Experiencing the scent of pine, incense, and fresh air from the Himalayas is Christmas in Nepal—a quiet yet unique magic that reflects the endearing harmony of the Nepali spirit. Many travelers come to Nepal to experience its great adventure opportunities when hiking to the "base camp" of Mt. Everest or trekking through the Annapurna Circuit under the care of local guides and porters; however, visiting Nepal during the Christmas season offers visitors a different perspective of this wonderful country. In a land where mountains and temples whisper tales of faith, there are small pockets of Christmas joy happening around the country—not as a national holiday but as an element of the rich culture of Nepal.
Discovering the fusion of Western traditions and local customs during the Christmas Celebration in Nepal, this detailed guide will provide an unforgettable experience for Christians and travelers alike. This article will describe activities for celebrating Christmas in Nepal, the best places in Kathmandu to find Christmas dinner, and what you can expect when visiting the thought-provoking traditions of the Nepali community during Christmas.
The celebrations occur at places such as the gorgeous midnight mass held at historic churches, special holiday markets around Thamel, the excitement of trekking and holiday adventures, and the welcoming of tourists to Nepal to celebrate Christmas, as well as the honoring of the joy of this time of year through the compassion and love that the mainly Hindu and Buddhist culture portrays so well.
Christmas Under the Himalayas
Christmas in Nepal, characterized by colourful prayer flags and snow-capped mountains, is a joyous occasion. Even though Nepal is primarily a Hindu/Buddhist country and only has a small percentage (1.4%) of its population identifying as Christians, the spirit of Christmas is alive in many communities across the country; wherever there are Christians, other faiths will respect and celebrate alongside their Christian neighbours.
The festive experience of Christmas in Nepal is unique, from the busy areas of Kathmandu to peaceful Pokhara, where Christmas is not a public holiday; however, the holiday joy can still be found around the cathedrals, at hotels/restaurants, and many sightseers’ lodges. Even trekkers finishing either the Langtang trek or the Manaslu circuit trek will find themselves pleasantly surprised to see all the Christmas decorations and celebrations happening around the cities.
The Cultural Tapestry: Understanding Nepal's Festive Landscape
Santa Claus giving gifts to smiling Nepali child during Christmas in Nepal charity event
The way that Nepal approaches Christmas illustrates Nepal's religious harmony philosophy. Despite constituting a small population within Nepal, members of the Christian community have retained many of the rich traditions that they received from American missionaries in the mid-1800s. Urban centres across Nepal contain Catholic and Protestant churches, which become focal points of festivities during Christmas time.
What sets Christmas apart in Nepal, to those visiting from outside Nepal, is that there is a combination of cultural influences between those in Nepal and foreigners to Nepal. Local Nepali Christians incorporate cultural components into their Christmas celebrations, while many hotels and restaurants serve foreign tourists who want to experience familiar comforts during the holidays.
Because of the mixing of cultures, many of the customs surrounding Christmas involve the coming together of diverse traditions — for example, Christmas caroling being preceded by the singing of Dhaka, traditional Nepali music, and the sharing of dal bhat with Christmas pudding.
How is Christmas Celebrated in Nepal? A Guide to Traditions
Midnight Mass and Spiritual Observances
Nepal's Christmas celebrations focus on the Christmas Eve Mass at midnight, when churches are filled with worshippers attired in the best of both Western and traditional Nepali outfits. The Christian liturgy is performed in conjunction with the use of many local instruments and languages, making for some very emotional and moving experiences. People sing hymns in Nepali, which have a distinct rhythmic version of the original melodies associated with Christmas, and possess a beauty found only in the report of the Christmas story through the indigenous perspective of Christmas.
Christmas traditions in Nepal are based on and incorporate a wide variety of local customs and traditions that are unique to their heritage. In Nepal, families exchange gifts that are typically wrapped in a colorful style called lokta paper, which is a traditional type of handmade paper produced in Nepal. A typical meal for many is sweet rice bread known as sel roti, with Christmas cake as the featured dessert. Family gatherings include visits to relatives and sharing meals at the same time that the major Hindu festivals of Dashain and Tihar are celebrated in Nepal.
