Saga Dawa
सागा दावा
May 17, 2026 – June 15, 2026 · Jestha, 2083 (4th Tibetan lunar month) BS
Himalayan Buddhist communities (Boudhanath, Everest/Khumbu, Helambu, Mustang)
Plan a trip around Saga DawaHistory & origin
Unlike Buddha Jayanti, observed on the same lunar date within the Newar Buddhist and Theravada-influenced calendar, Saga Dawa follows the Tibetan lunar calendar and is observed by Sherpa, Tibetan and other Himalayan Buddhist communities in Nepal, who treat the full month, not just the full-moon day, as a period of heightened spiritual significance.
How it’s celebrated
Devotees increase acts of merit through the month — fasting, prayer, circumambulation of stupas and monasteries, and vegetarianism — with observance intensifying toward the full moon (Duchen) itself. Boudhanath and monasteries across the Everest, Helambu and Mustang regions see increased pilgrim activity throughout the month.
Tips for visitors
A meaningful month to be around Boudhanath Stupa or Himalayan Buddhist monasteries — expect more circumambulation, prayer flags and butter-lamp offerings than usual, intensifying toward the full moon.
Related journeys — Buddhist Pilgrimage
Buddhist Kathmandu Immersion
A five-day immersion in Kathmandu Valley's living Buddhist tradition — major monasteries, guided meditation, and a journey out to Namo Buddha.
Namo Buddha & Buddhist Foothills
A three-day short pilgrimage to the hillside monastery at Namo Buddha, one of the Kathmandu Valley's key Buddhist sites, for guests with limited time.
Buddhist Kathmandu Introduction
A one-day introduction to Buddhist practice in the Kathmandu Valley for guests who want context before a longer pilgrimage journey, or who only have a single day.
Didn't find quite the right fit?
Any journey here can be adapted, or we can build one from scratch around what actually matters to you — the traditions, pace, dates, group size and budget. Tell us what you have in mind and our team will put together a curated proposal.
Curate My Journey