Dashain 2026: Festival Dates, Tika Time, Rituals & Celebration Guide

Dashain festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Nepal, symbolizing prosperity, blessings, and the triumph of virtue over vice. Nepal – the beautiful land of diversification- is home to several ethnic groups and communities. Each has its own unique customs, traditions, and festivals. Different communities celebrate Dashain in their own unique style, celebrating the happiness and sharing the blessings of Goddess Durga with everyone. Dashain, also called Vijaya Dashami or Bada Dashain, is the greatest festival of Nepal, of good triumphing over evil, with blessings from the Goddess Durga. In the year 2026, Dashain will be celebrated from October 11 to October 25, and Bijaya Dashami will be considered the main day for Tika and Jamara on October 21. During this period, people from across the nation congregate to worship and obtain blessings and partake in festivities lasting 15 days centered on traditional food such as sel roti and mutton while renewing social and cultural ties. Each of the 15 days of the festival of Dashain is sacred, from Ghatasthapana for the Goddess Durga to Kojagrat Purnima. Thus, Dashain goes beyond the borders of Nepal, being celebrated in India, Bhutan, and Myanmar, and among the global dispersal of Nepali communities. This national festival of Nepal always conveys a message of stabilizing the unity and integrity among Nepalese, spreading love and kindness, and always prioritizing humanity, exquisitely symbolizing and emphasizing the spirit of unity, prosperity, and devotion in Nepali culture with associated frenzied rituals, kite flying, cultural gatherings, and vibrant family reunions.

How is Dashain celebrated in Nepal?

Dashain in Nepal is all about devotion, family reunions, and culture. Nepalese believe in Goddess Durga and worship her, praying to keep their loved ones healthy and safe, and the rituals symbolize the victory of "Good over Evil". Tika and Jamara are the highlights of Dashain. Those are the blessings from elders. Colorful kites in the sky and bamboo swings in every corner are signs that Dashain is near.

1. Worship and rituals

In Nepal, Dashain starts with Ghatasthapana, which is the installation of the sacred pot (kalash) and sowing of barley seeds for Jamara in the prayer room. For 15 days, people carry out daily prayers and worship Durga, making offerings and visiting temples. The main events of Dashain are Maha Ashtami (the eighth day) and Maha Navami (the ninth day), when animal sacrifices with special pujas are offered to the goddess, demonstrating the triumph of good over evil. If they don't do animal sacrifice, they use coconut or any other fruits as offerings.

2. Tika and Jamara

This important practice of Dashain of receiving Tika and Jamara from one's elders on Vijaya Dashami has been the best feeling. This falls on the tenth day of the festival. Vermilion Tika mixed with curd and rice is applied by the elders on the forehead of younger members of the family, and Jamara is given as an offering, granting the blessings of health, success, and prosperity. This ceremony of bonding is, therefore, one of the most important; family members visit their relatives, or come together as people travel long distances to their ancestral homes to celebrate.

3. Family Gatherings and Reunions

Nepalese believe in family togetherness. This special festival, Dashain, offers them a golden opportunity for the families in Nepal to reunite, share love, and nurture that lovely bond. The sons and daughters who are working in foreign lands return home to celebrate this festival with their loved ones. All members of the family start cleaning the houses, renovating if required, and decorating a newly built home. New outfits are dressed in, and the families enjoy the quality time together. It is this very togetherness feeling and lovely family bond that makes you eager to celebrate Dashain, the greatest festival in Nepal, with family, friends, and relatives.

4. Food and Feasts

Food and feasts are the center of attraction of any festival. In Dashain, the lasting memories of Dashain are different kinds of food items made in different styles. Families cook and enjoy gala feasts of goat meat, sel roti (a special ring-shaped, golden, crispy, sweet rice bread), yomari (Steamed rice flour dumpling with sweet filling of jaggery), and rice dishes. Enormous feasts are prepared and shared with relatives and friends, representing plenty and fortuity. Sharing a meal brings joy and blessing to the family.

