Tihar
Oct–Nov, five days around the new moon of Kartik (lunar calendar)
Tihar falls around the new moon of Kartik, usually in late October or November, at the same time as Diwali in the plains. It runs for five days, each with its own honour. On Kag Tihar families leave food for crows; on Kukur Tihar dogs get marigold garlands, tika and a good meal, and street dogs across Kalimpong walk around looking very pleased. The third day honours the cow in the morning and Laxmi, goddess of wealth, at night, when every house is lit. Houses are cleaned and decorated with marigold garlands and rangoli at the door.
In the evenings, groups of young people and children go from house to house singing Bhailo, and later in the festival Deusi, traditional call-and-response songs. Households give them money, fruit and sel roti, and the collection often goes to a club or a local cause. The fourth day is Govardhan or Goru Puja, honouring oxen. In Kalimpong the singing goes on late into the night, and groups sometimes perform songs and dances in the street.
The last day, Bhai Tika, is the most important for families. Sisters give their brothers a seven-coloured tika, garlands of long-lasting makhamali flowers and a plate of sweets and dried fruit, and pray for their long life. For visitors, Tihar is a lovely time to be in town, with clear post-monsoon skies and the haat busy with marigolds and sel roti. Rates rise less than at Puja, so it is a fair time to travel.
How to do it well
- Evenings of Laxmi Puja are the prettiest time to walk through town; carry a torch for side lanes.
- If Deusi or Bhailo singers come to your homestay, a small gift of money is the custom.
- Book ahead if Tihar falls close to Kali Puja and Diwali holidays, when visitors from the plains return.
Questions people ask
Good to know
When is Tihar in 2026
Tihar falls around the new moon of the lunar month of Kartik, the same days as Diwali, which in 2026 is expected in early November. The five days run from Kag Tihar to Bhai Tika. Dates follow the lunar calendar and change every year, so check a current Nepali calendar or ask your hotel before you plan around them.
What is Kukur Tihar
Kukur Tihar is the second day of Tihar, when Nepali families honour dogs as companions and guardians. Dogs, including street dogs, are given marigold garlands, a red tika on the forehead and special food. It is one of the most loved days of the festival, and you will see garlanded dogs all over Kalimpong.
What are Deusi and Bhailo
Deusi and Bhailo are traditional songs sung door to door during Tihar. Bhailo is usually sung by girls and Deusi by boys, though mixed groups are common now. Households answer with gifts of money, fruit and sel roti. Groups often collect for a community club or charity. It is fine for visitors to listen and offer a small gift.
Is Tihar a good time to visit Kalimpong
Yes. Late October and November usually bring clear skies and cool, dry weather, and Tihar adds lights, marigolds and music in the evenings. It is busier than mid-November but much less crowded than the Durga Puja week. Expect some shops to close on Laxmi Puja and Bhai Tika days.