Indra Jatra

Indra Jatra is one of the most vibrant and significant festivals of the Kathmandu Valley, celebrated by the Newar community. Dedicated to Lord Indra, the Hindu god of heaven, the festival heralds the end of the monsoon season and expresses gratitude for the year’s harvest. Held over eight days in September, it transforms the historic heart of Kathmandu into a bustling hub of religious fervour, cultural performances, and communal joy of historical legends, and displays of ancient relics like Bhairav's mask, said to emanate divine power.

Indra Jatra remains a living testament to the Valley’s timeless culture, offering both locals and visitors a chance to witness the seamless blend of devotion, mythology, and artistry that defines this unique corner of the world.

Myths surrounding the festival add layers of intrigue, such as the story of Lord Indra disguising himself as a farmer to collect flowers for his mother and being captured by locals, leading to divine intervention and eventual blessings.

The festival showcases Kathmandu’s rich traditions through mesmerizing Lakhey dances, reenactments.

View other experiences

Group of people attentively listening to a speaker in a workshop with rustic wooden artifacts near Dwarika's Hotel Kathmandu

Tea at the Restoration Workshop

Join Vijay, the grandson of our founder Dwarika Das Shrestha, for tea at the restoration workshop — the very heart of The Dwarika’s. Here, the intricate wooden beams, windows, and architectural details that define the soul of the property are carefully restored and preserved by skilled artisans.

Man performing a ritual in front of ornate Hindu deities adorned with flowers near Dwarika's Hotel Kathmandu

Arati at unexplored temple

Experience a short walk to a serene 150-year-old temple, where intricate carvings and a sacred Aarti ceremony create a deeply spiritual experience.

Concert at courtyard

Renowned for crafting unique themed dinners and evocative experiences, The Dwarika’s Hotel offers incentive groups an unparalleled journey into the heart of Nepalese culture. Each experience is thoughtfully curated, drawing inspiration from Nepal’s vibrant festivals, rich culinary traditions, and the soulful artistry of its music and dance.

Pigeons perch on ornate temple rooftops, with a misty river backdrop near Dwarika's Hotel Kathmandu

Pashupatinath Walk

In the calm of the early morning, we'll set out on a walk to the iconic Pashupatinath, one of the holiest sites in Hinduism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nitya Puja

Partake in the daily Nitya Puja, a sacred Hindu prayer ritual held at Dwarika's Hotel every morning from 8 am to 9 am. Witness the dedication to Lord Ganesh and Lord Shiva, immersing yourself in the spiritual essence of the ceremony.

Indra Jatra

Woodcarving with Master Artisan

Join our master artisan for a hands-on woodcarving session at Dwarika’s restoration workshop. Guided through each step using traditional tools, you’ll carve your own piece — inspired by Kathmandu Valley’s ancestral motifs — to take home as a token of this cultural encounter.