5. Culture and Fun

Apart from the rituals, Dashain is one of the most entertaining times that is awaited by the entire nation. The elderly wait for their family to come home. Children and youth fly colorful kites, play cards, and swing on "Ping" bamboo and rope swings set up in villages and towns. These traditional activities of playing in Ping, roaming in the village, add to the fun and enjoyment of the festival for all.

The 15 Special Days of Dashain 2026

Dashain is not only a 15-day festival for Nepalese. It is the best time for all the families to bring their family into one whole and celebrate the feeling of togetherness in a healthy environment, savoring the delicious food and praying together for the betterment of the family. This festival speaks of devotion, blessings, love, and family bonds. Each day specifically holds the religious importance that depicts the centuries-old customs and traditions of Dashain.

Day 1 – Ghatasthapana

This is the first day of Dashain, officially marked as the beginning of Dashain, i.e., Navaratri. The word "Ghatasthapana" is made of two words, "Ghata" meaning kalash (a sacred water-filled pot) and "Sthapana" meaning establishment or setting up, or installing. So, combined, it means "establishing the sacred kalash" that invokes the divine presence of goddess Durga at home. It is the spiritual foundation for Dashain. The seeds of barley, maize, or wheat are kept in the kalash with holy water and soil, and the kalash is placed in the prayer room. These seeds sprout into the beautiful Jamara, symbolizing fertility, prosperity, and the blessings of Goddess Durga.

Day 2 to 6 – Dwitiya to Shasthi

During the following days, families worship Goddess Durga in Her nine forms, where one of the forms is the protector in the Hindu mythology. Oil lamps are lit, mantras are chanted, and scriptures like the Durga Saptashati are read. This little interval of time should be devoted to cleansing, where one is focused and spiritually prepared for the forthcoming grand celebrations. Every prayer is directed toward peace and health, and to shield them from all forms of negativity.

Day 7 – Phulpati

Phulpati is one of the most anticipated days in the Dashain days. It literally means “Phul” (flower) and “Pati” (leaves or sacred plants). It refers to the ritual offering of a bunch of flowers, leaves, and auspicious plants to Goddess Durga, signifying prosperity, divine energy, and the influx of blessings into homes during Dashain. There is a traditional royal procession of carrying Phulpati items that include Banana stalks, sugarcane, Jamara, and Belpatra from Gorkha to Hanuman Dhoka Palace in Kathmandu. This is still being followed. The Nepalese families bring Phulpati into their houses in a similar way to welcome the prosperity and well-being of the family. The official holiday of Dashain begins from this day onwards. Schools, colleges, universities, government, and private offices are closed to allow them to reunite with their families.

Day 8 – Maha Ashtami

"Maha" means great, while "Asthami" means eight – the greatest day of Dashain. Maha Ashtami, the eighth day of Dashain, is in fact one of the heaviest and powerful days of all in the entire Dashain. It is most dedicated to Goddess Kali: the terrible and fierce form of Durga, who destroys evil. In the temples, animal sacrifices are made to commemorate the victory over evil and pests. Those who do not sacrifice animals would instead place coconuts, fruits, or other items in place of an offering. There is also "Khadga Puja" on this auspicious day. We worship our weapons, tools, as well as vehicles during Khadga puja as a reminder to honor their instruments of livelihood and seek divine energy for success and safety. All these rituals are manifesting a prayer for strength, courage, and protection for the coming year for their families.

Day 9 – Maha Navami

The utmost Maha Navami marks the day of perfection in Dashain. This day is the climax of Dashain. Durga Bhawani is worshipped on this day as the savior of mankind that very day according to the Hindu mythology. Special worship and prayers are carried out in some of the major temples, like Taleju Bhawani in Kathmandu, which is opened for devotees only once a year on this auspicious day. "Ayudha Puja" is also carried out on this day when worshipping different tools, machines, and vehicles, representing the sacredness of work. The devotees believe that by worshipping these instruments, they assure themselves that their work will always prosper, be safe, and successful, to maintain their livelihood.

