Discover Nepal guide

Dashain (Bada Dashain)

Learn about Dashain (Bada Dashain) through verified cultural context, key facts, regions, traditions and references.

Communities

Hindu communities across Nepal, especially Khas (Brahmin, Chhetri) and many others

Regions

Nationwide

Calendar

Ashwin shukla paksha (BS), main day Vijaya Dashami

Season

Sep–Oct

Rituals

Fifteen days from Ghatasthapana to Kojagrat Purnima; jamara (barley shoots) grown in darkness, tika of rice, yoghurt and vermilion from elders, animal sacrifices at Shakti temples, bamboo swings (ping) in villages.

Significance

Nepal's largest festival — celebrates the goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura and, with it, the renewal of family ties as people return home from anywhere in the country.