Kukur Tihar
कुकुर तिहार
November 8, 2026 · Kartik 22, 2083 BS
Nationwide
Plan a trip around Kukur TiharHistory & origin
Dogs are associated with Bhairab, a fierce form of Shiva, and with Yama's own guard dogs said to watch the gates of the afterlife — honoring them is both an act of gratitude for their loyalty and a gesture of protection against death's messengers.
How it’s celebrated
Dogs of all kinds, including strays, are garlanded with marigolds, given a tika on the forehead and fed a special meal, often including meat or treats not part of their usual diet; animal shelters and municipalities have increasingly organized public Kukur Tihar events in recent years.
Tips for visitors
A uniquely Nepali, widely photographed sight — garlanded, tika-marked dogs are visible across every city on this day.
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