Day 10 – Bijaya Dashami / Vijaya Dashami

The most significant of the entire Dashain is the Vijaya Dashami, the day of the victory of good over evil. "Vijaya" means victory. According to the Hindu mythology, Goddess Durga fought and won against demon Mahishasura, and Lord Rama killed Ravana, symbolizing the victory of Good over Evil. Family members gather, and elder members give blessings with a Tika of rice, curd, and vermilion, Jamara, and Dakshina (money) or gifts on Vijaya Dashami. The elderly give blessings for our prosperity, unity, and continuity of customs. For the next five days, the Tikas are bestowed as families travel from one home to another to receive the blessings and enjoy the togetherness.

Day 11 to 15 – Kojagrat Purnima

The days after Dashain are still fun and full of enjoyment in meeting relatives. It does take time for reciprocity to happen after Vijaya Dashami. Nepalese believe in reciprocating by visiting each other's homes for gatherings, tika, and blessings. In such a way, the whole family and relatives manage to get together to celebrate the wonderful Dashain, conveying love, peace, harmony, and unity amongst themselves. Family gatherings, scrumptiously cooked feasts, and traditional cultural programs create great vibes and unbreakable bonds throughout the villages and towns.

The Kojagrat Purnima day indicates the end of Dashain. This day is a full-moon day, and is mainly dedicated to Maha Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune. The meaning of Kojagrat is "who is awake". On this day, the families illuminate oil lamps to brighten up the darkness of the night, and stay awake on this night to pray for prosperity. Goddess Maha Laxmi is prayed for granting wealth, health, and prosperity to those who wakeful upon her eye. On this day, the last Tika and Jamara change occur, officially declaring the end of the Dashain festival.

What makes Dashain an exceptionally big festival for the Nepalese people?

A crystal clear sky with pleasant weather, kids chattering about in their brand new clothes and school holidays, families standing under one roof enjoying the happiness and togetherness; that's beautiful, isn't it?

Friends and families living far save a little bucks, buy gifts for their loved ones, and travel to their homes just to meet their close ones. Dashain festival is not just an occasion; it is the pure bond of love of family that brings everyone together into this amazing feeling of togetherness. During this important festival, schools and colleges are also officially closed down. Having kids at home, their excitement and happiness for Dashain celebrations is just beyond description.

The Dashain Festival is all about the pure love and bonding of family, and buying new clothes, decorating homes and furniture, sprucing up the house, and preparing for sumptuous feasting with varieties of home-made foods. Everyone enjoys Dashain to the fullest, for this festival is by all means for children and adults alike.

When is Dashain in 2025?

Dashain 2025 starts with Ghatasthapana on Monday, September 22. On the seventh day, the Phulpati, will take place on September 29; Maha Ashtami is on 30th and Maha Navami on October 1, while Vijaya Dashami, the grandest day, is to celebrate Dashain's most auspicious event when there is a partaking of Tika with Jamara, is on October 2 (According to the Nepali Calendar, the date for Dashain Tika will be 16th Ashoj, 2082).

People celebrate this festival for five subsequent days, even after Vijaya Dashami, which is called Kojagrat Purnima. All these days, relatives and families visit each other's homes, apply Tika, enjoy the feast, and experience the happiness of togetherness together.

Best Auspicious Time to Apply Tika for Dashain 2026: Vijaya Dashami Tika Timing 2083

During the Dashain celebrations in 2025 in Nepal, the first auspicious Tika timing is 09:38 AM (Nepali Standard Time) and 11:21 AM (Australian Standard Time). According to the Hindu traditions, this time is very auspicious for Hindu rites that invoke prosperity, positivity, and blessings on families. These are the pious timings officially announced by the Nepal Panchanga Nirnayak Samiti (Development Committee for Nepal Calendar Determination).

