Indra Jatra is a procession that is carried out for the Lord of rain Indra who is also a king of heaven. Indra Jatra is closely associated with Kathmandu and the Newar community of the Kathmandu Valley. It is believed that this festival is celebrated to thank Lord Indra and to honor Shiva’s manifestation, Bhairav who is believed to destroy evil.
Indra Jatra begins from Bhadra Dwadasi to Ashwin Krishna Chaturdasi every year. It is celebrated for eight days.
This festival is specially celebrated by Newars by displaying images and sculptures of Indra and Bhairab. It starts with a carnival-like erection of The Linga (Yasingh), a ceremonial pole, accompanied by the rare display of the deity, represented by a massive mask spouting. This thirty-six feet long wooden pole comes from east of Kathmandu, Nala forest in Kavre district.
The living goddess Kumari participates in the procession through the streets of Kathmandu to thank Indra the rain god. One can get attracted to the procession of chariots and masked dancers representing deities and demons.
Festival dates vary each year. Confirm the dates and procession schedule before arranging your visit. For background, see the Nepal Tourism Board’s Indra Jatra guide.
Related travel planning
For further planning, read our Festivals in Nepal and Cultural facts about Nepal.
