Lhosar Festival

Dolpo Region, Northwestern Nepal

Tibetan New Year Celebration

Lhosar, the Tibetan New Year, is celebrated across Dolpo villages, marking the lunar calendar's start. It features family gatherings, traditional foods like momos and thukpa, dances, and religious rituals. Influenced by Tibetan culture, Dolpo-pa perform offerings at monasteries, clean homes to ward off evil spirits, and host community feasts. Lhosar strengthens cultural ties and is a vibrant expression of community spirit, typically observed in January or February.

Gallery

Lhosar community celebration
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Community celebrations during Lhosar

Lhosar festival rituals
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Traditional rituals during Lhosar

Lhosar prayer flags
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Prayer flags during Lhosar celebrations

Details

Location:
Throughout Dolpo villages
Timing:
January/February (Lunar Calendar)

Highlights

  • Traditional dances and music performances
  • Offerings and prayers at local gompas
  • Family reunions and feasts with local delicacies
  • Hanging prayer flags and cleaning rituals

Best Time to Visit

Plan your adventure for Spring (March–May) to enjoy blooming rhododendrons and clear skies, or Autumn (September–November) for stable weather and stunning views. Winter (December–February) brings harsh, snowy conditions, making trekking challenging. Monsoon (June–August) has less rain due to the rain-shadow effect, but trails can still be difficult.

Lhosar Festival | Phoksundo | Phoksundo