Verified Festival Dates
Upcoming Year
8 Days
2026 / २०८३
AD: September 25, 2026
BS: 9 Ashwin 2083
Main Day: September 25, 2026 (Kumari Chariot Day)
Previous Year
8 Days
2025 / २०८२
AD: September 6, 2025
BS: 21 Bhadra 2082
Main Day: September 6, 2025
Nepal Festival Guide
Indra Jatra (Yenya) (इन्द्रजात्रा (येँयाः))
Kathmandu’s most theatrical street festival featuring chariot processions of the Living Goddess and masked demon dances.
Cultural Significance & Meaning
Indra Jatra honours Indra, the Vedic god of rain, thanking him for the harvest. The festival also features the appearance of the Living Goddess (Kumari) in her royal golden chariot through ancient Kathmandu.
Key Ceremonies & Traditions
- Pulling the three-tiered chariot of Royal Kumari, Ganesh, and Bhairav through packed historic alleys.
- Majipa Lakhey masked demon dances with fearsome red masks and flowing hair.
- Display of the gigantic Sweta Bhairab mask dispensing consecrated local liquor (Aila) to the crowd.
Traveler Impact & Logistics
What visitors need to know about transport, crowds, and business operations
Closures & Crowds
Local public holiday in Kathmandu Valley. Historic alleys closed to traffic.
Transport & Booking
Walk on foot to Basantapur Durbar Square by early afternoon to secure viewing spots.
Best Places to Experience Indra Jatra (Yenya)
Top cities and heritage hubs with authentic celebrations
Kathmandu Durbar Square
The heart of Indra Jatra where the President and international diplomats witness the Kumari blessing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Living Goddess Kumari?
The Kumari is a young prepubescent Newar girl revered as the living incarnation of Goddess Taleju. Indra Jatra is one of the rare occasions she leaves her temple palace.
Festival Quick Facts
Category:
cultural spectacle
Crowd Intensity:
High
2026 Gregorian Dates:
September 25, 2026
2083 Bikram Sambat:
9 Ashwin 2083
Visit During Indra Jatra (Yenya)
Plan a personalized itinerary that aligns with festival dates and connects your chosen destinations.