Nepal Bisket Jatra Photo Tour
Nepal Bisket Jatra Photo Tour
10th – 16th Apr 2025
View Dates & Prices
Group Size
6 Participants
Location
Kathmandu, Nepal.
TOUR OVERVIEW
Experience one of the most vibrant festivals in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, Kathmandu. Festivals in Nepal are more than just events; they serve as expressions of religious devotion and opportunities to strengthen social bonds. Among these, the Bisket Jatra stands out as an annual spectacle in Bhaktapur and Thimi, marking the beginning of the new year on the Bikram Sambat calendar. Throughout Bhaktapur city, various neighborhoods observe this festival with their own unique rituals. The heart of the festivities lies in Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Thimi Balkumari, where the air is filled with cultural fervor. The Bisket Jatra is a testament to the cultural richness of Bhaktapur, enveloping the city in joyous celebration.
TOUR OVERVIEW
Experience one of the most vibrant festivals in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, Kathmandu. Festivals in Nepal are more than just events; they serve as expressions of religious devotion and opportunities to strengthen social bonds. Among these, the Bisket Jatra stands out as an annual spectacle in Bhaktapur and Thimi, marking the beginning of the new year on the Bikram Sambat calendar. Throughout Bhaktapur city, various neighborhoods observe this festival with their own unique rituals. The heart of the festivities lies in Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Thimi Balkumari, where the air is filled with cultural fervor. The Bisket Jatra is a testament to the cultural richness of Bhaktapur, enveloping the city in joyous celebration.
TOUR LIMELIGHT
- You’ll have the lifetime experience of staying even days in an ancient Newar city.
- The enthralling experience of capturing different kinds of rituals every day.
- Sindur Jatra, the magnificent Vermilion Holi.
- Special attraction – Mashal Jatra at night. This is really a unique opportunity for any photographer.
- You’ll be in the city of the paradise for Street Photography. During the festival, all the Newari women will be dressed in black and red traditional dress. They look really beautiful. You can shoot Newari people dressed in vibrant clothes on the streets of the ancient city.
- Shooting different sizes chariots in different locations in different activities is really a unique opportunity. Shooting the pulling chariot is such an experience that you’ll never forget in your lifetime.
- Portraits, yes… portraits! Without portraits in Nepal, it’s impossible. Shooting portraits of the beautiful old aged tribal people will add a very good collection to your portfolio.
- I can tell you that this is a very special festival, and it is rarely captured by photographers all around the world. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to cover Bisket Festival.
- For photographers, it is an unparalleled & unforgettable experience to capture the vibrancy of the ancient Newari people in one place. The frame captures the culture, religious legacy, ancient flavour and mountain core people in natural beauty.
ITINERARY
Day X
Pre-tour briefing about the attractions of the tour, safety precautions for the equipment and photographer during the tour, travelling instructions etc. These discussions can be made via WhatsApp group, e-mail, or telephone after the reservation of a seat.
Day 1
Arrive to Bhaktapur
2:00 PM Lunch and briefing about the event
2:30 PM Proceed to Durbar Squire and roam around the places and temples
3:00 PM Proceed to Taumadhi Square where two chariots are pulled on Tug of War
7:00 PM Come back to the hotel
7:30 PM Dinner
Day 2
6:00 AM Early morning walk to the Pottary Square to daily life
8:00 AM Back to the hotel for breakfast
2:00 PM Lunch
4:00 PM Out for shooting daily life
7:00 PM Come back to hotel
8:00 PM Dinner
Day 3
6:30 AM Proceed to Pashupati Temple for worshiping Lord Shiva
10:30 AM Move to Patan Darwar Square. Visit Museum and Golden Temple
2:00 PM Lunch at Patan
2:30 PM Move to Thamel
4:00 PM Visit Thamel market
7:00 PM Come back to hotel
7:30 PM Dinner
Day 4
6:00 AM Early morning walk around two and a half Km through the lanes to Dattatrya Square Shooting daily life
8:00 AM Back to the hotel for breakfast.
