Nepal Sambat New Year
नेपाल सम्वत नयाँ वर्ष
November 10, 2026 · Kartik 24, 2083 BS
Kathmandu Valley (Newar communities)
Plan a trip around Nepal Sambat New YearHistory & origin
Nepal Sambat is traditionally said to have been established in 879 CE by Shankhadhar Sakhwa, a Newar merchant of Kathmandu who is said to have paid off the kingdom's debts and founded the era in celebration; the calendar fell out of official use under later dynasties but has seen a significant cultural revival since the late 20th century as a marker of Newar identity.
How it’s celebrated
Cultural organizations in Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur hold processions, exhibitions and public programs promoting Newar language, script and calendar heritage, coinciding with the private household rites of Mha Puja and Govardhan Puja observed the same day.
Tips for visitors
A relatively recent public revival worth knowing about if visiting the Kathmandu Valley's old cities during Tihar — look for Newar cultural processions distinct from the household Tihar rituals happening the same week.
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