Sindoor Jatra, Thimi
Also known as: सिन्दूर जात्रा, ठिमी · सिन्दूर जात्रा · Sindur Jatra · Thimi Jatra · ठिमी जात्रा
Sindoor Jatra is the pride of Thimi and the most colourful day of the year for anyone living in Sanothimi. On Nepali New Year's Day, the whole town turns red.
How the day unfolds
From early morning, the deities of Thimi's neighbourhoods are placed in their khat — decorated wooden palanquins topped with umbrellas — and carried on the shoulders of young men towards the Balkumari temple. Traditionally around thirty-two khats take part. Drummers and musicians accompany each one. As they arrive at the temple, the bearers spin and shake the palanquins, and the crowd throws handfuls of sindoor, red vermilion powder, over the deities and each other.
By midday the square around Balkumari is a sea of red: red faces, red clothes, red walls, red air. The atmosphere is ecstatic but good-natured. Later the palanquins move through the town and visit other shrines before returning home.
Meaning
Sindoor is a symbol of good fortune and devotion. Throwing it over the deities and one another is a way of welcoming the new year with blessings. The festival is linked with Bisket Jatra in Bhaktapur, and many say the celebrations of Bhaktapur, Thimi and Bode together form one great regional New Year festival.
Tips for visitors
Wear old clothes and cover your hair. Protect your eyes — sunglasses or clear glasses help — and cover your camera and phone. Sindoor can stain skin and fabric for days. Stay aware of the moving palanquins, which are heavy and move quickly. Arrive by mid-morning, and walk from Sanothimi rather than trying to drive into Thimi.
History & key dates
- Malla eraThimi's New Year procession develops alongside Bhaktapur's Bisket Jatra.
- PastTraditionally 32 khats (palanquins) took part.
- Recent yearsAround 26 khats circle the Balkumari temple.
Photo gallery
Festival dates follow the lunar calendar. Dates shown are approximate — confirm with a local calendar (patro) before you travel.