10:30 AM Move to Pottery Square for shooting Yoshin Pole (Linga up)
1:30 PM Lunch
3:00 PM Move to Leshing Khel for Yoshin Pole (Linga up)
9:00 PM Back to hotel (Safe yourself)
9:30 PM Dinner
Day 5
6:30 AM Breakfast
7:00 AM Sacrifice Day at Yoshin Khel
12:00 PM Back to hotel
1:00 PM Lunch
2:30 PM Move to Yoshin Khel for pulling down the Linga (Linga Down)
8:00 PM Back to Hotel
9:00 PM Dinner
10:00 PM Move to Thimi to capture “Mahal Jatra”
01:30 AM Back to hotel
Day 6
6:00 AM Breakfast (Packed)
6:30 AM Move to Thimi for Sindur Jatra
12:30 PM Back to hotel for a quick shower
1:00 PM Noon Lunch
1:30 PM Move to Thimi for Tongue Pierced
5:00 PM Back to Hotel
8:30 PM Dinner
Day 7
6:00 AM Early morning daily life shoot at Youshni Khel and surround areas
9:00 AM Breakfast is followed by certificate distribution and the tour comes to an end.
For this reason, we have allowed a few days on either side of the trip.
Date
10th to 16th April 2025
Price
| Date [10th-16th April 2025] | Indian Participants | Foreign Participants |
| Double Occupancy | Rs 56999 | 1299 USD |
| Single Occupancy | Rs 65999 | 1999 USD |
*Limited seats on a first come first serve basis.
**Please note that the timings of the rituals can be changed slightly according to the present situation of the festival. The mentor will guide you throughout the festival.
***Please read all details on this page including the Terms and Conditions on the website.
Mythology
Understand Bisket Jatra to connect with your subject
This famous festival spans eight nights and nine days, tracing its origins back to the Lichchhivi era (circa 450–750 AD) according to historical records. Legend has it that it commemorates the ‘festival after the death of the serpent,’ traditionally observed at the onset of spring. Symbolizing a spectrum of human emotions, the festival’s folklore revolves around the tale of a handsome young man endowed with tantric powers who slays a pair of serpents. These serpents purportedly emerged from the nostrils of a princess and swiftly transformed into menacing creatures. Utilizing his tantric abilities, the young man thwarts their attack. A highlight of the festival is the grand procession of a chariot bearing the statue of God Bhairava, drawn by hundreds of devotees to Khalna Tole. Another spectacle unfolds at Bhaktapur Durbar Square: a colossal tug-of-war between the eastern and western parts of the town, culminating in the chariot’s journey to Khalna Tole. There, a towering approximately 25-meter Yohsi (male genital) structure atop a yoni (female genital) base stands erect. As the evening of the New Year approaches, the Yohsi is ceremoniously brought down, marking the official commencement of the New Year. The Bisket Jatra thus epitomizes cultural exuberance in Bhaktapur.
Gallery
Meet your mentor
Apratim Saha
Apratim Saha is the ideal mentor for the Bisket Jatra Photo Tour, having successfully led numerous tours in Bisket for the last 9 years. With extensive experience in organizing workshops and photo tours, he is well-connected with many local people and the ritual, allowing him to guide you to the core of the festival. Moreover, his in-depth knowledge of people photography enhances the overall tour experience.
Internationally renowned photographer Apratim Saha has been living his dream of travelling to various countries for his photographic assignments and workshops for the past three decades. Apratim is a contributing photographer for National Geographic, Getty Images, and Stocksy United. He is a Canon Brand Ambassador and the Global Brand Ambassador and Mentor for Datacolor, Nisi, Godox, Vanguard, Dxo, and Blackrapid.
He has over 38 years of experience, from traditional film to digital photography. He is a commercial photographer specializing in people photography, portraiture, lifestyle & editorial clients. Read More…
Meet your mentor
Apratim Saha
Apratim Saha is the ideal mentor for the Bisket Jatra Photo Tour, having successfully led numerous tours in Bisket for the last 9 years. With extensive experience in organizing workshops and photo tours, he is well-connected with many local people and the ritual, allowing him to guide you to the core of the festival. Moreover, his in-depth knowledge of people photography enhances the overall tour experience.
Internationally renowned photographer Apratim Saha has been living his dream of travelling to various countries for his photographic assignments and workshops for the past three decades. Apratim is a contributing photographer for National Geographic, Getty Images, and Stocksy United. He is a Canon Brand Ambassador and the Global Brand Ambassador and Mentor for Datacolor, Nisi, Godox, Vanguard, Dxo, and Blackrapid. He has over 38 years of experience, from traditional film to digital photography. He is a commercial photographer specializing in people photography, portraiture, lifestyle & editorial clients. Read More…
FAQs
Can I join this trip as a non-photographer?
