Holi in Nepal 2025 Dates
Dates for 2025 - 14 March 2025
Holi in Nepal Festivities - Rituals and Traditions

1. Chir Haran
Slightly different from the way it’s celebrated in India, Holi in Nepal starts with a traditional ceremony. This involves raising a bamboo stick bound with Chir (shading materials) in the Basantapur Durbar Square and many other parts of Nepal one week before Holi. On the evening of Holi, the Chir is brought down by burning it, marking the beginning of the Holi festival. This is called Chir Haran or Holika Dahan. Locals welcome Holi with colors, music, and delicacies. Women, dressed in traditional attire, perform pooja around the fire, carrying sacred offerings and wishing for a prosperous year ahead.2. Carnival in Basantpur Durbar

3. The Highlight A.K.A The Street Party!

History and Significance of Holi in Nepal
Holi has deep cultural and religious roots in Nepal, influenced by Hindu mythology. The festival is linked to the legend of Prahlad and Hiranyakashipu, symbolizing the victory of devotion and goodness over arrogance and evil. It also celebrates the playful love of Krishna and Radha, with the throwing of colors representing joy and togetherness.In Nepal, Holi is celebrated over two days: the first day in the hilly regions and Kathmandu Valley, and the second day in the Terai region. This distinction adds a unique regional flavor to the festivities.
Food During Holi in Nepal
Besides dabbing hues of various colors on each other, one thing that is inseparable from Holi is the array of delicious desserts. Some of the most commonly relished sweets and drinks during this festival include:1. Gujiya

True to its origin, Gujiya is a sweet that finds its forever place in the Holi festival. Made of Maida (flour) with a yummy filling of dry fruits, it is a complete dessert on its own. This sweet is mostly savored in the northern part of India but is equally popular in Nepal during Holi.
2. Bhang Lassi

Holi in Nepal is almost incomplete without this iconic drink. Thandai, as it is also called, is a cocktail made of Indian spices, milk, and cannabis or bhang powder. Though it has gained some notoriety over the years, Bhang Lassi remains a popular and traditional drink for Holi festivities.
3. Malai Peda

These soft, sweet balls made from milk cream or malai, and garnished with dry fruits like pistachios, almonds, or cashews, are a favorite during Holi. Available in flavors like saffron (kesar), Malai Peda is loved by people of all age groups.
4. Bhang Laddoos
Similar to the classic Bhang Lassi, laddoos can also be prepared with bhang added to the usual ingredients. According to Ayurveda, consuming bhang in moderation is believed to help with relaxation and anxiety relief, making Bhang Laddoos a festive favorite.5. Lassi
For those who prefer a sober alternative to Thandai, the classic Lassi is a perfect choice. This refreshing yogurt-based drink complements the festive vibe without the intoxicating effects of bhang.Regional Variations of Holi in Nepal
- Kathmandu Valley: The festival begins with the raising of the Chir, a ceremonial bamboo pole adorned with colorful strips of cloth. The main celebrations include street parties, color-throwing, and music.
- Terai Region: Celebrated a day later, Holi in the Terai is equally vibrant, with locals donning white attire to highlight the splashes of colors.
- Rural Areas: Traditional practices and rituals take center stage, offering a more intimate and cultural experience of Holi.
Do’s & Don’ts During Holi
Do’s:- Use eco-friendly colors to protect your skin and the environment.
- Join public celebrations and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Avoid using synthetic or harmful colors.
- Don’t participate in activities that may harm the environment or others.
- Avoid overindulging in food or drinks during the celebrations.
Good to Know:
- Best Places to Celebrate: The streets of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan are ideal for experiencing urban Holi celebrations. For a more traditional vibe, head to rural villages in the Terai.
- Wear old clothes, use organic colors to avoid skin irritation, and keep your belongings safe from water and color.
- Safety Advice: Be cautious with large crowds, and avoid excessive water splashes or harsh chemicals in colors.
Holi in Nepal is more than just a festival; it’s a cultural and sensory adventure. The vibrant colors, traditional practices, and cheerful spirit make it a must-experience event. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, festive joy, or unforgettable memories, celebrating Holi in Nepal is an experience like no other.