Traditional Newar Festivals of Sankhu

Sankhu is one of the culturally rich towns of the Kathmandu Valley where traditional Newar festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm. These festivals reflect the deep cultural heritage, religious beliefs, and community unity of the Newar people.

Yomari Punhi

Yomari Punhi is a harvest festival celebrated during the full moon of the month of Mangsir. On this day, families prepare a special sweet dumpling called “Yomari” made from rice flour and filled with molasses or sesame seeds.

The festival symbolizes gratitude for a successful harvest and is widely celebrated in Newar communities including Sankhu.

Indra Jatra

Indra Jatra is another important festival celebrated in many parts of the Kathmandu Valley. In Sankhu, the festival includes traditional dances, religious rituals, and community gatherings honoring Lord Indra, the god of rain.

Gunhi Punhi (Janai Purnima)

Gunhi Punhi, also known as Janai Purnima, is an important religious festival for both Hindus and Newars. On this day, people visit temples, change sacred threads, and enjoy traditional foods such as “Kwati,” a mixed bean soup.

Swasthani Festival

The Swasthani Brata observed at Salinadi is one of the most important religious traditions associated with Sankhu. Devotees gather every year to perform rituals and listen to the sacred Swasthani story.

Bajrayogini Jatra

Bajrayogini Jatra is a unique cultural procession dedicated to Goddess Bajrayogini. During the festival, traditional music, rituals, and community celebrations take place in the town.

Cultural Importance

These festivals help preserve the identity and cultural heritage of the Newar community. They bring families and neighbors together, strengthening social bonds and cultural pride.

Conclusion

Traditional Newar festivals are an essential part of life in Sankhu. Through these celebrations, the community continues to maintain centuries-old customs and pass them on to future generations. Visitors who experience these festivals can gain a deeper understanding of the vibrant culture of the Kathmandu Valley.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Sankhu

Top 10 Places to Visit in Sankhu

Sankhu is one of the oldest towns in the Kathmandu Valley and offers a rich combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located about 17 kilometers from Kathmandu city, the town is an ideal destination for people interested in heritage tourism and peaceful exploration.

Here are the top 10 places to visit in Sankhu.

1. Bajrayogini Temple

Bajrayogini Temple is the most famous landmark of Sankhu. Located on a hill above the town, it offers beautiful views and deep religious significance for both Hindu and Buddhist devotees.

2. Salinadi River

Salinadi is a sacred river where the famous Swasthani festival takes place every year. It is an important pilgrimage site and a peaceful location for visitors.

3. Sankhu Old Town

Walking through the traditional streets of Sankhu allows visitors to see classic Newar architecture, ancient houses, and historic courtyards.

4. Vajrayogini Staircase

The long stone staircase leading to Bajrayogini Temple is an attraction itself. Many pilgrims and hikers enjoy climbing the steps while enjoying the natural surroundings.

5. Local Newar Temples

Sankhu has several small but historically important temples dedicated to different Hindu and Buddhist deities.

6. Ancient Stone Spouts

Traditional water spouts, locally known as “Hiti,” are found in various parts of Sankhu and reflect the advanced water management systems of ancient Newar settlements.

7. Cultural Courtyards

Many courtyards in Sankhu are used for community gatherings, festivals, and cultural activities.

8. Local Markets

The local markets offer traditional foods, handicrafts, and everyday items used by the residents of the town.

9. Scenic Hills and Nature

The hills surrounding Sankhu provide beautiful landscapes and are ideal for short hikes and nature walks.

10. Traditional Festivals

If you visit during festival seasons, you can witness colorful cultural events and traditional rituals performed by the local community.

Conclusion

Sankhu is a hidden cultural gem in the Kathmandu Valley. Its historical temples, traditional architecture, and spiritual sites make it a perfect destination for travelers seeking authentic Nepalese heritage experiences.

Social and Cultural Importance

 Salinadi Swasthani Mela: Complete Guide

Salinadi Swasthani Mela is one of the most famous religious festivals celebrated in Sankhu, Kathmandu Valley. Every year during the month of Magh (January–February), thousands of devotees gather at the sacred Salinadi River to observe the month-long Swasthani Brata Katha.

