Raksha Bandhan in Nepal
Date: 28 August 2026
Introduction
Raksha Bandhan in Nepal is a culturally significant Hindu festival celebrated nationwide to honor the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters tie a rakhi (decorative sacred thread) around their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of protection, love, and lifelong support, followed by festive meals, gifts, and family celebrations. The date is part of the Shravan Purnima (full moon) observance in the Hindu calendar and is celebrated with enthusiasm across Nepali communities.
History
Raksha Bandhan, observed on the full moon (Purnima) of the lunar month of Shravana, has ancient roots in Hindu tradition. The festival represents the vow of protection and support between siblings and is intrinsically linked to cultural and religious practices across South Asia. In Nepal, Raksha Bandhan is observed as a **public holiday**, and the festive spirit is visible in homes, markets, schools, and temples throughout the country.
Rituals
- Decorate a puja thali (plate) with rakhi threads, vermillion (roli), rice (akshat), sweets, and a small diya (lamp).
- Sisters perform aarti (ritual prayer) and tie the rakhi thread on their brothers’ wrists, praying for their well‑being and long life.
- Brothers give gifts, money, or tokens of affection to their sisters as a promise of lifelong protection and support.
- Families enjoy festive meals with traditional dishes and sweets such as laddoo, barfi, kheer, and other Nepali delicacies shared among relatives.
- Temples and community organisations host cultural events, prayers, and gatherings that bring families together throughout the day.
Events
- Raksha Bandhan Main Celebration:
The primary Raksha Bandhan observance in Nepal, featuring ritual rakhi tying between siblings, family gatherings, festive feasts, and community celebrations throughout the day.28 August 2026 9:00 AM NPT - 28 August 2026 8:00 PM NPT
Major Cities
Kathmandu
Nepal’s capital celebrates Raksha Bandhan with large family gatherings, temple rituals, community events, and vibrant market activities with rakhi stalls and sweets.
Lalitpur
Lalitpur observes the festival with traditional puja rituals, rakhi ceremonies, family feasts, and cultural performances in community spaces.
Pokhara
Pokhara’s Indian and Nepali communities mark Raksha Bandhan with festive meals, gift exchanges, and rakhi tying ceremonies followed by evening celebrations with relatives and friends.
Biratnagar
Biratnagar’s Hindu community gathers for rakhi rituals, temple prayers, and family celebrations featuring traditional Nepali and Indian sweets.
Bharatpur
Bharatpur observes Raksha Bandhan with family puja rituals, rakhi exchanges, and community gatherings that emphasize sibling relationships.
Dharan
Dharan sees joyful Rakhi celebrations with family gatherings, traditional prayers, festive meals, and rakhi offerings exchanged among siblings.
Janakpur
Janakpur’s Indian cultural influence enriches Raksha Bandhan celebrations with temple events, devotional songs, and gatherings that highlight traditional customs.
FAQ
When is Raksha Bandhan 2026 in Nepal?
Raksha Bandhan 2026 in Nepal will be celebrated on **Friday, 28 August 2026**, based on the Hindu Shravan Purnima (full moon) tradition. It is recognised as a public holiday.
How is Raksha Bandhan celebrated in Nepal?
In Nepal, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with sisters tying rakhi threads on their brothers’ wrists, exchanging gifts, festive meals, prayers, temple visits, and cultural events involving families and communities across the country.
Is Raksha Bandhan a public holiday in Nepal?
Yes, Raksha Bandhan is recognised as a **public holiday in Nepal**, and families across the country observe the festival with cultural and religious activities.