essay on holi in nepali

• WishesinEnglish
• Birthday Wishes
• Hindi Wishes Shayari
• Nepali Wishes Shayari
• Write for us
• Happy Nepali New Year 2081

Essay on Holi Festival in Nepali Language होली निबंध

Find here Holi festival essay in Nepali language. We have posted here an essay about Holi in Nepal. Get this essay about Holi in Nepali language. This essay on Holi in Nepal is just for you. Read an online free essay on Holi festival in Nepal.

If you want, you can download this holi festival essay in Nepali. Free online essay on Holi in Nepal. Ready to read free about Holi Nibandh in Nepali language and font.

होली पर्व हिन्दूहरूले मनाउने प्रमुख चाडहरू मध्ये एक हो। होली एक चाड हो जुन सम्पूर्ण भारतमा ठूलो धूमधामका साथ मनाइन्छ। हरेक भारतीयले होलीको पर्व हर्षोल्लासका साथ मनाउने गर्छन् ।

यस दिन सबै मानिसहरूले आफ्ना सबै पिडा बिर्सेर एकअर्कालाई अँगालो हाल्छन्। होलीका रङहरूले हामी सबैलाई एकताबद्ध तुल्याउँछ र सम्बन्धमा प्रेम र सम्बन्धको रंग भर्छ। होलीको पर्वलाई हाम्रो भारतीय संस्कृतिको सबैभन्दा सुन्दर रङ मानिन्छ।

सबै चाडपर्वहरू जस्तै होली पर्वको पछाडि पनि धेरै विश्वास प्रचलित छन्। होली कसरी मनाइन्छ, होलीको महत्व के हो, होलिका को थिइन्, यी सबैको जानकारी हामीले हाम्रो पोस्ट मार्फत दिनेछौँ । यससँगै विद्यालय र कलेजका विद्यार्थीहरूलाई होलीमा निबन्ध लेख्न भनिएको छ ।

Advertisement

हाम्रो यो पोष्टबाट, विद्यार्थीहरूले होली बारे थप जानकारी प्राप्त गर्न सक्छन् ताकि उनीहरूले स्कूल वा कलेजमा निबन्ध प्रतियोगितामा राम्रोसँग भाग लिन सकून्।

Essay on Holi Festival in Nepali Language

वसंत बरफलाई पग्लिने ऋतु (season) हो । ऋतु (season) होइन, ऋतुराज । वसंत कामदेव को मित्र हो । कामदेव नै त सृजन को सम्भव बनाउनेवाला देवता हो । अशरीरी भएर ऊ प्रकृति को कण-कण मा व्यापता छ । वसंत उनलाई सरस अभिव्यक्ति प्रदान गर्छन् ।

सरसता यदि कतै कुनै कही छ भने लुकेको छ, वसंत त्यसमा यति ऊर्जा (energy) भरी दिन्छन् कि ऊ हरीतमा देखिन्छ । वसंत उत्सव (celebration) हो सम्पूर्ण प्रकृति (nature) को प्राणवंत ऊर्जा को विस्फोट को । प्रतीक छ सृजनात्मक शक्ति को उदग्र महास्फोट को । यसैले वसंत पंचमी (Vasant Panchami) सृजन को अधिष्ठात्री देवी सरस्वती को पूजा को दिन हो ।

हिन्दु जाति को लागि वसंत पंचमीको अरु पनि धेरै महत्व छ ।

रंगहरु को जन्ती लिएर वसंत आउछ भने आनन्दले सारा परिवेश सराबोर भई उठछ । वसंत र कामदेव को सम्बन्ध शिव को साथ पनि हो । शिव काम को भस्म पनि गर्छन् र पुनर्जीवन पनि दिन्छन् । शिव पुरुष पनि हुन् र स्त्री पनि । निराला पनि अर्धनारीश्वर हुन् । उनमा एकातिर पुरुषत्व को अनुरूप रूपासक्ति र आक्रामकता थियो भने अर्कोतिर नारीत्व को अनुरूप आत्मरति तथा र्समर्पण को प्रबल भावना पनि थियो ।

वसंत को यो हर्षोल्लास संक्रामक हो । प्रकृति (nature) ले पैाणहरुसम्म अलिकति सुगन्ध फैलाउछ । रक्त संचार मा रसानुभूति को आवेग हुन्छ । यो सब घटित हुन्छ केवल स्वरको मादकताको प्रताप ले ।

होली मौज को पर्व (festival) हो, मिलन को पर्व हो, दुस्ख भुल्ने पर्व (festival) हो । मानिस भंग चाहन्छन्, एक अर्कोमा प्रेम Love ले अबीर Abir उडाउछन्, अबिर दल्छन्, रंग दिन्छन्र पुरानोे शत्रुतालाई भुल्छन् । ढोल-मृदङ बजाउछन् र होली गाउछन् । निम्न फागुको गीत songs मा रसिकता देखिन्छ । 

Find here holi festival essay in Nepali language.We have posted here essay about holi in Nepal. Get this essay about holi in Nepali language. This essay on holi in nepal is just for you. Read online free essay on holi festival in Nepal. If you want, you can download this holi festival essay in Nepali. Free online essay on holi in Nepal. Ready to read free about holi nibandh in Nepali language and font.

एक गीतमा गोपीहरुले कृष्ण (Lord Krishna) को खूब खबर लिन्छन् । कृष्ण (Lord Krishna) गोपीहरु को कुनै -न-कुनै बहानाले तंग गर्थे । एक दिन गोपीहरु ले मिलेर एक योजना बनाए र कृष्ण (Lord Krishna) को पकड, उनलाई स्त्री (female) वेश बनाएर खूब खिल्ली उडाए ।

होली गाउदाको समय शृंगार लाई सानो सानो जोक्सहरु (jokes) नीरस हृदय मा पनि सरसता संचार गर्छन् । एक गोपिका कृष्ण (Lord Krishna) सँग होली खेल्न मनाही गर्न सक्दैनन्, तर उनी अलिकति बचाएर रंग दिए, बस यो ध्यान राख्नुहोस् –

चाहे सम्पूर्ण अंग-प्रत्यंग रंग ले सराबोर भइहालुन्, चिन्ता होइन, मा यौवन र उनको संरक्षिका कंचुकी को पति को अमानत को रूप मा अक्षत राख्नुचाहनाी हो । गीत मा ठूलो गहन प्रेम-व्यंजना परिलक्षित हुन्छ । गोपीहरुसँग छेडछाड गर्न कृष्णलाई ठूलो मजा आउछ । गोपीहरु पिटने धमकी दिन्छन् । कृष्ण (Lord Krishna) अलिकति पनि हिचकिचाउदैन् !

एक नायिका (actress) नायक (actor) सँग रंग न हाल्न अनुनय गर्छ । उनलाई भय छ कि रंग मा डूबी घर पुगेमा घर (home) को मानिस उनलाई बहिष्कार गरी दिनेछन्, किनकि पुरुष को साथ होली खेल्न पारिवारिक मर्यादा को उल्लंघन हुन्छ.

प्राचीन कालमा राजघरानाहरु मा सुनको पिचकारी मा केसर को रंग भरेर होली खेलिन्थ्यो । आनंदाधिक्य मा मानिस दस मन केसर घोलर रंग बनाउछन् र अबिर यति धेरै उडाउछ न्कि सम्पूर्ण नभमंडल रक्तवर्ण्र्ााुन्छ –

वसंत (vasant) लाई शीतोष्ण वायु जसरी नै तन मन (body and soul) लाई र्स्पर्श गर्छन्, समस्त मानवता शीत को चादर छोडेर हर्षोल्लास मनाउन थाल्छ । वैदिक कालदेखि वर्तमान काल सम्म प्रत्येक युगलाई हिन्दु साहित्य (Hindu literature) मा वसंत को मनबहलाउने मनोरंजक वर्ण्र्ााको रुपमा पढन पाइन्छ । यिनलाई थाहा हुन्छ कि प्राचीन काल मा वसंत मा ‘वन विहार’ ‘झूला’, (झूलना), ‘फूलहरु को शृंगार’ र ‘मदन उत्सव’ मनाउने अदभुत परम्परा (tradition) थियो ।

आज वातावरण मा चतर्ुर्दिक मादकता छरिरहेका छन्। पृथ्वी को कण-कणमा हास र उल्लास छरिएका रहन्छन् । मंद-मंद पवन मा सुगंध को सुखद फुलहरु फुलेका छन्। प्रकृति को रंगशाला आज बेहुली को जस्तो सजिएको छ । सजिनु पनि छ उनलाई । आखिर आज मदनोतत्सव को रस वषर्ी पर्व जो हो ।

लौ! भमराहरु को शहनाई पनि बज्यो र कोइली ले पंचम स्वर मा आफनो मधुर राग गाइरहेका छन् । समस्त चराचर रंग  (colors) मा डुबेका छन् । आज आफनो समस्त वैभव र अपर्ूव साज-शृंगार को साथ प्रकृति रानी उसको स्वागत (welcome) अभिनंदन को लागि तयार छन् । फेरि यस्तो रस-रंग को क्षणहरु मा रसिक शिरोमणि कवि (poet) नै किन पछाडी रहे ।

बसंतागमन मा रातहरु (nights) रमणीय र दिवस (divas) सुखद हुन्छन् । वसुंधरा रस विभोर भइ उठछन् । हृदय मा अनुराग पनि मीठो-मीठो लाग्छ ।

रंगहरु (colors) को मौसम (season) हो । प्रकृति मा छाइरहेका छ नयाँ नयाँ रंग र बदलिरहेको छ यसको स्वरूप । के तपाईले कहिले सोच्नुभएको छ कि यसरी घर को स्वरूप को पनि रंगहरु ले बदलिन सकिन्छ । प्रकृति को रंग बदलिरहेको नै मौसम रमाइलो हुन्छ भने आउनुहोस् यसपटक रंगहरु को मौसममा घरलाई रंगहरुले बदल्नुहोस् र लिइ आएका छ घर (home) मा पनि मौसमको रमाइलोपन !

If you want, you can download this Holi festival essay in Nepali. Free online essay on holi in Nepal. Ready to read free about holi nibandh in Nepali language and font.

thank you. have a nice Holi festival 2021

• Top 550 Happy Holi Wishes, Messages, Quotes, SMS for Lovely Wife in English
• Holi Songs 2023 – 30 Best & Famous Bollywood Hindi Holi Songs of All Time
• 100 Happy Holi Wishes Images In Hindi Font For Your Whatsapp Friends

होली मा निबन्ध

होली पर्व प्रत्येक वर्ष फाल्गुन महिनामा विभिन्न प्रकारका रागहरूका साथ मनाइन्छ। हरेक घरमा विभिन्न प्रकारका परिकार बनाइन्छ । होली हिन्दुहरुको प्रमुख चाडका रुपमा परिचित छ । होली हिन्दु धर्मावलम्बीले मात्र नभई सबै समुदायले हर्षोल्लासका साथ मनाउने गर्छन् ।

मानिसहरु एकअर्कालाई अँगालो हालेर र रंगहरु लगाएर होली पर्व मनाउँछन् । यस अवधिमा धार्मिक तथा फागुन गीत पनि गाइन्छ । यस दिन विशेषगरी गुजिया, भांग, पापड, हलवा आदि खान्छौँ । रंगहरूको होलीको एक दिन अघि होलिका दहन गरिन्छ।

होलीमा निबन्ध (४०० शब्दमा)

होली पर्व मनाउनुको पछाडि पुरानो इतिहास छ । प्राचीन कालमा हिरण्यकशिपु नामक असुर थिए । उनको होलिका नामक एक दुष्ट बहिनी थिइन्। हिरण्यकश्यपुले आफूलाई देवता ठान्थे। हिरण्यकश्यपुको प्रह्लाद नामको पुत्र थियो। उनी भगवान विष्णुका परम भक्त थिए ।

हिरण्यकश्यपु भगवान विष्णुका विरोधी थिए। उनले प्रह्लादलाई विष्णुको पूजा गर्नबाट निकै रोके । तर प्रह्लादले उनको एक शब्द पनि सुनेनन् । यसबाट रिसाएर हिरण्यकश्यपुले प्रह्लादलाई मार्ने प्रयास गरे । यसका लागि हिरण्यकशिपुले आफ्नी बहिनी होलिकासँग सहयोग मागेका थिए ।

किनभने होलिकाले आगोमा नजल्ने वरदान पाएकी थिइन् । त्यसपछि होलिका प्रह्लादसँग चितामा बसिन् तर विष्णुको आशीर्वाद दिनेलाई के हुन्थ्यो र प्रह्लाद आगोमा सुरक्षित रहँदा होलिका त्यही आगोमा जलेर खरानी भइन् ।

यो कथाले बताउँछ कि असलले खराबमाथि विजय हासिल गर्नुपर्छ। आज पनि सबैले काठ, घाँस र गोबरको थुप्रो जलाएर होलिका दहन गर्छन् र भोलिपल्ट सबैले एकअर्कामा गुलाल, अबिर र विभिन्न रंगहरू खन्याई होली खेल्छन्। होली हरेक वर्ष फागुन महिनामा मनाइन्छ ।

होली पर्व नजिकिँदै गर्दा हाम्रो उत्साह पनि बढ्दै गएको छ । होली वास्तविक अर्थमा भारतीय संस्कृतिको प्रतीक हो, जसको रंग विविधतामा एकताको प्रतीक हो। मानिसहरूले एकअर्कालाई माया र स्नेहको गुलाल लगाउँछन्, सांस्कृतिक कार्यक्रम आयोजना गर्छन्, लोकगीत गाएर एकअर्काको मुहार मिठो बनाउँछन्।

भारतमा होली पर्व विभिन्न राज्यहरूमा विभिन्न तरिकाले मनाइन्छ। आज पनि ब्रजको होली देशैभरको आकर्षणको बिन्दु बनेको छ । बरसानेको लाठमार होली पनि निकै चर्चित छ । यसमा पुरुषले महिलालाई रंग दिन्छन् भने महिलाले पुरुषलाई लुगाले बनेको लाठी र कोर्राले पिट्छन् । त्यस्तै मथुरा र वृन्दावनमा पनि १५ दिनसम्म होली पर्व मनाइन्छ ।

कुमाऊँमा गीत बैठी छ जसमा शास्त्रीय संगीत सभाहरू हुन्छन्। यो सबै होली भन्दा केही दिन अघि सुरु हुन्छ। हरियाणाको धुलान्डीमा भाउजुलाई भाउजुले सताउने चलन छ ।

विभिन्न देशहरूमा बसोबास गर्ने आप्रवासीहरू र इस्कॉन वा वृन्दावनको बाँके बिहारी मन्दिर जस्ता धार्मिक संस्थाहरूमा होली सजावट र उत्सवहरू विभिन्न तरिकाले मनाइन्छ। जसमा धेरै समानता र धेरै भिन्नताहरू छन्।

Holi is an ancient Hindu festival, also referred to as the Festival of colors, the “day of happiness” and the “festival of spring”. Holi symbolizes the triumph of good over bad, love over hate. In India, the Festival of Colors was originally a day for the celebration of the victory of the gods over all the forces of evil in the world. Love is the main message of the Festival of Colors. Love and colors are closely related and when we have love in our lives, it is very easy to achieve true happiness. On this day, you can easily express your love and happiness with your family, friends, neighbors, and relatives by sending them some colored sweets. This year, the color orange will be the main symbol of the Festival of Colors. The orange color symbolizes the joyous nature of life. Orange color represents the happiness that we feel when we meet our loved ones again when we are able to get through the difficult times by remembering the good things that have happened to us. So, it is good to celebrate your happiness and the love you feel in the coming days and weeks with this color. The color green symbolizes health. Green symbolizes the growth of energy, which will help the body to fight against illness and maintain its beauty. As we grow old, our energy decreases, and the color green will help to maintain the energy we have in our bodies. The color green symbolizes our health maintenance. The red color represents devotion and loyalty. The red color symbolizes life and the strong love that we feel for our beloved ones. The red color is a very important color for celebrating this festival. To be more serious about the festival, some people also prefer to wear red clothes with their Indian sari. This is actually the best way of expressing the happiness that you feel during this festival. You can also wear the colors of your choice. Most people wear red and green because these colors are very beautiful and appealing to our eyes. For your convenience, most people also wear the traditional colors of India. These are the main colors of the festival. The color red is often combined with other colors to create more vibrant and colorful dresses. People also add more vibrant colors by adding red or green ribbons to the colorful saris. Red and green can be also worn together and they make a very attractive combination.

