The Indra Jatra festival tour usually takes place in September annually in Kathmandu, Nepal. The festival lasts for eight days, providing a wonderful experience for every individual who visits Kathmandu. The Newar community of Kathmandu Valley celebrates this festival as one of the important festivals that occur based on the lunar calendar. Kathmandu Durbar Square is the primary venue to celebrate this event. The attraction of this festival is the living goddess Kumari’s chariot procession in the streets of Kathmandu. The erection of Yosin or Indradhoj at Hanumandhoka officially begins the Jatra. The pole is decorated with colorful flags, which symbolize the presence of lord Indra. Processions and masked dances occurred in different parts of the city. These dances have mythological stories and beliefs. You will have an opportunity to observe and experience local traditions and rituals. Pokalde Adventure Tours and Travel is organizing a festive tour to Kathmandu Valley, which includes entirely religious ceremonies and visiting World Heritage sites.
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- Nepali Cuisine such as Dal, Bhat, lentil soup, Momo, and many more
- Local Cuisine of the Newari community available in that area
- Vibrant traditional culture
- Chariot Parade of Kumari (living goddess) and Bhairav
- Masked Dance, Pulukissi(iconic Elephant)
Day 01Day 1: Arrival at TIA Kathmandu
Day 1: Arrival at TIA Kathmandu
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, one of our office representatives greet you and assist you in transferring to the designated hotel. After hotel check-in, we will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square to witness the beginning of Indra Jatra. The Yasin is hosted in front of Hanuman Dhoka which means the festival begins. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 02Day 2 and 3: Explore the history and culture of Kathmandu Valley
Day 2 and 3: Explore the history and culture of Kathmandu Valley
After breakfast, you can start your tour by visiting the exotic destinations within Kathmandu Valley before continuing the activities of Indra Jatra. On the second and third days of Indra Jatra, famous spots such as Durbar Square, rich in architectural designs and historical values, Swoyambhunath (Monkey temple), Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath, etc., can be explored during the day till the afternoon. People tour the old city of Kathmandu through the Upaku route, representing the city’s boundary, where bereaved families light lamps at religious shrines to honor their departed loved ones, and rare Bhairav masks are displayed. The tour begins and ends in Basantapur on both days. You can be a part of the procession and walk with the crowd to the neighborhoods on this route. Then relax in the evening and have an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 03Day 4: Indra Jatra Observation Day (Kwoneyaa)
Day 4: Indra Jatra Observation Day (Kwoneyaa)
Today is the main day of the Indra Jatra festival. All the officials, including the President, visited Basantapur Durbar Square to get a blessing from the living goddess Kumari and to pay respect to her. The process has been followed for centuries. The chariot of Ganesh, Bhairav, and Kumari was pulled during this day. The significance of this grand festival unites the Buddhists and the Hindus of Kathmandu. We will enjoy this show from a top restaurant near Kumari’s house. From today, the charm of the festival resides only in the inner core street of Kathmandu Durbar Square..
Day 04Day 5: Kumari Chariot Processing Day (Thaneyaa)
Day 5: Kumari Chariot Processing Day (Thaneyaa)
Today, we can enjoy the Kumari chariot procession observation in the northern part of Durbar Square in the daytime. Enjoy a Photography session at Patan Durbar Square.
Day 05Day 6: Explore Bhaktapur City and drive to Nagarkot hill.
Day 6: Explore Bhaktapur City and drive to Nagarkot hill.
After breakfast, drive to Bhaktapur Durbar Square to explore the captivating streets and alleys of Bhaktapur. Marvel at the ancient temples, intricate woodwork, and well-preserved architecture. Bhaktapur offers a unique blend of history and local life, providing a perfect backdrop for cultural exploration and photography.
After lunch, drive to Nagarkot to reach Nagarkot Hill. Nagarkot is popular for its panoramic views of the Himalayas. Enjoy the pleasant surroundings. Overnight at the resort.
Day 06Day 7: Back to Kathmandu, explore around Kathmandu heritage sites such as Pashupatinath temple. Leisure for shopping and relaxation.
Day 7: Back to Kathmandu, explore around Kathmandu heritage sites such as Pashupatinath temple. Leisure for shopping and relaxation.
Day 07Day 8: Departure
Day 8: Departure
One of our office members will assist you in transferring to the Airport 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
Included
- All ground transportation.
- Accommodation based on BB Basis
- Farewell dinner
- Entrance Fees
- A comprehensive medical kit
- Administrative cost and Staff Salary(Guide Salary)
Not Included
- Lunch & Dinner
- International air Tickets, Insurance, and Nepal Entry Visa Fee
- Alcohol, personal expenses, and Equipments
- Tips (Not Mandatory but taken as respect)
Quick Facts
- Celebrated in September (Bhadra month), starts from the 12th day of the bright fortnight of Bhadra.
- Lasts for 8 days
- Primarily in Kathmandu Durbar Square and the surrounding streets, with celebrations throughout the Kathmandu Valley.
- Indra, the god of rain and king of heaven in Hindu mythology.
- Kumari Jatra: Procession of the Living Goddess Kumari, pulled on a chariot through the city.
- Linga Raising (Yosin pole): A ceremonial wooden pole erected at Hanuman Dhoka.
- Masked Dances: Lakhey dance (by a demon figure), Majipa Lakhey, and Pulukisi (elephant dance).
- Display of deities: Bhairab’s mask is displayed at Durbar Square.
- Traditional music: Played by Newar communities with drums and flutes.
Predominantly celebrated by the Newar community, but widely attended by people from all ethnic groups and even tourists.
Marks the beginning of the harvest season.
Honors Indra’s capture in Kathmandu and his release.