Nepal during October is a time when the summer heat subsides, the skies are clear, and the country comes alive with vibrant festivals. Here’s a glimpse into the major festivals celebrated in October 2024:

Dasain (October 3 – October 12, 2024) – Nepal during October

Dasain is the 15 days and most beloved festival in Nepal, it is a magical and bonding time for Nepalese. It marks a time for family reunions, kite flying, and bustling markets filled with farmers selling animals for sacrifice. The festival celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over evil, with various rituals and traditions followed throughout the ten days. Key days include:

  • Ghatasthapana (October 3): The beginning of Dasain, marked by the sowing of maize and barley, known as Jamara.
  • Phulpati (October 10): Flowers and offerings are brought from Gorkha Durbar to Hanuman Dhoka, accompanied by a royal parade.
  • Mahanavami (October 11): Mass animal sacrifices are made to honor Goddess Durga.
  • Vijaya Dasami (October 12): The day when elders mark juniors with ‘Tika’ and blessings are exchanged.

Kojagrat Purnima (October 17, 2024) – Nepal during October

The final day of the 15-day Dasain festival, Kojagrat Purnima, is a national festive day in Nepal, marked by various rituals and celebrations.

Tihar (Diwali) – Festival of Lights (October 30 – November 3, 2024)

Tihar, also known as the Festival of Lights, is the second major festival in Nepal. It involves five days of celebrations, with each day dedicated to different animals and deities:

  • Kag Tihar (October 30): Worship of crows.
  • Kukur Tihar (October 31): Worship of dogs.
  • Gai Tihar and Lakshmi Puja (November 1): Worship of cows and the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.
  • Goverdhan Puja and Mha Puja (November 2): Worship of oxen (Goru Puja) and the Newari New Year, where Mha Puja is performed to purify and empower the soul.
  • Bhai Tika (November 3): Sisters bless their brothers with Tika, garlands, sweets, and prayers for their long life and prosperity.

These festivals are a time of joy, light, and unity, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. We have bunches of short treks in Nepal and cultural tours and sight seeing samples, and of course hard and long treks that are more than two weeks. You can select one of this and let us know what is your preference, we will get back to you immeditley. You can write here. It is always fascinating to visit Nepal during October.

Nepal during October is considered the best time to trek for several reasons:

1. Ideal Weather Conditions

  • Clear Skies: October falls in the autumn season in Nepal, right after the monsoon ends. The skies are clear, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks without cloud obstruction.
  • Pleasant Temperatures: The temperatures during October are moderate, with warm days and cool nights. This makes trekking comfortable, even at higher altitudes.

2. Stunning Mountain Views

  • Crisp and Clear Views: Post-monsoon air is free from dust and pollution, ensuring sharp and vivid visibility of the mountains. This is the best time for photographers and nature lovers to capture the stunning landscapes.
  • Snow-Capped Peaks: The first snowfalls of the season often dust the peaks, adding to the majestic beauty of the Himalayan range.

3. Festive Atmosphere

  • Cultural Festivals: October is a festive month in Nepal, with major celebrations like Dashain and Tihar taking place. Trekking during this time allows visitors to experience the rich culture and traditions of the country. Local Festivities: Many villages along the trekking routes will have their own local festivals, providing trekkers with a unique cultural experience.

4. Optimal Trail Conditions

  • Dry Trails: With the monsoon season over, the trails are dry and less slippery, making trekking safer and more enjoyable.
  • Lush Greenery: The post-monsoon landscape is lush and green, with blooming flowers and thriving vegetation adding beauty to the trek.

5. High Availability of Services

  • Lodging and Teahouses: October is peak trekking season, meaning most lodges, teahouses, and trekking services are fully operational, providing better support and amenities for trekkers.
  • Experienced Guides: Due to the high demand, many experienced guides and porters are available, ensuring a safer and more informative trekking experience.

These factors combine to make October the most popular and rewarding month for trekking in Nepal.