Related Posts

Holi 2024: top greeting cards to share the joy of colors with loved ones (48 images), दोस्तों और परिवार के लिए खास होली शायरी: 2024 का उत्कृष्ट संकलन.

A Guide to Hosting the Ultimate Holi Party

Happy Holi Drawings | Canvas of Colors: Unveiling the Joy of Holi in Every Drawing

Faces of Beautiful Holi Female Models – A Portrait Series

Behind the Lens: Capturing the Essence of Holi with a Beautiful Lady

Recent Posts

• राम नवमी की शुभकामनाएं: भक्ति भाव से परिपूर्ण शायरी संग्रह Happy Ram Navami Shayari in Hindi With Cards and Images
• Embark on a Brow Transformation Journey with Our Dynamic Eyebrow Course!
• Master the Art of Eyebrow Tattooing with Our Dynamic Course!
• Factors Affecting Coffee Vending Machine Prices: What You Need to Know
• Is THC-O Legal? Safety, Federal, and State Legal Status

• Privacy Policy

© 2023 Wishes, Messages, Travel, Lifestyle, Tips in English, Hindi and Nepali Mount Everest. Legal Support by Quotes .

• Travel, Information And Lifestyle Blog For Nepal & Nepalese People

Food and Festivals

Holi Festival in Nepal

By Suraj Katwal

Updated On Feb 18, 2024

Holi festival in Nepal is another most loved festival celebrated by Hindus from all around the world. Besides the biggest festivals, Dashain and Tihar , all age groups enjoy the festival of color in Nepal.

so, In this article, you are going to learn about

• What is Holi?

Why Holi is celebrated?

• The myth behind the Holi festival.
• How to celebrate Holi festival in Nepal including Tips ?
• Why is Holi called the festival of colors?

If you ever visit Nepal during early spring, then don’t ever miss the chance to celebrate the Holi festival.

Holi is famous among Hindus of all groups of people, especially the young ones. Holi is mostly famous in India and Nepal as these countries have the highest density of the Hindu population.

It is even becoming more popular among non-Hindus. The festival of color powder is loved by foreigners and people outside Asia are keen on this festival.

Besides celebrating the festival, on this day people love to dance, enjoy the concert, enjoy soft and hard drinks, etc.

People also collect firewood, light bonfires, add hemp to their food and drinks, and make fools of themselves.

The festival indicates the start of spring. In Nepal, the Holi festival is celebrated for 2 days.

Fagu Purnima – Holi Festival in Nepali

The Nepali name of the Holi festival is Fagu Purnima . Nepalese celebrate Holi on the Falgun (February-March) i.e. the 11th month of the Nepali calendar on the day of the full moon . so, Fagu is named after Falgun month and Purnima means a full moon .

Fagu Purnima is a festival celebrated by Hindus hailing the arrival of the Spring season. The festival is all about colors, love, joy, and excitement.

The Myth Behind Holi Festival

There are several legends describing how and why people started to celebrate the Holi festival.

The most popular story is about Lord Vishnu, the Evil King Hiranyakashipu, the king’s son Prahlad, and his evil aunt Holika .

All the myth is connected to Prahlad who is a devotee to Lord Vishnu. Prahlad’s father, King Hiranyakashipu who was the evil king. In the arrogance of his strength, he started believing himself as God.

He banned the name of God in his Kingdom but his own son Prahlad defied Hiranyakashipu and continued to worship Lord Vishnu.

King Hiranyakashipu tried to kill his own son Prahlad in different ways but the evil king failed. Finally, his sister Holika, who had received a boon that made her invulnerable to fire.

One day Hiranyakashipu and Holika decided to take Prahlad to Pyre. Holika convinced Prahlad that she would protect him from fire. Holika who was invulnerable to fire entered the pyre with Prahlad so that he would burn to death.

But, by the grace of Lord Vishnu, Prahlad was untouched by fire but Holika was burned to death. The next day, people smeared the ashes over their heads and bodies as a celebration of the victory of good over evil.

Later these days, people use colors instead and it becomes a tradition to play Holi between people as a celebration.

It is believed that Holi was originally celebrated to protect general people from different diseases that happen while changing the season from winter to spring.

Traditionally, the colors used in Holi were made using extracts of flowers and Herbs like Neem, Tumeric, Mehendi, Kumkum, etc. The natural colors used to work as Ayurvedic medicines.

The medicine was used to cure high fever, and skin diseases, and in fact, the color is best for the skin.

But nowadays, synesthetic colors are used in the Holi festival which is made using dyeing agents and other chemicals. The synesthetic colors have lost the medical value of Holi. But nevertheless, people enjoy the Holi festival.

How Holi is celebrated in Nepal?

Children start to play with colors a week before the actual Holi festival begins. A lingo (a long bamboo stick) is raised in Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu and wrapped in clothes with various colors (also known as Chir).

The day before Holi, the long bamboo log is taken down and the chir is burnt, signaling the start of Holi. This tradition is known as Chir Dahan or Holika Dahan, symbolizing the end of Holika.

The Holika Dahan is also performed in different town squares and villages by burning wooden logs to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

Although Holi is mostly associated with colors and water games, this is an important part of the festival too.

In Nepal, the Holi festival lasts for 2 days. people in the hilly region celebrate the festival on the first day of Holi followed by Terai region people on the second day.

On the day of Holi, people visit their friend’s and relatives’ houses and color each other, dance, and drink for the whole day. Nowadays people throw water at each other. so the Holi festival is all about color and water.

Families gather in one place and enjoy food, and music, including hard and soft drinks.

Countdown to Holi:  How many days to Holi?

Tips for Holi Festival in Nepal

Holi is a somewhat festival of freedom and celebrating it is free and open for people to play in Nepal. If you go out in the street, it is almost 100% sure that the people who are celebrating the Holi festival will get you into the colors and water. So be ready to get wet and colored.

If you are outsiders visiting Nepal during the Holi festival then we suggest getting involved in the Holi celebration. It is a one-time opportunity and you will get a lifetime experience.

There are lots of venues where people celebrate this festival full of joy and excitement. Basantapur, Jhamsikhel, Thamel, Lainchaur, etc are the famous places where people get together and celebrate the Holi festival annually.

You can gather together with your friends, and family and throw color and water. You can also play Holi with other participants and take part in parties too.

Moreover, you can enjoy concerts held in various places supported by local bands and artists sponsored by different national and international brands.

Let’s learn quick tips on how to celebrate Holi festival in Nepal .

• Buy white T-shirts. You can get cheap Holi-printed T-shirts that cost around 200-250 Nepalese rupees. so, after playing Holi, you can throw or keep it as a souvenir.
• Wear old pants or half pants so your new clothes don’t get ruined.
• Don’t wear leather or any new pair of clothes.
• If possible wear goggles to protect your eyes.
• Cover your ears with cotton.
• Cover your mobile phone and camera with plastic so that it won’t get wet.
• Don’t wear expensive ornaments.
• Do not eat anything given by strangers.
• People normally taste Hemp mixed with Lassi. Be aware of these kinds of stuff, you may feel Lightheadedness or Dizziness .
• Better play Holi with your friends and family.
• Better not to visit alone in the street during the festival.
• If you are prone to color allergy then totally avoid the Holi festival.
• If you are an outsider, get the guide with you.
• Enjoy soft drinks only ( If possible avoid them )
• Don’t drink and drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is holi and why is it celebrated.

Holi is a festival of colors played full of joy and excitement. Holi is celebrated to welcome the spring season. Also, there is a story relating to Lord Vishnu, Holika, Prahlad, and King Hiranyakashiapu .

In which Nepali month does Holi mostly fall?

Falgun , the 11th month of the Nepali Calendar is where the Holi festival falls. According to the Gregorian calendar, the Holi festival falls in March but sometimes in late February and it lasts for 2 days in Nepal.

How many festivals are there in Nepal?

There are over 50+ festivals celebrated yearly in Nepal. Most of the festival in Nepal falls on fixed dates. Among them, Dashain and Tihar are the biggest festivals.

Is Holi safe for tourists in Nepal?

Yes, Holi is totally safe for tourists in Nepal. Holi is an inclusive festival and foreigners are easily welcomed. Moreover, Nepalese love to play Holi with outsiders. But always be aware of bad companies.

Are you interested in celebrating the Holi festival in Nepal ? If the answer is YES then I hope this article helps to know more about Holi and how it is celebrated in Nepal including the valuable tips.

If you have feedback or comments please feel to post below in the comment box.

Read the post later. Pin it right now.

Suraj Katwal

Suraj is a travel enthusiast who believes in finding solace in the heart of nature. He enjoys exploring new destinations, different culture, and encouraging people to travel.

Related Articles...

Halal Restaurants in Kathmandu

Yarsagumba in Nepal: Cost, Benefits of Caterpillar Fungus

Best Thakali Restaurants in Kathmandu

Best Sekuwa Places in Kathmandu

Best Vegan Restaurants in Kathmandu

Best Biryani in Kathmandu

Shivaratri Wishes: 50+ Best Wishes in English & Nepali

Maha Shivaratri Festival in Nepal

2 thoughts on “Holi Festival in Nepal”

It is a very very interesting article. Totally unique. Thanks a lot, sir

Welcome !!!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

About stunning nepal.

Stunning Nepal is a travel blog that intends to provide travel tips, references & guides, things to do & also your guide for hiking & trekking in Nepal.

Travel Guide

Things To Do

Trekking in Nepal

Privacy Policy

Get in Touch

Stunning Nepal

Address: Dhanawantari Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

+977-9808211139

© 2024 Stunning Nepal. All Rights Reserved

Culture and Festivals

Holi festival in nepal.

Holi is not just a festival of colour in Nepal. Holi festival means the end of the cold winter nights in Nepal and the arrival of the beautiful spring season where there is greenery all over the nation.

Holi, often known as the "Festival of Colors," is a colorful and exuberant Hindu festival celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm throughout the Indian subcontinent and Nepal. It represents the triumph of virtue over evil, the arrival of spring's flowering beauty, and the promotion of community cooperation and friendship. Holi, which happens on the last full moon day of the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna, generally in March, signals the end of winter and the beginning of spring, a season full of color and vibrancy.

Holi festival has a special appeal in Nepal, a nation rich in traditions and culture. Aside from the religious importance associated with Hindu mythology, the Nepalese celebration reflects the country's unique cultural mix. While all age groups enjoy the celebrations, the youngsters are especially passionate, smearing each other with colorful powders, hurling water balloons, and participating in traditional songs and dances. The event emphasizes the feeling of togetherness, love, and joy via this riot of colors and activities, eliminating social divisions and establishing a sense of communal harmony.

Join us on a colorful trip across the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal to discover the myriad colours of the Holi festival, a celebration that transcends mere colors, weaving together tales of history, mythology, and the colourful fabric of Nepalese culture .

Importance of Holi in Nepal

Holi festival in Nepal reflects the country's vibrant cultural, spiritual, and agricultural fabric. It is a time of happiness and unity, when the nation celebrates life, love, and the enduring spirit of community harmony.

Cultural Unity and Harmony:

In Nepal's multiethnic landscape, the Holi festival is a significant event that promotes unity and harmony among diverse communities. As people gather together to celebrate, caste, creed, and ethnic distinctions vanish, paving the way for cultural exchange and camaraderie. As people visit their friends and family to play with colors and share celebratory treats, the festival promotes friendship and benevolence.

Spiritual Resonance:

Holi is spiritually anchored in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the triumph of virtue over evil. The story of the demon monarch Hiranyakashipu and his son Prahlada, a devout devotee of Lord Vishnu, is one of the legends associated with Holi. Each time Hiranyakashipu tries to murder Prahlada, Vishnu saves him, demonstrating the protective power of divine forces. The conflagration ceremony known as 'Holika Dahan' commemorates the burning of the demon Holika, who attempted to murder Prahlada, signifying the victory of faith and devotion over demonic forces.

Agricultural Relevance:

Holi is celebrated in Nepal , a country with agrarian origins, to commemorate the end of winter and the advent of spring – a time of rebirth and renewal. The festival coincides with the harvesting of the winter crop, and it's a time when farmers exult and honor the gods for a bountiful harvest. The riot of colors at the festival represents the various tints of the springtime, when blossoms flourish and fields are prepared for sowing the new produce.

Preserving Traditions and Customs:

Holi in Nepal is not limited to the use of colored powders. The festival is intricately interwoven with numerous traditional customs and rites. In various regions of Nepal, communities commemorate the festival in distinctive ways, preserving age-old traditions and folklore. These customs frequently involve traditional melodies, performances, and rituals that transmit Nepal's rich cultural heritage from generation to generation.

Tourist Attraction:

Holi has emerged as a major tourist attraction in Nepal in recent years. The celebrations, which are characterized by music, dance, and a kaleidoscope of colors, attract travelers from around the globe. Tourists flock to the streets of Kathmandu and Pokhara to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, photographing the vibrant moments and participating in community celebrations, thereby promoting cultural tourism in the nation.

Purpose of  Our Blog

In a world where cultures are broad and different, festivals like Holi connect people together by providing insights into rich history and vitality traditions and customs. We hope to go on a bright journey that digs deep into the spirit of the Holi celebration as celebrated in Nepal's magnificent landscapes through this blog. Our mission is multifaceted, and we've outlined the objectives that are driving this colorful adventure below:

1. Documentation and Preservation of Cultural Heritage:

This blog aims to chronicle the rich cultural traditions that characterize Holi festivities in Nepal by capturing the many aspects of the festival. Its goal is to preserve these stories for future generations, building a strong respect for Nepal's cultural legacy.

2. Educational Resource:

This site aims to be a thorough resource for anybody interested in learning about the unique customs and significance of the Holi celebration in Nepal. We hope to provide readers with a comprehensive grasp of the festival's historical, cultural, and spiritual components via rich observations and anecdotes.

3. Tourism Promotion:

The blog attempts to showcase Nepal as a dynamic tourism destination, particularly during the Holi season, through descriptive words and a vibrant picture trip. We hope that by highlighting the festivities and the social cohesion that the festival generates, we might inspire people to come and experience the cheerful events for themselves, therefore increasing cultural tourism in the nation.

