Trip Overview

Indra Jatra: Kathmandu’s Royal Festival of Lights and Deities

Indra Jatra, a significant festival celebrated in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal, is a grand spectacle of lights, deities, and traditional performances. Held annually, this vibrant festival pays homage to Lord Indra, the God of Rain, and commemorates the end of the monsoon season. The festival unfolds over several days, combining religious ceremonies, cultural events, and a rich display of local traditions.

Kumari Jatra – The Living Goddess Procession: The festival commences with Kumari Jatra, a procession featuring the living goddess Kumari. Decked in resplendent attire, Kumari is carried through the ancient streets of Kathmandu in a beautifully adorned chariot. The procession captivates onlookers who gather to witness the divine presence of Kumari, a young prepubescent girl revered as the living embodiment of the Goddess Taleju.

Yosin – The Ceremonial Pole Raising: Central to Indra Jatra is the ceremonial raising of the Yosin, a tall wooden pole, at Kathmandu Durbar Square. The erection of the Yosin signifies the commencement of the festival. Accompanied by traditional rituals and cultural performances, this event attracts both locals and visitors alike.

The Linga – Symbol of Lord Indra: During the festival, a sacred linga, representing Lord Indra, is erected in the heart of the Durbar Square. Devotees gather to pay homage to this symbol of rain and prosperity, seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest and the well-being of their communities.

Majipa Lakhey – The Demon God’s Dance: Adding a touch of mystique to Indra Jatra is the performance of Majipa Lakhey, a traditional dance depicting the Demon God Lakhey. Dancers adorned in elaborate costumes and vibrant masks move rhythmically to the beat of drums, mesmerizing the audience with their theatrical expressions.

The Kumari’s Appearance: Indra Jatra also offers a rare public appearance of the Kumari, who blesses the devotees from the Kumari Ghar (Kumari’s residence) balcony. This moment holds special significance as it is an opportunity for the public to receive the divine blessings of the living goddess.

Cultural Performances and Exhibitions: Throughout the festival, Kathmandu Durbar Square becomes a hub of cultural activities. Traditional music, dance performances, and exhibitions showcasing Nepal’s artistic heritage add to the festive spirit, providing a platform for local artists to share their talents.

Community Celebrations: Beyond the formal ceremonies, Indra Jatra is a time for communities to come together. Locals share traditional delicacies, exchange greetings, and create intricate mandalas known as “Yosin” patterns on the streets.

Indra Jatra is more than a religious celebration; it is a testament to Kathmandu’s rich cultural legacy. As the city comes alive with lights, colors, and the fervor of the devotees, Indra Jatra stands as a symbol of unity, tradition, and the enduring spirit of Nepal.

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Why Us

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Broad Adventures

Since 2010, we have curated unique itineraries that offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences, ensuring every trip is filled with joy and adventure. Our focus on the fun factor and the right amount of challenge allows you to achieve a profound sense of personal accomplishment, all while enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded travelers.

Small-Group Adventures

Small-Group Adventures

Join an intimate group of like-minded travelers who share your passion for discovering the world's wonders safely and confidently. Our small group settings foster a deeper connection with your fellow explorers and the incredible destinations we visit.

Expert Local Guides

Expert Local Guides

We exclusively employ local guides and porters for their unparalleled knowledge and expertise. Their insights and firsthand experiences enrich your journey, giving you a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local culture, history, and environment.

Responsible for Tourism

Responsible for Tourism

Your safety is our utmost priority. Our dedicated team of trained professionals ensures the highest standards of care, including providing fresh and hygienic meals, comprehensive First Aid supplies, and round-the-clock communication services. We are committed to responsible tourism practices, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and ethical travel.

Health and Saftey

Health and Saftey

Promoting responsible tourism is essential, as it calls for a collective effort from everyone involved in the industry. By prioritizing health and safety, we ensure that each journey is not only enjoyable but also respectful of the destinations and communities we visit.

How can we help you?

  • City Tour Equipment
  • City Tour Season
  • Climbing Equipment
  • Climbing Season
  • General Questions
  • Guide and Staffs
  • Nepal Overview
  • Tipping
  • Transportations
  • Trekking Equipment
  • Trekking Season
  • VISA info
  • Weather and Temperature

Do you provide any equipment for the trek?

Broad Adventure provides you a basic equipment like a Sleeping Bag and a down Jacket, for the tea-house trek. And for the climbing trip, we provide the basic equipment. For a camping trek check it once including the section.

What is the time zone of Nepal?

NPT (UTC+05:45)

What cultural attractions can I explore in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is home to historical sites like Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Pashupatinath Temple. These landmarks showcase Nepal’s rich cultural and religious heritage, providing visitors with a deep insight into the country’s history.

What are the must-visit cities in Nepal?

Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bhaktapur, and Patan are popular cities offering rich cultural experiences. Each city has its own unique charm, historical sites, and vibrant local markets.

Do you provide any equipment for the trek?

Broad Adventure provides you a basic equipment like a Sleeping Bag and a down Jacket, for the tea-house trek. And for the climbing trip, we provide the basic equipment. For a camping trek check it once including the section.

