Sonam Lhosar

All over Nepal

Sonam Lhosar is a New Year’s day festival of the Hyolmo and Tamang people of Nepal as well as Sikkim and Darjeeling regions of India. It falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice which is usually the Magh Sukla Pratipada based on the eastern lunar calendar.

Years are associated with 12 different animals – Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Eagle, Snake, Horse, Goat/Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Boar. Historically, the festival is celebrated after harvesting the crops.