Bhoto Jatra was observed today in Jawalakhel, marking the conclusion of the month-long Rato Machhindranath Chariot Festival.

The festival ended with the display of the jewel-studded traditional Nepali vest, known as ‘Bhoto,’ at Jawalakhel on Sunday.

Bhoto Jatra is part of the Rato Machhindranath Chariot Festival, an annual cultural and religious event where the black, jewel-studded vest ‘Bhoto,’ believed to belong to the serpent king Nagraj, is showcased.

Rato Machhindranath is venerated as the god of rain. It is believed that paying homage to Lord Machhindranath brings good fortune and fulfills one’s wishes. The Rato Machhindranath Jatra is believed to have started 1,600 years ago.

In celebration of the event, the government declared a public holiday in the Kathmandu Valley.

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