This festival is deeply rooted in Nepalese religious traditions and is considered especially important for women seeking family happiness and prosperity.

Religious Background

The Swasthani Brata is based on the sacred story known as Swasthani Brata Katha. According to Hindu belief, Goddess Swasthani has the power to grant blessings, remove obstacles, and bring peace to families.

During the festival, devotees fast, listen to the recitation of the Swasthani story, and perform ritual worship. The main purpose of the brata is spiritual purification and devotion.

Importance of Salinadi

The Salinadi River near Sankhu is believed to be a sacred place where many divine events described in the Swasthani story took place. Because of this belief, devotees consider bathing in the river during the month of Magh to be highly auspicious.

Every morning before sunrise, pilgrims gather along the riverbank to take ritual baths and perform prayers.

Activities During the Festival

The Swasthani festival continues for one full month. During this period, several religious activities take place:

• Ritual bathing in the Salinadi River

• Recitation of Swasthani Brata Katha

• Fasting and devotional prayers

• Visits to nearby temples including Bajrayogini

• Community gatherings and religious discussions

The area becomes lively with pilgrims, temporary shops, and cultural activities.

Social and Cultural Importance

The Swasthani festival is not only a religious event but also an important cultural gathering. Families and communities come together to participate in the rituals and share traditional foods.

Many people travel from different districts of Nepal to observe the festival, making Sankhu a vibrant spiritual center during this time.

Tourism Potential

In recent years, the Salinadi Swasthani Mela has also attracted tourists interested in Nepalese religious traditions. Visitors can witness unique cultural practices and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the festival.

Conclusion

Salinadi Swasthani Mela is one of the most important religious traditions of Nepal. The month-long festival reflects the strong faith and devotion of the Nepalese people while also preserving ancient cultural practices. For anyone interested in religious culture and traditions, visiting Sankhu during the Swasthani festival can be a truly memorable experience.

 

Bajrayogini Temple: History and Religious Importance

Bajrayogini Temple is one of the most important religious and historical landmarks located in Sankhu, a historic town in the northeastern part of Kathmandu Valley. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bajrayogini, a powerful tantric deity worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists. Because of this unique religious significance, the temple has become an important pilgrimage destination for devotees from across Nepal.

Historical Background

The history of Bajrayogini Temple dates back many centuries. According to historical records and local legends, the temple was established during the Licchavi or early Malla period. Over time, the temple complex was expanded and renovated by different rulers and local communities.

The temple stands on a hill above Sankhu town, providing a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and hills. Its location not only gives spiritual importance but also makes it one of the scenic destinations in the Kathmandu Valley.

Religious Significance

Goddess Bajrayogini is regarded as a powerful manifestation of divine feminine energy. In the Hindu tradition, she is associated with Shakti, the cosmic power of the universe. In Buddhism, Bajrayogini is considered a tantric deity representing wisdom and spiritual awakening.

Because of this dual significance, both Hindu and Buddhist devotees come to worship at the temple. This reflects the unique religious harmony that exists in Nepalese culture.

The Sacred Staircase

To reach the temple, visitors must climb a long stone staircase that starts from Sankhu town. The staircase contains more than one hundred steps and passes through forested surroundings and small resting places.

Although the climb requires effort, pilgrims believe that the journey itself is a form of devotion. Many devotees stop along the way to rest, pray, and enjoy the peaceful natural environment.

Festivals and Rituals

Several religious festivals are celebrated at Bajrayogini Temple throughout the year. Among them, the Bajrayogini Jatra is one of the most important cultural events of Sankhu. During this festival, devotees gather to perform rituals, prayers, and traditional processions.

Local priests conduct daily worship and special ceremonies for visitors seeking blessings, protection, and spiritual guidance.

Tourism and Cultural Importance

Apart from its religious significance, Bajrayogini Temple has also become an attractive destination for tourists interested in culture, history, and nature. Visitors can explore the temple complex, observe traditional rituals, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding hills.

