5-27 September |
Kathmandu
Patan
Bhaktapur
Hadigaun.
Kirtipur
Celebrating Nepal’s Art, Culture, Cuisine, and Heritage
The Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to one of the world’s richest concentrations of temples, palaces, and artistic traditions. Every autumn, it comes alive with Indra Jatra, a centuries-old festival filled with music, dance, and devotion.
The Nepal Art & Culture Festival 2025 (NAC FEST) brings this living heritage into focus. Across five historic cities, visitors can enjoy art exhibitions, traditional performances, spiritual rituals, local food, and cultural walks. It is a unique opportunity to witness Nepal’s past and present in harmony.
Festival Calendar
5 September – Opening Day, Kathmandu
Festival launch with Kathmandu Mahangar Jatra Yatra and the Roots & Reflections Art Exhibition at the Nepal Art Council Gallery. Culture performance by the Nepal Army and Newa Bhwey at Hanuman Dhoka.
7 September – Bhaktapur
Guided Heritage Walk through historic squares and temples. See traditional pottery and crafts, taste local snacks, and end with a magical evening lamp-lighting ceremony.
8-10 September – Kathmandu
The “Made in Kathmandu” Fair showcases local products, an Indra Jatra photography exhibition, food fairs, and the UNESCO Creative City of Film Challenge, celebrating cultural traditions. 13 September – Hadigaun
For the first time, a guided heritage walk to celebrate Hadigaun’s almost 2,000-year-old history and cultural significance ended with local cuisine.
18-20 September – Kirtipur
Kirtipur opens its old streets to cultural walks, traditional dance and music, and authentic local feasts.
21 September – Thamel
Guided walk through the heart of Kathmandu’s nightlife, with complimentary drinks and local snacks along the way.
23-27 September – Patan
Patan hosts Dhime Baja drumming, Bhajan spiritual singing, Lakhe masked dances, night markets, and craft demonstrations, including woodcarving and Paubha painting. Local wines, sweets, and festive dishes are featured alongside exhibitions of Kumari traditions, Buddhist rituals, and much more!
27 September – Closing Ceremony, Patan
A grand procession, cultural performances, and a farewell dinner bring the festival to a close at Patan Museum. What to expect:
The Nepal Art & Culture Festival is more than a spectator event; it’s an invitation to participate.
Taste:
Savor authentic Newari delicacies from street food stalls and grand feasts.
Create:
Watch master artisans at work-woodcarveis, paubha painters. potters and even try your hand at a craft.
Listen:
Let the rhythmic beats of the Dhime and Dafauces ind devotional songs transport you.
Witness:
Be awed by sacred dances, intricate rituals, and the breathtaking display of cultural attire and ornaments.
Nepal Art & Culture Festival 2025 is envisioned as an annual event, growing in scale and impact each year. Join us in celebrating Nepal’s enduring spirit and help us build a sustainable future for cultural tourism.