Do I need to tip the guide and porters? What is the standard tip?

Tips is expected by your team members and normally the standard is 10% of your total trip cost.

What is the climbing season in Nepal?

The main climbing seasons are spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is more stable, providing safer and more favorable conditions for climbing expeditions.

Are there other mountains in Nepal suitable for climbing?

Yes, Nepal is home to numerous trekking peaks and mountains suitable for climbing, such as Island Peak, Mera Peak, and Lobuche East. These peaks offer a challenging yet rewarding experience for climbers of various skill levels.

Can I climb Mount Everest as a tourist?

Climbing Mount Everest requires significant preparation, experience, and permits. Most climbers join organized expeditions with experienced guides. Climbing Everest is a serious undertaking that demands physical fitness, technical skills, and a high level of commitment.

Do I need to tip the guide and porters? What is the standard tip?

Tips is expected by your team members and normally the standard is 10% of your total trip cost.

What is the voltage and plug type used in Nepal?

The standard voltage is 230V, and the plug type is the Europlug (Type C) and the British-style plug (Type D). It’s advisable to bring adapters if necessary.

What is the voltage and plug type used in Nepal?

The standard voltage is 230V, and the plug type is the Europlug (Type C) and the British-style plug (Type D). It’s advisable to bring adapters if necessary.

Is it necessary to get travel insurance for Nepal?

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for trekking and adventure activities. Ensure that your insurance covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations.

What languages are spoken in Nepal?

The official language is Nepali, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. Additionally, various ethnic groups have their own languages.

What is the currency used in Nepal, and are credit cards widely accepted?

The official currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). While major cities and tourist areas accept credit cards, it’s advisable to carry cash in remote areas. ATMs are available in urban centers.

How can I get around within cities in Nepal?

Transportation options include taxis, rickshaws, and local buses. Walking is also a great way to explore the cities, especially in the old quarters. Many cities have well-preserved historic areas, and navigating them on foot allows for a more immersive experience.

What cultural attractions can I explore in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is home to historical sites like Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Pashupatinath Temple. These landmarks showcase Nepal’s rich cultural and religious heritage, providing visitors with a deep insight into the country’s history.

Can I climb Mount Everest as a tourist?

Climbing Mount Everest requires significant preparation, experience, and permits. Most climbers join organized expeditions with experienced guides. Climbing Everest is a serious undertaking that demands physical fitness, technical skills, and a high level of commitment.

Are permits required for trekking in Nepal?

Yes, trekking permits are required for most trekking regions. The type of permit depends on the specific trekking area. It’s important to obtain the necessary permits from the respective authorities to support local conservation and management efforts.

When is the best season for treks in Nepal?

From March to mid-June and September to December is the best season for treks.

What is the fitness required for the treks?

Generally, to trek in Nepal we should have good physical and health conditions. And also able to walk 4- 7 hours in day at a high altitude with your little backpack.

Do you pick me up at the Airport upon my arrival?

Yes, our airport representative welcomes you at the airport and transfers you to the hotel in a private tourist vehicle.

Does my guide/porter speak English?

They speak English. All the guides are professional and due to their professionalism, they speak good English. The guide’s English is enough to explain the local culture, activities, and religions.

Are the treks and tours secured? What about the security?

Providing security to our clients is our principal. The government-licensed holder guides and other crew members are carefully assigned for your trip. Even though, would like to counsel you to take care of your equipment, and bags. If you doing a tea-house trek your accommodation is in a local guesthouse, where you have to be a precaution yourself at all times. And if you are on a camping trek always keep your bags inside the tent and while at nighttime please keep your bag in the middle of the tent. The camping leader assigns a Sherpa as a guard throughout the nighttime.

What sort of ground transportation do you use?

Normally we assign a car for up to 2 people and a Jeep for up to 5 people and then a bus for up to 14 PAX and Coster and Sutlej Bus depending on group size. There are some trekking routes, which are dirt roads for them we assign 4WD Jeeps. It also depends on what services you opt for.

Are the staff insured by your company?

Yes, all of the staff and crew members are insured.

Should I need to join the group?

Joining a group depends on your booking and the option that you choose. If you have booked for Private Trip then obviously you will not join. Otherwise, normally the same trip departs on the same day then the group will join.

Do you arrange a private trip?

Yes, of course, we will arrange a private tour.

How big is a group size?

We will try to arrange a small group of willing people, which immortalize the treks. Normally we encompass 12 -16 people in a group. (This is not to apply to those who want to do a Private Trip, no minimum and maximum for them.)

Is the drinking water okay? Or do I need to use tablets?

For drinking water you can buy bottled water and purified mineral water on tea-house treks and city tours. And in the camping trek, the camping cook provides you with boiled water. For some cases of remote area trekking it would be better to have some purification tablets that you can buy in Kathmandu.

What are the accommodations and meals like?

All the meals that you provided are hygienic and fresh. While you are on a camping trek you get meals prepared by a professional camping cook. And if you are doing a tea-house trek you will get the main course as like in the cities. For accommodation on the camping trek, you will have a tent with good-quality mattresses and a sleeping bag. And if you are on a tea-house trek you will normal twin-sharing room with basic facilities with a warm mattress and blanket, and also we provide a sleeping bag if you need it.

