Tihar is one of Nepal's best-known annual festivals, celebrated through a sequence of rituals that connect light, flowers, animals, prosperity, family relationships, and neighborhood life. It is often described as the festival of lights, but the celebration is broader than illumination alone.
The festival includes Kaag Tihar, Kukur Tihar, Gai Tihar and Lakshmi Puja, Goru Tihar or Govardhan-related observances, regional Newar traditions such as Mha Puja, and Bhai Tika. Customs can differ by community, family, and location.
What makes Tihar distinctive?
Tihar combines household worship with visible community traditions. Homes are decorated with diyos and electric lights, doorways may feature rangoli, flowers are used for garlands, and Deusi-Bhailo groups bring music and blessings into neighborhoods.
Plan your Tihar learning journey
- Start with the Tihar 2026 dates.
- Read the guide to the five days of Tihar.
- Explore Lakshmi Puja and Bhai Tika.
- For visitors, see the Tihar travel guide and visitor etiquette.