Festivals & Cultural Events
Dashain Festival Travel Guide for International Visitors
Dashain is one of Nepal's biggest family festivals, so visitors should plan transport, domestic flights, guide availability, and city sightseeing around holiday movement.
What happened?
Dashain creates one of Nepal's largest annual travel movements as families leave major cities, businesses adjust hours, and transport demand rises around the main festival dates.
Why does it matter to travelers?
For travelers, the festival can be culturally rich but logistically slower. Some restaurants, shops, agencies, and offices may reduce hours while buses and flights can become busier.
Who is affected?
Visitors in Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini, trekking gateways, and airport transfer corridors should plan ahead rather than booking at the last minute.
What should visitors do?
Reserve key transport early, keep flexible sightseeing plans on the main holiday days, carry enough cash for small purchases, and ask hotels which nearby food options remain open.