Shikali Jatra, Khokana

Shikali Jatra, celebrated in the historic town of Khokana, Lalitpur, Nepal, is a vibrant and unique festival dedicated to the local deity Shikali, believed to protect the villagers. The festival, marked by lively masked dances and ancient rituals, showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Newar community. Participants don elaborate masks representing various gods and demons, performing traditional dances to the beat of drums and music. The celebration, held during the month of September or October, is a blend of spiritual devotion and cultural expression, attracting visitors from near and far.