Indra Jatra / Yenyā (इन्द्र जात्रा / येँया:)

Indra Jatra—called Yenyā in Nepal Bhasa—is Kathmandu Valley’s grand street festival honouring Indra and featuring the Living Goddess Kumari. Eight days of masked dances, processions and sacred displays fill the old city around Hanuman Dhoka and Indra Chowk.

Myths tell how Indra sought the parijat flower for his mother and was captured in Kathmandu; his release brought promises of rainfall and prosperity. The festival also recalls ancestors and showcases Newa heritage with Bhairav images and nightly hymn singing.

1. Yosin Thanegu (Pole Raising): The Indra banner-pole is erected at Basantapur to open the festival.
2. Main Day & Dances: Pulu Kisi (elephant of Indra), Majipa Lakhey demon dance and Bhairav mask exhibitions.
3. Kumari Jatra (3 days): Chariots of Kumari, Ganesh and Bhairav circle the city on routes called Kwaneyā, Thaneyā and Nānichāyā.

• Sweta Bhairav and Akash Bhairav mask displays with ceremonial libations
• All-women team pulls Kumari’s chariot on the third day (recent tradition)
• Newa food stalls and night hymns around Indra Chowk and Basantapur

Main venue: Kathmandu Durbar Square (Basantapur), Indra Chowk and Asan routes.
Festival window 2025: Early–mid September; main observance on 6 Sep 2025, with chariot days on 6, 7 and 11 Sep.