Prithvi Jayanti
Saturday, 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
Tuesday, Jan 14
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
Wednesday, 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
Wednesday, Feb 26
The holiday commemorates the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, as well as the occasion of Shiva performing his ritual dance called tandava.
Gyalpo Lhosar
Friday, Feb 28
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
Saturday, 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
Monday, Mar 31
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, reflecting gratitude and spiritual renewal.
Ram Navami
Sunday, Apr 6
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
Monday, 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.
International Labor Day
Thursday, May 1
International Labor Day honors the contributions and achievements of workers and the labor movement, advocating for workers' rights and social justice. It commemorates the historical struggles for fair labor practices and the establishment of an eight-hour workday.
Republic Day
Wednesday, May 28
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.
Eid al-Adha
Saturday, Jun 7
Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command, and it is observed by Muslims around the world through prayers, feasting, and the ritual sacrifice of animals, symbolizing devotion and charity.
Bijaya Dashami
Thursday, Oct 2
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
Monday, Oct 20
Laxmi Pooja commemorates the veneration of Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and is celebrated during the festival of Deepavali.
Bhai Tika
Thursday, Oct 23
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
Thursday, 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.