Tika and Jamara are received facing east, by all family members (towards the Purba direction) from the elders during the ceremony. This direction is believed to give power to the spiritual energy and blessings of the ritual. The vermilion Tika symbolizes love, protection, and the divine blessings of the elders. Performing this Tika rite precisely at the given time is believed to maximize its spiritual benefit to the family.

Even though the best auspicious time is at Vijaya Dashami, the Tika custom continues for five more days until Kojagrat Purnima, allowing the extra time for those who are not able to visit their other family members on the same day, and also for those who are traveling from distant places. While there are no set timings for the latter days, respect for and observance of this ceremony are always performed by families in great devotion.

This Tika timing changes every year, with minor variations based on your city or country. If you live outside Nepal, you should look for the public announcement by the Nepal Panchanga Nirnayak Samiti to confirm the time to receive the Dashain Tika.

Planning Your Nepal Trip During Dashain 2026

Are you worried about Dashain 2025 ruining your travel plans to Nepal? Do not be worried! It is actually going to enliven and enrich your trip in the country by experiencing the unique atmospheres of Nepali traditions, temple rituals, family celebrations, and most importantly, the beautiful scenery around the country. Besides, this is the time of all kinds of natural wonders that beautify the country. Basically, trekking occurs in October and November, as all the incredible aftermath of the monsoon leaves its way and allows the crystal sky to become clear. Furthermore, the trails remain dry, making trekking flawless and easy for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or the Everest Base Camp Trek.

In fact, November is the best month for trekking in Nepal, as the monsoonal disturbance has been offset and the clear skies become crystal clear. The trails of the country, having all-natural beauty, are dry now and easy to trek.

People from different countries were aghast at the beauty of the ancient temples thronged by devotees and streets dazzled with bright decorations as they celebrated Dashain in Nepal. The festival period thus witnessed the gathering of all communities to participate in the ancient custom of Dashain. It is alive with prayers, hymns, chants, and laughter, and those travelers willing to go beyond mere sightseeing get a close encounter with the culture of the place.

Of course, going to Nepal during this period is more than a good idea; it is almost an invitation for visitors to come and enjoy this festival. Indeed, such a journey involves experiencing the great mountains of Nepal, fused with cultural traditions that are vibrant, rich, and ancient, and making it a truly wonderful experience never to be forgotten.

How Different Communities Celebrate Dashain in Nepal?

Dashain, one of the most awaited festivals in Nepal, is full of happiness, togetherness, and celebrations. It is observed in different ways due to the country's diversity. Different communities celebrate Dashain differently with their own ancient customs and traditions. According to their traditions and their faith, each group celebrates Dashain at its fullest, this being a festival common to all communities from the hilly regions of the valley to the plains.

The Newar community features traces of ancient rites projected through cultural shows during Dashain. Likewise, elders bless younger family members through Tika and Jamara. The community feasts have traditional Newari foods, and also do animal sacrifices in temples.

Like this, Dashain of the Tharu community in the Terai region is staged alongside colorful folk dances, processions, and community gorging ceremonies that often hybrids the religious importance of the festival with cacophonous social jolly. The families travel home to the more rural areas of Nepal as they prepare for family-observed rituals, while cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara host temple and public celebrations that bring devotees from all over the country.

Communities such as Tamang, Gurung, and Magar also bring their own unique twist to the festival. They place much emphasis on worshiping as a community, chanting, and making local music while practicing the main Dashain traditions of worshiping Goddess Durga, praying for prosperity, and blessing.

Dashain remains the festival through which all ethnic groups unite in terms of language and culture for the purpose of promoting social harmony between family units and national identity. Experiencing the Dashain festival in Nepal gives travelers a different view into that wonderful tapestry of practices and ancient traditions, all of which in itself is a very cultural and spiritual experience.

