Click image to zoom

Nepal’s Longest Chariot Festival Begins With Ascension Of “Red God”

The traditional band of the Nepali Army plays the flute during a procession on the first day of the Rato Macchindranath Jatra in Lalitpur, Nepal, on April 18, 2026. The Rato Macchindranath Chariot festival, which can span weeks based on astrological timing, begins with the ''Aajus'' or ''Priests'' carrying the ''Red God'' to the chariot. Known as ''Bunga Dugh'' in Newari, meaning the God of Rain and Harvest, it is the longest Jatra in Nepal, lasting months depending on astronomical factors. The Newar community constructs a 32-foot chariot annually using wooden beams without nails, taking about a week to complete. The chariot is decorated before the deity is seated. In the ancient town of Lalitpur, the chariot is paraded around the city four days after the deity's ascension. It is then pulled to Ga:Bahal, rested for one day, and subsequently moved to Sundhara and Mangalbazar, where it remains for one day each. (Photo by Subaas Shrestha/NurPhoto)

Photo Details

Related Keywords