Travelling in Nepal During Dashain and Tihar 2026
Festival season is also trekking season
October and November bring clear mountain views, dry trails and Nepal's two biggest festivals. Dashain 2026 begins with Ghatasthapana on 11 October and peaks on Vijaya Dashami, the tika day, on 21 October. Tihar, the festival of lights, follows from 7 to 11 November, with Laxmi Puja on 8 November and Bhai Tika on 11 November.
What changes for travellers
- Transport buses and domestic flights out of Kathmandu fill up in the days before 17 October and again before Laxmi Puja. Book long-distance seats early, and expect the return rush after 23 October.
- Offices and permits government offices close for the public holidays (17-23 October for Dashain, 8-12 November for Tihar). Get trekking permits and TIMS cards sorted before the holidays start.
- Shops and restaurants many family-run places close on tika day. Tourist areas such as Thamel and Lakeside Pokhara stay mostly open.
- Trails popular routes like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna and Langtang are at their busiest. Reserve lodges ahead, or choose quieter routes such as Mardi Himal or Khopra Ridge.
Festival etiquette
If a Nepali family invites you to receive tika, accept with both hands and thanks - it is an honour. During Tihar, homes are lit with oil lamps and marigold garlands; dogs, crows and cows are honoured on their own days. Ask before photographing rituals, and dress modestly at temples.
Plan with us
Travelling in Nepal in October or November 2026? Tell us your dates and we will plan routes, transport and lodges around the festival days.
For more about the trek, please have a look at Plan your festival-season trip.