Today, I am enjoying traveling to Gorkha to celebrate Dashain. I do not actually adopt the tika tradition, but I enjoy eating festive food and spending time with my relatives.
Festivals in Nepal are not just cultural celebrations; they are moments when people reconnect with their roots, strengthen family ties, and share traditions that have been passed down for generations. This Dashain, I decided to leave behind the busy streets of Kathmandu and take a road trip to Gorkha, a historic town about 136 kilometers west of the capital. It is not only known as the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who unified Nepal, but also for its vibrant villages, warm hospitality, and authentic traditions that come alive during Dashain.
The Journey on Empty Roads
Normally, traveling out of Kathmandu can be a challenge. The highways are often crowded with buses, trucks, and private vehicles, making the journey stressful. But during Dashain, when most people have already reached their hometowns to celebrate with family, the roads become surprisingly peaceful. As I set off early in the morning, I noticed how empty the highways looked. The usual traffic jams at Kalanki and Thankot were nowhere to be seen, and the drive felt calm and refreshing.
Kathmandu to Pokhara Highway Road
The lush green hills stretched out on both sides of the road, with glimpses of terraced fields shimmering in the sunlight. Occasional roadside tea shops, decorated with marigold garlands, reminded me that Dashain was being celebrated everywhere, from the smallest villages to the largest cities. Traveling during this season truly felt like a blessing—nature appeared serene, and the journey itself became part of the celebration.
The Invitation and the Feast
This trip was particularly special because a relative had invited me to join their family for Dashain in Gorkha. Food is always at the heart of Nepali festivals, and in many rural households, serving special meat dishes is a tradition. My hosts promised to prepare local black pig’s meat, which is considered a delicacy in the villages of Nepal. Unlike commercial pork available in the cities, the local black pig is raised naturally, often allowed to roam freely in the courtyards and fields, feeding on grains, roots, and vegetables.
When cooked with traditional spices, the taste becomes rich and earthy, carrying with it the essence of village life. Sitting down with relatives to share such a meal is more than just eating—it is a ritual of togetherness. The aroma of freshly ground masala, the smoky flavor from firewood cooking, and the laughter around the dining area create an atmosphere that is hard to replicate elsewhere.
Exploring the Village
After the meal, my plan is to explore the surrounding village. Gorkha is filled with landscapes that look like paintings: small clusters of mud houses with thatched roofs, women weaving baskets or drying maize in the courtyards, and children running down narrow lanes. Festivals like Dashain add even more color to these scenes, with every household decorated, goats tethered in preparation for rituals, and families busy in prayers and celebrations.
Coffee Shop in Highway
For a visitor from Kathmandu, where modern buildings and city noise dominate daily life, the village offers a refreshing change. Walking through the terraced fields and talking with locals gives a glimpse of how deeply connected people still are to the land and their traditions.
The Tika Ceremony
Tomorrow, I will take part in one of the most meaningful traditions of Dashain: the tika ceremony. On this day, elders bless the younger family members by placing tika (a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermillion) on their foreheads, along with jamara (maize shoots). It is not only a religious ritual but also a symbol of family unity and blessing for prosperity and long life.
In urban areas, the tika ceremony sometimes feels rushed due to busy schedules, but in villages like Gorkha, the event is celebrated with patience and joy. Families gather, songs are played, and blessings are exchanged throughout the day. Being part of such a ceremony in a traditional village setting will surely feel like stepping back into the roots of Nepali culture.
More Than a Trip
This journey to Gorkha is not just about traveling 136 kilometers; it is about experiencing Dashain in its purest form. Away from the modern chaos of Kathmandu, here in the village, every ritual feels authentic and every moment feels connected to something deeper. From sharing black pig’s meat with relative’s tika exploring the scenic village life, the experience captures the true spirit of Dashain—family, culture, and gratitude.
As I prepare for tomorrow’s celebrations, I realize that festivals are more than rituals—they are bridges between generations, places, and memories. Traveling to Gorkha has reminded me that sometimes, the best way to celebrate is to return to where traditions live strongest: the villages of Nepal.