Prayers – This is the time when monks chant prayers and meditate for several days as they prepare sand mandalas and sacred offerings for invoking blessings from Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava).
Cham Masked Dances – Monks perform the Cham masked dances where they reinstate the triumph of Buddhism over evils with many rituals involved. The fun and entertainment of the dances lie in the dances from different regions, their colorful masks, and adornments.
Fire Puja (Jinsak Ceremony) – Monks do trappings for cleansing the atmosphere of bad energy through fire-orientation, giving offerings to the fire that reflects their hope that whatever is thrown in will convert bad karma.
Blessings Ceremony – Head Lama of the monastery blesses the devotees, monks, and visitors, whom he believes will receive protection, peace, and prosperity through their participation in Mani Rimdu.
Sherpa Celebrations – The festival finally ends with music and dance and a traditional Sherpa feast, which nurtures even deeper feelings of community and togetherness.
Mani Rimdu is much more than a festival for worship it is a meeting place, offering a rare insight into Sherpa Buddhism deep in the Himalayas.
6. Kartik Naach (October/ November) Ancient Dance Drama in Patan
Kartik Naach is a resplendent and holy traditional dance-drama performed, once every year, in the city of Patan, which is historic and is traditionally the heart of culture in Nepal. The festival held in October or November approximately coincides with the Hindu festival of Kartik Purnima, which is the full moon day of the month Kartik of the Hindu lunar calendar. This occasion is marked mainly by big cultural performances interlacing almost everything from Hindu mythology to sacred, very refined dance and drama.
The Celebration of Kartik Naach
The offshoot Kartik Naach comes from local communities from Hiranya Varna Mahavihar or normally called the Golden Temple of Patan. The performance came down through the traditions of the Newar community that is the autochthonous people of the Kathmandu Valley. This performance is one among the biggest religious shows in the area, demonstrating traditional masked dances and musical narrating.The offshoot Kartik Naachcomes from Local communities from Hiranya Varna Mahavihar or normally called the Golden Temple of Patan . The performance come down through the traditions of the Newar communities that is the auti chthonous people of the Kathamndu Valley. This performance is one among the biggest religious shows in the area demonstration traditional masked dances and the musical narrating
Usually, the event goes on for several days after Kartik Purnima and extends for a day or two thereafter. The festival, followed by a series of performances, also witnesses participation from thousands of local devotees and tourists, who come to bask in the glory of the performances.
How They Celebrate
The dance-drama is the highlight of this festival, where dancers elaborate costume and intricate masks. These masks represent gods / goddess , demons and mythological character drawn from Hindu stories like Ramayana and Mahabharata. The performers narrate the myths and legends to the audience using the expressive gestures , movements and the symbolic acts.
The dancers performs to traditional Newar music played in the nadal (drum), flute and other traditional instruments. In facts , it is the music that contributes to the spiritual setting and emotional evocative atmosphere of the events . The choreography is structured to tell a story that usually revolves around the moral values , the victory of the divine forces over evil and the triumph of the goods
Kartik Naach is not only a celebration of art but has relevance in spirituality. It is believed to render the performance as an offering to please the gods with particular emphasis on lord Vishnu, worshipped during Kartik Purnima. It is therefore also a way for the community to appeal for his blessings for prosperity, good health and peaceful coexistence.
Main Features of the Celebration
Masked Dances: One of the distinctive features of Kartik Naach is that it makes extensive use of masks representing divine and mythological beings. Theseare made with great care and artistry, often out of wood or metal, thus showcasing the ability of local artisans. Each mask has a certain symbolic value and depicts a very specific character in the story.
Traditional Newar Music: The performance are accompanies by music played on traditional instrumensy like medals (drums), sitar and flutes. The music helps create a divine atmosphereand enhances the drama of the performances.
Theatrical Performances: The performances are a blend of drama, dance, and music, where the performers act out scenes from Hindu mythology. The performances may include dramatic storytelling of deities and their divine battles, often performed in an open courtyard or temple space.
Religious Devotion: While the festival is a public celebration, it also holds deep religious significance. The performances are a way to honor the gods and seek blessings for the well-being of the community. It is common for local devotees to participate in rituals, offerings, and prayers during the event.
Community Gathering: The event brings together the community of Patan and those from surrounding areas. It’s a time for socializing, spiritual reflection, and cultural expression.
Significance
Kartik Naach is not only a festival showcasing the rich heritage of the region but also serves as a vehicle for the preservation and promotion of Newar traditions. The festival epitomizes the intertwined essence of religions, mythology, and art that are expressed so fervently in Nepalese culture. Through these performances, the stories of the gods and goddesses are passed on to the younger generations, ensuring the preservation of the ancient traditions.
