Tihar Diwali 2026: Dates, seasons and special Nepal’s five-day festival
Tihar, also known as Deepavali in Nepal, is a joyful five-day celebration that is widely celebrated.
It reflects the Hindu festival of Diwali but has its unique traditions.
Tihar in 2025 will begin on November 06 2026, and end on November 11 2026.
What is Tihar Diwali 2026?
Tihar Deepavali or Yama Panchak celebrates species, gods and family ties every day. It is a celebration of life, well-being and the relationship between humans and nature.
Important Days for Tihar Diwali 2026
| Day | Date | Rituals | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kag Tihar | November 06, 2026 | Worship of Crows | People feed crows as messengers of death. |
| Kukur Tihar | November 07, 2026 | Worship of Dogs | Dogs are adorned with garlands and offered food. |
| Gai Tihar | November 08, 2026 | Worship of Cows, Laxmi Puja | Cows are revered, and homes are lit for Goddess Laxmi. |
| Goru Tihar | November 09, 2026 | Worship of Oxen | Oxen are honored for their contribution to farming. |
| Bhai Tika | November 11, 2026 | Celebration of Brotherhood | Sisters bless brothers for their protection and well-being. |
Unique Rituals of Tihar Diwali 2026
- Kag Tihar: The festival starts by feeding crows, believed to be the messengers of death. People offer food to the birds to avert misfortune.
image credit : outlook India - Kukur Tihar: Dogs are considered protectors and faithful companions, and dogs are served with bouquets of flowers and delicacies.
- Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja: This day is dedicated to cows, which symbolize wealth and prosperity. Families also perform Laxmi Puja, where homes are lit up to welcome the Goddess of Wealth.
- Goru Tihar: On this day, cows needed for agriculture are honoured.
- Bhai Tika: This auspicious day symbolizes the bond of brotherhood. Sisters pray for the welfare of their brothers, vaccinate their foreheads and exchange gifts.
Celebrate Diwali 2026 Why Special?
- Connection to Nature: Tihar celebrates animals that play important roles in human life, unlike other festivals that focus solely on deities.
- Family Bonding: The celebration of Bhai Tika emphasizes family, showing the love between brothers and sisters.
- Cultural Significance: Every day of Tihar represents a unique aspect of life—whether it be animals, prosperity, or relationships.
Reference: Tihar Diwali 2024: Date, Timing, And Unique Rituals
FAQ on Tihar Diwali 2026
1. When is Tihar Diwali in 2026?
Tihar Diwali will be celebrated from November 06 , 2026.
2. What is the significance of Kukur Tihar?
Kukur Tihar celebrates the loyalty and protection dogs offer, and they are honored with flower garlands and special food.
3. How is Tihar different from Indian Diwali?
Tihar focuses on animals like crows, dogs, cows, and oxen, while Indian Diwali centers around Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya.
4. What happens on Bhai Tika?
On Bhai Tika, sisters pray for their brothers’ long life and happiness, marking a bond of protection and love.
5. Why is Gai Tihar important?
Gai Tihar is important because cows symbolize wealth and are revered as sacred animals in Nepalese culture.