4. Interaction and Community Engagement:

The blog aims to engage the community by providing personal tales and first-hand experiences, inviting readers to submit their own experiences and stories. We intend to establish a community where folks can connect and communicate while celebrating the happy spirit of Holi through interactive aspects such as comments and debates.

5. Celebrating Togetherness and Differences:

At its heart, this site celebrates the Holi festival's harmony and variety. We hope to highlight the magnificent tapestry of unity in variety that characterizes Nepalese society by exploring unique cultures, traditions, and festivities throughout different areas of Nepal.

Table Of Content

Holi festival facts, origin of holi festival.

Holi is one of the most joyful festivals in Nepal and other South Asian countries. It has its roots in old Hindu traditions and myths, which have been passed down through the years. Here, we talk about the history of this exciting festival:

Ancient References

Scriptural References: The earliest mentions of a festival resembling Holi can be found in ancient scriptures like the ‘Puranas’ and the poems of the 7th-century poet, Harsha. Additionally, the famous Indian play "Ratnavali," written by Harsha, vividly describes the festival's spirit, celebrating love and colors.

Historical Frescos and Art: Historical artifacts, including frescos and paintings, hint at the festival's age-old lineage, often depicting scenes of people engaging in festivities akin to Holi, symbolizing its deep roots in the subcontinent's cultural tapestry.

Mythological Origins

Holika and Prahlada: The most popular legend associated with the origin of Holi is the tale of Holika and Prahlada. According to mythology, Prahlada, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, was targeted by his father, King Hiranyakashipu, who despised Vishnu. Prahlada's unwavering faith protected him against his father's cruelties, culminating in the burning of the demoness Holika, who was Hiranyakashipu's sister. The festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is commemorated by lighting bonfires on the eve of Holi, known as ‘Holika Dahan’.

Lord Krishna's Playful Antics: Another significant mythological reference is associated with Lord Krishna, who is said to have popularized the playful coloring during Holi. The playful and mischievous nature of Krishna, where he played pranks by throwing colored water and powders on his beloved Radha and other gopis, has been emulated as a significant part of Holi celebrations, fostering love and togetherness.

Cultural Integration

Integration with Local Customs: Over the centuries, Holi has integrated various local customs and traditions from different regions, making it a multifaceted celebration that embodies unity in diversity. In Nepal, it has absorbed distinct Nepalese traditions, and each community adds its unique flavor to the festival.

Influence on Literature and Arts: The festival has found profound reflections in literature, poetry, and arts over the centuries. Numerous poems, stories, and paintings have depicted the vibrancy and joyous spirit of Holi, testifying to its deep-rooted influence on the cultural and artistic avenues of the region.

As we trace the vibrant lineage of Holi, it unfolds as a rich tapestry woven with threads of faith, love, and communal harmony. This festival, steeped in legend and history, continues to be a beacon of joy, bringing people together in a joyous celebration that transcends boundaries and fosters unity.

How is the Holi Festival Celebrated in Nepal?

Holi in Nepal has grown and metamorphosed over centuries, absorbing various cultural, social, and regional influences. Let's take a journey through time to witness how this vibrant festival has evolved in the picturesque landscapes of Nepal:

Early Beginnings

Vedic Connections: Initially, the festival had connections to the Vedic period, where it was seen as a festival of fertility and harvest, celebrated with rituals and prayers for a bountiful season.

Royal Endorsements: Historically, Holi celebrations were grand events patronized by the royal families of Nepal. The royal endorsement further entrenched the festival's significance within Nepali society, with grandeur and magnificence characterizing the celebrations.

Middle Ages

Cultural Synthesis: As Nepal navigated through the middle ages, the festival absorbed a synthesis of Indo-Aryan and Tibeto-Burman traditions, encapsulating a diverse range of customs, rituals, and festivities.

Literary Depictions: Many Nepali literary works from the middle ages offer vivid portrayals of Holi celebrations, indicating its pervasive influence in society. Artists and poets were often inspired by the festival, weaving tales and paintings that centered around the joyous celebrations of Holi.

Modern Times

Community Celebrations: In modern times, the festival has moved beyond the royal courtyards to the streets and alleys of Nepal, becoming a mass celebration that brings communities together. From children to elders, everyone participates in the festivities, smearing colors on each other and sharing sweets and delicacies.

Tourism and Global Recognition: Today, the festival has also become a significant tourist attraction. Tourists from around the world flock to Nepal to witness and partake in the vibrant celebrations, thus giving Holi a global recognition. The Nepali government and local organizations often arrange special events and programs to showcase the festival's rich cultural hues to the world.

Contemporary Innovations

Environmental Concerns: In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on celebrating an eco-friendly Holi. Initiatives are being taken to use organic colors, minimize water wastage, and create awareness about the environmental implications of the festival.

Art and Music Fusion: Contemporary celebrations often feature a fusion of traditional and modern elements. While traditional songs and dances continue to be an integral part of the celebrations, modern music genres and art forms have found a place in the festivities, attracting the younger generation to be a part of the cultural extravaganza.

Through the corridors of time, Holi in Nepal has evolved to become a festival that epitomizes unity, love, and joy. As we look forward to the future, the festival promises to continue its vibrant journey, adapting and integrating new elements while retaining its traditional essence and charm.

Spiritual Significance of Holi Festival

Holi is not just a festival of colors but a celebration that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. In this section, we shall explore the profound meanings and traditions that encompass the vibrant festival of Holi in Nepal.

Spiritual Significance

Purification and Renewal

Inner Purification: Holi is often seen as a time of inner purification. The burning of the Holika bonfire symbolizes the burning of inner impurities, allowing individuals to start anew, with renewed energy and purity.

Spiritual Renewal: The festival encourages individuals to let go of past grievances and negative energies, fostering spiritual renewal and positive beginnings.

Community Bonding

Unity and Brotherhood: Holi fosters a spirit of community bonding, as people come together, forgetting differences and indulging in joyous celebrations.

Spread of Love and Compassion: The playful exchange of colors serves as a medium to spread love and compassion, encouraging individuals to embrace each other with warmth and affection.

Relation to Hindu Mythology

Legend of Prahlada

Victory of Good over Evil: The legend of Prahlada and Hiranyakashipu, central to the Holi festival, embodies the victory of good over evil, highlighting the protective grace of the divine forces.

Faith and Devotion: The story of Prahlada also emphasizes the significance of unwavering faith and devotion, which triumphs over adversarial forces.

Krishna-Radha Romance

Celebration of Divine Love: The playful antics of Krishna with Radha and the gopis symbolize the celebration of divine love, where colors become a medium of expressing affection and joy.

Spirit of Playfulness: The Krishna-Radha narrative brings forth the spirit of playfulness and joy, encouraging individuals to shed inhibitions and revel in the festive spirit.

Symbolism of Colors

Representation of Nature's Hues

Spring Blossoms: The vibrant colors of Holi represent the blossoms of spring, symbolizing nature's renewal and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle.

Harmony with Nature: The diverse hues used during Holi encourage individuals to harmonize with nature, appreciating the beauty and vibrancy that nature offers.

Psychological and Emotional Resonance

Joy and Happiness: The bright colors, often associated with joy and happiness, uplift the spirit, encouraging individuals to immerse themselves in the festive mood.

Healing and Rejuvenation: The festival, with its riot of colors, serves as a time for healing and rejuvenation, allowing individuals to break free from the monotony of daily life and celebrate with gusto and enthusiasm.

The cultural significance of Holi transcends beyond the play of colors, embodying deep spiritual meanings, mythical narratives, and a beautiful canvas of vibrant hues that mirror life's beauty and diversity. As we delve deeper into the festival's essence, it unfolds as a rich celebration that nurtures community bonds, spiritual growth, and a deep appreciation for the vibrant tapestry of life.

Cultural Importance of Holi Festival

Nepal's Holi holiday is more than just a chance to play with bright colors. It is also an important part of the country's culture. Holi has its roots in Hindu lore and faith. It is a celebration of Nepal's rich history and community. Holi brings the whole country to life with bright colors and happy parties. It also marks the beginning of spring, which is a time of rebirth and growth. Holi encourages people to put aside their differences and come together in a spirit of peace and friendship through the different and unique traditions and customs that are practiced in different parts of Nepal. From traditional songs and dances to the sharing of delicious foods, the festival shows what Nepalese culture is all about. It is a rich experience that combines spiritual meaning with joyful community events.

A Mosaic of Traditions

Holi is a reflection of the rich cultural mosaic that Nepal embodies. The festival, through its vibrant celebrations, showcases the beautiful interplay of traditions, customs, and beliefs that are intrinsic to Nepalese society.

Regional Variations

Diverse Celebrations: In Nepal, the celebration of Holi varies across different regions, with each region adding its distinct flavor to the festival, making it a truly diverse and enriching experience.

Integration of Various Traditions: Over time, the festival has assimilated various traditions and customs, representing the unity in diversity that characterizes Nepalese society.

Strengthening Community Ties

Social Harmony: Holi serves as a platform to strengthen community ties. It fosters social harmony as people from all walks of life come together to celebrate, transcending social and economic barriers.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness: The festival encourages individuals to reconcile with others, letting go of past disputes and embracing each other with a spirit of forgiveness and camaraderie.

Fostering Friendships

Building New Relationships: Holi is a time where new friendships are fostered. The open-hearted celebrations provide a platform for people to interact, bond, and build new relationships.

Interactions Across Generations: The festival sees participation from all age groups, encouraging interactions across generations, and fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

Celebration of Spring

Welcome to the Spring Season

Agricultural Significance: Historically, Holi has been linked to the agricultural cycle, marking the end of winter and the onset of the spring season, a time of harvest and hope.

Connection with Nature: The festival encourages individuals to connect with nature, celebrating the blossoms of spring through vibrant colors that mirror the hues of the blossoming flowers.

Joyous Expression of Life

Celebration of Life's Vibrancy: The festival embodies a joyous expression of life, encouraging individuals to immerse themselves in the vibrant energies that the spring season brings, marking a time of renewal and rejuvenation.

Creativity and Artistic Expression: Holi fosters creativity and artistic expression, as people indulge in crafting colorful rangolis, preparing delicious delicacies, and engaging in song and dance, celebrating life in its most vibrant form.

The cultural significance of Holi in Nepal is a multifaceted celebration that embodies community bonding and the joyous welcoming of spring. It reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal, fostering unity, love, and a deep appreciation for the vibrant nuances of life.

Holi Festival Preparation

The beauty of the Holi festival is perhaps most vividly captured in the lead-up to the main event, where the atmosphere buzzes with excitement and anticipation. In this section, we turn our focus to the preparation phase which sees communities coming together to gear up for the grand celebration.

Preparation

Cleaning and Decorating Homes

Spring Cleaning: As part of the preparation, families indulge in spring cleaning, giving their homes a fresh and vibrant look to welcome the festival.

Decorative Rangolis: Many households adorn their entrances with colorful rangolis, a traditional form of art that uses colored powders to create intricate designs and patterns.

Community Engagements

Community Meetings: In the lead-up to the festival, community meetings are often organized to plan the festivities, fostering a spirit of cooperation and unity.

Preparation of Bonfires: Preparations for the Holika Dahan involve gathering wood and other materials for the bonfires that symbolize the victory of good over evil.

Shopping and Gathering of Materials

Buying Colors and Water Guns

Markets Abuzz with Activity: Markets become a hub of activity as people throng to buy colors, water guns, and other items essential for the celebration.

Variety of Colors: Shops stock up on a variety of colors, including powders and water-soluble colors, to cater to the enthusiastic crowd ready to indulge in the color play.

Clothing and Accessories

Traditional Attire: Many opt to buy new clothes for the occasion, with traditional attire taking center stage during the celebrations.

Protective Accessories: Alongside, shops also offer protective accessories such as sunglasses and scarves to help revelers protect themselves during the boisterous celebrations.

Making of Special Delicacies

Culinary Delights

Sweets and Savories: The festival is incomplete without an array of sweets and savories. Families come together to prepare traditional delicacies that are shared among neighbors and friends.

Special Holi Dishes: In Nepal, special dishes like gujia, a sweet dumpling made of wheat flour with a stuffing of sweet ingredients, become a staple during the festival.

Drinks and Refreshments

Thandai: A special drink called Thandai, often mixed with Bhang, is a popular beverage enjoyed during Holi. It is made with a mixture of almonds, fennel seeds, watermelon kernels, rose petals, pepper, vetiver seeds, cardamom, saffron, milk, and sugar.

Refreshing Drinks: Apart from Thandai, households prepare a variety of refreshing drinks to cater to the guests, helping them to cool off amidst the spirited celebrations.

In this vibrant phase, the whole community comes alive with a kaleidoscope of activities, transforming the region into a canvas of joy and celebration. From shopping sprees to culinary preparations, the festivities foster a sense of unity and excitement, setting the stage for a memorable Holi celebration.

Main Events During the Holi Festival

The heartbeat of the Holi festival lies in its main events, each carrying a unique traditional significance and bringing communities together in a joyous and vibrant celebration. In this section, we delve into the key events that mark the Holi festival in Nepal, exploring the stories, rituals, and traditions that encompass them.

Holika Dahan: The Burning of the Holika

Symbolism of Holika Dahan

Victory of Good over Evil: The ritual signifies the victory of good over evil, with the burning of the Holika representing the destruction of negative forces and the triumph of positivity.

Purification Ritual: It also serves as a purification ritual, encouraging individuals to let go of negativity and embrace new beginnings with purity of heart and mind.

Gathering of Communities: Communities come together to gather wood and other materials to create a bonfire, symbolizing the burning of Holika.

Prayers and Offerings: The evening witnesses prayers and offerings, with individuals seeking blessings for prosperity and protection from evil forces.

Lathmar Holi: The Play with Sticks and Shields

Historical Background

Radha and Krishna: This tradition traces back to the playful antics of Radha and Krishna. It is believed that Krishna teased Radha and her friends, who responded by playfully hitting him with sticks.

Representation of Playfulness: This event captures the spirit of playfulness and joy that characterizes the romantic tales of Radha and Krishna.

The Celebration

Women versus Men: In this vibrant event, women playfully hit men with sticks, who defend themselves with shields, engaging in a friendly mock battle.

Music and Dance: Accompanying the playful battles are music and dance, adding to the festive spirit and joyous atmosphere.

Phagu Purnima: The Celebration with Colors

Significance

Welcoming Spring: This event marks the welcoming of the spring season, a time of joy, renewal, and blossoming of nature.

Community Bonding: It fosters community bonding, as individuals indulge in playful exchanges of colors, coming together in a spirit of unity and togetherness.

Celebration Details

Color Play: Streets come alive with people smearing each other with vibrant colors, engaging in a joyous celebration that breaks barriers and fosters friendships.

Water Games: Apart from colors, water games are a popular part of the celebration, with people playfully dousing each other with water.

Chir Haran: The Ritual of Tree Worship

Historical Roots

Ancient Tradition: This is an ancient tradition that honors nature, embodying the deep-seated reverence for trees and the environment that is intrinsic to Nepalese culture.

