Nepali Times

Maghe Sankranti

Maghe Sankranti

For many, Maghe Sankranti immediately conjures up images of ghiu chaku, teel ko laddu and other goodies in the mind. The first day of Magh, which falls on the 15th this month, is an event of special meteorological and religious significance for many ethnic groups in Nepal.

Similar to many solstice festivals around the world, Maghe Sankranti or Maghi as the Tharus call it, marks an end to the inauspicious month of Poush, in which all religious ceremonies are put on hold. Beginning this day, the sun is thought to start its northward journey after leaving its most extreme position in the south, bringing an end to the gloom and doom of cold days.

Ghiu chaku (molasses), teel ko laddu (balls of sesame seeds) and tarul (yam) are just some of the food items relished during Maghe Sankranti celebrations.

Maan vs Mati, Kedar Shrestha’s scintillating new play on the nature of spousal relationships is not to be missed. Until 16 January, 4.45 pm onwards, Theatre Mall, Sundhara Contact: 9803245590, 9841595956

Farmers’ market, European cheese, fresh fish, artisanal bread and pastries, organic honey, home-made chutneys and other delicious stuff on offer. Every Saturday, 8am to 1pm, Le Sherpa restaurant, Lajimpat

CAN Info-tech, The year’s most exciting info-tech and entertainment conference. 28 January to 2 February, Bhrikuti Mandap, Exhibition Road

Nepal Literature Festival, Talk literarature and more with India and Nepal's top journalists and writers. 29 Jan to 1 Feb, Pokhara www.nepalliteraturefestival.com

BAC Mela, Local products, foodstuff and a second-hand garage sale plus entertainment for the whole family in BAC’S first monthly mela. 30 January, 2 to 7pm, BAC Art Café, Pulchok, www.bikaplaartcenter.org

Digital mapping, How to use digital maps to showcase Nepal’s stunning beauty and nature: Storycycle’s workshop to learn Google’s map-based tools. 31 January, 1pm onwards, www.storycycle.com

Donate a blanket, Sasto Deal is organising a ‘Donate a blanket’ program for victims of the earthquake in Gorkha, Dhading and Sindhupalchok. Contribute Rs 500 per blanket. [email protected]

Property rites, Explore power struggles in this future-in-the-present action drama based on the play by Alan Haehnel and performed by Ullens IB students. 29 January, 6pm and 30 January, 9pm, Ullens School, Khumaltar, Lalitpur

Café Aamu

Café Aamu, If you are a rice lover and crave Chinese food all-day, all-week, then the Tofu and Chinese Black Mushroom with Rice is a must try. Krishnagalli

Embassy, One of K-Town's most chic and happening restaurants. Lajimpat

Manny’s, Head down for some delicious Corn Fritters, Pad Thai Noodles, Crispy Crunchy Potatoes and don’t forget their signature Manny’s Spicy Wings all served with fine hospitality in an excellent space. Jawalakhel, (01) 5536919

The Entrance Café, Friendly staff, good food, and quiet ambience. Bakhundole, Lalitpur

Mezze, For pizzas, pasta and people watching. Darbar Marg

Alfresco, For homemade pastas and other lip-smacking delights. Soaltee Crowne Plaza, Tahachal

Balthali Village Resort

Balthali Village Resort, A small, cosy retreat with a bird’s eye view of green terrace fields dotted with ochre painted houses. Balthali, Kavre, 9851075818

The end of the universe, Stay in a family-run hotel that is located atop Mahankal hill. It is believed to be one of the oldest hotels in the area. Mahankal Mandir, Nagarkot, Bhaktapur, 9741020969

Neydo Monastery, A monastery and guest house, Neydo is home to many significant religious sites of the great siddhas. Leave your troubles behind and book a room. Pharping, Kathmandu, www.neydohotel.com

Waterfront Resort, Head to this eco-friendly resort right in front of Phewa Lake. Sedi Height, Pokhara. (61)466 303/304, 9801166311, [email protected]

Jhule mountain resort, Resting 2050m above sea level, the eco-resort boasts a farmhouse that stretches across a hill covered in fresh pine. Enjoy an organic homestay experience. Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park, Lapsiphedi-3, Jhule, (01)6212399

Reggae with JFI

Reggae with JFI, For some soulful reggae. 15 January, 8pm, House of Music, Thamel, Rs 300

Plebeian live, Drummer Salil Thakuri’s rocking farewell gig. 15 January, 8pm onwards, Irish Pub, Lainchaur

Blues n’ Roots, Come see Mukti Shakya and other star artists perform. 23 January, 2 to 8 pm, Attic Bar, Tangal

90s grunge, All Stars, Sound Chains Pilots and Newaz will conjure up the awesome 90s grunge. 20 February, 1pm, Purple Haze Rock Bar, Thamel