Biska Jatra is an annual festival celebrated in Bhaktapur and Thimi, Nepal, marking the new year on the Bikram Sambat calendar. Though unrelated to Bikram Sambat, it’s known as the “festival after the death of the serpent.” The most vibrant festivities occur in Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Thimi Balkumari. A massive chariot carries the statue of God Bhairava, pulled by hundreds of people, to Khalla Tole. It was assembled near the Nyatapole temple a month prior. A highlight is a tug-of-war between the upper and lower parts of Bhaktapur, culminating in the chariot’s journey to Khalla Tole. A towering 25-meter Yoh si Dyo is erected on New Year’s Eve in Yosi khyo, signifying the start of the new year when it’s pulled down. Bisket Jatra embodies local traditions and serves as a lively start to the year.
In another part of Bhaktapur, known as Balkumari Thimi, there is a spectacular color festival called Sindur Jatra. People from various parts of Madhyapur Thimi gather in Layeku Thimi, each carrying their own chariot. Participants celebrate and exchange greetings by throwing red or orange-colored powder, known as Simrik, and playing traditional Dhimay music. Additionally, in a place called Bode, a tongue-piercing ceremony takes place, where a resident spends the entire day with an iron spike pierced through their tongue. They then roam different parts of the city carrying multiple fire torches on their shoulders. Juju Bhai Shrestha is the most renowned and frequent participant in this tongue-piercing tradition.
Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal. Asian Heritage Treks & Travel Representative welcomes you at the Airport with your nameplate. After Arrival at Nepal airport, transfer you to the hotel. On the way Airport to the Hotel, you will pass by the Pashupatinath temple. Royal Palace Museum, i.e., Narayanhity, Garden of Dreams, and reach Thamel. Your hotel will be downtown at the Touristic Hub. Check in to your sumptuous room at the luxury 4-star Hotel Yatri Suites & Spa. Our representative will facilitate you and discuss your travel itinerary. There will be enough time to stroll through the streets of Thamel.
Includes: Private Transport and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites & Spa, or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage sites with a private guide in a comfortable vehicle. Start at Kathmandu Durbar Square, where ancient wood-carved temples and buildings showcase the city’s history. Next, visit Swyambhunath, the monkey temple, to witness religious harmony and enjoy panoramic views. Continue to Pashupatinath Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site in Southeast Asia, to witness cremation rituals on the Bagmati riverbank and explore Guweyswori Temple nearby. Finally, explore Boudhanath Stupa, a unique Buddhist structure dating back to 600 A.D. After completing your tour, return to your hotel to rest. This excursion offers an enriching cultural experience and a glimpse into the spiritual tapestry of Nepal’s capital.
Includes: Breakfast, Private Transport, an English-speaking Tour Guide, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites & Spa, or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Today you will visit the medieval period city of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, one of Nepal’s most stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Known for its exquisite Newar architecture, wood carvings, and historical monuments, the square reflects the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the Malla period. Landmarks like the 55-Window Palace, Vatsala Temple, and Nyatapola Temple showcase the city’s craftsmanship and devotion to tradition.
Visiting Bhaktapur becomes even more vibrant during Bisket Jatra, the city’s grand New Year festival, celebrated every April. This energetic celebration marks the Nepali New Year with chariot processions, traditional music, and tug-of-war contests between different city quarters. Locals and visitors alike gather to witness the pulling of massive chariots carrying deities Bhairab, Bhadrakali, and Ganesh through narrow streets, a thrilling display of devotion, community spirit, and excitement.
Joining Bisket Jatra offers a rare opportunity to experience Bhaktapur’s living culture, where ancient traditions come alive and heartfelt celebration.
Includes: Breakfast, Private Transport, an English-speaking Tour Guide, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites & Spa, or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Your trip will come to an end today. You will be advised and assisted with your onward travel arrangements and transfer to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport by private transport around 3 hours before your flight schedule and flight back to your home/other travel destination.
Have a safe journey onwards.
Includes: Breakfast and Private Transport.
