Christmas and New Year in Nepal

What is it like to spend Christmas and New Year in Nepal?

well, nothing exciting really. I get 25 Dec and 1 Jan off. On Christmas Eve, I went to my friends place (he lives in a hotel, permanently) and we had stuffed chicken dinner with red wine, and watched Christmas movies on TV. The next day, we did exactly the same... ... no party, no Christmas trees, no Christmas lights or decorations, no turkey.

Nepalis being primarily Hindus and Muslims dont celebrate Christmas of course. They have several other festivals during the year that lasts for weeks (see October posts). One of those festivals, Tihar is the light festivals. Traditionally people used to light many candles all around their houses but nowadays, they use colored light bulbs similar to western Christmas lights style. Its very pretty all around town. That was in November. During this festival, they worship dogs on one day, they catch stray dogs and feed them and put flower necklaces around their neck before releasing them. The next day is cow worshipping day (they always worship cows but more so then), and another day of this Tihar festival is brother worshipping day. Thats right, sisters are expected to worship their brothers!

For New Year, I will host a party at my house. My place is quite big, 6 rooms with a large balcony and a big hall as well as a large garden so I can easily 30-50 people. I will let you know how that goes next week!!

Happy Holidays!!!!
Happy 2008!!!