Tihar is also known as Deepawali or Yamapanchak, which is celebrated for a total of five days according to Hindu mythology. Tihar in Newari is known as Swonti which directly follows after Dashain (Mo:ni) and is celebrated in avid fan fair. During when the animals and birds such as crows, cows and dogs are worshipped as avatars of the gods. Households create beautiful Rangoli’s (Mandala) at the porch of homes and light Diyo (Oil Lamps) to welcome the Goddess Laxmi who is believed to be the Goddess of wealth and prosperity.
The five major days of Tihar are Kaag Tihar during when the crow and ravens are worshipped and provided offerings of dishes placed at the roof of homes. Devotees believe that the offerings help avert grief and death in their homes. During the second day, the dogs are worshipped and offered garlands, tika and delicacies acknowledging and cherishing the bond and relation between dogs and humans. The third day is known as Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja. During the morning of this day, devotees worship the cow (Gai) which signifies prosperity and wealth in Hinduism. In the evening the Goddess Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth is worshipped and thanked for the blessings and benefits bestowed onto the families by offering Diyo (Oil Lamps) in all gateways to the home such as the doors and windows to welcome prosperity and well-being. The fourth day is known as Govardhan Puja, during which the Ox is worshipped according to core Hindu Doctrine. The followers of the sect of Vaishnavism (Lord Vishnu) worship abound of cow dung (Gover) whereas the Newar community on the night celebrate Mha Puja (Self Worship).
The final day of Tihar is known as Bhai Tika or Kija Puja in Newari. It is observed by the sisters applying tika to the forehead of their brothers and placing sacred oil on their forehead and wishing long life and thanking them. According to Hindu Mythology, it is believed that Yamaraj (God of Death), visited his sister Goddess Yamuna on this day. She applied the auspicious tika on his forehead, garlanded him and offered delicacies. Before departing, Yamaraj gave a special gift as a token of his affection and in return Goddess, Yamuna gave him a lovely gift which she had made with her own hands.
The festivities of Tihar holds many memories for the citizens of Nepal. The festival of lights sees the nation light up with festive lights and the sounds of children playing deusi and bhailo just brights up even the darkest days. Especially in the urban centres like Kathmandu Valley, the majesty of the festival of lights turns the city into an avid display of lights all around. With string lights hanging from the exterior of homes, to do's (butter lamps) placed in and around the houses the totality of the lights in display creates a scene to fathom.
1. A View of Kathmandu from Swayambhunath
The stupa perched at the hill of Padmagiri is a beautiful destination to overlook the valley of Kathmandu and witness the majesty of the city during Tihar. The place offers a beautiful panoramic view of the city which you can enjoy with a cup of tea. As the sun sets the city lights up in all its glory and you get to witness the beauty of the valley.
It is believed that at the ending years of Dwapar Yuga, an Acharya named Santikar who is also known as Sant-Sri saw that the Kali Yuga was approaching, during which mankind would be utterly sinful. So, he covered the light of Swayambhu with stone and built a chaitya and temple over it. Entangled with this same legend is another fascinating the legend, it is believed that Sant Shri who built the chaitya also built 5 rooms surrounding the chaitya named after the 4 elements and one the soul called Santipur, where he locked himself and stayed in the state of divine meditation. He thus entered a mystic state, achieving immortality and vowed to stay in the room and emerge when the valley of Kathmandu truly needed him.
2. The pond of Pim Bahal
The pond of Pim Bahal which is locally known as the Jag Maru Puku ( Pond without a foundation) is a treat hidden inside the beautiful city of Patan ( Lalitpur). Located on the way to Patan Durbar Square, the pond saw great community effort in restoring the pond to its original state after the great earthquake of 2015. The beautiful reflections of the lights of the homes surrounding the pond bring forth a new dimension during the festive season of Tihar. One can enjoy a great stroll at Patan Durbar Square and take a brief walk to the pond, which features several pati’s (Resting Spots) and catch their breath while being surrounded by its cultural magnificence.
3. A Stroll in New Road
The heart of all trade in the city of Kathmandu, the street of New Road during the festive season of Tihar turns into a beautiful display of lights for one to fathom. Stopping at New Road gate and talking a walk through the streets to Kathmandu Durbar Square, is a definite treat to the eyes with all the beautiful dangling lights form homes with the sounds of children playing deusi and bhailo.
4. A Drive in Kathmandu
If you have a rented vehicle then talking a drive through Kathmandu is a must in Tihar. The festivities lighten up the traffic and a drive around the city is a great way to witness the magnanimous display of lights around the city.
5. The Town of Kirtipur
The town of Kirtipur perched at the eastern hill lock is a town rich with Newar culture and heritage. It also offers a beautiful panoramic view of the city of Lalitpur and Kathmandu which are bound to have you tantalized during Tihar. One can experience a great day strolling around the city and experiencing Newari hospitality to the finest and be treated to a beautiful view of the city in the late evening hours.