Losar (ལོ་གསར་) is the Tibetan New Year — the most important festival in the Tibetan calendar, a multi-day celebration of renewal blending Buddhist devotion and ancient custom. Because it follows the Tibetan lunar calendar, its date varies; in 2026 it falls in mid-to-late February. Here's the history.
See the Losar holiday page for the exact date, or the global holiday calendar.
What is Losar?
Lo means year and sar means new — so Losar is simply "New Year." It marks the start of the year in the Tibetan calendar and is celebrated across Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Mongolia, and Himalayan and Tibetan-Buddhist communities worldwide. The festival traditionally lasts about 15 days, with the main celebrations in the first three.
Its roots predate Buddhism in Tibet, originating in older winter incense-offering customs, later blended with Buddhist practice.
Traditions of Losar
- Cleaning the home thoroughly to sweep away the old year's misfortune.
- Guthuk — a special noodle soup eaten before Losar, containing dumplings with hidden symbolic ingredients.
- Offerings and monastery visits, prayer flags, and butter-lamp lighting.
- Chemar boxes and barley displays symbolising a good harvest and good fortune.
- Family reunions, special foods, and festive dress.
Why the date changes each year
Because Losar follows the Tibetan lunar calendar, its Gregorian date shifts each year, usually falling between February and March (it often, but not always, falls near the Chinese and Mongolian new years). Check the holiday page for the exact date.
Quick answers
What is Losar? The Tibetan New Year — the most important festival in the Tibetan calendar, celebrated across the Himalayas and Tibetan-Buddhist communities.
How long does Losar last? Traditionally about 15 days, with the main celebrations in the first three.
What food is associated with Losar? Guthuk, a noodle soup with symbolic dumplings, eaten in the run-up to the new year.
When is Losar 2026? It falls in mid-to-late February 2026 — see the holiday page for the exact date.