Is the shower facility during the tour/trek?

Yes, you can have a shower during the trek. In the camping trek, you will get a shower in a shower tent which is provided 3-4 times in the whole trek, depending on the duration of the trek. And in a tea-house trek, we will provide you attached room where possible and for the rest of town, you will pay for a shower.

Do you provide any equipment for the trek?

Broad Adventure provides you a basic equipment like a Sleeping Bag and a down Jacket, for the tea-house trek. And for the climbing trip, we provide the basic equipment. For a camping trek check it once including the section.

Is there any possibility of communicating in my hometown?

Yes, you can. In the Everest and Annapurna regions, you can connect via Phone, or Internet both available in most of the town and, in some remote routes, you may need to use a satellite phone that is carried by your trek guide or also get in the local town.

Can I charge the batteries of cameras, and phones?

Yes, you can charge your devices, but recommended you bring your plugs, and chargers and also do not leave unattended anything while charging in a lobby or somewhere in the trekking guesthouse. And if you are on a camping trek it’s quite hard to charge the phone so we advise you to bring a portable charge.

Are there any health precautions I should take before traveling to Nepal?

Vaccinations for diseases like typhoid, hepatitis, and tetanus are advisable. Altitude sickness prevention measures should be considered for high-altitude treks.

How can I find a reliable trekking guide in Nepal?

Reliable guides can be found through licensed trekking agencies, recommendations from fellow travelers, or by checking with the Nepal Tourism Board. Ensure that your guide has the necessary permits and is experienced in the chosen trekking region

Is hiring a local guide recommended for exploring Nepal?

Yes, hiring a local guide is highly recommended, especially for trekking and exploring remote areas. Guides provide valuable insights into the culture, history, and geography of the region, ensuring a safer and more enriching experience.

Is hiring a local guide recommended for exploring Nepal?

Yes, hiring a local guide is highly recommended, especially for trekking and exploring remote areas. Guides provide valuable insights into the culture, history, and geography of the region, ensuring a safer and more enriching experience.

Is Nepal a safe country for tourists?

Yes, Nepal is considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s essential to follow common-sense safety practices and stay updated on travel advisories. Local people are welcoming, and the country values its reputation as a safe and friendly destination.

What is the best time to visit Nepal?

The best time to visit Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally favorable for outdoor activities. During these periods, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are moderate.

What makes Nepal a popular tourist destination?

Nepal is renowned for its stunning Himalayan landscapes, rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and warm hospitality. The country offers a unique blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty.

What is the standard tip?

Tipping is subjective so it depends on your satisfaction. However, the standard is about 20% of the trip cost you can share with the staff.

Do I need to tip the guide and porters? What is the standard tip?

Tips is expected by your team members and normally the standard is 10% of your total trip cost.

Do you provide any equipment for the trek?

Broad Adventure provides you a basic equipment like a Sleeping Bag and a down Jacket, for the tea-house trek. And for the climbing trip, we provide the basic equipment. For a camping trek check it once including the section.

Are permits required for trekking in Nepal?

Yes, trekking permits are required for most trekking regions. The type of permit depends on the specific trekking area. It’s important to obtain the necessary permits from the respective authorities to support local conservation and management efforts.

Do I need a guide for trekking in Nepal?

While it’s not mandatory, hiring a local guide is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insights. Guides are familiar with the terrain, can provide valuable information about the region, and ensure a smoother trekking experience.

What are the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal?

The Everest Base Camp trek, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Valley trek, and Manaslu Circuit are among the most popular trekking routes in Nepal. Each trek offers unique experiences, from breathtaking mountain views to encounters with diverse cultures.

When is the best season for treks in Nepal?

From March to mid-June and September to December is the best season for treks.

Do I need to tip the guide and porters? What is the standard tip?

Tips is expected by your team members and normally the standard is 10% of your total trip cost.

Can I extend my tourist visa to Nepal?

Yes, tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or the Immigration Office in Pokhara. Extension fees and requirements vary, and it’s advisable to initiate the process a few days before the current visa expires.

What documents are required for a tourist visa on arrival?

Passport with at least six months validity, a completed visa application form (available at the airport), and two passport-sized photos are required. Additionally, visa fees must be paid in cash (USD or equivalent).

What are the types of visas available for tourists?

Tourist visas are available for duration ranging from 15 to 90 days. Extensions can be obtained within Nepal if needed. Other visa categories include business visas, student visas, and diplomatic visas, each with specific requirements.

How do I obtain a visa for Nepal?

Tourist visas for Nepal can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at various land entry points. Alternatively, you can apply for a visa at the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling.

What is the monsoon season in Nepal?

The monsoon season in Nepal runs from June to early September. During this time, the country receives heavy rainfall, particularly in the southern plains and the hilly regions. The monsoon brings lush green landscapes but can also cause landslides and flooding in some areas.

What is the time zone of Nepal?

NPT (UTC+05:45)

Indra Jatra Festival Tour

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