Why festival season changes everything
Dashain and Tihar, usually falling between late September and November according to the lunar calendar, are the longest and busiest holiday period in Nepal. Millions of people travel from cities to home districts, offices and schools close for extended holidays, and many small businesses shut for days while owners join family celebrations.
For anyone who needs to travel, shop, repair something or get official work done, the season rewards early planning. Check the government's published holiday list for the current year, and assume that anything left until the last working day will be harder, slower or more expensive.
Book bus and flight tickets early
Long-distance bus seats out of Kathmandu sell out quickly in the days before Ghatasthapana and the main days of Dashain. Book through the operator's counter or a reputable online ticketing platform as soon as sales open, keep the ticket and receipt, and confirm the departure point, because some buses leave from temporary locations during peak days.
Domestic flights also fill and fares rise, especially on routes to Nepalgunj, Biratnagar, Bhairahawa and Pokhara. Buy from the airline or an established agent, and allow time for weather delays. The domestic flight booking guide covers baggage rules and what to check before paying.
Finish repairs, banking and paperwork first
Mechanics, electricians, tailors and repair shops are busiest just before the holidays and often close during them. Service your vehicle, fix leaking pipes and collect tailoring orders at least a week before the main days. Tailors in particular take many festival orders, so agree a firm delivery date in writing.
Banks and government offices close for several days. Withdraw cash in advance, top up wallets, pay bills and finish any document work before the holiday list begins. Keep a small reserve of cash, because ATMs in busy areas can run low when everyone withdraws at once.
Shop safely during festival offers
Festival discounts on clothing, electronics, vehicles and home appliances are a major part of the season. Compare the final price, including tax, delivery and installation, rather than the percentage off. Ask for a bill with the shop's PAN and keep the warranty card, especially for electronics and appliances.
Online festival deals attract scams, including fake pages copying known brands and demands for advance payment. Buy from shops you can verify, pay to accounts in the business's name and follow the checks in the online scam avoidance guide. Crowded markets such as Ason and New Road are also a good place to watch your phone and wallet.
Hotels, restaurants and staying in the city
Hotels in Pokhara, Chitwan and other destinations can fill with domestic travellers during the holidays, while Kathmandu itself becomes noticeably quieter. Book accommodation early if travelling, and confirm whether the restaurant and transport services you rely on will operate on the main festival days.
If you are staying in the Valley, the empty roads are a rare chance to visit heritage sites and neighbourhoods without traffic. Many restaurants and shops reopen in stages, so call ahead. The hotels in Nepal guide helps match accommodation to the trip.
Advice for business owners
Customers repeatedly arrive at closed shops during festival weeks because online hours were never updated. Before the holidays, set special hours on your Google Business Profile, your social pages and your Nepali Directory profile, and post a clear notice on the door with reopening dates.
If you offer festival deals, state the full terms: dates, eligible items, whether the price includes tax and delivery, and the returns policy. Clear terms reduce disputes and bad reviews after the season, and consistent special hours help search engines and AI assistants give customers accurate answers.