The temple plays an important role in preserving the cultural identity and spiritual heritage of Sankhu.

Conclusion

Bajrayogini Temple is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the deep spiritual traditions of Nepal. Its history, religious importance, and scenic location make it one of the most valuable heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley. Anyone visiting Sankhu should not miss the opportunity to experience the beauty and spirituality of this remarkable temple.

Sankhu: A Historic Newar Town of Kathmandu Valley

Sankhu is one of the oldest and culturally rich towns in the Kathmandu Valley. Located in the northeastern part of the valley, this historic settlement lies within Shankharapur Municipality of Kathmandu District. Although many people living in Kathmandu city may not know much about Sankhu, it has played an important role in the cultural, religious, and historical development of the valley for centuries.

The town of Sankhu is well known for its ancient temples, traditional Newar settlements, and unique cultural practices that have been preserved for generations. Even today, walking through the narrow streets of Sankhu gives visitors a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle and architecture that once dominated the Kathmandu Valley.

Historical Background of Sankhu

Sankhu has a very long history that dates back more than a thousand years. Historical records and inscriptions indicate that this settlement existed during the Licchavi period, which means the town has been an important center of trade and culture since ancient times.

In the past, Sankhu served as an important trade route connecting the Kathmandu Valley with Tibet. Traders traveling from Kathmandu to Tibet passed through Sankhu before continuing toward the northern Himalayan regions. Because of this strategic location, the town became a busy commercial center where merchants, travelers, and pilgrims gathered.

The name "Sankhu" itself is believed to have originated from the words “Shankha” (conch shell) and “Khu” (village). According to local legends, the town was named after a sacred conch that played a role in the establishment of the settlement.

Bajrayogini Temple: The Spiritual Center

One of the most famous religious sites in Sankhu is the Bajrayogini Temple. Located on a hill above the town, this temple is one of the most important tantric temples in Nepal. Devotees from different parts of the country visit the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings.

To reach the temple, visitors must climb a long stone staircase consisting of more than one hundred steps. Although the climb can be challenging, the journey is spiritually rewarding and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bajrayogini, who is considered a powerful deity in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Because of this, followers of both religions visit the temple, making it an important symbol of religious harmony in Nepal.

Salinadi and the Swasthani Festival

Another important religious site in Sankhu is Salinadi, a sacred river located near the town. Every year during the month of Magh (January–February), thousands of devotees gather at Salinadi to participate in the Swasthani Brata Katha festival.

During this festival, devotees take ritual baths in the river and listen to the recitation of the Swasthani story for one month. It is believed that observing the Swasthani Brata brings blessings, prosperity, and family happiness.

The Salinadi area becomes lively during this time as pilgrims, priests, and visitors gather to perform religious rituals. Temporary shops, food stalls, and religious gatherings create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the festival period.

Traditional Newar Culture

Sankhu is also an important center of Newar culture. The town still preserves traditional Newar houses made of brick and wood, with beautifully carved windows and doors. These architectural styles reflect the artistic skills of the Newar community.

The people of Sankhu continue to celebrate many traditional festivals such as Yomari Punhi, Indra Jatra, and Gunhi Punhi (Janai Purnima). These festivals include cultural dances, traditional foods, religious rituals, and community gatherings.

Traditional Newar cuisine is another highlight of Sankhu culture. Dishes such as yomari, bara, chatamari, and various ceremonial foods are prepared during festivals and family celebrations.

Heritage and Architecture

The town of Sankhu contains many ancient temples, courtyards, stone spouts, and rest houses that reflect the architectural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. Many of these structures were built hundreds of years ago and still stand as symbols of the town’s historical importance.

However, the 2015 earthquake caused damage to several historic buildings in Sankhu. Since then, reconstruction and restoration efforts have been carried out to preserve the cultural heritage of the town. Many temples and monuments have already been restored, while some restoration work is still ongoing.

Preserving the heritage of Sankhu is important not only for the local community but also for the cultural identity of Nepal.

Tourism Potential of Sankhu

In recent years, Sankhu has started attracting more visitors who are interested in cultural tourism and heritage exploration. The town offers a peaceful alternative to the crowded areas of central Kathmandu.