Connection with Lord Krishna: The ritual also connects with the tales of Lord Krishna, symbolizing his playful nature and deep connection with nature.

Gathering Around Trees: Communities gather around trees, engaging in prayers and rituals that seek to honor and worship the trees.

Offerings and Decorations: The trees are adorned with colorful decorations and offerings, embodying the spirit of respect and reverence for nature.

The main events of the Holi festival in Nepal are a vibrant tapestry of rituals and celebrations that embody the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region. From playful exchanges to solemn rituals, these events capture the essence of Holi, bringing communities together in a joyous and harmonious celebration.

Special Attractions of Holi Festival

A true embodiment of the festive spirit of Holi can be witnessed in the myriad special attractions that grace the occasion. From pulsating musical events to captivating dance and art performances, these attractions add a touch of glamour and festivity, turning the celebration into a grand spectacle. Let’s explore these vibrant attractions in detail:

Musical Events

Traditional Music

Folk Music: The Holi festival is accentuated with the resonant tunes of traditional folk music, echoing the rich musical heritage of Nepal. Groups of musicians wander through the streets, filling the air with melodious tunes that signify the festive spirit.

Bhajans and Kirtans: Devotional songs, known as Bhajans, and Kirtans are an integral part of the celebration. These spiritual renditions evoke a sense of devotion and reverence during the festival.

Contemporary Music

Live Concerts: As the festival transcends into a modern celebration, live concerts featuring contemporary artists become a highlight. These concerts become a melting pot where traditional and modern music genres coalesce.

DJ and Electronic Music: To cater to the younger generation, DJ nights and electronic music sessions are organized, where people groove to the beats and celebrate Holi in a more contemporary style.

Dance and Art Performances

Traditional Dance

Classical Dance Performances: The festival witnesses spellbinding performances of classical dances, portraying tales from Hindu mythology and reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal.

Folk Dance: Different communities showcase their unique folk dances, turning the festival into a vibrant and lively showcase of cultural diversity.

Art Installations and Exhibitions

Street Art: The festival sees an emergence of vibrant street art, with artists using the streets as their canvas to depict the vibrant hues of Holi.

Art Exhibitions: Various art exhibitions are organized, showcasing the works of local artists who draw inspiration from the festival, creating artworks that echo the spirit of Holi.

The special attractions during the Holi festival in Nepal serve as a testament to the vibrant and rich cultural heritage that the country embodies. These events provide an avenue for artists and performers to showcase their talents, turning the festival into a grand cultural extravaganza.

Holi Festival in Kathmandu

The celebration of Holi in Nepal is a kaleidoscope of vibrant customs, rituals, and festivities, which vary distinctively across different regions. In this section, we venture into the heart of Nepal, Kathmandu, to witness how the festival is celebrated with a blend of tradition and modernity, highlighting the popular spots and traditional customs that define Holi in the capital city.

Traditional Customs

Holika Dahan at Kathmandu Durbar Square: Kathmandu, steeped in history and tradition, celebrates Holi with ancient customs. The celebration begins with the Holika Dahan at Kathmandu Durbar Square , where people gather to witness the symbolic burning of Holika, marking the victory of good over evil.

Chir Haran at Basantapur: The historic Basantapur area witnesses the ritual of Chir Haran, a unique tradition that involves tree worship and offerings, echoing the deep connection between the festival and nature.

Popular Spots for Celebrations

Thamel: Recognized as the heart of Kathmandu, Thamel turns into a vibrant hub during Holi, attracting locals and tourists alike. The streets are adorned with colors, and the air reverberates with music, as people indulge in playful exchanges of colors and water.

Durbar Square: This UNESCO World Heritage Site becomes a focal point for cultural festivities. With traditional music and dance performances, the square turns into a vibrant space where tradition meets modernity.

Patan and Bhaktapur: Apart from Kathmandu, the neighboring cities of Patan and Bhaktapur also host grand Holi celebrations. The cities, known for their rich cultural heritage, witness an amalgamation of traditional and contemporary celebrations, making them popular spots for experiencing Holi.

You can further explore how the Holi festival is celebrated in other regions of Nepal, showcasing the diversity and richness that marks the celebration across the country. You can detail the unique customs, traditions, and popular spots that make Holi a unique experience in each region.

Holi in Terai Region of Nepal

Nestled in the southern part of Nepal, the Terai region is home to a vibrant and diverse culture. When it comes to Holi, the region boasts an array of unique traditions and customs that provide a different hue to the festival. Let’s unfold the distinct ways in which the people of Terai celebrate Holi:

Time-Honored Celebration: In the Terai region, Holi, also known as Faguwa, is celebrated with much fervor and gusto, keeping with time-honored traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Extended Celebrations: Unlike other regions, Holi celebrations here extend over two days. The first day is marked by the Holika Dahan, and the festivities continue to the next day with color play.

Rituals and Prayers

Morning Prayers: The day starts with morning prayers and rituals. Families gather to offer prayers, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being.

Community Gatherings: The region witnesses community gatherings where people come together to participate in prayers and rituals, fostering a spirit of unity and harmony.

Exchange of Wishes and Delicacies

Exchange of Wishes: One of the remarkable aspects of Holi in the Terai region is the warm exchange of wishes among neighbors, friends, and families. People visit each other’s homes, exchanging greetings and good wishes.

Delicious Delicacies: The festival is also an occasion to savor a variety of delicious delicacies. Special sweets and dishes are prepared, which are exchanged among neighbors and friends, adding a gastronomic delight to the celebration.

Cultural Performances

Folk Music and Dance: The festival is marked by vibrant performances of folk music and dance. Local artists showcase their talent, turning the celebration into a vibrant cultural extravaganza.

Community Events: Several community events are organized where people come together to enjoy musical performances, dances, and other cultural displays, adding to the festive spirit.

The Terai region offers a rich and vibrant tapestry of traditions and customs during Holi, providing a unique and colorful perspective to the festival’s celebrations in Nepal. The region, with its distinctive customs, adds a special charm to the Holi festivities, embodying the spirit of unity, joy, and cultural richness.

Holi Festival in Pokhara

Pokhara is a great place for tourists to visit because it is next to the peaceful Phewa Lake and has a great view of the Annapurna range. It also has a lot of culture and natural beauty. People often call this city the "tourist capital" of Nepal. Its Holi celebrations are a beautiful mix of old and new, making them a sight to see. Let's look at the different ways Holi is celebrated in Pokhara:

Lakeside Holi

Scenic Celebrations: The area around Phewa Lake transforms into a vibrant canvas of colors during Holi. Locals and tourists gather around the lake to enjoy the scenic celebrations, where the natural beauty provides a picturesque backdrop to the festivities.

Boat Rides: Special boat rides are organized where people can enjoy the festivities from the serene waters, offering a unique and tranquil experience amidst the vibrant celebrations.

Street Festivals

Colorful Parades: The streets of Pokhara come alive with colorful parades, where locals and tourists join in a vibrant procession, dancing to the tunes of traditional music and reveling in the joyous atmosphere.

Street Art and Performances: Artists take to the streets to create vibrant artworks and offer live performances, adding a creative touch to the festival.

Cultural Shows and Events

Traditional Dance Performances: Cultural shows become a highlight of the celebration, with groups offering mesmerizing dance performances, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Music Concerts: Music concerts featuring local bands and artists are organized, where people can groove to the beats and enjoy a musical extravaganza.

Community Engagement

Community Feasts: The celebration sees community feasts where people come together to enjoy a range of traditional delicacies, fostering a spirit of unity and harmony.

Tourist Engagement: Being a tourist capital, special events are organized to engage tourists, offering them an opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and festivities.

Holi is celebrated in Pokhara, which shows that the city has a rich cultural history and a modern, open-minded attitude. The celebrations here are not only true to the traditional spirit of Holi, but they also include elements from around the world. This makes it a unique and memorable event for both locals and tourists.

A well-prepared guide can make the Holi festival in Nepal more enjoyable for people who want to see its beauty. In this part, we tell travelers what they need to know to get the most out of their trip during this busy event.

Best Time to Visit

When the Hindu lunar calendar is in the month of Falgun, which is usually in March, is the best time to take part in the colorful Holi celebrations in Nepal. This time marks the change from winter to spring, and it's a beautiful time to celebrate because flowers are blooming and the sky is clear. People should come a few days before the event to see and be a part of the lively and exciting preparations. The event lasts for two days, and the celebrations in the hilly areas and in the Terai region are very different. To get the most out of Holi in Nepal, plan your trip to overlap with the celebrations in different parts of the country. This will give you a unique look into the diverse cultural fabric of this lively country and let you soak up the festival's joyful spirit among growing nature and happy locals.

Holi Date Variation

Lunar Calendar: Holi is celebrated based on the lunar calendar, generally falling in the month of March. However, the exact date varies each year. It's recommended to check the specific date before planning your visit.

Weather Considerations: March marks the beginning of spring in Nepal, offering pleasant weather which is neither too hot nor too cold, making it an ideal time to participate in the outdoor festivities of Holi.

Travel Arrangements

Advance Bookings

Flights and Accommodation: Given the surge of visitors during the festival, it is advisable to book flights and accommodation well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles and price surges.

Local Transportation: Secure your local transportation arrangements beforehand, as the demand for vehicles and guides may increase during the festive season.

Tour Packages

Festival Special Packages: Many travel agencies offer special Nepal tour packages designed around the Holi festival, providing a guided experience of the celebrations in various regions.

Customized Tours: For those looking for a personalized experience, customized tours can be arranged to include specific attractions and events during the Holi festival.

Safety and Etiquette

Respecting Local Customs

Participation in Rituals: While participating in rituals and events, it's important to show respect towards local customs and traditions. Following the guidance of locals can enhance your experience.

Dress Code: Adhering to a modest dress code during the festivities is appreciated, to respect the local culture.

Safety Measures

Protecting Your Belongings: During the festivities, ensure to safeguard your belongings, as the celebrations can get quite boisterous.

Skin and Eye Protection: Given the use of colors during the festival, taking necessary precautions to protect your skin and eyes is recommended.

Photography and Videography

Seeking Permission

Photographing Locals: Before photographing locals, especially during religious rituals, it is courteous to seek their permission.

Drone Photography: If planning to use drones for photography, make sure to adhere to local regulations and guidelines.

Capturing the Moments

Festival Photography Tours: Many agencies offer photography tours, guiding you to the best spots to capture the vibrant moments of the festival.

Community Engagement: Engaging with the local community can provide deeper insights and opportunities for authentic and heartwarming photographs.

Being well-prepared can greatly enhance your Holi experience in Nepal, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the vibrant and joyous celebration, while respecting and appreciating the rich cultural tapestry of the country.

Participating in the Festival

Holi in Nepal isn't just about seeing the bright colors and happy mood; it's also about getting into the spirit of the festival and joining in with the locals as they celebrate. In this area, we give tips and ideas for travelers who want to take part in the Holi festival, so they can have a real and meaningful experience.

Getting Involved

Community Gatherings

Local Communities: Engage with local communities by participating in community gatherings where you can join locals in the celebrations, playing with colors, and enjoying traditional music and dances.

Cultural Programs: Many regions organize cultural programs where visitors can witness traditional performances and even participate in dance and music events.

Volunteer Opportunities

Community Service: Some organizations offer volunteer opportunities where travelers can assist in organizing community events and festivities, providing a deeper understanding of the festival’s significance.

Art and Craft Workshops: Participate in art and craft workshops organized by local communities, where you can learn about the traditional art forms associated with the festival.

Celebrating Responsibly

Using Eco-Friendly Colors

Environmentally Friendly: Opt for eco-friendly colors available in the market to celebrate Holi, promoting a healthier and safer environment.

Personal Care: Ensure to use skin-friendly colors to avoid any skin irritations or allergies.

Respectful Engagement

Consent is Important: When playing with colors, always ensure to seek consent from others, promoting a respectful and enjoyable atmosphere for all.

Avoiding Wastage: While enjoying the water fights that are a part of the festival, be mindful to avoid wastage of water, adhering to the principles of responsible celebration.

Learning and Experiencing

Cooking Classes

Traditional Delicacies: Attend cooking classes where you can learn to prepare traditional delicacies associated with Holi, adding a gastronomic delight to your experience.

Home Hosted Meals: Experience the warmth of Nepalese hospitality by enjoying home-hosted meals, where you can savor traditional dishes and interact with local families.

Workshops and Seminars

Cultural Understanding: Participate in workshops and seminars organized by cultural centers, offering insights into the historical and cultural significance of the festival.

Language Classes: Attend language classes to learn basic Nepali phrases, enhancing your interaction with the locals and enabling a more immersive experience.

Actively participating in the Holi festival allows travelers to not just witness, but to truly experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Nepal. By engaging responsibly and immersively, one can take back memories and experiences that are both enriching and heartwarming.

Dos and Don'ts While Celebrating Holi Festival

When people go to Nepal to see and take part in the fun Holi events, it's important to remember that there are certain rules that should be followed. Here is a short list of "Dos and Don'ts" that will help you enjoy the event in a responsible and polite way.

1. Dress Appropriately

Traditional Attire: Consider wearing traditional attire to blend in and show respect to the local culture.

Old Clothes: It is advisable to wear old clothes as they are likely to get stained with colors during the celebrations.

2. Protect Your Valuables

Water-Resistant Covers: Use water-resistant covers for your mobile phones and other valuable items to protect them during the color play.

Secure Staying Place: Ensure to secure your valuables at your staying place before heading out to participate in the festivities.

3. Use Eco-Friendly Colors

Safe for Skin: Opt for colors that are safe for the skin to prevent allergic reactions and other skin issues.

Environment-Friendly: Choose colors that are eco-friendly to avoid causing harm to the environment.

4. Engage with the Local Community

Community Events: Participate in community events to gain a deeper insight into the cultural significance of the festival.

Learning Local Traditions: Engage with locals to learn about the traditions and rituals associated with the festival.

1. Don’t Force Participation

Consensual Color Play: Do not force anyone to participate in the color play. Always seek consent before applying colors to someone.

Respect Personal Space: Be respectful of personal boundaries and avoid engaging in activities that may make others uncomfortable.

2. Don’t Waste Resources

Avoid Water Wastage: Be mindful of water usage during the festival to avoid unnecessary wastage.

Minimize Plastic Use: Try to minimize the use of plastic items during the celebrations to reduce environmental impact.

3. Don’t Engage in Unsafe Practices

Avoid Harmful Substances: Do not use colors with harmful substances that can cause skin irritations or allergies.

Avoid Rowdy Behavior: Steer clear of engaging in rowdy behavior that could potentially cause harm or discomfort to others.

4. Don’t Violate Cultural Norms

Respect Religious Sites: Show respect towards religious sites and avoid indulging in activities that are considered disrespectful.

Follow Local Guidelines: Abide by the local guidelines and regulations that govern the celebrations to ensure a respectful and harmonious environment.

Observing these "Dos and Don'ts" will not only ensure your safety but also help you to enjoy a fulfilling and respectful celebration. Being mindful of your actions and showing respect to the local customs and traditions will go a long way in making your Holi experience in Nepal truly memorable.

As we come to the end of our journey through the rich tapestry of traditions, colors, and joy that make up the Holi festival in Nepal, we can't help but be amazed by the deep cultural richness and community peace that this festival fosters in the heart of the Himalayas.

