The Nepal Calendar Determination Committee has announced the auspicious hour for observing this year's ritualistic Tihar 'tika'.

According to Committee Chair, Professor Shambhu Prasad Dhakal, the auspicious hour for Tihar Tika, also known as Bhaitika, has been set for 11:39 am on Thursday, October 23.

It is a traditional practice for brothers and sisters to exchange 'tika' on this occasion.

Committee member Professor Devmani Paudel noted that there are no strict astrological restrictions preventing people from receiving Tika in the afternoon. However, it is recommended that state dignitaries observe the ritual at the auspicious time.

This year’s Tihar festival, also known as Yama Panchak, will commence on Saturday, October 18. 

The Kag Tihar (Crow Festival) and Dhanwantari Day will both be observed on Sunday, October 19.

On the morning of Monday, October 20, Kukur Tihar (Dog Festival) will be celebrated. 

In the evening, Laxmi Puja is observed by worshipping the Hindu goddess of wealth, Laxmi along with the celebration of Deepawali festival.

The worship of cows, oxen, and the self will be observed on Wednesday, October 22. 

The ritual of self-worship, known as Mha Puja, is an important tradition of the Newar community.

Three calendars endorsed by the Committee have also been published by calendar makers Siddhi Laxmi Byanjakar, Kirti Kiran Joshi, and Shashidhar Joshi. All three confirm that October 22 is for the Mha Puja.

The Committee also states that October 22 also marks the beginning of Nepal Sambat 1146, the New Year according to the Nepal Sambat calendar.

Kija Puja, also known as Bhai Puja or the worship of brothers, the customary in the Newar community, will be observed on Thursday, October 23.

The Committee also states that October 22 marks the beginning of Nepal Sambat 1146, the New Year according to the Nepal Sambat calendar.

Kija Puja, or Bhai Puja (the worship of brothers), the tradition in the Newar community will also be observed on Thursday, October 23.