The centuries-old chariot procession of Rato Machhindranath—venerated as the god of rain and prosperity–began Thursday, May 1. The towering chariot was pulled from Pulchowk to Gahbahal, marking the beginning of the Kathmandu Valley’s longest chariot festival.
The Rato Machhindranath Jatra spans nearly two months, starting in Pulchowk and culminating in Jawalakhel. The deity’s idol is enshrined in a grand wooden chariot and pulled through various neighborhoods, including Mangalbazaar, Sundhara, Lagankhel, and Kumaripati.
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The festival culminates in the symbolic “Bhoto Jatra,” a public ceremony in which a sacred vest—believed to have been gifted by the serpent god—is displayed, symbolizing divine protection over the Valley.
Our photojournalist Sunil Sharma captures the vibrant spirit of this timeless tradition through his lens.
