Published on
August 27, 2025
Nepal Art and Culture Festival 2025, hosted by the Nepal Tourism Board and the Nepal Art Council, with collaboration from the Hotel Association Nepal, will run from September 5-27 in four of the Kathmandu Valley’s historic cities. Coinciding with the Indra Jatra, one of Nepal’s most prominent festivals, the festival is hoped to draw both local and global tourists alike, especially those who desire to visit Nepal’s diverse cultural heritage.
The festival will extend over Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, and Kirtipur and will feature a dynamic mix of cultural performances, heritage walks, traditional feasts, and exhibitions. One of the highlights will be the opening ceremony in Kathmandu on September 5, featuring the Kathmandu Mahangar Jatra Yatra procession and the ‘Roots and Reflections’ Art Exhibition. Nepal Army cultural performances and traditional Newa Bhwey feasts at Hanuman Dhoka will also be enjoyed by visitors.
Exploring the Rich Cultural Heritage of Kathmandu Valley
Throughout the month-long festival, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the deep cultural roots of the Kathmandu Valley. On September 7, Bhaktapur will host a heritage walk through its ancient temples and squares, where visitors can witness pottery workshops, enjoy local snacks, and experience a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony. From September 8 to 10, Kathmandu will feature the ‘Made in Kathmandu’ fair, which highlights locally-produced goods, Indra Jatra-themed photography exhibitions, and food fairs.
New additions this year include Hadigaun, one of the valley’s oldest settlements, which will be featured on September 13. Visitors can take a heritage walk through the nearly 2,000-year-old area and enjoy local cuisine. From September 18 to 20, Kirtipur will offer cultural walks, traditional dances, music, and feasts, while Thamel will host a guided walk on September 21 to explore the vibrant nightlife and local markets of Kathmandu’s most popular tourist hub.
A Global Spotlight on Nepal’s Cultural Heritage
The festival’s concluding week from September 23 to 27 will take place in Patan, featuring Dhime Baja drumming, Bhajan devotional singing, Lakhe masked dances, and live craft demonstrations of woodcarving and Paubha painting. Patan will also showcase an exhibit on Kumari traditions, Buddhist rituals, and other aspects of Newar heritage. Local wines, sweets, and festive dishes will be on display, adding to the immersive cultural experience.
Meanwhile, in the closing ceremony on September 27 will include a grand procession, cultural performances, and a farewell dinner at the Patan Museum. The president of the Nepal Art Council, the festival has been envisioned as an annual event to bring Nepal’s rich heritage into the global spotlight. This initiative is expected to not only promote the cultural wealth of Nepal but also encourage greater international participation, especially from tourists interested in art, culture, and traditional Nepalese cuisine.
Strengthening Nepal’s Global Cultural Tourism Network
By aligning the Nepal Art and Culture Festival with the Indra Jatra festival, the organisers are making a concerted effort to strengthen Nepal’s presence in the global cultural tourism market. As tourism continues to evolve, there is a growing interest in experiential travel, with tourists seeking authentic cultural experiences. The festival not only appeals to those interested in traditional customs but also aims to engage younger generations and international visitors through modern art exhibitions and vibrant fairs. With the backing of the Nepal Tourism Board, the festival is poised to attract a wider audience, solidifying Nepal’s position as a leading cultural tourism hub in South Asia.
Celebrating Nepal’s Heritage on the Global Stage
Nepal Art and Culture Festival 2025 is a significant project that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu Valley by presenting a mix of traditional and modern cultural experience. Integrating local festivals such as Indra Jatra and ensuring Halal-friendly tourism as well as heritage tourism, the festival will attract local as well as international visitors.
Meanwhile, with the cultural exhibitions, heritage walks, and traditional performances, Nepal is working towards becoming not just an adventure destination but also a hub for art, culture, and culinary heritage. This festival will contribute towards Nepal’s improved tourism product offering a well-rounded and enriching experience for travelers from across the globe.