Throughout the holiday season, community gatherings also present opportunities for cultural programs. Children perform Christmas plays that integrate elements of traditional dances, as well as explore the holiday traditions of other cultures. In addition to these activities, many charitable organizations collect warm clothes to give to the less fortunate members of their communities and provide food to the needy, as a part of their commitment to provide assistance for the less fortunate, especially during the coldest months of the year.
Decorations and the "Christmas Tree" in Nepal
In Nepal, the Christmas tree represents much creativity! While upscale hotels and shopping malls will often use imported pine trees to celebrate the season, many Nepalese decorate their homes using traditional trees or create their own alternative versions out of bamboo or with other local materials. The ornaments and decorations they make are created by local artisans and represent authentic Nepalese culture.
In Christian areas of Nepal, homes and businesses are decorated and brightened with lighting, creating an incredible atmosphere during the evening hours. In Thamel (the tourist area of Kathmandu), the area transforms into something magical with twinkle lights and festive decorations, and Christmas music playing in cafes and shops.
Christmas in Kathmandu: The Heart of the Festivities
Key Churches and Midnight Mass Services
Traveler with Santa hat exploring festive Thamel streets during Christmas in Nepal
The Historic Churches in Kathmandu, Nepal, provide a central focus for the Christmas season. The Assumption Cathedral, located in Patan, offers a Midnight Mass and has the largest participation from parishioners, with hundreds of people attending. St. Xavier's School Church, located in Jawalakhel, and the Protestant Church located in Lazimpat offer very nice services as well. Each of these Churches provides its services to all people regardless of religious beliefs, reflecting Nepal's culture of inclusion.
During the month of December, Thamel is transformed into a festive market. Many shops are selling Christmas decorations, Christmas cards, and other Christmas-themed products. Many local artisans display their own unique creations as gifts, such as Pashmina shawls, handmade jewelry, singing bowls, and thangka paintings, providing opportunities for Christmas shopping. During this time of year, the Garden of Dreams and Durbar Square sometimes host Christmas markets, providing an additional opportunity to enjoy local food vendors, crafts, and music.
The Best Restaurants for Christmas Dinner in Kathmandu
There are many excellent options for finding a restaurant for your Christmas dinner in Kathmandu:
With its European cuisine, Kaiser Café at The Garden of Dreams offers an elegant Christmas Dinner on display within this beautiful garden location, and Le Sherpa provides guests with breathtaking views of the Himalayas while they enjoy their Christmas Dinner through a French-influenced menu.
The Chimney Restaurant and Gokarna Forest Resort are well known for serving up lavish Christmas buffet dinners that include all the trimmings associated with both turkey and ham.
If you are budget-conscious, there are many cafes located in Thamel that offer unique and delicious Christmas specials! For example, OR2K specializes in creating festive Mediterranean-Middle Eastern fusion dishes. Fire and Ice Pizzeria offers a fun and festive atmosphere with stunning Christmas decorations, as well as delicious holiday-themed pizzas and desserts.
Hotels and Event Spaces Host Holiday Parties
Luxury hotels throughout Kathmandu are known for hosting amazing holiday celebrations. Some hotels that will host special Christmas Eve dinners with live music, carol singing, and visits from Santa Claus are the Hyatt Regency, Hotel Yak and Yeti, and Marriott. These special events are intended for both expatriates and travelers, so expect an international feel during your holiday celebrations! Many of these events will have a champagne toast at midnight and dance parties that last until New Year's Day!
Experiencing Christmas as a Tourist in Nepal
Couple wearing Santa hats enjoying Christmas dinner with Himalayan mountain views in Nepal
Top Activities For Christmas In Nepal
Nepal offers a variety of activities during Christmas time. Many of these activities differ from traditional holiday activities and include:
Visit Kathmandu for Heritage Sites: With over 60 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath (or Monkey Temple) and Pashupatinath Temple, you will have the opportunity to witness the many spiritual facets of Nepal's culture. With the clear weather in December, you will be able to view Mount Everest; this will also enhance your experience at Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath Temples by providing incredible views of both temples.
