Why Tihar is a Travel Experience Like No Other

Every autumn, Nepal transforms into a kaleidoscope of lights, homes shimmer with oil lamps, and the air hums with celebration. The festival of Tihar – also known as the Festival of Lights – is an unforgettable time to visit this Himalayan nation. With the crisp skies of November offering some of the best mountain views of the year, it’s also the perfect moment to blend culture, nature and adventure into one epic trip.

At Beyond The Borders Tours, our Nepal Highlights Tour – Tihar Festival (6 nights / 7 days, 7–13 November 2026) offers you just that: a rich immersion into Nepal’s heritage, landscapes and celebrations.

kukur tihar

What Makes This Tour Special

  • Vibrant festival immersion: Experience the full spectrum of Tihar – from Kukur Tihar (Dog Day) where our four-legged companions are honoured, to Bhai Tika, when sisters traditionally bless brothers with colourful tika for long life.

  • Cultural heritage galore: Explore the ancient cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan—each a UNESCO treasure, with intricate temples, bustling old-town streets and traditional artistry.

  • Nature and wildlife: The journey continues with jungle safaris in Chitwan National Park, canoe rides on peaceful river bends, and lakeside serenity in Pokhara – including stunning sunrise views over the Himalayas.

  • Authentic local experiences: From a home-cooked Tharu dinner in a village lodge to the community-led Newari restaurant in Kathmandu, this isn’t just sightseeing – it’s living in the culture.

Tour At-a-Glance

Dates: 7 – 13 November 2026
Duration: 6 nights / 7 days
Price: USD 1,200 per person (includes accommodation, meals, ground transport, guides)

Highlights by Day:

  • Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu: Settle in as the Tihar lights begin to glow throughout the city.

  • Day 2 – Kathmandu, Bhaktapur & Patan: Witness Kukur Tihar, explore medieval Bhaktapur, and join a butter-lamp ceremony at Boudhanath Stupa.

  • Day 3 – Drive to Chitwan: Scenic route into the Terai plains; canoe ride and village visit in the afternoon.

  • Day 4 – Jungle safari & Bhai Tika: Safari in Chitwan and participate in the Bhai Tika ceremony—a festive highlight.

  • Day 5 – Chitwan to Pokhara via Bandipur: Stop in the charming village of Bandipur, then arrive in lakeside Pokhara.

  • Day 6 – Pokhara to Kathmandu: Sunrise hike at Sarangkot, lake boat ride, then scenic return to Kathmandu.

  • Day 7 – Departure: Transfer to the airport, celebrations still in your heart.

Tihar isn’t just a festival – it’s a feeling. It’s the warmth of oil lamps flickering in the Himalayan night, the music echoing through village lanes, and the shared joy that binds travelers and locals alike. Experiencing Tihar means witnessing Nepal at its most heartfelt and radiant – a place where every light tells a story.

If you’re ready to go beyond the ordinary and see Nepal through its most beautiful traditions, Beyond the Borders Tours is here to guide you. Come celebrate life, culture, and connection — and let Tihar show you why Nepal is a travel experience like no other.