Sonam Lhosar marks the start of the new year in the Tamang calendar and falls on the first day of the bright half of the month of Magh, in January or February. It is observed by the Tamang community and some other Himalayan groups, and is a national public holiday in Nepal. Each year is linked to one of twelve animals of the Tibetan zodiac, and people greet each other with Lhosar wishes and white khada scarves.
In the villages of Rasuwa, including Gatlang, Thuman and Briddim on the Tamang Heritage Trail, preparations start days in advance. Houses are cleaned and decorated, new prayer flags are raised and families prepare special foods such as khapse fried biscuits, sel roti and meat dishes, with local millet beer. On the day, people visit the gompa for prayers led by lamas, then gather with relatives. In the evenings groups sing Tamang Selo, the community's folk songs, and dance to the round, tambourine-like damphu drum.
In Kathmandu, large public celebrations take place at Tundikhel and around Boudhanath, with cultural programmes, stalls and Tamang communities in traditional dress. For trekkers, being in a Tamang village during Lhosar is a rare chance to see the community at its most festive, though it falls in the coldest part of winter. Nights in Gatlang drop near freezing, but skies are often clear and the trail quiet.
Tips
- Plan a Tamang Heritage Trail trek around the Lhosar date for village celebrations, and book homestays ahead.
- Bring a white khada scarf to offer when greeting hosts or visiting the gompa.
- Accept food and drink offered by hosts graciously; it is fine to decline alcohol politely.
- Pack warm layers, as Lhosar falls in the coldest weeks of the year in the hills.
- If staying in Kathmandu, visit Tundikhel or Boudhanath for the public celebrations.
Questions travellers ask
When is Sonam Lhosar celebrated?
Sonam Lhosar falls on Magh Shukla Pratipada, the first day of the bright fortnight of the month of Magh, usually between late January and mid-February. It is a national public holiday in Nepal. Dates follow the lunar calendar and change every year, so check current status before you travel.
How is Tamang Lhosar different from Gyalpo Lhosar?
Sonam Lhosar is the New Year of the Tamang community and comes first, in Magh. Gyalpo Lhosar, celebrated by Sherpa and Tibetan communities, falls about a month later, in February or March. Tamu Lhosar of the Gurung community falls around late December. Each follows its own calendar and customs.
Can tourists join Lhosar celebrations in Gatlang?
Yes, visitors staying in homestays are usually welcomed to share food, watch the dances and visit the gompa with their hosts. Dress warmly and modestly, ask before photographing, and follow your hosts' lead at religious rituals. A small gift or contribution to the community fund is appreciated.
What food is eaten during Sonam Lhosar?
Families prepare khapse fried biscuits, sel roti, meat dishes such as pork or mutton, and local millet beer and spirits. Vegetarian guests will still find plenty of rice, vegetables and sweets. Food is shared with relatives and neighbours throughout the festival days.