Visitors can explore traditional streets, visit ancient temples, enjoy local Newar food, and experience the authentic lifestyle of the community. Hiking from Kathmandu to Sankhu is also becoming popular among travelers and students.

Because of its rich history, unique culture, and beautiful surroundings, Sankhu has great potential to develop as an important cultural tourism destination in the Kathmandu Valley.

Conclusion

Sankhu is not just a small town on the outskirts of Kathmandu; it is a place filled with history, culture, spirituality, and tradition. From the sacred Bajrayogini Temple to the vibrant Swasthani festival at Salinadi, the town represents an important part of Nepal’s cultural heritage.

As development continues in the Kathmandu Valley, it is important to preserve the unique identity of historic towns like Sankhu. By promoting cultural awareness and responsible tourism, Sankhu can continue to share its rich traditions with future generations.

For anyone interested in exploring the history and culture of Nepal, a visit to Sankhu is truly a rewarding experience.

Mha Puja

Mha Pujā 

Mha Puja is an annual ritual performed by the Newar people of Nepal to purify and empower the soul as part of New Year celebrations. It is performed on New Year's Day of Nepal Sambat, the national lunar calendar of Nepal, which occurs during the Swanti (Tihar) festival.

Mha Puja means "worship of the self", and it celebrates the spirit within oneself. The ceremony signifies an auspicious beginning of the New Year, and invokes prosperity and longevity for the participant.  Mha Puja and Nepal Sambat are also celebrated abroad where Nepalese have settled.

Sketch of Nepalese Mha Pujā Mandala

_Courtesy- wikipedia

Drinking water problems in sankhu

Although sankhu was anciently well developed and well managed city. But  modernisation and developement also bought lots of changes and rapid change in population made lack of resources in sankhu. As sankhu was the transit point and naturally rich city in history. But these days like rest part of country people of sankhu is also facing lots of problems.
Among so many problems drinking water problem is most important and people of sankhu are very much keen interested upon the problem of drinking water. As drinking clean and hygene water is necesity of people who live sankhu and surrounding. In ancient time there was enough well  to drink water. But time changed so there is low water level in sankhu area one hand,  in other hand population incresement is also major reason of lack of water.
Modernization and education made conscious level high. So most of people of sankhu knew how to use water in home in different purposes. So to live healthy life water is really important.  Beside wells people of sankhu were using tap water from few decades. That source of water was made by Leder Ganesh Man Singh. So no need to say that was really old. So that was intended to people of sankhu 60 years before. At that time that water is not enough to people of sankhu.

Basanta Sangeet Mahotsav

Basanta Sangeet Mahotsav (Spring Music Festival)

 

This morning Basanta Sangeet Mahotsav (Spring Music Festival) is began with huge participation with all the people around sankhu. Its is a great celebration and showtime of our local culture. In this early march pass we enjoyed seeing almost tradition of local place sankhu. Its shows sankhu is traditionally very rich place. We have our own culture and tradition. We have our own early development and settlement of society which need to continue..

Ropai Jatra in Sankhu

Wa;pi jya pyakhan (Ropai Jatra ) is one of the best part of one week long cow festival. In sankhu we have one week long festival which starts from cow festival. There are so many types of festivals after cow festival. They all are good and give full enjoyiment to everyone of sankhu and people who comes to this festival. In Wa;pi jya pyakhan (Ropai Jatra )  nearly everyone takes part in another age-old tradition in which the participants dress up and wear masks or without masks also they dress up so differently. There is not age bar for this festival. The occassion is filled with songs,jokes, mockery and humour of every kind become the order of the day until late evening. Hence, Gai Jatra is a healthy festival which enables the people to accept the reality of death and to prepare oneself for the life after death. According to Hinduism,"whatever a man does in his life is a preparation to lead a good life, after death".

Ropai jatra at Inlla Tole

Shankharapur New Municipality in Sankhu area

The government has declared 41 new municipalities across the country through the budget speech presented in the legislature parliament Friday.

