13 Jul 2023 3 min to read
Nepal is a country that celebrates various Losar festivals. There are mainly 3 Losars in Nepal and each is unique to different ethnic communities. Tamu Losar is the Gurung New Year, celebrated with traditional attire, dances, feasts, and homemade alcohol. Sonam Losar is the New Year celebration of the Tamang and Hyolmo communities, featuring rituals, traditional clothing, music, and a delicious feast. Gyalpo Losar is the Sherpas’ New Year, marked by special drinks, cultural activities, masked dances, and festive gatherings with family and friends. These Losar festivals highlight the rich cultural diversity and joyful spirit of celebration in Nepal.
Tamu Losar (December/January)
Tamu Losar is a joyous Gurung New Year celebration held on the 15th of Poush. Gurungs dress in traditional attire, with men wearing Bhangra and women donning Ghalek. Festivities include traditional dances, feasts, cultural programs, and the consumption of homemade alcohol. It serves as a time for families and friends to gather, share delicious meals, and exchange well wishes. Tamu Losar not only brings joy and togetherness but also preserves the cultural heritage of the Gurung community for future generations. It is a vibrant occasion that showcases the rich traditions and unity of the Gurung people.
Sonam Losar (January/February)
Sonam Losar is the New Year celebration of the Tamang and Hyolmo communities. It takes place on the second new moon after the winter solstice, usually during Magh Sukla Pratipada according to the eastern lunar calendar. The festival is celebrated after the harvest of crops. Each of the 12 months in their calendar is represented by a different animal. During Sonam Losar, people visit monasteries and stupas to perform rituals. They dress up in their traditional clothes and jewelry, play traditional musical instruments like Damphu, exchange greetings, and enjoy a delicious feast with the main dish being Khapsey. It’s a joyous time filled with cultural programs and festivities.
Gyalpo Losar (February/March)
Gyalpo Losar is the Sherpas’ New Year, and they celebrate it for two weeks following their traditional customs. The main days are the first few days. They make a special drink called Changkol and prepare for the New Year. The second day is Gyalpo Losar, which marks the beginning of their New Year. On the third day, they take part in various cultural activities, perform traditional masked dances, visit monasteries, and wear their beautiful traditional dresses and jewelry. During the celebrations, they enjoy tasty Khapsey and other delicious foods, drink Changkol, and have a great time with their family and friends. It’s a joyful festival filled with cultural traditions and togetherness.
