Nepal, the crown of the Himalayas is not only a land of sublime beauty with one of the world’s best and archaeologically very important temples, but it is also the land of endless festivals. Owing to its vast diversity of people and rich culture and traditions dating back thousands of years, the country is indeed a melting pot of more than 50 nationalities; speaking more than a hundred languages and adhering to different and distinct cultural identities. So for the Nepalese, festivals are not merely the annual spectacles but are also the living part of their rich cultural heritage which binds them together. It is famously said about Nepal that every other structure is a holy shrine and every other day a festival. Basically, Nepal’s cultural heritage can be said to have evolved from three major groups namely Indo-Aryan, Tibeto-Burman and Indigenous, each of which contributing and complementing the other in making this small country amazingly colorful and fascinating.

The ancient tradition of celebrating festivals in Nepal goes back to the Vedic times of the Aryans. The Vedic scriptures and literature give many references to these numerous festivals where celebrations were carried out to honor gods, rivers, trees, mountains, and the seasons, which involves not only fasting, prayers, and devotion to a number of deities but are also equally events of social and cultural significance. During these festivities, the performance of music, dance, and drama take place with displays of valor and virility. You will be astonished to see how steadily these colorful traditions have endured over the centuries, bringing new hopes and energies into the lives of the Nepalese people and to the nation as a whole. Festivals are an integral part of Nepalese life that draws out tremendous local participation. Festivals also offer visitors a valuable opportunity not only of having fun but also to gain deeper insight into various aspects of Nepalese life and culture.