The government restructured 161 Village Development Committees (VDC)s into 41 municipalities as per a recommendation from a panel led by Professor Surya Lal Amatya. The recommendation was made a decade earlier.

Three municipalities – Shankharapur in Sankhu area, Karyabinayak in Bhainsepati area and Champapur in Chapagaon area – have been added in Kathmandu valley.

The proposed Shankharapur municipality includes 4 different VDC's of sankhu area. 1. Pukhulacchi 2. Bajrayogini 3. Suntole 4. Indrayani.

The panel has made the recommendations on the basis of interaction with various institutions and persons and taking into consideration factors such as non-agricultural occupation, population density, electricity and water, roads, education, health, communications, industries, business, mobilization of economic resources, district headquarters, and governmental and non-governmental programmes.
To be declared as municipality, at least Rs 1 million annual revenue should be raised from internal resources in that area and there has to be population of at least 20,000 in municipalities of the hilly and Terai region and 10,000 in municipalities of the Himalayan region

Census 2068 in Sankhu

In Nepal, like in many other countries, population censuses have been taken every ten years or so. Since the first population count of 1911, nine more censuses have been conducted so far. The earlier censuses of Nepal are considered less precise as compared to the modern ones. Four censuses taken before the 1952/54 census, for example, are considered “head counts” only. The 1952/54 census was taken in two parts of the country in two different years. Then a synchronized census was taken in 1961. After 1961, a census has been taken in every ten years. The last census in this series is the 2001 census.

Compared to the early censuses, the modern censuses of Nepal are becoming more popular. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal, 2047 (1990) has increased the importance of the Nepali Population Census. According to the Constitution, the number of seats in the “House of Representatives” from each of the 75 administrative districts is determined on the basis of the population census. The provision in the Constitution reads as follows:

"…the ratio of the number of seats allocated to any district shall be, so far as practicable, equal to the ratio of the population of that district to the national population, as determined by the last census preceding the concerned election…"

(Sub-article (2) of Article 45, Part 8 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal, 2047)

Although, for the purpose of the Constitution it might seem that head count is sufficient, the modern population censuses of Nepal are more than the head counts. They provide a wealth of information on the state of the population in the country. This paper presents a general perspective on the upcoming 2011 census of Nepal primarily based on the experiences of the last census of 2001.

Maha Sivaratri

Maha Sivaratri or Shivaratri  (Great Night of Shiva or Night of Shiva) is a festival celebrated every year on the 13th night/14th day in the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) of the month of Maagha (as per Shalivahana or Gujarati Vikrama) or Phalguna (as per Vikrama) in the Hindu Calendar (that is, the night before and day of the new moon). The festival is principally celebrated by offerings of Bael (Bilva) leaves to the Lord Shiva, all day fasting and an all night long vigil. Cannabis is traditionally used as an offering for Lord Shiva and his followers. Per scriptural and discipleship traditions, the penances are performed in order to gain boons in the practice of Yoga and meditation, in order to reach the goal more swiftly and avoid rebirth.

Of the four Ratris (night), Shivaratri – one of the major Hindu festivals- is a night of fasting and prayer in honour of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu Mythology; Brahma is the creator, Bishnu is the preserver and Lord Shiva is the God of Destruction and thus is sometimes described as God of all Gods. The devotees in their prayer ask Lord Shiva to wash away all the sins they have committed.
Mahashivaratri is the night when Lord Shiva himself was created by his own divine grace. Hindus all over the world celebrate the festival with zeal and enthusiasm. The devotees from all parts of the country as well as neighbouring countries throng to Pashupatinath. Literally ‘the lord of animals’ Pashupatinath is one of the many forms of Lord Shiva.

Legend say, most of the devotees go to worship literally to wrangle with the God for their wishes to be fulfilled. In the dawn devotees take a holy bath in Bagmati river and then they have to stand in a long queue to enter into the temple for worship. Since early hours, the vicinity of Pashupatinath is seen bustling with the crowd of devotees and spectators.

One of the highlights during Mahashivaratri is the number of sadhus who throng to Pasupatinath, not only from across the country but also from the neighbouring countries. Different type of sadhus could be seen around who are one of the rare sights for many. This year, Marwadi Sewa Samittee along with other special welfare organizations has managed the accommodation of these people.

