Dashain Festival

About

Dashain is Nepal's most spectacular and joyous festival, celebrating the triumph of good over evil with 15 days of vibrant ceremonies, kite flying, bamboo swings, and family blessings. Children are at the heart of this celebration, receiving tika (sacred red marks) and blessings from elders, new clothes, and the chance to experience authentic Nepali culture through colorful processions, traditional music, and community festivities. It's an incredible opportunity for families to immerse themselves in one of Asia's most important cultural celebrations while creating meaningful cross-cultural memories.

What to Expect

Expect a city transformed with festive decorations, elaborate kite displays filling the skies, and giant bamboo swings (ping) erected in public squares where children play freely. Families will encounter temple ceremonies with flower offerings and animal sacrifices (mostly symbolic in tourist areas), bustling markets selling special foods and toys, and locals dressed in their finest traditional attire. The atmosphere is joyful and welcoming, with many Nepali families eager to share their traditions with visitors. Public spaces become community gathering spots with music, dancing, and the infectious energy of children celebrating their school holidays.

Highlights for Kids

• Flying colorful kites from rooftops and open spaces—kids can purchase inexpensive kites from street vendors and join local children in friendly sky battles
• Riding the massive bamboo swings (ping) erected in neighborhoods and public squares, a traditional activity reserved exclusively for Dashain that children eagerly anticipate
• Receiving tika (vermillion powder mixed with rice) and jamara (sacred sprouts) blessings from elders, making children feel like honored participants in an ancient tradition
• Watching or participating in elaborate processions featuring traditional Newari music, masked dancers, and goddess Durga representations carried through streets
• Exploring vibrant local markets selling special Dashain treats, toys, and seeing families shopping for festival goodies in their finest traditional clothing

Pro Tips for Families

1. Visit during Vijaya Dashami (the 10th day) for the most significant ceremonies, but arrive early morning at temples to avoid overwhelming crowds and witness the tika blessing rituals when they're most authentic and less chaotic
2. Hire a local guide or connect with a Nepali family through your hotel to receive proper tika blessings and understand the ceremonies—many families are honored to include respectful foreign visitors in their celebrations
3. Bring cash in small denominations for temple offerings, street food, and kite purchases; ATMs may have long queues or run out of money during the festival period
4. Pack hand sanitizer, tissues, and your own water bottles, as public facilities become strained; also bring a small bag for children to collect the blessed prasad (food offerings) they'll receive at temples

Best Time to Visit

The 7th to 10th days (Fulpati through Vijaya Dashami) offer the most vibrant celebrations and family-friendly activities. Visit early morning (6-9 AM) for temple ceremonies and tika blessings when the atmosphere is most authentic and spiritual, then enjoy kite flying and bamboo swings during late morning to afternoon (10 AM-4 PM) when the weather is ideal and children are most active. Avoid the afternoon of Vijaya Dashami if you have very young children, as crowds intensify with families traveling to receive elders' blessings.

Food & Drinks

Dashain features special festival foods including sel roti (sweet rice bread rings), meat dishes for non-vegetarian families, and various sweets that children enjoy. Street vendors sell festival treats, though families with sensitive stomachs should stick to established restaurants serving traditional Dashain meals in hygienic conditions. Most tourist-area restaurants remain open and offer both Nepali festival specials and familiar international options for cautious eaters. Temple visits include receiving prasad (blessed food offerings, usually fruits, sweets, or curd) which children find exciting, though parents may prefer kids observe rather than consume these for health safety. Bottled water is essential and widely available.

Parking & Access

During Dashain, many businesses close and traffic reduces significantly, making Kathmandu more walkable than usual, though major temple areas become pedestrian-only zones during peak times. Taxis and ride-sharing apps (Pathao) are available but may charge premium rates or be scarce during the 10th day when drivers celebrate with families. Strollers are impractical due to crowds, uneven pavements, and temple stairs—baby carriers or hip seats work better. Consider staying in Thamel or near Durbar Square to walk to major celebration sites. For visits to temples like Dakshinkali (outside the valley), hire a private car and driver for the day, as public transport becomes extremely crowded.