Furthermore, Kartik Naach aids in fortifying the community spirit when the common religious recollection or community efforts for organizing the event brings the people together.
Popular Trekking Packages for Festival Celebrations in Autumn Season
Autumn (September to November ) is the most popular trekking season in Nepal, offering the clear skies , mild temperature and breathtaking mountain views. The monsoon rains leave the trails fresh and green while the cool air provides comfortable trekking conditions. This season is also enriched by the Nepal’s biggest festivals adding a unique features of cultural experience during the trek. Here are the best Autumn Treks in Nepal which are recommended
1. Everest Base Camp Trek (5,364m)
Highlights:
- Get to the base point of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world.
- Explore Sherpa villages and learn some old-traditional live stories of people.
- Visit the Tengboche Monastery and watch Buddhist ritual performances.
- Wonderful views of Everest, Lhotse, and many other Himalayan giants.
- Mani Rimdu Festival at Tengboche Monastery (if trekking in Novembers).
2. Annapurna Circuit Trek (5,416m – Thorong La Pass)
Highlights:
- Cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
- Go through a great diversity of environments, from tropical forests to high-altitude deserts.
- Meet the Gurung, Magar and Thakali communities at the unique experience of their culture.
- Go to Temples and monasteries that integrate both culture into nature.
- Panoramic scenes of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
3. Annapurna Base Camp Trek (4,130m)
Highlights:
- Get in the center of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by peaks such as Annapurna I (8 091m) and Machhapuchhre (6 993m).
- Trek through lush forests interspersed by terraced farmlands.
- Witness the Tihar celebrations in local villages along the way.
- Stay in traditional tea houses and experience local hospitality.
- Stunning view with great sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
4. Langtang Valley Trek (4,984m – Tserko Ri)
Highlights:
- Walk through Langtang National Park where red pandas and other wildlife roam.
- Dabble in the Tamang culture, experiencing their traditions and graciousness.
- Visit Tserko Ri, to be awed by incredible views of Langtang Lirung (7,227m) and other peaks.
- Buddhist monasteries and prayer wheels met along the way.
- Dashain in Tamang villages during the festival season.
5. Manaslu Circuit Trek (5,160m – Larke Pass)
Highlights:
- Tibetan influenced culture from remote mountain villages.
- Cross the Larke Pass (5,160m) to get facing views of the whole Manaslu range.
- Ancient monasteries and traditional Buddhist stupas.
- Less crowded and dull trek compared to those from Everest and Annapurna.
- Beautiful from bewitching lush forests to high-desert Himalayan space.
6. Upper Mustang Trek (3,840m – Lo Manthang)
Highlights:
- Enter the hidden kingdom of Mustang, known for desert-like landscapes.
- Visit ancient caves and monasteries carved into cliffs.
- Experience Tibetan culture and traditional villages.
- Explore Lo Manthang Palace with its old fortifications.
- For those trekking in autumn, see the Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang.
7. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (3,210m)
Highlights:
- Sun rises above the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Visit the stunning Ghorepani along with Ghandruk villages known for their traditional culture.
- Short and easy trek for any level.
- Walk through rhododendron forests and terraced fields.
- Celebrate Tihar along the route at local villages.
8. Gokyo Lakes Trek (5,357m – Gokyo Ri)
Highlights:
- This is a trek toward the pretty Gokyo Lakes, as they are well-known for their vivid turquoise.
- Climb Gokyo Ri to enjoy a panoramic view of Everest, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse.
- Venture into the villages surrounding Gokyo where there is Sherpa culture.
- High-altitude meadows and sweet silent lakes will trek you through.
- Perfect alternative for trekkers who may not want to do the Everest Base Camp trek.
9. Mardi Himal Trek (4,500m)
Highlights:
- Close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).
- Less packed and pretty quiet trek in comparison to the Annapurna Base Camp.
- Now, pass to rhododendron, enter the above-the-trees lush meadows, and then descend into valleys.
- Traditional Gurung villages will best experience this short but for sure rewarding trek with stunning mountain views.
10. Helambu Trek (3,650m-Tharepati Pass)
Highlights:
- Ideal trek around Kathmandu valley.
- Visit Tamang villages and experience their culture.
- Trek through beautiful terraced fields and lush forests.
- Amazing view from the top of Langtang and Ganesh Himal range.
- Indra Jatra in Kathmandu before or after starting the trek.
Conclusion:
Autumn trekking festivals in Nepal offer a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Vibrant celebrations and stunning views of the mountains give the signal for everyone to experience nature and tradition. Treks in the Himalayas and ancient cultural practices-this season presents the opportunity for a memorable experience.
To enrich your journey, you can choose Nature Explore Trek for a unique experience along different trekking trails of Nepal while enhancing it with the heritage of the country. Let this autumn be a season of adventures and cultural explorations.