Maghe Sankranti

Maghe Sankranti is the beginning of the holy month of Magh, usually the mid of January. It brings an end to the ill-omened month of Poush (mid-december) when all religious ceremonies are forbidden. Even if it is considered the coldest day of the year, it marks the coming of warmer weather and better days of health and fortune.

Observant Hindus take ritual baths during this festival, notably at auspicious river locations. These include Sankhamul on the Bagmati near Patan; In the Gandaki/Narayani river basin at Triveni near the Indian border, Devghat near Chitwan Valley and Ridi  on the Kaligandaki; and in the Koshi River basin at Dolalghat on the Sun Koshi. Festive foods like laddoo, ghee and sweet potatoes are distributed. The mother of each household wishes good health to all family members.

According to Mahabharata, king Bhisma, who had the power to control his own death, happened to choose to die on the day of Maghe Sakranti. Therefore it is believed that one to die on this day might achieve Moksha, a release from rebirth cycle.

Yanyā Punhi

Yanyā Punhi  is a festival celebrated in Kathmandu, Nepal. The main attraction of the festival is the procession of chariots and masked dancers representing deities and demons.

Yanyā Punhi (Indra Jatra) is a holiday related to Hindu god king of heaven, Indra. The festival begins with the carnival-like erection of Yosin, a ceremonial pole, accompanied by the rare display of the deity Aakash Bhairab, represented by a massive mask spouting beer and liquor. Households throughout Kathmandu display images and sculptures of Indra and Bhairab only at this time of year. Finally, the Kumari, or virgin goddess (living goddess), leaves the seclusion of her temple in a palanquin and leads a procession through the streets of Kathmandu to thank Indra the rain god.  Yanya Punhi is dedicated to lord Indra, the king of heaven. This is a week long festival which begins after the erection of Yosin, a ceremonial pole. The main feature of this festival in Kathmandu is a week long display of gigantic mask of Aakash Bhairab and procession of Kumari, the living goddess along with other two living gods Ganesh and Kumar.

Gunhi Punhi (Janai Purnima)

Most of the Newar festivals have special foods to offer. Looking back at the festivals they celebrate, it is not so hard to find out that they celebrate every festival according the foods they produce. All the friends and families gathered around together and offer servings of the foods provided in different season in and they have different festivals for different foods they have. Likewise, the special menu for Gunhi Punhi is Kwati. Hence the day is also called Kwati Punhi, where Kwati is a soup of different beans and Punhi means the full moon day. Lots of Newars do put the yellow sacred threads around the wrists which are to be taken off on the day of Laxmi Puja, another festival in Tihar, about two months after this festival.

Composition of Kwati ( Traditional Soup )

Today, thousands of devotees worship Lord Shiva at Pashupatinath in Kathmandu and at Kumbheswor in Lalitpur and take holy dips in ponds and lakes. Religious fairs are held at Gosaikunda, an Alpine area in Rasuwa district, and at Dansangu Triveni in Jumla district to observe the festival with offerings of worship to Lord Shiva.

Gosaikunda

A big religious fair takes place at Gosaikund Lake. On the occasion, worshippers come from far places to take a ritual holy dip in the Gosaikund Lake and other nearby lakes.

According to time honoured tradition, people receive the "Rakshya Bandhan" thread tied around the wrist. The yellow thread is purified by the chanting of Mantras by Brahmins as a symbol of protection from fear and disease.

Raksha bandhan

On Janai Purnima, a full moon day, Bramhan ( High cast ) chant the powerful Gayatri Mantra and change their Sacred thread (janai), while a rakshya bandhan, a red or yellow protection cord, is tied around the wrists of other Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims journey to the mountains north of Kathmandu.

