Holi (Fagu Purnima)

Holi, known in Nepal as Fagu Purnima, celebrates the arrival of spring and the victory of devotion over arrogance, recalled in the story of Prahlad and Holika. In the Kathmandu Valley and hill areas it is celebrated on the full moon of Falgun; in the Terai, the following day.

A week of colour

The festival officially begins a week earlier, when a tall pole decorated with colourful cloth strips, the chir, is raised at Basantapur in Kathmandu. In the days that follow children start throwing water balloons, so walking the streets of Sanothimi can become a wet adventure. On the main day, people smear each other with coloured powder, dance to music and share sweets.

Tips

Wear old clothes, protect your phone and camera in plastic bags, and oil your hair and skin beforehand so colours wash off more easily. Women in particular may want to celebrate with friends or family groups. If you do not want to be coloured, stay indoors on the main morning — few people will be spared on the streets.