The Rana Ujeshwori Bhagwati Temple in Tansen was built in 1815 by Colonel Ujir Singh Thapa after his troops defeated East India Company forces at Jit Gadhi near Butwal during the Anglo-Nepal war. Ever since, the town has celebrated the victory with a festival for the goddess, held on the day after Krishna Janmashtami, which falls in August or early September. Local reports describe it as the largest jatra in Palpa, and the provincial government declares a district holiday for it.
On the day, the goddess is carried in a decorated wooden chariot through the old town, hauled on ropes by devotees from the temple through the main lanes and squares. Traditional musicians, local officials and crowds of families accompany it, and houses along the route hang out flags and offerings. The steep, narrow streets make the procession slow and dramatic, with sudden surges as the chariot is pushed uphill.
Because the festival falls in the monsoon, the day can be wet and the views from Srinagar hill are usually hidden. The trade-off is seeing Tansen at its most crowded and devout, with few foreign visitors present. The festival also connects to Butwal's Jit Gadhi fort and to the wider story of the Anglo-Nepal war that shaped Nepal's southern border.
Tips
- Book Tansen rooms well ahead; Hotel Srinagar and old-town guesthouses fill with Nepali visitors.
- Watch from a raised doorway or balcony, as crowds press hard around the chariot on steep lanes.
- Carry an umbrella and wear shoes with grip, since monsoon showers make the stone streets slippery.
- Check the Siddhartha Highway for landslides before driving up from Butwal or down from Pokhara.
Questions travellers ask
When is the Bhagwati Jatra in Tansen?
The Bhagwati Jatra is held on the day after Krishna Janmashtami, which follows the lunar calendar and usually falls in August or early September. The provincial government declares a public holiday in Palpa district for it. Dates change each year, so check current status before you travel.
What does the Bhagwati Jatra celebrate?
It honours the goddess Bhagwati and commemorates Nepal's 1815 victory over East India Company forces at Jit Gadhi near Butwal during the Anglo-Nepal war. Colonel Ujir Singh Thapa built the Bhagwati Temple in Tansen in thanks, and the chariot procession has been held for more than 200 years.
Can tourists join the Bhagwati Jatra?
Yes. Visitors are welcome to watch the chariot procession and visit the temple, and local people are usually happy to explain the rituals. Dress modestly, keep a respectful distance from the chariot ropes unless invited to pull, and ask before photographing people at worship.
Is August a good time to visit Tansen?
August is monsoon season, so expect rain, cloud and hidden mountain views, and possible landslides on the roads. If you want to see the Bhagwati Jatra, it is worth it. For mountain views and dry walking, visit from October to March instead.