Gathe Mangal Chaturdashi

Gathe Mangal (or Ghanta Karna Chaturdashi)

This fun filled festival of the Newar of Kathmandu Valley falls during the month of July/August. It is associated with the exorcism of the devil Ghanta Karna or Gathan-Muga demon. Effigies of the demon are erected at street crossroads. People place pots of cooked rice at such intersections for him. A man wearing black and blue paint all over his body goes about begging for money. At the end of the day, the effigy is dragged to the nearby river bank for disposal with the painted man sitting on it. To get rid of evil powers and the legendry demons people have been worshipping and offering sacrifices to demons, serpents and other supernatural and natural elements like wind, water and fire since ancient times. Ghanta Karna was a legendry demon who spread havoc among the people. This festival is held to commemorate the death of that demon.

On this day, people also wear metal rings called gathemangalko aunthi. The ring is believed to have the power to safeguard people from all ills and evil spirits. Before nightfall, the locals hammer three legged nails onto the door lintels to scare away the ghosts. There are various legends and myths attached to the Ghanta Karna devil that is revered as well as feared.

Gathe Mangal is one of those typical Newar festivals of the Kathmandu Valley. The valley is a kind of melting pot where people from different regions following various customs and traditions have come together and settled down since ancient days. Kathmandu was an urban town and commercial center even in the medieval days. This could be the reason why people are found observing one or the other kind of festivals throughout the year in the Valley.

On the day children erect effigies of the demon- Ghanta Karna- at cross roads. The effigy is called Gathe Mangal and it is made of bamboo, branches of plants and dry maze plant. When somebody passes by the side of the effigy the children collect fax, called, Jagaat, from him in the name of Ghanta Karna. If anybody hesitates to give the tax the children being to shout calling him the grandson of the demon -"see the grandson of Gathe Mangal coming!" People offer the effigy food and meat. Girls offer their thresholds to get rid of the evil powers.

Sithi Nakha

As every country has its own festivals and way of observing them, these age-old festive-activities of course, form the culture of a country.

Thus, Nepal, being the land of heady mixture of unique culture, is also a nest of diversity where 70 ethnic groups with their own religious, cultures, languages and life-styles exist in harmony.

The peaceful coexistence of a multi-religious system and beliefs is one of the most fascinating aspects of Nepal.

Ethnic castes, festivals, social activities, traditional values are the lenses through which the culture of a country is brought into focus. Numerous festivals of Nepal show that she is rich in cultural heritage where festivals are dynamic, enthralling events for every foreign visitor.

Among those, Sithi Nakha (which is celebrated by the Newar community of the Kathmandu Valley is to be celebrated on17th June- Thurs day this year)

Newar Community celebrated Sithi Nakha, traditional festival of the Newars by cleaning water sources just before the start of monsoon. Nakha by cleaning water sources like wells, ponds and stone-spouts and end it with a grand Newari feast of six different varieties of Newari food including Wo (fried lintel bread) and Chatamari (Nepali pizza). This festival is celebrated on the birthday of Kartikeya, son of Lord Shiva and Parvati, to welcome the rainy season. Houses, courtyards, streets and allies are also cleaned during this day. It is believed that cleaning such water sources will bring in rain for good cultivation of crops.

Jogi chakkar

Water tanks for travellers

Front view of water tank

Water Tanks for travellers

If we travel in sankhu we can find these kinds of stone tanks. As sankhu was the ancient trade route to tibet. At that time this place is the only route to easily get into tibet. So in some places of sankhu there must be water tanks and now a days also we can see the old sign of that. In above picture we can see the stone tank which is use to store water so that traveller can get water and fulfill your thrist during walking. In sankhu we can only find 3 water tanks in different part of sankhu. In above picture the stone tank is covered by cemented wall which is the modification.  In the lower part of the stone tank we can see a hole which is use to get water from tank. From back side water is kept inside the tank. Every morning the person who get up early put water inside as it is beleive that his or her desire will get fulfull if anyone fill the tank. So people used to get up early in the morning to fulfull ur wants.

Bishworoop at Chalakhu sankhu

This is the picture of god Bishowroop. This god is just next to the place where yoshin dyo is erected. This is the only face of the god. The whole statue is really beautiful and really well made. This is also one of the oldest statue in sankhu. The statue is in the small temple at Chalakhu tole sankhu.