Travel to Nepal During Deepawali (Tihar): Best Tours, Dates and Travel Tips

Introduction

Tihar is Nepal’s five day festival of lights, also called Deepawali. If you travel to Nepal during Deepawali, you see homes, shops and temples glowing with oil lamps, marigold garlands and colourful rangoli. You also see a festival that honours crows, dogs, cows and oxen, worships Goddess Laxmi, and ends with Bhai Tika, the celebration of brothers and sisters. In 2026, the Tihar festival in Nepal runs from Saturday 7 November to Wednesday 11 November, with the main night of lights, Laxmi Puja, on the evening of 8 November.

Many visitors pair the festival with Kathmandu Valley sightseeing, a stay in Pokhara or a Chitwan safari. Trekkers can add the Annapurna Base Camp trek, the Mardi Himal trek or the Everest Base Camp trek before or after the festival days. Our Nepal festival tours page lists the festival journeys we run through the year. In this guide, you will find everything you need to plan a Tihar visit, from festival dates and traditions to sample itineraries and practical travel tips.

What Is Tihar, the Deepawali Festival in Nepal?

Tihar is Nepal’s five day festival of lights. It honours Yama, the God of Death, and it gives the greatest place to Laxmi, the Goddess of Wealth. Homes are lit with candles, oil lamps and electric lights, and doorways are decorated with marigold garlands. The festival is also a way of saying thank you to the animals and people who are part of daily life, including crows, dogs, cows, oxen and brothers.

Tihar and India’s Diwali share the theme of light and the worship of Laxmi, but they are not the same festival. Tihar has its own five day order, with a separate day for each of crows, dogs, cows and oxen, and it ends with Bhai Tika. Groups of singers also go from house to house with Deusi Bhailo songs and blessings, and many families give them money or treats in return. Newar communities mark the fourth day with Mha Puja, a ritual of self worship.

Laxmi Puja is the heart of the festival. Families light lamps, keep doors and windows open and decorate entrances to welcome the goddess. Bhai Tika is the emotional close. Sisters put a seven coloured tika on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their long life.

When Is Tihar in Nepal? Festival Dates and Calendar

Tihar follows the lunar calendar, so the dates change every year. This article covers 2026, which is Kartik 2083 in the Nepali calendar. Tihar 2026 runs from Kartik 21 to Kartik 25, 2083.

The Five Days of Tihar: Traditions and Celebrations

Day 1: Kaag Tihar (Crow Worship)

Kaag Tihar marks the first day of Tihar, when people worship crows as messengers of Yama, the god of death. Families offer food to crows on leaf plates, believing this brings good fortune and protects against bad news. For travellers, the day offers an opportunity to observe local customs and see families preparing their homes and neighbourhoods for the main Tihar celebrations.

Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Dog Worship)

Kukur Tihar is dedicated to honouring dogs for their loyalty, friendship and protective role. People decorate dogs with flower garlands, apply tika on their foreheads and offer them special food. For travellers, it is a wonderful opportunity to witness this unique Nepalese tradition. Observe the celebrations respectfully and always ask for permission before approaching or feeding someone else's dog.

Day 3: Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Cow Worship and Goddess Laxmi)

In the morning, cows are honoured with prayers, flower garlands, tika and food. In the evening, families worship Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Homes, temples and shopfronts are decorated with oil lamps, candles and colourful rangoli patterns, creating a festive atmosphere across Kathmandu. For travellers, it is a wonderful evening to experience Tihar celebrations and see the city illuminated with lights. Many visitors like to see the city lights from a high point such as Swayambhunath. In 2026 Laxmi Puja is on the evening of 8 November.

Day 4: Goru Tihar, Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja

The fourth day of Tihar is celebrated through different traditions across Nepal. Some families honour oxen for their contribution to agriculture, while others perform Govardhan Puja, worshipping the sacred Govardhan Hill. In Newar communities, Mha Puja is an important ritual of self-worship, symbolising purification, well-being and a fresh beginning. The day also marks Nepal Sambat, the Newar New Year. For travellers, it is a wonderful opportunity to experience Nepal's cultural diversity and observe the distinct traditions celebrated by different communities.

Day 5: Bhai Tika (Brother-Sister Celebration)

Bhai Tika marks the final day of Tihar and celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters apply a colourful seven coloured tika to their brothers' foreheads, offer prayers for their long life and prosperity, and exchange gifts. Families also gather to share a festive meal. For travellers, your local guide can help you understand the traditions and identify appropriate opportunities to observe the celebrations respectfully.

Where to Experience Tihar in Nepal

Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu is the easiest place to see Tihar as a visitor. The streets of Thamel and the older neighbourhoods fill with lights. Heritage sites worth planning around include Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath. Patan and Bhaktapur are also good places to see Newar traditions and old temple architecture. Non Hindu visitors are generally not permitted inside the main temple at Pashupatinath, though you can see the area from outside.

Some sites will be crowded with local families, and opening hours may change. Do not assume every temple, attraction or business will keep regular hours. A six day Kathmandu Valley Heritage Tour with a Shivapuri hike is a good option for combining cultural sightseeing with a nature experience.

Pokhara

Pokhara is a relaxing addition to a Nepal holiday during Tihar. After experiencing the main celebrations in Kathmandu, you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Phewa Lake, explore the lakeside area and admire mountain views from Sarangkot.

Rural Nepal and Local Communities

Tihar traditions vary across Nepal's different communities and regions. In rural villages, celebrations mainly take place within families and local neighbourhoods. Travellers interested in experiencing these traditions can ask their local guide to arrange a visit with a family in advance. Respecting local customs and receiving the host's permission are important. The Deepawali tour offered by Thamel Travels and Tours includes an opportunity to celebrate Bhai Tika with a Nepali family in Dhading, arranged in advance.

