Explore Jatras of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal

You are winding through the narrow, bustling alleys of Kathmandu, the air is thick with anticipation and the scent of incense. The rhythmic beat of traditional drums reverberates through the ancient stone walls, guiding you towards a vibrant spectacle. You hear a crowd. Turning a corner, colourful banners and garlands adorning the alley catch your eye. The crowd parts, revealing a magnificent chariot slowly making its way through, its wooden wheels creaking under the weight of centuries-old craftsmanship and thousands of cheers pulling it. The chariot, decorated with intricate carvings and bright red and gold fabric, is followed by illuminated faces and thick hands by the flickering flames of nearby oil lamps. The air buzzes with chants and cheers, a symphony of devotion and celebration reaches you.

There are countless stories behind the different kinds of Jatras you may witness in your visit to Kathmandu, no matter the season. The ancient residents of the valley, the Newari community, have celebrated these Jatra ever since the dawn of their culture. They reflect an integral beauty of their history, local traditions, lifestyle, and beliefs. Each Jatra has its own story, significance, and way of celebration, making it an interesting subject for anyone wanting to delve into the cultural richness of Nepal.

Indra Jatra

Indra Jatra, one of the largest street festivals in Kathmandu, was initiated in the 10th century by King Gunakamadeva to celebrate the founding of Kathmandu. The festival is also known as Yenya, which means “Celebration inside Kathmandu” in the local Newar language. It is celebrated to honour Indra, the god of rain, and to thank him for the monsoon rains that are crucial for the harvest. It also commemorates those who have passed away in the previous year. Indra Jatra is an eight-day festival featuring vibrant processions, traditional dances, and the display of masks representing deities. The festivities begin with the erection of a ceremonial pole at Hanuman Dhoka in Basantapur Durbar Square. Various rituals like masked dances are performed to appease the gods. The festival showcases the rich cultural traditions of the Newar community. It is a time when families come together, and the streets are filled with music, dance, and religious fervour.

Kumari Jatra

One of the adorned Nepali chariot festivals, Kumari Jatra, is a part of the Indra Jatra festival. It is believed to have begun in the mid-18th century. It involves the chariot procession of the living goddess, Kumari, along with two boys representing Ganesh and Bhairava. The festival celebrates the living goddess, Kumari, believed to be the incarnation of the Hindu goddess Taleju. The procession is a display of reverence and homage to the goddess. The chariot of the Kumari, along with those of Ganesh and Bhairava, is pulled through the streets of Kathmandu. The procession is accompanied by traditional music and dances, drawing large crowds of devotees. Kumari Jatra is a unique aspect of Nepalese culture, representing the deep-rooted belief in living deities. It highlights the blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions prevalent in the valley. The chariot procession is a major attraction for both tourists and locals, emphasizing the importance of preserving such unique cultural practices.

Rato Machindranath Jatra

Rato Machindranath Jatra is one of the longest festivals in Patan, celebrated for the deity of rain and harvest, Rato Machindranath. The festival dates back centuries and involves a grand chariot procession. The festival is celebrated to invoke rain and ensure a bountiful harvest. It honours Rato Machindranath, believed to protect against natural calamities and diseases. A massive chariot carrying the idol of Rato Machindranath is pulled through the streets of Patan. The festival includes various rituals, traditional music, and dances, culminating in the Bhoto Jatra, where a jewelled vest is displayed. Rato Machindranath Jatra exemplifies the agrarian culture of the valley, emphasizing the community’s dependence on agriculture and rain.

Bhote Jatra

Bhote Jatra is the concluding part of the Rato Machindranath Jatra. It involves the display of a beaded vest, known as the Bhoto, which has a legendary backstory involving a farmer and a demon. The festival celebrates the end of the Rato Machindranath Jatra and symbolizes prosperity and protection against misfortune. The Bhoto is displayed from a tall wooden pole at Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, amidst prayers, hymns, and traditional rituals. The display is a significant moment awaited by the crowd. Bhote Jatra is a testament to the rich folklore and traditions of the Newar community. It emphasizes the importance of cultural rituals in preserving historical narratives.

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Seto Machindranath Jatra

Seto Machindranath Jatra is a three-day chariot festival celebrated in Kathmandu to honour Seto Machindranath, the deity of rain and good harvests. The festival is celebrated to protect against diseases and ensure a good harvest. It involves the worship of Seto Machindranath by both Hindus and Buddhists. The idol of Seto Machindranath is placed on a chariot and pulled through the core areas of Kathmandu, including Ason and Hanuman Dhoka. The procession involves traditional music and rituals. The festival represents the syncretic culture of Kathmandu, where Hindu and Buddhist traditions blend seamlessly.

Gai Jatra

Gai Jatra, also known as the “Festival of Cows” is celebrated to honour the deceased. The festival dates back to the time of King Pratap Malla, who initiated it to console his grieving queen. The festival helps families cope with the loss of loved ones and honours the deceased, believed to be guided to heaven by cows. Families who have lost someone parade cows or young boys dressed as cows through the streets. The festival includes humour, satire, and cultural performances to lighten the mood. Gai Jatra is a blend of mourning and celebration, showcasing the resilience and communal support of the Newar community.

Bisket Jatra

Another of the popular Newar community celebrations is Bisket Jatra, celebrated in Bhaktapur to mark the Nepali New Year. The festival involves the erection and dismantling of a ceremonial pole and a grand chariot procession. The festival signifies the end of the old year and the beginning of a new one. It also celebrates the triumph of good over evil. A large wooden chariot carrying images of deities is pulled through the streets. The festival includes various rituals, traditional music, and dances, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Bisket Jatra highlights the rich cultural heritage and community spirit of Bhaktapur. It is a time of renewal and celebration for the locals.

Conclusion

The Jatras of Kathmandu Valley are a piece of living evidence of the rich cultural and religious heritage of Nepal. Each festival, with its unique history and way of celebration, offers a glimpse into the traditions and beliefs of the Newar community. These festivals not only preserve the culture of the valley but also attract tourists, contributing to the local economy and promoting cultural exchange. By understanding and participating in these Jatras, one can truly appreciate the vibrant and diverse culture of Kathmandu Valley.