Reflection on the Festival in Nepal

A Mosaic of Culture and Tradition: The Holi festival in Nepal is a living, breathing mosaic of ancient traditions and contemporary celebrations, binding communities together in a riot of colors and shared joys. It stands as a vivid testament to Nepal's rich cultural heritage, deeply entrenched in spirituality and communal unity.

A Symbol of Renewal and Rejuvenation: Reflecting the vibrant hues of spring, Holi ushers in a time of renewal and rejuvenation. It is a time when the entire nation blossoms, not just with the vibrant flora but with the laughter and unity of its people coming together, transcending boundaries and forging bonds anew.

Embodiment of Unity and Diversity: As we have traversed through the different regions of Nepal, we have witnessed the unique and diverse ways in which Holi is celebrated. It's a poignant reminder of the harmonious blend of diversity and unity that characterizes this beautiful nation, as communities with varied traditions and customs come together to celebrate the essence of life and togetherness.

Invitation to Experience Holi in Nepal

A Personal Invitation to Witness Vibrancy: As we draw this narrative to a close, we extend a heartfelt invitation to you, dear reader, to immerse yourself in the vibrant and joyous celebrations of Holi in Nepal. It is an experience that transcends mere observation, inviting you to become a part of a rich tapestry of culture, tradition, and communal harmony.

Creating Cherished Memories: We invite you to be a part of this magnificent festival, to create cherished memories painted in the vibrant hues of Holi, accompanied by the melodies of traditional songs, the warmth of newfound friendships, and the delightful flavours of Nepali delicacies.

An Invitation to Connect: By experiencing Holi in Nepal, you are not just attending a festival, but forming a profound connection with the land and its people, understanding their joys, their traditions, and their way of life on a deeper level.

The Holi festival in Nepal is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to immerse yourself in a lively and enriching cultural experience. It's a chance to see for yourself how this festival promotes living customs and community unity. We hope to see you at Holi in Nepal, a festival with a lot of colors, happy parties, and deep friendship that will make your heart feel warm and your spirit feel alive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Holi is celebrated with much fervor across Nepal, with variations in customs and traditions in different regions. In Kathmandu, the festivities include a vibrant display of colors, music, and dance. In the Terai region, the celebrations extend with unique traditions and customs, while in Pokhara, the tourist capital, the festival is marked with an amalgamation of traditional and modern celebrations.

Holi is celebrated in the month of Falgun in the Hindu lunar calendar, which generally falls in March. The festival spans over two days, with the first day being celebrated in the hilly regions and the second day in the Terai region.

Holi is a spring festival in Nepal that is important because it shows that good has won over evil and marks the end of winter. It is a time of rebirth, when people come together to celebrate with colors and parties, bringing them closer together and making them feel more at peace with each other.

During Holi, people prepare a variety of special delicacies including sweets like 'Gujiya', 'Malpua' and 'Barfi'. Savoury dishes like 'Dahi Bhalla' are also popular. A special drink called 'Bhang', made from cannabis leaves, is traditionally consumed during the festival, although it's recommended to consume it responsibly.

Tourists participating in the Holi celebrations should dress in old clothes that can be discarded later, protect their valuables, and use eco-friendly colors. They should be mindful of local customs and traditions, engage respectfully with the local community, and adhere to the guidelines outlined in the 'Dos and Don'ts' section of this blog.

Yes, participants should avoid using colors with harmful chemicals, engage in consensual color play, and avoid rowdy behavior to ensure a safe and enjoyable festival experience. It is also advised to keep a watch on personal belongings and to stay in groups to avoid any unwanted situations.

To truly experience the cultural richness of Holi, tourists are encouraged to engage with local communities, learn about the traditions and rituals associated with the festival, and participate in community events. This not only allows for a deeper understanding of the festival but also fosters a sense of unity and harmony.

Tourists are encouraged to participate in the local traditions and customs of Holi. This includes playing with colors, enjoying traditional music and dance, and partaking in the culinary delights that the festival has to offer. It's a wonderful opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant culture of Nepal.

BLOGS & TRAVEL STORIES

our first-hand Himalayan travel experience

Travel Guides & Tips

Travel Stories

Latest Travel News

Mount Everest Region

World Heritage Sites

Cookies & privacy policy.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Learn More

• Login  /  Register

• Intenet & Communication
• Electronics
• Information Technology
• Data science and AI
• Biotechnology
• Marketing & Sales
• Startups & Business
• Imports & Exports
• Stock & Investment
• Manufacturing
• Agricultural

Religion and Culture

• Hotel and Tourism
• Natural Resources
• Metals & Mining
• Infrastructure
• Renewable Energy

Join Our Newsletter

Join our subscribers list to get the latest news, updates and special offers directly in your inbox

Colors, Joy, and Tradition: Celebrating Holi Festival in Nepal

Discover the origins and significance of holi, one of nepal's most vibrant and colorful festivals, and learn about the preparations, social and cultural significance, and joy of celebrating with friends and family..

The Holi festival, also known as the "festival of colors," is one of the most exuberant and widely celebrated festivals in Hindu culture. It is a time of joy, unity, and the triumph of good over evil, and is marked by the throwing of colored powder and water, dancing, singing, and feasting. In Nepal, Holi is celebrated with particular enthusiasm and is a beloved holiday for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Origins and Significance of Holi

The origins and significance of Holi are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and culture. As mentioned earlier, the festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, and is based on the story of Prahlada and his father, Hiranyakashipu.

According to the legend, Hiranyakashipu was a powerful king who sought to be worshipped as a god. However, his son Prahlada refused to worship him and instead remained a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu. Angered by his son's disobedience, Hiranyakashipu ordered him to be killed, but each time he tried, Prahlada was miraculously saved by Lord Vishnu.

Finally, Hiranyakashipu's sister, Holika, offered to help him by using her powers to enter a fire with Prahlada and emerge unscathed. However, the plan backfired, as Holika was consumed by the flames while Prahlada was protected by his devotion to Lord Vishnu. This event is commemorated in the "holika dahan" bonfire during Holi, which symbolizes the burning of evil and the triumph of good over darkness.

In addition to its mythological significance, Holi is also a celebration of spring and the end of winter. It is a time to let go of old grudges and negativity, and embrace the renewal and vitality of the season. The throwing of colors and water is believed to represent the blossoming of love and friendship, and the breaking down of social barriers and hierarchies.

In Nepal, Holi is celebrated not only by Hindus, but also by people of other religions and communities. It is a time when all Nepalis come together to celebrate their shared humanity and also appreciate the beauty and diversity of the country's culture and traditions. Overall, the origins and significance of Holi reflect the timeless themes of love, unity, and the triumph of good over evil, and continue to inspire people around the world to embrace these values and celebrate the joy of life.

Preparations for Holi in Nepal

Preparations for Holi in Nepal typically begin a few weeks before the festival. People start making colorful "pichkaris" (water guns) and "gulal" (colored powder) at home or purchase them from the markets. Shops and markets are filled with brightly colored dyes and paints, and people begin to plan their outfits and festivities.

In addition to the colorful items, people also prepare traditional sweets and delicacies such as "gujiya," a sweet pastry filled with nuts and dried fruit, and "thandai," a spiced milk drink. Families and friends also plan their Holi gatherings and make sure to invite loved ones to join them in the celebrations.

It is also common for people to decorate their homes with colorful lights and banners, and to clean and decorate the temple or place of worship in preparation for the festival. Holi is a time for joy and celebration, and people in Nepal spare no effort to make sure that they have everything they need to enjoy the festivities to the fullest.

The Festival Day

On the day of Holi, the streets of Nepal come alive with color, music, and dancing. The festivities begin with the lighting of a bonfire, known as "holika dahan," which symbolizes the burning of evil and the victory of good over darkness. People gather around the bonfire to sing, dance, and offer prayers.

After the bonfire, the throwing of colors and water begins in earnest. People roam the streets armed with water guns, balloons, and bags of colorful powder, shouting "Holi hai!" (It's Holi!). Strangers and friends alike are fair game for a colorful assault, and everyone is covered from head to toe in a rainbow of hues.

Along with the throwing of colors, Holi is also a time for feasting and celebration. Families gather together to share traditional sweets and delicacies, such as "gujiya," a sweet pastry filled with nuts and dried fruit, and "thandai," a spiced milk drink.

Social and Cultural Significance

Holi is more than just a festival of colors and fun; it has significant social and cultural implications as well. One of the primary cultural significances of Holi is the celebration of the diversity of the Nepali community. It is a time when people from all walks of life, regardless of their social, economic, or religious backgrounds, come together to celebrate the festival.

Holi is also a time to break down barriers between people and to promote social harmony. During the festival, people forget their differences and come together to enjoy the festivities. This promotes social cohesion and helps to build stronger communities.

Another important cultural significance of Holi is the celebration of the triumph of good over evil. The festival is a reminder that no matter how powerful evil may seem, it can be defeated through the power of faith, love, and devotion. This message resonates with people from all cultures and religions, making Holi a truly inclusive festival.

In addition to its cultural significance, Holi also has social implications. The throwing of colors and water is a symbol of the breaking down of social barriers and hierarchies. During Holi, people of all ages, genders, and social classes come together to celebrate, regardless of their status or position in society. This promotes social equality and helps to foster a sense of unity among people.

Overall, the social and cultural significance of Holi in Nepal is immense. It celebrates the diversity of the Nepali community, promotes social harmony and equality, and reminds people of the power of faith, love, and devotion to overcome evil. It is a time for people to come together, forget their differences, and celebrate the joy of life.

In conclusion, Holi festival in Nepal is a vibrant and joyful celebration of color, tradition, and unity. It is a time to come together with friends and family, forget our differences, and revel in the beauty and diversity of life. Whether you are a visitor or a local, celebrating Holi in Nepal is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

• Holi Festival
• Hindu Mythology
• Social Harmony
• Cultural Significance
• Celebration
• Preparations
• Colored Powder
• Holika Dahan
• Good Over Evil
• Breaking Barriers
• Social Equality
• Community Building
• Inclusivity

Previous Article

20 Important Learnings from "How to Speak Money" by John Lanchester

Next Article

Nepali Rudraksha: A Symbol of Divine Connection and Protection

What's your reaction.

Anisha Khanal

Related Posts

The Traditional Art of Handicrafts in Nepal: From Pashmina...

Anisha Khanal Jan 20, 2023 0

Exploring Nepal's Rich Buddhist Heritage: An In-Depth Look...

kali Mar 16, 2023 0

Birupakshe: The Sacred Legend of Devotion and Miracles...

Alisha Dahal Jul 7, 2023 0

Christmas Celebration in Nepal - A Guide to the Culture,...

Binod Shrestha Dec 24, 2022 0

Festivals in Nepal - A Guide to the Culture, Traditions,...

Alisha Dahal Oct 3, 2022 0

Hadigaun Jatra: A Nepali Festival Honoring Lord Narayan's...

Rosna Manandhar Nov 24, 2023 0

Popular Posts

Top 5 richest person in Nepal

Alisha Dahal May 30, 2023 0

Industrial Development in Nepal: Importance, Sectors, Challenges,...

Anisha Khanal Feb 10, 2023 0

Top 5 Electric Vehicles in Nepal: Explore the Best EV Models...

Rima jha Jun 3, 2023 1

Private Companies in Nepal - A Guide to the Business and...

Alisha Dahal Dec 17, 2022 1

The Current State of Business in Nepal: Challenges and...

Anisha Khanal Feb 19, 2023 2

Recommended Posts

Anurag Bhusal Apr 7, 2024 0

Discover Authentic Nepali Rudraksha at Rudraksha Market

Bhushan Lamsal Apr 5, 2024 0

The Ancient Power of Nepali Rudraksha: A Comprehensive...

Bhushan Lamsal Apr 2, 2024 0

Is AI Boon or a Bane ? AI Good or Bad

Anish Timalsina Mar 30, 2024 0

The Psychology of Decision Making

Bijay Bastola Mar 27, 2024 0

Random Posts

Rhododendron: national flower of nepal.

Anisha Khanal Dec 2, 2023 0

Discover Nepal's emblematic Rhododendron, a blooming treasure on Himalayan trails....

The 48 Laws of Power: A Guide to Influence

Binod Shrestha Nov 15, 2023 0

Unlock secrets of influence with Robert Greene's "The 48 Laws of Power". Master...

20 Important Learnings from "How to Speak Money" by John...

Rajesh Khanal Mar 3, 2023 0

Learn 20 key takeaways from "How to Speak Money" by John Lanchester, a guide to...

Chaudhary Group(CG) Of Nepal

Alisha Dahal Sep 15, 2022 0

Raise of Chaudhary Group (CG)

Role of social media in Nepali society

Alisha Dahal Aug 24, 2022 1

The impact of social media in the Nepali market, as well as the benefits and drawbacks...

Popular Tags

• personal finance
• Trekking in Nepal
• cultural heritage
• digital marketing

Voting Poll

• Tour Packages

• origin-of-holi-and-its-significance-in-nepali-culture

Origin of Holi and Its Significance In Nepali Culture

The Festival of Colours popularly known as Holi is an ancient Hindu Festival, celebrated mostly in Nepal , India , and some parts of Asia and Europe . The festival has its origin in the Indian subcontinent and signifies the entry of spring season after the winters.

The article below talks in brief about the origin of Holi, its significance in Hinduism and Nepali culture.

What is Holi?

Holi in English generally means the festival of colours, the festival of love, or the festival of spring. The first evening is called Holika Dahan or Chhoti Holi , and the day after that is known as Rangwali Holi, Phagwah, Dhulandi, or Dhuleti .

The festival is celebrated for over 24 hours, starting from the evening of Purnima or Full Moon , that falls in the Hindu month of Phalguna , according to the Vikram Samvat Calendar .

As per the English calendar, Holi falls during the mid of March of every year.

Holi according to Hindu Mythology

There are several reasons why people celebrate Holi in Nepal and India.

Holika Dahan

The most fabled reason behind the celebration of Holi is Holika Dhan or the Burning of Holika . According to chapter 7 of Bhagavata Purana , King Hiranyakashipu was blessed with special powers which rendered him invulnerable to death.

The King of Asuras (demons) was blessed by Lord Brahma and gave him powers by which he couldn't be killed by a human or an animal, neither during the day or nighttime and neither indoors nor outside outdoors. Further, Hiranyakashipu couldn't be killed in land, water, or air and weapons were all ineffective towards him.

Owing to this gift, the emperor grew arrogant and ordered everyone to worship him like God. However, his word was defied by his own son, Prahlada , who was big devotee Lord Vishnu .

Holika possessed a special cloak that protected her from fire, but as the fire roared the cover flew off, and Holika was burned to ashes, while no harm came to Prahlada.

It was then at dusk, Lord Vishnu appeared before King Hiranya, as the Narasimha , half-man and half-lion. Narasimha placed him on his laps at the doorsteps of the palace and killed him with his claws.

The Holika Dahan and Holi represent the win of good over bad.

Story of Lord Krishna

In some parts of India like Braj , the festival is celebrated as Rang Panchami and signifies the love of Lord Krishna and his devotee Radha .

As an infant, Krishna drank the poisonous milk from demoness Putana 's breasts, which later gave him a dark complexion. The lord was unsure whether Rdaha, the fair-complexioned maiden liked him or not.

