Festive Scenes of Sonam Lhosar in Kathmandu

The Tamang community marked Sonam Lhosar, the New Year, by organising various programmes on Monday, January 19.

Celebrated on the first day of the waxing moon of Magh, the festival follows a 12-year cycle represented by animals: rat, cow, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, bird, dog and pig.

This year marked the beginning of 2862 in the Manjushree Calendar, with the Year of the Serpent ending and the Year of the Horse beginning.

The festival is observed with particular enthusiasm in several districts of Bagmati Province, where the Tamang community has a significant presence.

The Hyolmo, Thakali, Jirel, Nesyangwa, Bhote, Dura, Lepcha and several other communities also celebrate the festival with equal enthusiasm and fanfare.

The government declared a public holiday across the country to mark the occasion.

Here are some glimpses of Sonam Lhosar celebrations in Kathmandu.