Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained

Nepal is a land where time is not measured by a single clock, but by the diverse rhythms of its many ethnic communities. Among the most vibrant of these temporal markers is the festival of Losar. To the uninitiated, the question “When is the New Year?” often yields three different answers depending on whom you ask. This is because the different types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained – represent the unique lunar and solar calendars of the Gurung, Tamang, and Sherpa peoples. Understanding these different types of Losar in Nepal becomes essential for anyone wishing to experience the true cultural heart of the mountains.

The word “Losar” itself is derived from two Tibetan words: Lo (year) and Sar (new). While the core theme of all three is the triumph of light over darkness and the welcoming of a fresh start, the nuances are what make them fascinating. In this guide, Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo,we will explore why these dates differ, how the communities celebrate, and where you can witness the magic for yourself. From the energetic Tamang Selo dances to the solemn masked rituals in high-altitude monasteries, the Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained showcases a nation that is unified in its diversity.

1. Tamu Losar: The Gurung New Year

The first in the sequence of the Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained is Tamu Losar. Celebrated by the Gurung community (who call themselves Tamu), this festival is deeply tied to the movement of the sun and the natural world.

• Timing and 2026 Date: Tamu Losar is celebrated on the 15th of Poush (December/January). In 2026, it falls on December 30. This timing is significant because it marks the winter solstice,the shortest day and longest night of the year. For the Gurungs, the Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained begins with the lengthening of the days, symbolizing hope and the return of the sun.

• The 12-Year Cycle (Lohokor): Like other Himalayan groups, the Gurungs follow a 12-year animal cycle. Each year is represented by a totem animal: Mouse, Ox, Tiger, Cat (or Rabbit), Garuda (Dragon), Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Bird, Dog, and Deer. In 2026, the community welcomes the Year of the Fire Horse.

• Traditions and Attire: The hallmark of Tamu Losar is the massive cultural parade held at Tundikhel in Kathmandu. Men wear the Bhangra (a woven white shirt-like garment used as a backpack) and Kachhad (kilt), while women wear maroon velvet Ghalek and large gold earrings. This visual identity is a key part of the Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained.

• Traditional Foods: Families gather to enjoy Sel Roti (rice bread), Achar (pickles), and homemade rice wine known as Aila or Chhyang.

2. Sonam Losar: The Tamang New Year

The second phase of the Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained is Sonam Losar, observed by the Tamang community. The Tamangs are one of the largest indigenous groups in Nepal, predominantly residing in the central highlands and Kathmandu Valley.

• Significance and 2026 Date: “Sonam” refers to “merit” or “agriculture.” Historically, this festival was timed to coincide with the end of the harvest. In 2026, Sonam Losar will be celebrated on January 19. This makes it an integral part of the Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained, as it marks a transition from the labor of the fields to a time of spiritual reflection.

• Musical Heritage: The Damphu,a traditional circular drum covered in goat skin, is the iconic instrument of Sonam Losar. People perform the Tamang Selo, a rhythmic and witty song-and-dance style that narrates stories of daily life and ancient lore.

• Rituals of Purification: Families clean their houses to sweep away the misfortunes of the previous year. They visit monasteries to offer prayers and light butter lamps. In our Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained, Sonam Losar is often described as the most “communal” of the celebrations, with large groups gathering to share festive meals.

• Culinary Delights: Along with Khapse (fried pastries), Tamangs prepare special dishes like Babar (rice flour pancakes) and various meat curries.

3. Gyalpo Losar: The Sherpa and Tibetan New Year

The grandest of the Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained is Gyalpo Losar. “Gyalpo” translates to “King,” and this celebration is observed by the Sherpas, Tibetans, Yolmos, and Bhutias.

• History and 2026 Date: This version of Losar follows the Tibetan lunar calendar and typically falls in February or March. In 2026, Gyalpo Losar starts on February 18. Historically, it is said to have originated during the reign of the 9th King of Tibet, Pude Gungyal, when local harvest festivals were merged with new year rituals.

• The 15-Day Celebration: While the first three days are the most important, Gyalpo Losar technically lasts for 15 days.

  • Day 1: Family-focused; drinking Changkol (a warm alcoholic beverage made from Chhaang).

  • Day 2: The official New Year Day (Gyalpo Losar), where community leaders and lamas are honored.

  • Day 3: Public festivities and visiting relatives. This tiered structure is unique to the Different Types of Losar in Nepal.

• Masked Dances (Cham): High-level monasteries perform the Cham dances, where monks wear elaborate masks representing deities and protectors. These dances are meant to exorcise negative spirits and bring luck to the land.

• Guthuk Tradition: On the eve of Gyalpo Losar, families eat Guthuk, a noodle soup with nine ingredients. A fun element involves finding hidden items in dough balls,such as wool (kindness) or salt (laziness),which supposedly reflect one’s personality.

4. Why Are There Three Different Dates?

A common question in the Different Types of Losar is why the dates are separated. This is due to the different calendars used by each group:

1. Tamu Losar is based on the solar calendar (winter solstice).

2. Sonam Losar follows the eastern lunar calendar, often aligning with the Chinese New Year.

3. Gyalpo Losar follows the Tibetan lunar calendar, which occasionally aligns with Sonam Losar but often falls one month later.

5. Where to Witness the Celebrations

If you are planning to travel for the Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained, here are the top spots:

• Boudhanath Stupa: The center for Gyalpo Losar.

• Tundikhel: The main stage for Tamu and Sonam Losar cultural fairs.

• Solu-Khumbu: For an authentic Sherpa Gyalpo Losar experience.

Before heading to the mountains, travelers should check the best Nepal tourism in 2026 updates. If you plan to celebrate Tamu Losar in the Annapurna region, ensure you know how to get Annapurna Conservation Area Permit in 2026. For nature lovers, many of these celebrations occur near biodiversity hotspots in Nepal, offering a blend of culture and ecology.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Which of the Different Types of Losar in Nepal: Tamu, Sonam, and Gyalpo Losar Explained is the “official” one?

All three are officially recognized by the Government of Nepal as public holidays for their respective communities.

Q2: What is the meaning of the word “Losar”?

It literally translates to “New Year,” with “Lo” meaning year and “Sar” meaning new.

Q3: Can tourists join the feasts during the Different Types of Losar in Nepal.

Yes, especially at Tundikhel and in mountain villages, the communities are very welcoming and often offer Khapse and tea to visitors.

Q4: Is the Year of the Fire Horse the same for all three?

Generally, yes, as all three communi

ties follow the 12-animal cycle, though the specific start date of the year cycle differs based on their respective calendars.

Q5: What is the most common greeting for these festivals?

“Tashi Delek,” which means “Blessings and Good Fortune.”

The Different Types of Losar in Nepal serve as a reminder that Nepal is a country of deep-seated traditions that continue to thrive in the modern age. Whether it is the solstice-based Tamu Losar, the agricultural Sonam Losar, or the monastic Gyalpo Losar, these festivals offer a unique window into the soul of the Himalayas. They are more than just parties; they are a spiritual renewal and a celebration of community identity. We hope this guide, Different Types of Losar in Nepal, has helped you understand the beautiful complexity of the Nepali New Year.