The short answer
Maghe Sankranti is held in mid-January at the start of the month of Magh. Families bathe in rivers, eat sesame sweets, ghee and yam, and mark the end of the cold season. The Tharu community in the Terai celebrates it as Maghi, with dances and gatherings.
Yomari Punhi, on the December full moon, is a Newar festival of harvest. Families make yomari, steamed rice-flour dumplings with a sweet filling, and give them to neighbours. In Bhaktapur and Patan, bakeries and homes make and share them. Both are good times for a food-focused visit.
Key facts
- Maghe Sankranti
- Mid January
- Yomari Punhi
- December full moon
- Foods
- Sesame sweets, yam, yomari
- Where
- Terai, Bhaktapur, Patan
How it works
- Check datesLunar and solar calendars.
- Try yomariNewar bakeries.
- Visit a Tharu villageFor Maghi.
- Share the sweetsLocal custom.
Insider tip
Join a yomari-making demonstration if your hotel can arrange one.
Avoid this
Do not plan river bathing in cold weather without safe access.
Related questions
Is yomari vegetarian?
Yes, usually; confirm ingredients.
Is it a public holiday?
Maghe Sankranti usually is.
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