Nepal is filled with festivals that celebrate its rich traditions, and one of the most exciting is Bisket Jatra. This grand event marks the Nepali New Year, and if you’re in Nepal during mid-April, it’s something you definitely wouldn’t want to miss. The festival is packed with cultural rituals, vibrant celebrations, and a unique atmosphere you will not be able to find anywhere else.
While “Bisket Jatra” is commonly used, the Newar community refers to it as “Biska Jatra”. This festival is deeply rooted in Newar traditions and plays a significant role in the history of Bhaktapur.
Biska Jatra is primarily celebrated in Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the streets come alive with huge chariot processions, traditional dances, and local music from the native Newar Community. This event typically happens around mid-April, and it’s a celebration that lasts several days, showcasing the heart of Newari culture and community spirit.
For the people of Nepal, Biska Jatra is more than just a New Year celebration. It’s a chance to come together, to honor traditions, and to seek blessings for the year ahead. The festival is an embodiment of unity, strength, and devotion, making it an incredible experience for anyone looking to dive deep into Newari and Nepalese culture in general.
The festival begins five days before the Nepali New Year (Baisakh 1st) and lasts for eight nights and nine days. Biska Jatra typically takes place during the Nepali New Year, which falls in mid-April. While it’s mostly centered around Bhaktapur, other nearby areas like Taumadhi Square, Thimi, and Bode Village also celebrate in their own unique ways.
Origin and Myths Associated with the Festival Biska Jatra has deep roots in Bhaktapur’s history. One popular story amongst the natives is that it celebrates a victory over a rival village, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The chariot processions are believed to carry gods and goddesses through the streets, blessing the community as they pass by. It’s a festival that brings people together in both celebration and reverence.
Bhaktapur, with its well-preserved temples and centuries-old architecture, provides the perfect backdrop for Biska Jatra. The festival is a testament to the town’s cultural heritage and the pride its people take in maintaining their traditions.
Chariot Procession (Bhaktapur’s Iconic Event)
One of the most striking features of Biska Jatra is the chariot procession. Massive wooden chariot, some pulled by thousands of people on both the ends, carry gods and goddesses through the streets.
Linga (Yosin) Erection and Pulling Ceremony
Another fascinating part of Bisket Jatra is the Linga or Yosin erection ceremony. This involves raising a large wooden pole, symbolizing divine protection. The strength and energy of the crowd are electric as they chant numerous Newari phrases in unison, building the spirits of those lifting the massive wooden block.
The pole, measuring several meters in height, is carefully hoisted using ropes and the collective effort of the local men. The entire process is a test of strength, coordination, and devotion, as the crowd watches in anticipation. This moment is not just a physical challenge but also a deeply spiritual event, believed to bring good fortune to the community for the coming year.
As heard from the locals, the block has also several times fallen over sometimes onto people and sometimes into their houses. This makes the celebration exciting, thrilling, and also scary at some points. However, the falling of the pole is actually considered bad luck for the community, as it is believed to bring misfortune for the year ahead.
Traditional Music and Dances
Throughout the festival, traditional music and dance are an essential part of the celebration. You’ll hear instruments like Nakhin,Dhime Baja, Dha Baja, Bansuri, Bhusya,Ta Baja as local community musicians perform. Dances such as the Lakhe and Bhairav dances bring the streets to life, offering a colorful and energetic display of culture and spirituality.
Biska Jatra is a community-driven event, with everyone—from young children to the elderly playing an important role. It’s a time for people to come together, not just to celebrate, but to work in unison to keep the traditions alive.
Role of the Community in the Festival
From building the chariots to organizing the events and preparing offerings, the entire community participates in Biska Jatra. It’s a time of solidarity, and you can see the pride locals take in keeping their traditions strong year after year.
Rituals and Offerings
There are many rituals and offerings to the gods throughout the festival, including prayers for good health and fortune in the coming year. The atmosphere is celebratory but respectful, and it’s an experience that allows you to connect with Nepal’s deep spiritual tradition.
Meaning of Chariot Pulling and Pole Erection
The chariot pulling represents devotion and strength, as the chariots are believed to carry divine beings through the roads, blessing the people along their way. The ritual of the pole erection represents the coupling of the divine and the community, creating a bond of unity amongst the people.
Spiritual Aspects
Deep inside, Biska Jatra is a religious festival. It’s not merely about ushering in the new year but also about appeasing the gods and soliciting their blessings for the coming year.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bhaktapur for Bisket Jatra is mid-April, which is when the Nepali New Year takes place. Check the dates as it varies according to the lunar calendar.
Safety and Etiquette Tips
The festival can get crowded, so please take care of your belongings. Be respectful of local customs, and follow any instructions or guidelines from festival organizers. It’s advisable to stay behind the ropes for chariot processions for your safety.
Local Foods to Try
One of the best things to do at Bisket Jatra is sampling the local foods! Make sure to have Newari Cuisine, Yomari, soup momo (dumplings), and chatamari (Nepali pancake). These traditional foods are widely available during the festival, and they’re a great way to taste Nepal.
Relax and Rejuvenate at Maya Manor Boutique Hotel
After a day of soaking in the excitement of Bisket Jatra, head back to Maya Manor Boutique Hotel,, located just a few minutes’ drive from Bhaktapur Durbar Square, at a prime location in Kathmandu. If you’re wondering where to stay in Kathmandu, our boutique hotel is the perfect choice. Whether you’re unwinding after a busy day or looking for a peaceful retreat, Maya Manor Boutique Hotel offers comfort, modern amenities, and a touch of Nepali charm. Experience the warmth of the best hotel in Kathmandu, enjoy a relaxing stay, and get ready for the next day’s adventures in the heart of Bhaktapur.
Biska Jatra is an experience like no other full of culture, tradition, and community spirit. Wherever you happen to be in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, or Thimi, the festive atmosphere is contagious. And if you must take a break, Maya Manor Boutique Hotel offers just the place to unwind and recharge before plunging back into the next exciting part of the festival.