Nepal: Maha Shivaratri Hindu festival to occur nationwide Feb. 18

Event

Nepal will observe the annual Maha Shivaratri Hindu festival Feb. 18 as an official public holiday. The main holiday event will take place at Kathmandu's Pashupatinath Temple. Other official events will likely occur elsewhere across the country.

Authorities will maintain a heightened security posture nationwide during the festival; in Kathmandu, at least 500 officers will deploy to provide security at Pashupatinath Temple. Security personnel typically conduct enhanced vehicular and pedestrian checks as a precaution. Authorities may implement additional measures, including roadblocks and detours, to facilitate celebratory gatherings. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely through the evening of Feb. 18. Isolated security incidents cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Exercise caution near sites hosting official events Feb. 18. Monitor trusted sources for updates. Confirm travel and commercial reservations. Carry proper identification at all times. Heed all official transport and security advisories.