Cultural Events: Throughout the holiday season, many hotels and cultural centers will hold events in the form of cultural dance performances and live musical performances.
Volunteer in a Local Community: A few organizations organize community visits during which you will have the opportunity to share your Christmas meal with a Nepali Christian family; this is a great way to experience a true cultural exchange.
Mountain Flight: Enjoy a mountain flight during which you can view Mount Everest and the entire Himalayas. Witnessing this beautiful view during winter's crystal-clear visibility is a Christmas morning treat!
Combining Christmas with Adventure: Trekking and Safaris
Excellent trekking conditions exist in December, with stable weather and clear skies. Examples of popular trekking routes are as follows: The Everest Base Camp Trek provides an opportunity to celebrate Christmas at high elevations with breathtaking views of mountains and glaciers. Many teahouses along the path honor the holiday by serving special holiday meals. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a somewhat shorter trek that provides an opportunity to enjoy some adventures before Christmas in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
The Poon Hill Trek offers the chance for families or those not so experienced in trekking to take a more relaxed approach while they enjoy incredible views of sunrises above the Annapurna range. The Ghorepani Trek provides opportunities to travel through stunning Landscapes and Cultural Villages, and can be completed in less than one week's time. For those who enjoy Wildlife, Chitwan National Park will allow for a Jungle Safari during Christmas. To celebrate Christmas, Spotting Rhinos and Bengal Tigers in the Subtropical Climate of South Asia, and at the same time experience two entirely different environments from trekking in the Himalayas.
A Unique Opportunity: Christmas Volunteering in Nepal
Volunteering has added depth to how Christmas is celebrated in Nepal. Many organizations rely on volunteers to help with their Christmas programs for orphanages, schools, and community centers. Volunteers are involved in many activities, including planning parties for children, giving gifts and warm clothing to needy children, and sharing meals with low-income families. By allowing individuals to give back to the community during the holidays, this volunteerism is aligned with the holiday's theme of giving.
Beyond Kathmandu: Christmas in Pokhara and Tourist Hubs
In Pokhara, the adventure capital of Nepal, Christmas is celebrated in a setting that is tranquil and serene. On Lakeside Road, restaurants are dressed up with festive decorations and provide a range of Christmas special menus. As this cosmopolitan destination attracts trekkers who have just completed the Annapurna Circuit or have just begun to prepare for the Mardi Himal Trek, it provides a wonderful opportunity for a global celebration of Christmas.
Hotels are also having bonfire gatherings on the banks of Phewa Lake with a beautiful backdrop of moonlit mountain peaks. The atmosphere creates a magical and unforgettable Christmas experience. A few lodges are providing Christmas morning yoga classes or meditation programs that blend yoga with Christmas celebrations.
Nagarkot and Dhulikhel are two smaller tourist destinations in the same area, known for their stunning views of the Himalayas, and are popular places for visitors to find peace on Christmas Day. Mountain resorts at these locations offer cozy fireplaces, large holiday dinner gatherings, and incredible views on Christmas Day.
Practical Travel Tips for a Nepal Christmas Visit
Weather, Packing, and What to Expect
December is the coldest month in Nepal, especially in the Kathmandu Valley, where it can drop to 2:00-4 degrees Celsius (36:04-39:04 degrees Fahrenheit) at night. If you plan to attend evening events during December, you will want to be sure to pack warm clothing, such as thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and down coats etc. However, despite the cold temperatures at night, the daytime weather will likely still be pleasant and warm enough for you to enjoy sightseeing.
For trekking, you will most likely experience much colder temperatures. Therefore, if your Christmas holiday plans include trekking to places such as EBC or Mardi Himal Trek, it is important to bring appropriate equipment that will help protect you from the cold at high altitude. When trekking during winter, having a knowledgeable, experienced guide and porter will be very beneficial for your safety and comfort.
Is Christmas a Public Holiday in Nepal?
