Chhath is one of Nepal’s most sacred festivals, reflecting the nation’s cultural diversity and deep spiritual devotion. It is a celebration of the Sun God, the purity of water, and the cleansing of the soul.

Observed over four days, Chhath symbolizes self-discipline, faith, and gratitude.
The first day, Nahay Khay, marks the beginning of purification; the second day, Kharna, tests one’s endurance and devotion; the third day, Sandhya Arghya, honors the setting sun with prayers of thankfulness; and the fourth day, Usha Arghya, greets the rising sun with hopes for health, harmony, and prosperity.

From the plains of the Terai to the hills, Chhath unites people of all classes and communities at the same riverbanks, a living symbol of equality and togetherness. Yet, challenges persist. unsafe ghats, polluted water, and poor management often cloud this sacred celebration.

President Ramchandra Paudel offering Arghya to Chhath Mata at Gaurighat.


Water holds great significance during Chhath. Traditionally, devotees stand waist-deep in ponds or rivers to offer prayers to the Sun God, following the ancient Mithila tradition. However, in recent years, drying rivers, polluted ponds, and water scarcity have forced people to celebrate the festival using small artificial pools or wells, even creating ghats at home.

It is now essential for the government, local authorities, and citizens to work together to ensure clean and safe ghats, facilities for women devotees, proper health and security arrangements, and to promote an eco-friendly Chhath through a “Green Chhath Campaign.”

Chhath is not merely a ritual, it is a radiant festival that celebrates life, nature, and humanity.

President Paudel offering flowers to Chhath Mata at Gaurighat in Guheshwari, Kathmandu.
Chhath Puja preparations in Lalitpur, Devotees preparing to celebrate Chhath Puja on Monday along the banks of the Bagmati River in Kupondol, Lalitpur.
Chhath Puja preparations in Lalitpur, Devotees preparing to celebrate Chhath Puja on Monday along the banks of the Bagmati River in Kupondol, Lalitpur.
Devotees at the Chhath ghat of Ghadiarwa Pond in Birgunj, sitting with worship materials to offer Arghya (ritual offering) to the setting sun.
Chhath Puja preparations in Lalitpur, Devotees preparing to celebrate Chhath Puja on Monday along the banks of the Bagmati River in Kupondol, Lalitpur
On Monday evening at the sacred Chhath Ghat of Ganga Sagar Pond in Janakpur Dham, devotees prepared and arranged offerings to worship the setting sun.
On Monday evening at the sacred Chhath Ghat of Ganga Sagar Pond in Janakpur Dham, devotees prepared and arranged offerings to worship the setting sun.
People in Gaur, Rautahat shopping for essentials needed to celebrate the Chhath festival.
Devotees carrying offerings to the Chhath Ghat at Barun Sarovar in Jaleshwar Municipality-1, Mahottari.
Umesh Mahato from Lachka, Ward No. 2, Bardibas Municipality, has built a ghat in his own courtyard to celebrate Chhath. Since the ponds around the settlement have dried up and the river is quite far, he had to construct the ghats in his yard.