Prithvi Jayanti
Sunday, Jan 11
The holiday commemorates the birth of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who unified the small kingdoms that became present-day Nepal. Observances include adding garlands to his statues and participating in parades to remember his contributions.
Maghe Sankranti
Thursday, Jan 15
Maghe Sankranti marks the end of the winter solstice and the month of Poush. It is celebrated by the Tharu people as the beginning of their new year and is a major festival for the Magar community.
Martyr's Day
Thursday, Jan 29
Martyr's Day commemorates martyrs such as soldiers, revolutionaries, or victims of genocide. It is observed in various countries, including Nepal, to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for their country or cause.
Maha Shivaratri
Sunday, Feb 15
The holiday commemorates the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, as well as the occasion of Shiva performing his ritual dance called tandava.
Gyalpo Lhosar
Wednesday, Feb 18
Gyalpo Lhosar marks the new year festival of the Sherpa people, celebrated on the first day of the Tibetan calendar. It is observed in Nepal and parts of India, including Sikkim and West Bengal.
International Women's Day
Sunday, Mar 8
International Women's Day honors the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while advocating for gender equality and women's rights worldwide. It serves as a call to action for accelerating gender parity.
Eid al-Fitr (estimated)
Saturday, Mar 21
Eid al-Fitr signifies the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is a time for communal prayers, feasting, and giving to charity, marking a period of spiritual reflection and gratitude.
Ram Navami
Friday, Mar 27
Ram Navami commemorates the birth of Rama, a revered deity in Hinduism, who symbolizes an ideal king and human through his righteousness, good conduct, and virtue.
Nepali New Year
Tuesday, Apr 14
Nepali New Year, also known as Naya Barsha, marks the beginning of the Vikram Samvat calendar, which is the official calendar of Nepal.
Eid al-Adha (estimated)
Thursday, May 28
Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command, symbolizing faith and devotion. It also coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage, marking the end of the Hajj season in the Islamic calendar.
Republic Day
Friday, May 29
Republic Day commemorates the first meeting of the Constituent Assembly of Nepal on 28 May 2008, which ended the 240-year reign of the Shah kings and declared Nepal a republic, marking the end of a decade-long civil war.
Bijaya Dashami
Tuesday, Oct 20
Bijaya Dashami marks the end of Durga Puja and Navaratri, celebrated as a major Hindu festival. It is observed on the tenth day of the waxing moon in the month of Ashvin in the Hindu lunisolar calendar.
Laxmi Pooja
Sunday, Nov 8
Laxmi Pooja commemorates the veneration of Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and is celebrated during the festival of Deepavali.
Bhai Tika
Wednesday, Nov 11
Bhai Tika is a Hindu festival celebrating the relationship between brothers and sisters. It is observed on the second lunar day of the Shukla Paksha of Kartika during the Diwali or Tihar festival.
Christmas Day
Friday, Dec 25
Christmas Day commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, a central figure in Christianity, and is observed on December 25th by millions around the world, often featuring traditions such as gift-giving and festive meals.