Tihar festival tour

One of our representatives will warmly welcome you upon your arrival. You will then be escorted to your hotel in our private tourist vehicle. During a pre-trip meeting, you will have the opportunity to meet our trip guide and address any questions or concerns you may have regarding the trip.

The first day is dedicated to crows, which are believed to be the messengers of death and bad news. People offer food to crows to keep evil at bay. You may get a chance to observe the pooja during sightseeing. After breakfast, start your sightseeing at UNESCO Heritage Sites.
Sightseeing at Patan Durbar Square- a distinct place for arts and architecture that is reflected on each temple, monument and palace building that were mostly built during the Malla period between the 16th, 17th and 18th century.
We will explore its unique Durbar Squares. In every corner & alley of Patan, you can see Thangka painters, filling color to ancient Gods and Goddess on canvases, fine metal shops that offer Buddha's exotic, handmade brass sculpture at very reasonable prices. You can taste local cuisine as well in Patan's alleys.

From there, the tour is directed towards Swayambhunath, a dome-shaped Buddhist shrine which has stood as a hallmark of faith and harmony for both the Buddhists and the Hindus from all over the world. Also known as the "Monkey Temple," this is a 2500 years old stupa believed to be self-evolved out of a lotus flower that bloomed in the middle of a lake that once spread across the Kathmandu Valley once was. The stupa is situated on a hillock about 77 m above the ground level and overlooking Kathmandu valley.

Pashupatinath Temple, a famous, sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Dating back to the 5th century. While the main temple interior is off-limits to non-Hindus there is a lot to experience in the surrounding area. Legend says that whoever comes here to worship Shiva will be reborn as an animal. Pashupatinath is a considerable complex of temples, ashrams, with images and inscriptions dating back centuries.

Experience the cultural wonders of Bungamati, Khokana, and Kirtipur during Kukur Tihar, the Dog Worshiping Day. Visit Bungamati, known for its rich woodcraft; Khokana, famous for mustard oil processing; and Kirtipur, with its stunning temples and panoramic views. Witness the heartwarming tradition of honoring dogs with garlands and tika during this special festival. This tour blends cultural exploration with festive celebration for an unforgettable experience.

On Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja, observe cow worship in the morning, where cows are adorned with garlands and tika, and Laxmi Puja in the evening, with homes and temples lit up for Goddess Laxmi, symbolizing prosperity. This day highlights the cultural importance of honoring sacred animals and the goddess of wealth.

Tihar observation will be paired with a city tour.

Explore Boudhanath, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest stupa in the Kathmandu Valley. Its massive 36-meter-high structure dominates the skyline and is central to Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, designed as a giant mandala with Dhyani Buddhas marking the cardinal points.

Experience Kathmandu Durbar Square with a walking tour through its colorful bazaars, back streets, and temples like Basantapur Durbar, Kasthamandap, and Kumari Ghar. Discover historic areas such as Freak Street, Indra Chowk, and Thamel, along with hidden gems like Naradevi Temple and Maru Hiti.

Experience the vibrant cultural festivities of Gobardhan Puja and Mha Puja in the captivating setting of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. During Gobardhan Puja, witness locals honoring oxen for their vital role in agriculture with special rituals and offerings. Mha Puja, celebrated primarily by the Newar community, involves self-worship and purification, marking the New Year with rich traditions. As you explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, marvel at its stunning medieval architecture, intricate wood carvings, and historical monuments, all beautifully illuminated by the festival's lively atmosphere. This unique blend of traditional celebrations and architectural splendor offers a truly immersive cultural experience.

Celebrate Bhai Tika, the special day dedicated to honoring brothers, by immersing yourself in a traditional homestay experience. On this day, sisters apply vibrant tika (a colorful mark) on their brothers' foreheads and exchange gifts, symbolizing their love and prayers for their well-being. Staying with a local family offers an intimate glimpse into this heartwarming tradition, allowing you to participate in the rituals and enjoy traditional foods, while embracing the warmth and hospitality of Nepali culture.

Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Aarya Village Travel will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.