Sure! If your significant other wants you there by their side then be our guest! Similarly, if you just want to come alone without a camera then don’t feel that you need to be into photography. This photo tour is designed to be an immersive experience for everyone and we have hosted many non-photographers on previous photo tours. During my previous trips to Bisket Jatra, our non-photographer guests spent many hours just spending time with the locals and walking alongside them rather than shooting photographs. Don’t worry, there will be plenty of things to occupy your time as a non-photographer.
What kind of things should I bring?
This is not a cold-weather trip, so you don’t have to bring warm clothing, but for the Mashal Jatra, only bring light warm clothing like a windcheater because at night and early in it will be slightly cold.
This is a suggested packing list to make your trip a fulfilling and comfortable experience.
- Backpack or suitcase
- Comfortable light boots for walking
- Sunglasses
- Sun care cream
- Wet tissues
- Insurance confirmation copy
- Emergency contact number
- Carry your essential and basic medicines for headaches, fever, stomach upset, etc.
- A cap and windcheater are preferable during Sindur Jatra.
Suggested Equipment
You should bring cameras, a laptop (for post processing during free time), these kinds of things instantly spring to mind. Once you confirm your booking with a 50% deposit, we will send you all the information you need to fully prepare yourself for this epic journey.
This is just an idea about the suggested camera and accessory:
- One or two DSLR or Mirrorless (Full Frame or Crop Sensor) cameras. If you use a full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera, for much of the time, when photographing the tribes or rituals, you will want to cover focal lengths of around 24-70mm or 24-105mm. However, a kit lens (18-55/3.5 or 4.0) will also work.
- For photographing portraits, consider bringing a prime telephoto lens of 85mm.
- If you bring a good quality bridge camera instead of a DSLR or mirrorless camera, it will be best if it has an optical zoom of 18-20x or more, combined with a reasonable wide-angle at the other end of the zoom range.
- Protector for your lens.
- Power Bank & Electric Socket Extension.
- Adequate memory card and Card reader.
- Be sure to bring plenty of spare battery power for your camera and external hard drive with adequate space and a card reader
- A Computer with photo-processing software [Lightroom, Photoshop]. (If you are not having this software, don’t worry we’ll provide it.)
- Carry a microfiber to wipe the lens.
- Tripod is not required because there will be large numbers of people, you’ll not be able put your tripod but a Monopod will be very helpful to capture some nice slow shutter speed images during pulling the chariot.
- Rain cover for your camera during Sindur Jatra. Though Sindur Jatra is a completely dry colour festival but the protection of your camera is necessary.
- For Indians, Visa is not required. Only an Aadhaar Card is required. If you have a passport, please carry it with you.
- Your 8 Passport size photographs
How fit do I need to be to join this photo tour?
All of the places we visit on this trip will be accessible either near our prebooked hotel or in our vehicles so physical fitness is not a priority.
What should we expect?
- The altitude will be 1400 meters max.
- Risks: It will be very crowded during pulling of Chariot and the Yoshin Pole ritual. So, it’s advisable to keep yourself at a safe distance during that time.
Climate
It will be pleasant and normal in the daytime with maximum temperatures of about 20°C. Nights become cooler with a minimum of 15°C. in the month of April.
Terms and Conditions
What is included?
- Accommodation: Stay will be at the best-located Hotel situated in the ancient kingdom at Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Staying in this position is the best way to cover the entire ritual.
- All-day local taxi or bus fare for each and every destination.
- Stay in a deluxe hotel for six nights and seven days. Accommodations in a Double Occupancy in Hotels. But we have the option of Single Supplements also, please check the price.
- Expert guidance on the street, portrait, daily life, architecture and cultural photography with a particular emphasis on the Bisket Jatra.
- Two times Tea, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on all days. Nonveg and Veg food will be provided. There is no set food. You can choose whatever you like from the menu.
- All entry Fees, Camera Fees, and Tickets to any museum, or gallery are as per the itinerary.
- Packaged drinking water will be provided.
- Service of the photographic mentors from India, Bhaktapur and Kathmandu.
