KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 7
Indra Jatra is an eight-day festival celebrated in Kathmandu to honor Lord Indra, the God of Rain and the King of Heaven.
Basantapur Durbar Square is the epicenter of the festivities, where ancient rituals, masked dances, and spectacular chariot processions take place.Indra Jatra, often called Yenyā Punhi, is the most lively and vibrant street festival celebrated in Kathmandu, deeply embedded in the rich traditions of the Newar community.
In 2025, this magnificent festival is set to begin on Saturday, September 6, coinciding with the 15th day of Yanlā, which is the 11th month of the Nepalese lunar calendar.
Indra Jatra, an eight-day festival in Kathmandu, Nepal, celebrating Lord Indra, the god of rain, and the living goddess Kumari.
Celebrated by both Hindus and Buddhists, it involves chariot processions, masked dances, and religious enactments to thank Indra for a good harvest and to commemorate the deceased.
The festival's legend tells of Indra being imprisoned while seeking a flower, leading to his mother Dagini coming to earth, whose journey is re-enacted by bereaved families.
Photos by Rajesh Gurung for The Himalayan Times