Best Time to Visit Nepal for Tihar and Autumn Travel

Tihar falls during autumn, one of the best seasons to visit Nepal. From September to November, destinations such as Kathmandu and Chitwan generally enjoy dry weather, pleasant temperatures and favourable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Travellers can combine Tihar celebrations with cultural tours, trekking, mountain views and wildlife experiences. However, weather conditions can vary, especially in mountain regions, so check the forecast before travelling.

Best Nepal Tours to Combine With Tihar Festival

Not every package includes a Tihar celebration. Some suit travelers who want to add their holiday before or after the festival dates. Check each itinerary and the dates you plan to travel.

Festival focused travel

If the festival is your main reason to travel, start with our Nepal festival tours. The Deepawali festival tour in Nepal has one departure listed, from 7 to 14 November 2026, priced from US$743 per person and showing as available when we checked. It is a 2026 package. Tihar dates change every year, so a future year will need a revised itinerary.

Culture with mountain scenery

The 15 day Annapurna experience tour suits travelers who want village stays and mountain views without a hard trek.

Wildlife

The Bardia National Park safari tour offers a quieter wildlife experience including wildlife sightings, including tigers.

Wider holidays

A 12 day Nepal holiday package or the 14 day cultural Nepal tour suit visitors who want a broader trip. For comfort, look at the 10 day luxury Nepal tour or the 8 day luxury Nepal holiday.

Trekking options

Trekkers can look at the Annapurna Base Camp trek, the Mardi Himal trekking holiday and the Everest trekking packages. Treks usually need more days than the five festival days, so plan them before or after Tihar. Check weather, trail conditions, permits and fitness needs first. For a longer active trip, the Annapurna Circuit and Mustang adventure tour covers 18 days and suits fit travelers with enough time.

Sample Tihar Travel Itinerary

This is a suggested plan, not a guaranteed tour schedule. It uses the 2026 dates.

Is Nepal Open During Tihar?

Nepal does not shut down, but the festival days are public holidays, and the pace changes. Calendarific lists Laxmi Puja, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Tika as public holidays in Nepal for 2026. Government offices and banks usually follow holiday notices. Many small shops and local restaurants may close or open late, especially around Laxmi Puja and Bhai Tika. Tourist hotels and many tourist services generally keep working, but this varies.

Reconfirm your hotel booking, transport, attraction opening hours and any domestic flights before you travel.

Travel Tips for Visiting Nepal During Deepawali

• Book flights and hotels early, because Tihar is a busy family travel time.

• Confirm the festival dates for your travel year.

• Plan road and air transport around public holidays and family travel.

• Carry some Nepali rupees in cash and check that your card works.

• Respect religious customs and private ceremonies.

• Ask permission before photographing people.

• Dress modestly at temples and religious sites.

• Follow local advice on temple etiquette.

• Pack for changeable autumn weather, with layers for cool mornings and evenings.

• Check trail conditions and permits if you plan to trek.

• Respect animals during rituals. Do not disturb them.

• Keep your itinerary flexible.

Can You Trek in Nepal During Tihar?

Yes, many travelers trek in Nepal in autumn, but five festival days are not enough for most major treks. Plan your trek around the festival, either before or after it. Options include the Annapurna Base Camp trek, Mardi Himal and Everest region routes. Conditions vary by route, altitude, weather and year. Confirm trail conditions, permits, lodge availability, transport and guide arrangements before you set out.

Tihar Travel Costs and Booking Considerations

Cost depends on trip length, hotel category, transport, private guiding, activities and, for trekkers, permits and trek arrangements. The only price we can confirm today is for the Deepawali festival tour, from US$743 per person for the 7 to 14 November 2026 departure. The page lists international flights, visa fees, travel insurance, some meals, personal expenses and tips as not included. Always read the inclusions and exclusions before you book.

Why Plan Your Tihar Holiday With Thamel Travels and Tours?

Thamel Travels and Tours is a Nepal based travel company offering personalised holiday experiences across Nepal. We provide private transportation, experienced English speaking guides and carefully planned itineraries to help you experience Tihar and Nepal's cultural traditions. Our Deepawali tour also includes a special Bhai Tika experience with a Nepali family, arranged in advance. With local knowledge and on ground support, we help make your festival holiday comfortable and memorable.

Explore our Nepal Festival Tours or contact us to plan a customised Tihar holiday. For enquiries and travel assistance, reach us on WhatsApp at +977 9841697870.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tihar Travel

1. What are the dates of Tihar in Nepal?
   In 2026, Tihar runs from Saturday 7 November to Wednesday 11 November (Kartik 21 to 25, 2083). Laxmi Puja is on the evening of 8 November, and Bhai Tika is on 11 November. Dates change each year, so check the calendar for your year.
    

2. Is Deepawali a good time to visit Nepal?
   Yes, if you want festival atmosphere and autumn travel. Expect crowds and holiday schedules, so book early and stay flexible.
    

3. What is the difference between Tihar and Diwali?
   Both celebrate light and Goddess Laxmi. Tihar is a five day Nepali festival that honours crows, dogs, cows and oxen, and ends with Bhai Tika. In 2026 Laxmi Puja is on 8 November in Nepal, and India’s Diwali is also reported for 8 November.
    

4. How can I celebrate Tihar in Nepal as a tourist?
   Walk through decorated streets, see the lights on Laxmi Puja night and visit heritage sites with a local guide. Join family ceremonies only by invitation.
    

5. Are shops and restaurants open during Tihar?
   Some are, and some are not. Small local businesses may close or shorten hours on holiday days, and tourist services often continue. Ask your hotel or guide in advance.
    

6. Can you trek in Nepal during Tihar?
   Yes, but plan the trek before or after the festival, and check trail conditions and permits.