Mother Yasodha , tired of Krishna's regular questions about his skin and Radha, forces him to ask the question directly and to paint his face any colour she wanted him to be.

Since that day, Radha and Krishna became a couple, and the playful colouring of their faces is remembered as Holi.

Legend of Kama and Rati

The significance is also linked to Lord Shiva according to some Hindu traditions. Shiva was buried in his meditation, away from the worldly woes and had given up his godly duties.

Goddess Parvati was concerned about Shiva and sought the help of the Kamadeva , the Hindu god of love. Kamadeva approaches the God of Destruction and shoots a cupid arrow at him.

The attack breaks Shiva's meditation, which then opens his third eye and burns the God of Love , to ashes. Upon hearing this Parvati and Rati , Kamadeva's wife, both get upset.

Rati then meditates for forty days and begs Shiva for his forgiveness. Impressed by her devotion, Shiva forgives Kamadeva and restores him to his godly form.

Hence the 40th day of Vasanta Panchami is celebrated as Holi, especially in South India.

Significance of Holi

As per the Hindu literature, Holi signifies the victory of good over evil, especially the win of Lord Vishnu over Hiranyakashipu.

This day marks the end of the winter season and the arrival of the spring season. The use of water and holi colours or powders signifies the bright and colourful nature of spring. It is looked upon as the blossoming of love, playing, laughing, forgetting, forgiving, and repairing broken relationships.

Who celebrate Holi?

The festival of colours is famous, mainly in the South-Asian countries where the dominating religion is Hinduism. It is celebrated in most parts of Nepal and India.

Colour of Festival

Holi is observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Newar Buddhists, and also by people from non-Hindu backgrounds. Owing to the rising popularity of Holi, this festival is celebrated by almost everyone and is marked by throwing colours and water at each other.

Nepal once organised the first-ever Tomatina festival, the  La Tomatina Squeeze and Throw Party , in 2014, during the occasion of Holi.

For further information regarding Nepali festivals and booking, please visit, hopnepal.com .

Prepare For Your Trip

Ask for advice.

Exchange tips with travellers on our List & Go forum

Book A Flight

Find the best fares and last-minute deals

Book A Hotel

Rest your weary head between adventures

Book A Travel

Buy comprehensive cover for your next trip

Book A Homestay

Book now and pay when you arrive at the property

• Date Converter
• Nepali Unicode
• Preeti to Unicode
• Unicode to Preeti
• Digital Marketing
• Entertainment

Holi Festival – Essay | 200, 300, 400, 500 Words

What is Holi?

Share this:, read also related posts, privacy overview.

Holi Festival 2022: Significance and Importance In Nepal

New spotlight online.

From smearing each other with colours to enjoying a plate of delicious gujiyas together, the festival of Holi ushers in a carnivalesque mood among people of all age groups, every year.

Kathmandu valley and rest of hilly region of Nepal celebrates the Holi festival today. However, the Holi will be celebrated tomorrow in plain areas of Nepal .

The customs and rituals may be different across regions but what unites them is the spirit of this festival of colours.

Holi, also known to the world as the “Festival of Colors” or “Festival of Love,” is one of Nepal’s most auspicious Hindu festivals. It manifests the victory of good over evil and celebrates the divine love of Radha and Krishna.

The two-day Hindu festival originated and is primarily celebrated in the Indian subcontinent. It is held during the full moon day in the Hindu calendar month of Falgun (March). Hence, the celebration of the Holi Festival in Nepal marks the end of the winter and the arrival of spring.

The auspicious occasion of colors is widely celebrated by the majority of all ethnicities in the nation. During this festival, the locals express their blessings and good wishes by throwing dry powder and colored water at each other. Holi has spread to different parts of North America and Europe in the last few years to celebrate love, colors, and recreation.

History and Rituals of the Holi Festival

Holi, also known as “Phagu Purnima,” has become one of the most loved festivals in the Nepalese community. Like many Hindu festivals, Holi has more than one cultural significance.

In India, the tradition centers around the demonic siblings Holika and Hiranyakashipu. It came into practice as a festivity when a devil king Hiranyakashipu plotted to kill his own son Prahlad with the help of his sister Holika. Holika was a recipient of a holy boon, which enabled her to resist the fire. She entered the burning fire with Prahlad in her lap. Prahlad, a true devotee of Lord Vishnu was saved from the accident while Holika was burnt to ashes.

Hence, many people believe the festival was named after Holika. In short, it is the celebration of the triumph of good over evil.

In India’s Braj region, this festival is celebrated to commemorate the divine love of Radha and Krishna. According to the symbolic legend, Krishna had a dark blue skin color as a demon had poisoned him when he was a child. So in his youth, Krishna always worried whether the fair-skinned Radha wouldn’t like him due to his appearance.

Tired of his desperation, Krishna’s mother, Yashoda, asked him to approach Radha and tell her to color his face with some brightly-colored powder. After this, Radha and Krishna became a symbol of divine love. Hence, in this part of India, Holi is celebrated in commemoration of the coloring of Radha and Krishna’s faces.

Whereas in the Nepali context, the colorful festival is a way of expressing gratitude to the Hindu legends and welcoming spring.

How Do You Celebrate Holi in Nepal?

Holi in Nepal is basically a celebration of colors. Hindus around the country mark the festivity by playing with bright-colored powders and lighting bonfires.

Holi is usually celebrated with loved ones, family members, friends, and community members. People wish each other the greetings of Holi by splashing colorful water balloons and colored powders on and over each other.

Basantapur Durbar Square has been the hub for the celebration of Holi in Kathmandu. If you are here around the time, you can choose to participate in the festival.

The celebrations usually start a week before the main day. Holi celebrations in Nepal can be colorful and loud. The crowd is energetic, and the entire scene looks nothing short of a paintball game. One can witness the crowd running around with colorful faces and water balloons.

On this day, people usually dress in plain white clothes to let the vibrant colors sit perfectly on the clothes. As the festival also stands for accepting differences and friendship, many individuals see this as an opportunity to resolve the old arguments, cold relations, and any kind of barriers.

Concerns Regarding the Holi Festival

The Holi festival generally ensures a great time for the people celebrating it. However, it has its shortcomings. The festival is not new to unwanted and sometimes unpleasant incidents. Since the streets are usually crowded during the festival, there are high chances of losing your valuable possessions amongst pickpockets. You should always stay with your loved ones and trusted people at an event like this.

While some individuals will greet you in advance and ask for your consent to participate, there will also be people who will not bother asking. Most people will directly put/throw colors on you, which can be a bothersome experience for some travelers. If you do not favor such incidents, please let the locals know that you are not okay with that kind of treatment.

As much as this is a festival of friendship, love, family, and celebrations, this is not free of other safety concerns. A lot of synthetic colors in the market today are not chemical-free. Besides causing damage to the skin, it can cause various health complications. This is also why many millennials chose not to be a part of the festivals.

Additionally, many young individuals are also looking at the festival through an eco-friendly approach. A lot of people today do not actually want to impose more threats on the environment with the ever-growing climate change issues. The bonfires have also contributed to deforestation issues. Likewise, the extensive use of colors also stagnates the water bodies and ecosystem.

However, if you are willing to see what Holi is all about, be prepared to be soaked in colorful water as you immerse yourself fully in this festival.

Holi Festival 2022 Dates

In 2022, the auspicious Holi festival will fall on the 17th and 18th of March. If you are eager to be a part of the color euphoria, do match your travel dates, and kindly keep in touch with Nepal Hiking Team. Holi is not only a one-of-a-kind experience but truly a celebration of love and selflessness. It takes you a step closer to building memories lasting an entire lifetime.

While the main festival of colours is officially due in a couple of days, a lot of people in the country have already started indulging in merrymaking.

An ancient Hindu festival, which later became popular among non-Hindu communities as well, Holi heralds the arrival of spring after winter. It signifies the victory of good over evil and is celebrated as a day of spreading happiness and love. The festival is also celebrated as thanksgiving for good harvest.

According to Bhagvata Purana, King Hiranyakashipu--the king of demonic Asuras, who could neither be killed by a man or an animal--grew arrogant and demanded that everybody should worship him as god.

The king's son, Prahlada, disagreed and chose to remain devoted to Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu was infuriated and subjected his son to cruel punishments. Finally, Holika, the king's sister, tricked him into sitting on a pyre with her. While Holika protected herself with a cloak, Prahlada remained exposed. As the fire blazed, the cloak flew from Holika's body and encased Prahlada, thus saving his life.

Later, Vishnu appeared in the avatar of Narsimha, half man and half lion, and killed the king. This is why Holi begins with the Holika bonfire, which marks the end of evil.

According to another legend, Lord Krishna had developed a characteristic blue skin colour after Putana, a demon, poisoned him with her breast milk. Krishna worried if the fair-skinned Radha and her companions would ever like him because of his skin colour. Krishna's mother then asked him to approach Radha and smear her face with any colour he wanted. The playful colouring gradually evolved as a tradition and later, as a festival observed as Holi, in the Braj region of India.

The celebration

Holi celebrations start on the night before Holi with Holika Dahan, where people perform rituals in front of a bonfire, praying for their inner evil to be destroyed, just as Holika was killed in fire.

The carnival of colours begins the next morning, where people come out on the streets to play with colours, and drench each other in coloured water through water guns or balloons.

Interestingly, different regions in India observe varied customs on this day. In West Bengal and Assam, for instance, Holi is known as Basanta Utsav or spring festival.

A popular form of Holi, called Lathmar Holi is celebrated in Barsana, a town near Mathura, in Uttar Pradesh, where women beat up men with sticks, as those on the sidelines chant ''Sri Radhey'' or ''Sri Krishna.''

Again, in Maharashtra, it is the time of Matki Phod (breaking the pot). Men climb on top of each other to form a human pyramid up to the height from which a pot buttermilk is hung. The one who breaks the pot is named the Holi King of the year.

In Vrindavan, widows and estranged women immerse themselves in colours on Holi. Again, in Punjab, Sikhs revel in colours on Hola Mohalla, which is celebrated a day after Holi.

More on Festivals and Culture

Latest Magazine

VOL. 17, No. 17, April.12,2024 (Chaitra,30. 2080) Publisher and Editor: Keshab Prasad Poudel Online Register Number: DOI 584/074-75

VOL. 17, No. 16, March.29,2024 (Chaitra,16. 2080) Publisher and Editor: Keshab Prasad Poudel Online Register Number: DOI 584/074-75

VOL. 17, No. 15, March.10,2024 (Falgun,27. 2080) Publisher and Editor: Keshab Prasad Poudel Online Register Number: DOI 584/074-75

VOL. 17, No. 14, February.23,2024 (Falgun,11. 2080) Publisher and Editor: Keshab Prasad Poudel Online Register Number: DOI 584/074-75

• Travelogues
• Travel Agent Cooperation

• Holi Festival

Holi, also known as Festival of Colors, is one of the most popular festivals in Nepal. It takes place on the full moon day in Nepali Fagu month (February to March in Solar Calendar) and lasts for 2 days. This festival was held from March 20 to 21, 2019, and from March 9 to 10, 2020. Following Dashain and Tihar Festival , Holi is celebrated for the victory of good over evil and the coming of spring. During this colorful festival, Nepalese and foreign tourists will throw each other with dry powder and colored water to express their sincere blessings and good wishes.

Background of Holi, Nepal Water Festival

The origin of Holi Festival can be traced back to the "Mahabharata", Indian famous epic. According to the legend, King Hiranyakashipu was so arrogant and didn't allow people to worship Lord Vishnu. However, Prince Prahlada was an ardent devotee of Vishnu and openly opposed his father. This enraged Hiranyakashipu. Since then, the king ordered his sister Holika to burn the prince on the full moon night. Under the blessing of God Vishnu, Prahlada was unscathed while Holika was burned into ashes. When the prince walked out of the fire, people sprinkled him with colorful water to express the praise of goodness and hatred of evil.

Traditions of Nepal Holi Festival

Different from India Holi rituals, Holi Festival in Nepal has a special ceremony for erecting a wood pole. On this day, Nepali women dress in beautiful Sari with auspicious things in hand, and then circle around the pole to pray for the blessings. Durbar Square and the surrounding streets turn into a sea of waters, colors and music. And you'll have the chance to see the most prestigious singers performing on the stage. On the eighth day, the festival comes to an end with Holi bonfire.

Celebrations in Nepal Paint Festival

Holi, one of the most important festival in Hinduism, is mainly celebrated at India, Nepal and other Indian immigrant communities around the world. However, as for the best place to experience Holi, Kathmandu will never let you down!

On this day, most of stores are closed. The whole Kathmandu valley is immersed in the festival atmosphere. Whether people know each other or not, they'll be sprayed with Holi powder and colorful water. Some will get a gentle touch, some will across a heavy splash and others will be chased by colored water balloons. In any case, please don't be angry. This is a kind of festive blessing.

In the square, Nepalis and visitors totally indulge in singing, dancing and sprinkling varieties of powders and waters. Everyone's face is filled with festive joy. Even the air turns to be colorful. At this moment, cameras, mobile phones and selfie sticks have become the essential tools to record your happy Holi.

You're highly recommended to participate in this lively water fight. That kind of laughter and relax will definitely bring you back to your childhood. No need to worry about appearance and cleanness, and you can be as naughty as you want. Meanwhile, you'd better put on a white T-shirt for it looks particularly beautiful after being dyed. And you can even leave colorful fingerprints on it as memorial. This must be the best gift for your Nepal trip .

Tips for Nepal Holi Festival

1. White T-shirts, cheap pants and slippers are highly recommended. After the carnival, you can either throw them away or keep them as Holi souvenirs. 2. It's suggested to prepare a raincoat for the camera. And the easiest way is to cover it tightly with plastic wraps. 3. Facial cleanser and shampoo are the essentials to clean off the paints. 4. If you just want to observe this colorful festival, the steps of the temples around Durbar Square are the best spots for photography.

It's predicted that Holi Festival this year will fall on Mar.13, 2017. Why not set aside some time to experience the most colorful festival with local Nepalese? Please feel free to contact us for more about Nepal festival tours.

About the Author - Master Catherine Jigme

With exceptional passion and outstanding leadership, Mrs. Catherine has dedicated herself to Tibet inbound tourism and China tour for 15 years. As one of the handful females who see great potential of Chinese inbound tourism, Catherine has made great contribution to promoting Tibet tourism and enhancing the employment of Tibetans and prosperity of local Tibetan community.

Over the years, she travelled overseas with Tibet Tourism Bureau many times to promote Tibet tourism. Currently, Catherine works as the marketing director of Tibet Vista, an opinion leader behind the whole team of Tibet Vista.

Email me about your travel idea

https://plus.google.com/+TibetVista

Read all my articles about Tibet travel

Related Articles & Posts

• Teej Festival

Teej Festival is particularly held at Pashupatinath to commemorate the reunion of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. Nepale ...

• Indra Jatra

Indra Jatra, also known as Yenya, is the largest street festival in Nepal. Following Gai Jatra, Indra Jatra festival is ...

Gai Jatra, also known as festival of cows, is mainly celebrated by the Newar community in Kathmandu to commemorate the d ...

