For one joyful day each spring, Nepal's streets explode with colour as people of all ages throw coloured powder and water at each other. Holi, known in Nepal as Fagu Purnima, celebrates the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring.
Quick answer: Holi falls on the full moon of Falgun, usually in February or March. In the hills, including Kathmandu and Pokhara, it is celebrated a day before the Terai (plains). The biggest parties are in Basantapur (Kathmandu Durbar Square), Thamel and Lakeside Pokhara.
The story
Holi recalls the legend of Prahlad, a devotee of Vishnu who survived the fire of the demon Holika, a symbol of the triumph of good.
How it's celebrated
- A week before Holi, a pole called the chir, decorated with colourful cloth, is raised at Basantapur in Kathmandu.
- On the day, people throw coloured powder (abir) and water balloons, sing and dance.
- The chir is burned at the end of the festival.
Where to celebrate
- Kathmandu Durbar Square and Thamel: lively crowds and music.
- Lakeside Pokhara: parties by the lake.
- The Terai: celebrated a day later, often more traditional.
Tips
- Wear old clothes and protect your phone in a plastic bag.
- Oil your skin and hair to make colour easier to wash off.
- Protect your eyes; sunglasses help.
- Women may prefer to celebrate in a group.
See our festivals of Nepal.