Kartik 2083BS

Seventh day of Dashain. Sacred phulpati (flowers and leaves) is brought from Gorkha to Kathmandu's Hanuman Dhoka in a centuries-old procession.

Eighth day of Dashain. Worship of Goddess Kali with the Kalaratri night ritual. Animal sacrifices traditionally performed at temples and homes.

Ninth day of Dashain. Worship of weapons and tools (Vishwakarma Puja) and Goddess Durga's nine forms.

The main day of Dashain — celebration of good's victory over evil. Elders apply red tika and jamara on younger family members and offer blessings. Nepal's most important festival day.

The ekadashi falling within Dashain week. Observed for liberation from sins and post-death merit.

The full-moon night that closes Dashain. Lakshmi descends to bless those who stay awake. Marks the conclusion of the 15-day festival.

Kartik Krishna paksha ekadashi, falling just before Tihar. Observed for prosperity and Lakshmi's blessings.

First day of Tihar. Crows — messengers of Yama — are honored with offerings of rice and sweets.

Second day of Tihar. Dogs are worshipped with garlands, tika, and special meals — a uniquely Nepali tradition that has gained global recognition.

Third day of Tihar — cows are worshipped in the morning, Goddess Lakshmi in the evening. Homes are lit with diyas to welcome wealth and prosperity. Public holiday.

Fourth day of Tihar. Govardhan Parvat worship with Goru Tihar (oxen worship) for Hindus; Mha Puja (worship of one's own self) for the Newar community, marking Nepal Sambat new year.

Fifth and final day of Tihar. Sisters apply seven-colored tika and a garland (makhmali) to brothers and pray for their long life. Brothers reciprocate with gifts and blessings.

Four-day festival of sun worship, originating in the Terai (Madhesi) region. Devotees fast and offer prayers to the rising and setting sun on river banks. National public holiday.