• Tihar Festival

Tihar is the second biggest festival in Nepal. It falls in September to Octorber and lasts for 5 days. Neplais will hono ...

• Dashain Festival

Dashain is the grandest, longest and most auspicious festival in Nepal. It falls in September to Octorber and lasts for ...

Have a Question? Ask below or call +86 28 81754631

Question Summary *

Please fill in your contact information, we will send you the answer by email

Country * : United States India Australia Malaysia United Kingdom Singapore Canada Germany China France Indonesia Hong Kong, China Netherlands Spain Italy New Zealand Brazil Mexico Thailand Switzerland Japan South Africa Nepal Philippines Russia Sweden Belgium Argentina Austria Ireland Israel Chile Vietnam Denmark Bangladesh Poland Portugal Sri Lanka South Korea Oman Romania Pakistan Other Colombia Hungary Taiwan, China Finland Greece Turkey Norway Mongolia Bhutan Bulgaria Costa Rica Myanmar Saudi Arabia Slovenia Ukraine Lithuania Egypt Qatar Mauritius Serbia Ecuador Uruguay Iran Niger Venezuela Cyprus Lebanon Nigeria Honduras Latvia Peru Guatemala Belarus Cambodia Estonia Kenya Macau, China Malta Tunisia Albania Bahrain Jordan Luxembourg Andorra Azerbaijan Georgia Guinea Kuwait Panama El Salvador French Guiana Iceland Kazakhstan Macedonia Micronesia Montenegro Morocco Paraguay Tanzania Uzbekistan Zimbabwe Anguilla Armenia Belize Benin Bolivia Botswana Dominica Eritrea Ethiopia Fiji Laos Liberia Libya Malawi Mali Moldova Monaco Namibia Norfolk Island Reunion Island Somalia Swaziland Tajikistan Turkmenistan Tuvalu Yemen Zambia Afghanistan Algeria Angola Antarctica Aruba Bahamas Barbados Bermuda Burkina Faso Burundi Cameroon Chad Comoros Djibouti East Timor French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Ghana Gibraltar Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guernsey Guyana Haiti Iraq Jamaica Jersey Kiribati Kosovo Lesotho Liechtenstein Madagascar Maldives Martinique Mauritania Mayotte Island Montserrat Mozambique Nauru New Caledonia Nicaragua Niue Palau Pitcairn Island Puerto Rico Rwanda Saint Helena Saint Lucia San Marino Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone Suriname Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Islands Uganda Vanuatu Vatican City Western Sahara Western Samoa Costarica Croatia Czech Korea

SUBMIT Cancel

0 Comment ON "Holi Festival"

Check All Tibet Travel FAQs Here

Nepal Festivals

• Tibetan Festivals

Ask a Quick Question

Your Full Name:

Your Email Adress:

More about Your Travel Plan:

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Essay | Paragraph
• ArticleFeed

Essay on Holi | Paragraph on Holi Festival | 600+ Words

Essay on Holi Festival

Hinduism is a religion widely found in South Asia and people who follow Hinduism celebrate many festivals. Holi is one of such big festivals in India and Nepal. Holi is a festival that is celebrated every year with great zeal and enthusiasm. It is a yearly festival that takes place on the day of the full moon of the Nepali month Falgun (February-March) and lasts for two days.

It is an exciting festival where people can relax and play with each other. Hindu people abroad also have been seen observing the Holi festival and other tourists and non-Hindus joining to enjoy Holi with the locals.

There is a legend that relates to the cause of the celebration of the Holi Festival. It is based on the story of King Hiranyakashap who had a son named Prahlad. His son was the greatest devotee of Lord Vishnu. Having hurt his father’s ego and arrogance, Hiranyakashap wanted to kill his son. Prahlad did not put his father as the greatest God so King Hiranyakashap was ready to sacrifice his own son. He called his sister Holika to dirty her hands.

Holika had a magical dress that was blessed by a God which was immune to fire. The king thought his sister would not be hurt by the fire due to her magical dress and his son would be burnt to death. But as his sister was in the fire, Prahlad was seen to be unharmed and Holika was burned to death. It was due to the blessing of Lord Vishnu that Prahlad was safe and sound. This is the reason why we celebrate Holi, to mark the victory of virtue and goodness.

For You: Essay on my country Nepal

Holi is the festival of colors. People play with various colors and apply them to their relatives and close ones. It is a glorious and colorful festival where people bond and enjoy. Water balloons and pumps are also used to splash people with water. It is a trend that getting wet is also a celebration. Many are soaking wet in the colored water and as hours pass by, it appears as though it is just the beginning of the day. Holi festival in Nepal has greater influence in the Terai and Hilly regions. But the trend to celebrate Holi is also being popular among non-Hindus.

People who come to visit Nepal at this time of the year are also seen busy in the streets enjoying the festival to its fullest extent. The festival of color is cherished by foreigners and locals alike.

Playing with colors and splashing people with water isn’t the only way the festival is celebrated. People love to sing and dance, drink to their heart’s extent, and enjoy the night with bonfires. People gather firewood and sit around it, gossiping and eating. Alcohol and hemp are also common in such activities. The cities of the entire Kathmandu valley are immersed in the festive atmosphere. It is a festival of joy and bonding. It can build up brotherhood, friendship, love, closeness and helps remove quarrels, bitterness, enmity, and hatred. This is the true essence of the festival Holi.

The bad aspects of Holi are the mindset and activities of people themselves. While many take it as a time to wind back and relax there are some with bad ideas. Troubling the strangers and passersby throwing water balloons or colors before the day of the festival, using colorings that are hard to cast off and unsafe for skin and health, using this chance to take revenge by using dirty water or chemicals, etc are some evils of the festival.

Some people also use strong colors that do more harm than good and creates quarrels. Pollution due to the massive use of plastic water balloons is also prevalent. People don’t clean up after celebrating and that creates massive pollution. Accidents and deaths due to the festivals are also commonly heard. It is our responsibility to clean up after we make a mess and play the festival safely and responsibly. This way we don’t ruin the true charm of the festival.

Other Related Essays:

• Essay on Krishna Janmasthami
• Essay on Rakshya Bandhan
• Essay on Bhai Tika

--> For quick Inquiry: +977 98510 42334

Fixed Departure

--> +977 98510 42334

Holi Festival in Nepal

Approx. Read Time: 7 Minutes

Publised at Mar 1, 2022

Holi is a national festival in Nepal and India. While Nepal and India are full of cultures and festivals, Holi – the festival of happiness is one that both the Nepalese and Indians look forward to the most. It is a vivid and joyous ancient Hindu celebration that has now gained popularity among non-Hindu cultures.

Though originated in India, the ‘festival of colors’ is spread to almost every corner of Asia and western parts of the world via the Indian diaspora. After all, the festival is all about getting together to eat, dance, throw colors at each other, and have fun.

The main matter of one of the most awaited and joyful celebrations, Holi is to commemorate the end of winter, the beginning of spring, and thanksgiving for a successful harvest. Also known as ‘the festival of love, Holi also signifies the triumph of good over evil.

When is Holi Festival Celebrated?

Holi is a Hindu festival that takes place on the last full moon day of the Hindu lunar month, Phalguna/Falgun, which usually falls in March. Holi's exact date varies from year to year. For this year, 2022, Holi will begin on Friday 18 March.

The mythology behind Holi Festival

Holi is related to a number of Hindu stories and legends. One of them is related to Hiranyakashyap, a demon king who desired immortality and the Lord Vishnu. Hiranyakashyap had a desire to be worshiped by everyone, but his own son, Prahlad, preferred to worship Lord Vishnu. It enraged him, so the demon king summoned his sister Holika, who was impervious to fire, to join Prahlad on the flames.

When Holika sat in the fire with Prahlad, the flames were unable to reach him. Holika was slain as a result of it. The demon king was then killed by Lord Vishnu. So, Holi is celebrated as a symbol of good triumphing over evil.

Another Hindu Mythology says Holi is to honor the pure love of Radha and Krishna. The story begins when Krishna was concerned as a child that the fair-skinned Radha would reject him because of his appearance.

According to the legends, Krishna had a dark blue complexion because a demon poisoned him as an infant but didn’t die. Instead, the demon turned into ashes. Krishna's mother, Yashoda, was fed up with his desperation and told him to approach Radha and smear some vividly colored powder on her face. When he did that, Radha completely fell in love with him. Radha and Krishna became a symbol of divine love after that. So, to recall the legendary moment of Krishna and Radha, that shared love and happiness, Holi is celebrated each year very joyously.

How is Holi Festival Celebrated?

The celebration of the Holi festival starts on the evening of the Phalgun Purnima (full moon) on the Hindu Lunar Solar calendar. People light bonfires, perform religious rituals in front of a bonfire, and pray for the destruction of their internal evil on this day which is also known as Chhoti Holi or Holika Dahan.

The next morning after the Holika bonfire is known as Rangwali Holi (colorful Holi), in which everyone gathers to play with colors. People of all ages gather to the streets for a day of fun, dry color (abir in Hindi/Nepali) smearing on one other's faces, and colored water splashing. Anyone and everyone is fair game on Holi, whether a friend or a stranger, rich or poor, man or woman, youngsters or elderly, they all participate in the smearing of colors, dancing, singing, and feasting. People would pay visits to friends and family to offer Holi treats, food, and drinks. On this day, traditional cocktails and sweets mixed with bhang (a cannabis-based intoxicant) are very popular.

In a religious context, the colors are rich in symbolism and have a variety of meanings: they might represent a vivid new life or even sin in some ways. Washing off the dye at the end of the day can represent a renewed dedication to living wisely, as well as a cleansing of evils and demons for some.

Holi Celebration in Nepal

Holi is also called Fagu Purnima which literally translates to the full moon of Fagu/Falgun. The main theme of the joyous Holi festival is to welcome spring, thank the good harvest, and share the love. But, the ritual may vary from place to place. India might celebrate Holi according to their customs or legends or locations. Nepal also follows a similar yet slightly different ritual as India.

A day before Holi or at the full moon night, a lingo or a chir (a long bamboo stick) is erected and covered in various colors, then is taken down and burned to announce the commencement of Holi in Kathmandu Durbar Square. This custom is called Chir Dahan or Holika Dahan, and it commemorates Holika's end, related to demon Holika legend.

The following day as like any other place, Nepal and its places, mainly capital Kathmandu and streets are fully covered with different bright colors. And inside Kathmandu, the Basantapur Durbar Square has been the focal point for Holi celebrations.

The Holi celebrations here are vibrant and boisterous. The crowd is pumped up, and the entire atmosphere resembles a paintball match. The mob can be seen running around with brightly colored faces and water balloons. The popular celebrities can be seen singing and singing in the Holi concert. The tank full of water is splashed all over the crowd. People are seen in white clothes to allow the colors to sit properly on the outfits. Listening to or reading these things is already fun. Experiencing and celebrating could bring much more.

After all, the Holi Festival is full of fun and love, which is why many regard the event as an opportunity to resolve past conflicts, sour relationships, and other hurdles because it stands for accepting differences and friendship.

A note that the Holi celebration takes place in the Hilly region a day before in the Terai region in Nepal.

Concerns during Holi Festival

While Holi is a celebration with the main theme to share love and happiness and be selfless, things may not go as planned. Given that the celebration is carefree and done in a huge mass and among strangers, there could be some thoughtless actions and incidents. For example, in the name of celebration, the pickpockets have the greatest chance in the mass. The over-limit intoxication could lead to disputes and fights. The stubbornness of some people might disturb one’s pressure.

Like the proverb, “there are two sides to every story”, Holi also has its positive sides as well as negative sides. It already is a chaotic and crazy event. It could be challenging if you do not have proper guidance and information about this festival as you will have to encounter many sudden things. So, if you're heading out on the streets on this day, here are some of the most important tips for having a safe and enjoyable celebration.

Tips for enjoying Holi 2022 in Nepal

• We recommend you to celebrate with your friends or find people to celebrate with. As the saying goes, safety in numbers, and having someone watching out for you helps you feel more secure.
• Avoiding the wild crowds would be the best option to have fun without much disturbance.
• Old clothes or wanting to get rid of clothes could come in handy today. Or you can purchase the cheap clothes sold for Holi because once your clothes are soaked in colors, there is no chance of reusing them.
• Safety comes first. Our eyes are gentle and any unwanted thing could disturb our delicate organ. So, we recommend wearing your glasses or shades for eye safety before you set out for the celebration.
• Likely, cover your skin with your moisturizer and SPF before coming out of your room on this day.
• Putting some hair oil into your hair and skin before applying the color could prevent it from absorbing.
• Water is crucial. The day is already busy. So, you could get busy and exhausted. So, keep yourself enough hydrated.
• Don’t be afraid to say ‘NO’. If you do not want to be smeared in colors, or dance with the people there, do not hesitate to speak up.
• As the celebration takes in huge mass or a group with colors and water, your valuables could be lost and damaged. So, carry only the important things for the day in the waterproof bag.

Holi is genuinely a celebration of love and selflessness, not just a one-of-a-kind experience. It brings you one step closer to creating memories that will last a lifetime. So gather your pals, get your groove on, be prepared to be drenched in colorful water, and have a blast!

Happy Holi!

Maha Shivaratri in Nepal

How to Travel to Tibet fr...

Travel Info 85

Travel Blog 14

Adventure Activities 8

Trekking & Hiking 8

News & Updates 17

Popular Tours

Shamanism Tour in Nepal

Popular Treks

Ruby Valley Trek

Popular Reads

Festival Tour in Nepal

Associated With

Ways You Can Pay

© 2024 Himalayan Trekkers. All rights reserved.

• Skip to content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Full Time Explorer

Nepal Travel Blog

Holi in Nepal: Why, How & Where to Celebrate

Festivals in Nepal / April 15, 2020 by fulltimeexplorer / Leave a Comment

Holi is a Hindu festival celebrated in India and Nepal which typically takes place in March . Today, it has become a popular festival among tourists who enjoy its bright colors and playful atmosphere. Those who want to participate should learn a little about the meaning of Holi. Holi in Nepal celebrates the end of winter and beginning of spring, the triumph of good over evil, and it’s seen as a day of love.

While there are several stories about why Hindu people celebrate holi, these are a few of my favorites. Krishna (a Hindu god) played a prank on Radha (the goddess of love and compassion) by applying color to her face. Now, applying color to each other is part of the festival. Another story says that Holi is the day children chased Ogress Dhundhi (a female monster who troubled children) away by playing pranks on her, which is why children play pranks and throw water at those passing by on this day. This article is great at explaining the significance of Holi.

Holi is a special day in my heart because it’s when my husband proposed to me. So, I’m particularly fond of celebrating the day. Here are my tips for staying safe and celebrating Holi in Nepal.

Preparing for Holi in Nepal…

Where to celebrate.

It’s best to check local parks and outdoor restaurants for events. These events are typically small and controlled and make it easier to have fun without having to worry about your safety. If you are in Kathmandu, I recommend Le Sherpa or Electric Pagoda. Thamel and Kathmandu Durbar Square are popular spots to celebrate but they tend to be more on the wild side. We celebrated on the side streets between Thamel and Durbar Square and had a lot of fun. If you are in Pokhara, I recommend Lakeside.