Snow-covered mountain village with yak during winter Christmas in Nepal trekking season
Christmas is not officially recognized as a public holiday in Nepal. Therefore, on 25th December, government offices, banks, and the majority of businesses continue to function as they normally would, except for many private entities, international agencies, and tourist-based businesses that close down or limit their operating hours on this date. Many Christian schools will still give their students a holiday on Christmas Day.
Planning your Holiday Travel Itinerary
Once you have made your travel arrangements, you will want to make reservations for both accommodation and restaurants well in advance, particularly for the dates of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Popular establishments will fill up quickly. If you plan to attend midnight mass, it is advisable to check with the churches regarding their service times prior to your arrival. Most, if not all, of the local churches will welcome visitors.
While planning your travels, consider engaging a qualified, experienced, and reputable company or agency to provide you with a professional guide for your trekking portion(s) of your visit. Guides can provide invaluable information about both the trekking routes and the celebrations associated with the culture you are visiting.
The Spirit of Giving: Christmas Charities and Community
Charitable giving is a prominent part of the Christmas tradition in Nepal. Charitable organizations have a strong presence in Nepal and offer Christmas programs to support marginalized communities. The Esther Benjamins Trust, Possible, and other church-affiliated organizations offer programs that provide street children and poor families with warm blankets, clothing, and food.
Visitors are encouraged to support the various charitable organizations by donating funds or buying gifts for community programs. In addition, many hotels and restaurants hold charity events during which proceeds from the events are donated to assist local charities. Therefore, tourists visiting Nepal can support local charitable organizations while enjoying the Christmas season.
Christmas and New Year's: A Double Celebration
Himalayan valley landscape during December trekking season for Christmas in Nepal
In Nepal, the holiday season brings together Christmas and New Year's celebrations. This creates a unique energy around Thamel as the date approaches December 31st. Many restaurants and nightclubs will have parties and live bands, DJs, and fireworks at midnight.
Many visitors to Nepal will take advantage of both holidays by spending a week celebrating between the two. For example, you may trek to Gokyo Lakes before the Christmas holiday; celebrate Christmas in Kathmandu; and welcome in the New Year with a view of the sunrise from Nagarkot.
FAQs
Is Christmas celebrated with a lot of fanfare in Nepal?
Diversity in Christian communities and tourist locales makes for a rich Christmas; however, it does not hold the same significance as Christmas in the U.S.
Where are some of the best places to experience Christmas in Nepal?
Kathmandu has the most extensive offerings of Christmas celebrations, including midnight mass services, festive markets, and many restaurants celebrating Christmas. Pokhara is more relaxed and offers a lakeside atmosphere during Christmas.
Does Nepal provide food commonly eaten during Christmas?
Many of Nepal's large hotels and restaurants serve traditional Christmas foods, including turkey, ham, Christmas pudding, and Christmas cake. Many will also offer "fusion" options, which will combine foods found in a typical Western Christmas with foods that are more traditional to Nepal.
Are traditional Christmas decorations and trees available?
Yes, Christmas trees and decorations are available, especially in Thamel and other tourist areas. Many hotels and upscale dining establishments will have Christmas trees and decorations, while shops will feature Christmas ornaments and other festive products.
How can I find out about specific Christmas events or masses?
The easiest way is to contact individual churches directly or check with your hotel concierge. Many tourist information centers located within Thamel will have updated event information during the month of December.
Conclusion
Christmas is a major celebration in Nepal, where multiple religions interact peacefully, and Christmas is an event that unites all the people who live in this part of the world through joy, acts of generosity, and compassion. Attending midnight mass at Patan Cathedral with other travellers, celebrating Christmas dinner at one of the mountain-view locations, or volunteering for community service during this season will show you that the "magic" of Christmas in Nepal is not due to the splendour of its festivities but instead the warmth of its people and their unique blend of different customs.
This experience will encompass many elements, including spirituality, adventure, and culture, to create a very unique experience for the individual. If you want to have the opportunity to enjoy this amazing experience, please contact us at Himalayan Recreation to create an itinerary based on your desire to participate.
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