Dashain 2026 Around the World: Celebrations Beyond Nepal

Dashain or Vijaya Dashami is an admirable festival that is not only celebrated in Nepal but also in other parts of the world where Hindu communities are living. This festival, which has its origins in Nepal, was carried away due to many people migrating beyond the Nepalese borders.

In some places in India, like Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, and some regions in South India, it is also celebrated under a different name (Navaratri, Dussehra, or Dashera) at times mixed with local traditions and some Nepali ceremonies. In Burma (now known as Myanmar), Gurkhas celebrate Dashain and its rituals with great happiness and celebrations.

Across the world, Dashain has become popular as many Nepalese are residing in America, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and many other countries.

Dashain Foods & Traditional Delicacies

Dashain features the delicious traditional Nepalese food items. It particularly celebrates the rituals and blessings, but the food is the key to celebrating Dashain. It is for enjoying the quality time of family, feasting together on traditional Nepalese foods.

Various delicious dishes, which signify the cultural richness of Nepal, would be prepared by people; the most preferred are sel roti (sweet rice doughnuts), meat curries, and momo (dumplings) with vegetable preparations meant to complement these two for family gatherings and festive meals.

Some households may prepare goat or buffalo meat instead; the meat will be shared among family members, most typically on the New Year. For those who do not perform the ritual, they would still be enjoying paneer, lentils, and seasonal vegetables to keep the spirit high. All those foods befit Goddess Durga as they represent prosperity and togetherness and express gratitude for her blessings.

Food is somewhat useful in consolidating social bonds according to Dashain traditions, giving room for each relative and friend to be invited to each other's homes to eat and celebrate. This culinary gathering brings together traditional recipes, festive atmosphere, and family meetings, making Dashain an equally culinary celebration as a spiritual one, giving an authentic taste of Nepali culture.

Best Dashain Foods To Eat In Nepal

1. Sel Roti- A traditional Nepali food item, made of rice and sugar, doughnut–shaped, crispy outside, soft inside, served during Dashain with tea or yogurt.
2. Momo- dumpling steamed or fried, filled with meat or vegetables, but popular during family gatherings in Nepal, festive, happy times.
3. Gundruk and Dhido- fermented leafy greens and a millet-based meal, both traditional dishes that normally find a place during Dashain preparations in rural home settings.
4. Goat/Buffalo Curry is prepared as a ritual offering among meat dishes, then shared among family members to signify wealth.
5. Aloo Tama-Potato & Bamboo shoot curry- a distinct Nepali curry typical during even festive meals.
6. Another dessert called Kheer or Rice Pudding- sweetened with rice, milk, sugar, prepared for the offerings, preparation for family feasts.
7. A full traditional Nepali platter, three lentils, vegetables, and meat, and perfect for Dashain feasts, the thakali set meal.

FAQs About Dashain 2026

Q1. When is Dashain 2026 celebrated in Nepal?
Dashain 2026 starts on October 11 to October 25.

Q2. What is the main day of Dashain 2025?
The main day, Bijaya Dashami (Vijaya Dashami), falls on October 21, 2026.

Q3. What time is auspicious for Tika in Dashain 2026?
The most auspicious time for Dashain Tika in Nepal is 09:38 AM on Bijaya Dashami.

Q4. Why is Dashain celebrated?
Dashain celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

Q5. How long does Dashain last?
Dashain is celebrated for 15 days, with different rituals each day.

Q6. What are the common foods eaten during Dashain?
Popular Dashain foods include sel roti, goat curry, momo, kheer, and other festive delicacies.

Q7. Do all communities in Nepal celebrate Dashain?
Yes, while Hindus celebrate it religiously, other communities in Nepal also enjoy it as a national festival.

Q8. Is Dashain celebrated outside Nepal?
Yes, Nepali communities celebrate Dashain worldwide, including in India, Bhutan, Myanmar, the USA, Australia, Japan, and Europe.