Vaseline Your Skin

The number one tip for Holi is to cover your skin in a thin coat of Vaseline prior to going out. Holi fell two days before my wedding this year and it hadn’t even occurred to me that the color powder might dye my skin. If you put Vaseline on first, the color wipes off easily without staining you at all!

Oil Your Hair

Vaseline protects your skin, but oil is what will protect your hair. If you have dark hair, you don’t have to worry. Blondes should take precautions. My mom ended up with a turquoise streak which honestly looked cool and matched her saree for my wedding and my friend Monet ended up with some purple/pink in her hair that also looked cool. Both washed out after a few showers, but if you want to avoid colors, you can oil your hair with almond oil before going out to celebrate.

Wearing White

Wearing white means you are playing Holi. If you’re not wearing white, it’s likely no one will play with you. Likewise, you shouldn’t try to put Holi powder or throw water at people who aren’t wearing white.

Buying Holi Powder

I recommend buying colors from a local shop prior to Holi. We spent about 20 rupees (less than 20 cents USD) per small pack before the big day. On Holi, the same size was around 100 rupees.

While most of the colors washed off easily and quickly, we found that dark green and dark purple were the hardest to get off. These were also the colors that stained hair the most. In addition, they tended to be too dark and made us look dirty rather than colorful. You can’t control what colors other people use, but I wouldn’t buy these colors in the future.

Go Out Before 1:00 pm

Holi is an interesting day because both kids and adults play. Kids play in the morning starting around 10am. They fill water balloons and water guns and try to soak people passing by. It’s a ton of fun to play with the kids. There were a lot of sneak attacks that had us bursting out in laughter.

In the afternoon, more adults come out. Generally, this is 20-25 year old men who are doing drugs or drinking. Around 1pm the tone of the day switched from fun and playful to somewhat dangerous and a lot less enjoyable. We even saw people passed out on the street in their own vomit and men were running up to us and aggressively putting color on us. We ended up leaving when the mood changed. I wouldn’t go out in the afternoon again.

Have a Squad

For safety, I highly recommend traveling in a group. We never had less than 4 people and I felt safe. I don’t think I would want to be alone. On our way back when guys were getting a little rowdy, I felt much safer in a group. It’s also a lot easier to walk up to strangers when you have a crew by your side.

While Celebrating Holi in Nepal…

Don’t drink or eat unknown items.

I feel like this is probably just common sense, but people in Nepal often like to feed you. I’ve accepted tea from tons of strangers, but on Holi you really need to be careful. There is a special green juice and some edibles that I was told are laced with drugs. At first, I thought this meant weed. Later, I was told it has heroine in it. So please don’t accept anything from strangers on this day.

Take the Side Streets

You’ll see a lot of people walking on the main streets which is fun because you can put a lot of color on each other, but the side streets were so much more fun in my opinion. Little kids were hiding on roofs or in doorways and would jump out with water balloons and water guns laughing and throwing water at us. We wouldn’t see them and would scream and laugh as they caught us. It felt a bit like being in a real life video game where you have to dodge and run through a warzone.

If the Road is Wet…

If the road is wet, it means you’re about to be wet too. We could typically tell where kids were hiding based on whether or not the street was wet. If it was, it meant there’d been a water fight there recently.

Watch for Traffic

Again, this should go without saying, but there are no sidewalks on most streets in Nepal. Therefore, you are playing in the road. Please be careful when dodging water balloons. A lot of bikes will likely be driving by and you don’t want to run in front of any. We saw a few people who weren’t paying attention to traffic while playing.

Don’t Play with Dogs

Please don’t put Holi powder on dogs. A lot of stray dogs don’t have a way to wash the powder off and it begins to irritate their skin. If they manage to lick it off, then they are ingesting the powder. Either way, it’s not good for the dog.

Beware of A**holes

Unfortunately, there is always that one person who ruins it for everyone. By going out in the morning, you should be able to avoid this. One guy threw a handful of powder in my mouth as I was saying “Happy Holi.” I began to choke and couldn’t breathe. I had to rinse my mouth with water and even then it sucked. I’ve also been told to watch out for people who use dirty water in the water guns and people who put rocks in the water balloons. Why anyone would do this is beyond me, but some people just suck. So, be careful.

Don’t be an A**hole

Be respectful while playing Holi. Don’t try to put giant amounts of powder on people. Be gentle. Ask permission before putting color on people. Don’t run at people screaming “HAPPY HOLI” while shoving your hands in their face. Don’t touch people inappropriately.

Most importantly, please be gentle with kids. There were a few kids and babies playing. We walked up to them slowly, crouched down next to them and showed them our hands and pointed to their faces. They smiled, and we gently put the powder on their cheeks. They giggled and did the same to us. It was super cute. This is a day for everyone to celebrate so please respect each other.

When You’re Done Playing Holi in Nepal…

Don’t leave a mess.

Holi powder is sold in small plastic bags. Don’t just throw the bags on the floor when you’re done. Keep a plastic bag with you and take your garbage with you when you’re done. Dispose of it in a garbage pail. There is no one to clean up your mess once you’re gone.

How to Get Clean

When you’re done playing, it’s best to take your dirty t-shirt and wipe yourself off with it while DRY. I repeat, do this when you are dry. As soon as the powder gets wet, it’s twice as hard to get off. If you dust most of it off you when you’re dry, it will come off pretty easily. Then you can scrub off whatever is left while you are in the shower.

You might also like…

Michelle della giovanna.

Writer at Full Time Explorer

I’m just your average New Yorker who quit her job in the fashion industry to explore the world. Come find out what it’s like to trade in five-inch heels for squat toilets.

• Visit Twitter account (opens in a new tab)
• Visit Facebook account (opens in a new tab)
• Visit Instagram account (opens in a new tab)
• Visit Pinterest account (opens in a new tab)

This website uses affiliate links. This means that I may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you ) if  you purchase something through these links. I only link to products and companies that I love. Those companies, in return, reward me for connecting them to you .

Full Time Explorer LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Essay on Holi or Fagu Purnima [For school and college students]

Essay on Holi or Fagu Purnima is often asked in countries where Hindus are in dominance. The following essay on " Holi or Fagu Purnima " is a sample essay for school and college students. We will be uploading different versions of the essay over time.

Brainstorming for Holi or Fagu Purnima Essay

[# Sample 1]: Essay on Holi or Fagu (284 words)

Nepal is one of the richest countries in the world for festivals. The festivals may be social, religious, or national. All the festivals do not fall in the same months. We celebrate them in different months. Among them, Fagu Purnima, or Holi, is one of the most important festivals of love and friendship.

Holi is observed or celebrated on the full moon day of Falgun. People start lighting firewood at the crossroads or in the streets during Holi, which is known as "Chirag".

Because of the mild climate, people neither feel hot nor cold. Therefore, people in typical or common dress go to each other's. They meet each other and give and receive abir, or dry red powder. Other colours are also used apart from red. In some parts of Nepal, they celebrate it with a Fagu band, which can be seen in Palpa, Bhairabasthan, for example.

It is said that people have been celebrating Holi since the death of Holika. According to the legend, the demon king. Hiranyakashyap, asked his sister to sit on fire, taking Prahlad on her lap because Holika was blessed to not burn. As Prahlad was a follower of Lord Bishnu, the fire turned Holika into ashes, but Prahlad was safe. Since then, people have started to share their happiness with each other with different colored powders. It has helped to bring social unity.

Nowadays, it is celebrated in the wrong way. People, especially young guys, throw dirty water or lolas, damaged eggs and other various garbage at the students before Holi Day and make them arouse negative feelings towards Holi.

 To conclude, Holi is of social importance and should remain forever as a festival of love and unity.

Post a Comment

Contact form.

Holi in Nepal - Dates, Traditional Festivities & Food

Holi in nepal dates  .

Dates for 2024  - 24 March 2024

Holi in Nepal Festivities - Rituals and Traditions

1. Chir Haran

2. carnival in basantpur durbar.

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

Food During Holi in Nepal

True to its origin, Gujiya is one sweet that finds its forever place in the Holi festival. Made of Maida or flour with a yummy filling of dry fruits in it is a complete dessert altogether. This sweet is mostly savoured in the Northern part of India as that’s where it all started.

2. Bhang Lassi

Holi in Nepal is almost incomplete without this drink as everyone at least has one or more depending upon their drinking capacity. Thandai, as it is also called, is a cocktail made up of Indian spices, milk, and cannabis or bhang powder. Over the years, though the drink has gained a bad reputation for some people, it is still a delectable and healthy drink for this festival.

3. Malai Peda

These softballs, made up of milk cream or malai and garnished with dry fruits like pistachios, almonds, or cashews, are a favorite for any festival. With many flavors like, for example, Saffron or Kesa, Pedha is loved by people of all age groups.

4. Bhang Laddoos 

This post was published by Snehal Jadhav

Share this post on social media Facebook Twitter

Nepal Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Nepal Kathmandu Tour: Super Saver Package for 5 Nights

4 Nights 5 Days Nepal Package - Budget All-Inclusive Tour

Best Nepal Tour Package - Kathmandu & Pokhara With Nagarkot

Nepal pokhara tour package with chitwan jungle safari, nepal honeymoon package with candle lit dinner at nepali restaurant, amazing nepal tour package with lumbini sightseeing, related articles.

Fairs & Festivals

Gai Jatra 2024 - The Festival of Turning Grief into Joy

Shivratri in Nepal - An Incredible Gathering of Thousands of Pilgrims

Diwali in Nepal - Celebration of the Gods, Mother Nature and Oneself

Kukur Tihar in Nepal - Celebrations, Dates and Festivities

Dashain 2023: Be A Part Of Nepal's Biggest Festival!

New Year in Nepal - 12 Fun Things to Do in Nepal To Welcome 2024

Nepal in December - Weather, Top Places and Festivals

Christmas in Nepal - Why You Should Visit Nepal During Christmas

Festivals in Nepal You Must Experience

Everest Base Camp Trek - The North Camp!

Everest Base Camp Trek - The South Camp!

Shopping In Nepal - What to Buy & Where to Buy From

Complete Guide To Camping In Nepal - The 10 Best Camping Sites!

Wildlife & Nature

National Parks in Nepal To Explore The Wild Side of The Himalayan Country

Art & Culture

Religions in Nepal - The Repository of Ethnic Mosaic

Culture of Nepal - Glimpse into the Vibrant Nepali Culture!

History of Nepal - The Past That Shaped the Beautiful Nation

Languages of Nepal - A Traveller's Guide To Go Local & Feel Welcomed!

10 Best Adventure Activities In Nepal Beyond Mount Everest!

Experiences

Honeymoon in Nepal - Everything You Need to Know for a Dreamy Honeymoon

20 Beautiful Places In Nepal That Will Leave You Wonderstruck

15 Treks In Nepal - Have The Adventure Of Your Life!

Backpacking In Nepal - The Definitive Traveller's Guide

Nightlife of Nepal: An Exhaustive Guide To Nepal's Stellar Nightlife

Food & Drink

Beer in Nepal: Quench Your Thirst with Nepal's Exclusive Brews

List of Airports in Nepal

Handicrafts of Nepal - Best Handmade Crafts from the ‘Roof of the World’

Music of Nepal: The Variety of Music One Can Find in Nepal

Food in Nepal - 15 Nepalese Dishes You Must Try

Dresses of Nepal - 7 Beautiful Traditional Nepalese Dresses

Comments on this post

Browse package collections, nepal package collections.

Nepal Honeymoon Packages

Top Listed Packages

Tour Packages for Kathmandu Nepal: 7 Nights 8 Days Special Adventure

4 Nights 5 Days Kathmandu Package with Nagarkot

Nepal Itinerary: 6 Nights 7 Days Grand Tour Package

Nepal Wildlife Tour including Elephant Safari, Canoe Ride & More

Browse Hotel Collections

By hotel type.

Best 5-star Hotels in Nepal

Top Places in Nepal

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

Home | Culture | Holidays | Holi

Holi Festival in Nepal

• Updated February 23, 2021
• Pages 2 (289 words)
• Any subject
• Within the deadline
• Without paying in advance

Holi is a spring festival, also known as the festival of colors, welcoming the advent of spring season, which usually falls in the month of February or March. It is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal and parts of the world with a sizable Hindu population.

The celebration starts with Holika Dahan, the burning of an effigy of demons Holika. The burning of the effigy is done the night before and people sing and dance around the bonfire. The name of the festival ‘Holi’ is derived from the demoness ‘Holika’ who tricked her nephew – Prahlad- into a burning pyre to kill him since Prahlad was a great devotee of Vishnu but was hated by his father Hiranyakasyap. It is said that Holika had worn a protective cloak while Prahlad was vulnerable to fire, but as the fire raged the cloak flew from Holika and wrapped around Prahlad saving him while his aunt burnt to death.

The next day is the beginning of the festival and people celebrate with colors, water-filled balloons and water guns to apply color on each other. It is free for all celebration for all ages and apart from drinking alcohol, a special intoxicating herb known as ‘bhang’ is widely consumed. On this day, bands of young boys and girls splashed with color roam around the city streets while many city corners and open spaces are filled with dancing and regaling people to loud music.

The vermillion red powder is traditionally the color of the festival, though nowadays you will find all assortments of colors being sold on the streets. The color sellers in the shops and streets are busy all day being swamped with customers from old to young giving a very good business.

Cite this paper

Holi Festival in Nepal. (2021, Feb 23). Retrieved from https://samploon.com/holi-festival-in-nepal/

• Select a writer from a large pool of experts
• Share your assignment's requirements
• Get a 100% unique and top-quality paper

Check related topics

Hi! Peter is on the line!

Don't settle for a cookie-cutter essay. Receive a tailored piece that meets your specific needs and requirements.

The Atlantic

Holi 2024: The Festival of Colors

Posted: March 25, 2024 | Last updated: March 25, 2024

More for You

Kale had its moment. Its leafy cousin has more protein and fewer calories

Supreme Court to debate 'sleeper' case that could affect Trump federal prosecution

Kayla Harrison chokes out Holly Holm to win debut at UFC 300

I became a millionaire at age 27—here are 4 'unpopular' rules rich people follow that most don't

13 Polite Habits Flight Attendants Actually Dislike—and What to Do Instead

This type of supplement may increase heart disease risk, new study finds

I moved from California to Tennessee for my husband's job. We can finally save money, but it's been a major culture shock.

US Marines China war training on secluded island 'ridiculous' and will 'backfire'

11 Facts You Should Know About Canned Salmon

"Are you gonna help me make MF'in money? Then I don't care" - When Richard Jefferson said Jason Collins coming out shouldn't be an issue

Top 30 Most Difficult Songs to Sing

Daily Drop (4/14): WWE Fires Hall of Famer, AEW Ups The Stakes For Dynasty Title Match

I left a high-rise apartment to live in a van. It's not that much cheaper, but I've saved $70,000 over 3 years and won't ever go back to a traditional home.

19 Common Behaviors of Highly Intelligent People

HOA committee member sparks debate over $1 million insurance requirement for EV charger: 'It's a weird situation'

15 Valuable American Coins and Which US States You’re Most Likely To Find Them In

The ripeness of a banana could affect your health

Five college towns worth staying put in after graduation

Skip the Suit! 17 of the Best Maxi Dresses to Wear to Work

36-year-old brought in $77,000 in passive income from Etsy in 2023—she spends 5-10 minutes per day on it