Everything except your international flight, personal travel insurance, Visa fees and the costs of the kind of things you would normally expect to buy with your personal money supply (gifts, personal treats etc.). Other than that, from the moment you reach our prebooked hotel, we will take care of everything for you. Accommodation, all-day meals including non-alcoholic drinks, internal flights, overland transport, translator, anything you can think of and probably quite a few things you can’t.
What is not included?
- Anything else other than mentioned in includes
- All expenses of a personal nature
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Airport pickup and drop
- Medical expenses
- All items of personal nature e.g. telephone call bills, fax/email bills etc.
- Visa fees
- Any alcoholic drinks
- Travel Insurance
- Laundry services
- Extra Activities not included in the Itinerary
- Any other actual expenses would be shared by all participants on actual basis
- Gifts, personal treats, all expenses of personal nature
- Any tips
Important points to be noted
- The photo tour is designed from Kathmandu to Kathmandu.
- This tour is conceptualised in such a way that personal attention can be given to each and every photographer and for that, the group will be restricted to 6 photographers only.
- This tour has been specifically designed for the photographers. Non-photographer spouse/friend may be accommodated on the tour but at full cost and on agreeing to stick to the schedule of the tour.
- Indians do not require visas to enter Nepal. Please carry your Aadhaar Card. If you have a passport, please carry it with you.
- While all care would be taken to stick to the schedule, unforeseen circumstances and time consistency might lead to some changes.
- As it is a foreign country your mobile number will not work unless you have international roaming. A local sim may be purchased against a passport.
- Please note that costs and dates are subject to change as not all our partner properties and local airlines have released their rates. Should we need to revise costs, we will endeavour to keep fees and dates as close to the original.
- Please also note that the timings of the rituals can be changed according to the present situation of the festival. The mentor will guide you throughout the trip.
Accomodation
Stay will be at the best located Hotel situated in the ancient kingdom at Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Staying in these positions is the best way to cover the entire ritual.
Facilities at the hotel:
- Well-furnished standard Rooms
- 24 hours Hot & Cold water
- Non-Veg & Veg Restaurant
- 24 hours Wi-Fi facilities in the entire lobby area of the hotel
- Doctor on call & taxi on requirement
- Laundry Service / Shoe Polish
- Large parking area & Hall
- Currency Exchange
Deadlines
Registration is open from 15th May 2024 till the seat reservations end.
Conditions
Only a maximum of 6 participants will be selected for this photo tour.
Participants will be granted the expedition based on email confirmation on a first come first serve basis. Feel free to call +91 8509333385 or WhatsApp at +918900702900 for any further assistance.
Booking
To reserve your spot 50% of the full tour amount is required to pay at the time of your booking. Balance amount to be paid 60 days before the tour. You can pay using the online payment link on our website or ask for the account details or PayPal to transfer the payment. Your reservation may be cancelled if full payment has not been received by the last date specified and communicated. Once the payment is done, please send us a copy of the bank receipt (a screenshot is also fine) of your payment details. Once we confirm your payment, we will send you the confirmation email along with the Rules and regulations of the tour, which makes you, a confirmed candidate for the photo tour.
Cancellation and Refunds
All cancellations must be made in writing (email is acceptable) and will become effective as of the date of the postmark (standard mail or electronic). In the unlikely event, that EXPOSURE has to cancel a tour/workshop for lack of participants, a full refund including the deposit amount will be given. Once the tour begins, there can be no refunds for anything unused, including rooms, meals, flights, tour days, events, or services. Please note the cancellation penalties described below are based on costs incurred by EXPOSURE on your behalf, including non-refundable deposits or payments by agents, hotels, airlines, etc.
In the event of a cancellation or modification of your confirmed booking, Exposure’s Cancellation and Refund Policy for Photo Tours / Workshops will be applicable, and you need to fully agree to be bound by them. Any refunds will be made within 15 working days from the date of written confirmation of cancellation, via the same mode with which the payment was made to us.
Cancellation deductions will be as per the following policy of full fees:
- 40% cancellation of the total fee if cancelled 90 days before the start of the expedition or earlier than the expedition.
- 100% cancellation of the total fee if cancelled 59 days on or before the start of the expedition.
Please read all details on this page and the Detailed Terms and Conditions, Disclaimer / Undertaking in the Registration cum Booking Form.
Testimonials
