Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 in Nepal: Char Binayak Temples & Kathmandu Valley Guide

Quick answer: Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 in Nepal, known locally as Chatha, is on Monday, 14 September 2026 (tithi begins 7:21 AM NPT). Nepali observance centres on temple darshan at the ancient Binayak shrines of the Kathmandu Valley rather than on public pandals.

Nepal has a deep, indigenous Ganesh tradition that differs from the Maharashtrian pandal model. Known locally as Chatha, the festival centres on darshan at the Valley’s ancient Binayak (Ganesha) shrines, especially the revered Char Binayak, with a strong Newar character.

• Tithi begins (NPT)7:21 AM, 14 September 2026
• Local nameChatha
• FocusTemple darshan at Binayak shrines
• TraditionNewar / Kathmandu Valley

The Char Binayak of the Kathmandu Valley

The four principal Ganesha shrines of the Valley — the Char Binayak — are the heart of the festival:

• Surya Binayak — on a forested hill in Bhaktapur.
• Jal Binayak — at Chobhar, near the Bagmati gorge, Kathmandu.
• Karya Binayak — at Bungamati, Lalitpur.
• Chandra Binayak — at Chabahil, Kathmandu.

Devotees traditionally seek to visit all four in a single pilgrimage. Ashok Binayak (Maru Ganesh) at Kathmandu Durbar Square is another of the Valley’s most visited Ganesha shrines.

How Nepal’s observance differs

Nepali practice emphasises darshan and worship at these established shrines rather than temporary pandals and public immersion. The moon-avoidance custom on Chaturthi is observed strongly, with its own local remedies. The Newar community’s rituals give the festival a distinct Valley character. Nepal also uses the Bikram Sambat calendar, so check both the Bikram Sambat and Gregorian dates locally.

Beyond the Valley

Ganesha shrines in Pokhara, the Bindhyabasini complex, Chitwan and the Terai serve devotees outside Kathmandu. Indian visitors should plan travel windows and confirm any foreigner entry arrangements at heritage sites.

Part of our Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 around the world guide. See also home puja vidhi, the aarti, . Ganpati Bappa Morya!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 in Nepal?

It is on Monday, 14 September 2026, with the tithi beginning 7:21 AM NPT. In Nepal it is known as Chatha.

What are the Char Binayak?

They are the four principal Ganesha shrines of the Kathmandu Valley — Surya Binayak (Bhaktapur), Jal Binayak (Chobhar), Karya Binayak (Bungamati) and Chandra Binayak (Chabahil) — visited together on pilgrimage.

How is Nepal’s celebration different from India’s?

Nepali observance centres on darshan at the ancient Binayak shrines rather than temporary pandals and public immersion, with a distinct Newar tradition and a strongly observed moon-avoidance custom.

What is Ashok Binayak?

Ashok Binayak (Maru Ganesh) at Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the Valley’s most visited Ganesha shrines, popular for daily and festival worship.

Does Nepal use a different calendar?

Yes. Nepal uses the Bikram Sambat calendar alongside the Gregorian, so it helps to check both the Bikram Sambat and Gregorian dates for the festival.

Is the moon-avoidance custom followed in Nepal?

Yes, strongly. The custom of avoiding the moon on Chaturthi is observed with its own local practices and remedies in Nepal.

Can visitors do the Char Binayak pilgrimage in a day?

Many devotees visit all four Binayak shrines in a single day. Plan the route across Bhaktapur, Chobhar, Bungamati and Chabahil, allowing for travel time.

Are there Ganesha shrines outside Kathmandu?

Yes. Pokhara, the Bindhyabasini complex, Chitwan and the Terai have Ganesha shrines serving devotees beyond the Kathmandu Valley.