Mataya Jatra in Patan – A Festival of Light, Faith, and Community
Mataya Jatra, one of the most vibrant and unique cultural festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Patan, Lalitpur every year. The name Mataya literally means “light of the dead,” and the festival holds deep significance for the Newar Buddhist community. It is observed to commemorate the victory of Lord Buddha over Mara (the demon of illusion), symbolizing the triumph of wisdom over ignorance.
At Nyadha House, located in the heart of Patan, we are privileged to be surrounded by this centuries-old tradition each year. If you plan to visit Patan during Mataya Jatra, staying with us will give you front-row access to one of the city’s most dazzling celebrations.
The festival usually takes place a day after Gai Jatra and involves thousands of devotees, musicians, and dancers parading through the ancient streets of Patan. Devotees visit nearly every Buddhist shrine and stupa within the city, offering prayers, lighting oil lamps, and making offerings of grains, coins, and flowers. For locals, Mataya is more than a ritual- it’s a spiritual journey. The act of walking the route from dawn to dusk, carrying lamps and visiting each sacred site, is believed to bring peace to departed souls and merit to the living.
If you’re staying at Nyadha House, you can simply step outside and join the vibrant procession. You’ll see
- Colorful parades of devotees in traditional Newar attire.
- Brass bands and traditional drum music filling the streets
- Sacred oil lamps and butter lamps illuminating every shrine.
- Offerings at hundreds of Buddhist chaityas scattered across Patan.
The route of Mataya Jatra covers almost the entire historic city, including hidden courtyards, narrow alleys, and iconic sites such as Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple) and Mahabouddha Temple.
Experience Mataya Jatra with Nyadha House
Book your stay at Nyadha House and experience Mataya Jatra like a local. Limited rooms available during festival week — reserve now!”
