Autumn is the biggest stretch of the Nepali calendar — and for Newari families across the UK, it means three festivals back to back: Indra Jatra, Dashain, and Tihar. If you're planning what to wear for Tika, a Bhai Tika gathering, or just want to feel connected to home this season, here's what's coming up and how to be ready in time.
The 2026 Festival Dates You Need to Know
- Indra Jatra — September 23–30, 2026 (main day: September 25)
- Dashain — October 11–25, 2026 (Tika day: October 21)
- Tihar — November 8–11, 2026 (Laxmi Puja: Nov 9 · Bhai Tika: Nov 11)
That's nine weeks of celebration, gatherings, and photos that last a lifetime — which also means nine weeks where UK delivery timelines matter more than usual. More on that below.
Indra Jatra: Where the Season Begins
Indra Jatra marks the start of Nepal's biggest festival stretch, and for Newari families it's often the first proper gathering of the season — pujas, community events, and the first "getting the outfits ready" conversations. It's the perfect moment to sort your Haku Patasi, Daura Suruwal, or a Newari Heritage T-Shirt for casual community events, before the bigger Dashain rush hits.
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Dashain: The Big One
Dashain is Nepal's longest and most important festival — fifteen days building to Tika day on October 21, when families dress in their best to receive blessings from elders. This is the day the black-and-red Haku Patasi comes out, the Daura Suruwal gets pressed, and the kids get their own mini versions for the family photos.
What UK families typically shop for around Dashain:
- Haku Patasi sets and Newari sarees for Tika day
- Daura Suruwal for men and boys
- Kids' Newari dress and Daura Suruwal sets — Dashain is the one time of year everyone dresses the little ones up
- Newari jewellery — Tayo Mala, Dalucha earrings, and hair ornaments to complete the look
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Tihar: Festival of Lights, Festival of Family
Tihar follows close behind Dashain — five days of lights, Laxmi Puja, and Bhai Tika on November 11, when sisters bless their brothers. It's a quieter, more intimate festival than Dashain, but no less dressed-up — Bhai Tika especially calls for something special for both siblings.
Order Early — UK Delivery Windows Fill Up Fast
Standard UK delivery from Guthi Collections typically takes 3–5 business days from dispatch, but festival season is our busiest stretch of the year. To make sure your Tika-day outfit arrives with time to spare:
- For Dashain Tika (Oct 21): order by early October at the latest
- For Bhai Tika (Nov 11): order by late October
Popular sizes in Haku Patasi sets and kids' Daura Suruwal sell out first each year — the earlier you order, the better your choice.
Shop the Full Festival Collection
Whether you're dressing for Indra Jatra, Tika day, or Bhai Tika, browse the full range of authentic Newari clothing and jewellery, sourced from Nepal and delivered across the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Dashain 2026 in the UK?
Dashain 2026 begins on October 11 and runs through October 25, with the main Tika day falling on October 21, 2026. Newari and Nepali families in the UK celebrate on the same dates as Nepal, following the shared lunar calendar.
When is Tihar 2026?
Tihar 2026 runs from November 8 to November 11, 2026. Laxmi Puja falls on November 9, and Bhai Tika — the final day, celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters — falls on November 11.
When is Indra Jatra 2026?
Indra Jatra 2026 takes place from September 23 to September 30, with the main festival day on September 25, 2026.
What should I wear for Dashain Tika day?
Traditionally, Newari women wear a Haku Patasi — a black sari with a distinctive red border — paired with traditional jewellery, while men wear a Daura Suruwal. Children are often dressed in matching mini versions for family blessings and photos.
What is traditionally worn for Bhai Tika?
There's no single fixed outfit for Bhai Tika, but many UK families dress up in smart traditional wear for the occasion — a Haku Patasi or Newari saree for sisters, and a Daura Suruwal or formal kurta for brothers.
How early should I order Newari clothing for Dashain delivery in the UK?
Order by early October at the latest to receive your outfit in time for Dashain Tika on October 21. For Bhai Tika on November 11, order by late October. Standard UK delivery takes 3–5 business days from dispatch, but popular sizes sell out early during festival season.
Can I buy Newari clothing and jewellery together as a set?
Yes. Guthi Collections offers Newari clothing alongside matching jewellery — including Tayo Mala necklaces, Dalucha earrings and hair ornaments — so you can put together a complete look for Tika day or Bhai Tika in one order.
Have questions about sizing or want help choosing an outfit for a specific festival day? Contact Guthi Collections — we're happy to help you get ready in time.