In a heartwarming display of cultural exchange, foreign tourists visiting the scenic town of Sauraha in Chitwan joined the locals in celebrating Nepal’s major festival, Dashain. Tourists staying at various hotels in the area participated in traditional rituals by receiving tika and jamara, hallmarks of the Dashain festival, immersing themselves in Nepali culture.
Dhurba Giri, the managing director of Sapana Village Lodge, facilitated the celebration by offering tika and jamara to foreign visitors. He mentioned that despite the festival, the hotel remained open to ensure the tourists could experience this special aspect of Nepali culture. Tourists from France, Germany, and the Netherlands, totaling 26 individuals, were thrilled to partake in the festivities, expressing delight at the unique cultural experience.
Among the visitors was Harry Tom, a French tourist who had been traveling around Nepal by motorcycle. He expressed his joy, saying, “The Nepali people are warm and friendly, and Nepal is a beautiful country. Celebrating Dashain with the locals has been an incredible experience.”
Johnny Wright, a 36-year-old tourist from the Netherlands, was similarly excited. “I had heard from other friends who traveled to Nepal about how they enjoyed local traditions, but today, celebrating Dashain in Sauraha with tika and jamara has been a fantastic experience,” he shared.
Another tourist, 24-year-old Erica, was visibly elated to be part of the celebration. “I love traveling during festivals because it gives me a chance to experience different cultures firsthand,” she said.
With the tourist season in full swing in Sauraha, local hotels have embraced the tradition of celebrating Dashain with foreign visitors. Giri noted, “We have celebrated Dashain with our tourists in previous years as well. It’s become a tradition that everyone enjoys.”
In the past two days, about 35% of the tourists visiting Sauraha were from third countries, according to Ganga Giri, president of the Regional Hotel Association. He mentioned that tourists are not only drawn to Sauraha for its wildlife but are increasingly captivated by Nepal’s vibrant festivals such as Dashain and Tihar, which add an extra layer of charm to their visit.
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