What are the public holidays in Nepal?

Nepal observes a variety of public holidays throughout the year, reflecting its rich cultural and religious diversity. The major public holidays are:

1. New Year's Day (Bikram Sambat New Year)

   • Date: April 13 or 14
   • Description: Marks the start of the Nepali New Year according to the Bikram Sambat calendar.

2. Maha Shivaratri

   • Date: February or March (varies each year)
   • Description: A Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated with fasting and night-long vigils.

3. Holi

   • Date: March (varies each year)
   • Description: The festival of colors, celebrating the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil.

4. Buddha Jayanti

   • Date: April or May (varies each year)
   • Description: Celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha.

5. Indra Jatra

   • Date: August or September (varies each year)
   • Description: A traditional festival in Kathmandu honoring the god Indra and marking the end of the monsoon season.

6. Dashain (Vijaya Dashami)

   • Date: September or October (varies each year)
   • Description: The biggest Hindu festival in Nepal, celebrating the victory of good over evil. It lasts for 15 days.

7. Tihar (Deepawali)

   • Date: October or November (varies each year)
   • Description: The Hindu festival of lights, celebrated over five days with the worship of different animals and deities.

8. Christmas

   • Date: December 25
   • Description: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, observed by the Christian community in Nepal.

9. Eid al-Fitr

   • Date: Date varies based on the Islamic lunar calendar
   • Description: Marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

10. Eid al-Adha

    • Date: Date varies based on the Islamic lunar calendar
    • Description: Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, it commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.

11. Nepali Congress Day

    • Date: December 7
    • Description: Marks the establishment of the Nepali Congress party.

Dates for some holidays vary each year based on lunar calendars or other traditional systems. It's always a good idea to check the specific dates for each year to stay informed.