The Route Through Patan

The Stages

The chariot's journey through Patan runs in sequence through Pulchowk, Gabahal, Sundhara and Lagankhel, ending at the open ground at Jawalakhel. The total distance is a few kilometres. It takes weeks. Between pulls the chariot simply stands in the street where it stopped, sometimes for days at a time, and the neighbourhood it is standing in makes offerings to it there.

Divided by Neighbourhood

Each tole along the way is responsible for hauling the chariot through its own section and handing it on. The arrangement is inherited and unwritten, and it is the organisational heart of the festival — there is no central authority directing the pull, and the sequence works because every neighbourhood knows what its part is. The competitive pride attaching to one's own section is genuine, and so is the resentment when a handover goes badly.

Halts

The stopping places are not arbitrary pauses but appointed stations, each with its own observances. Extended halts are built into the schedule, and further delays accumulate from weather, from damage to the chariot, and from disputes. The festival does not run to a publishable timetable, and a visitor planning around a specific date should confirm locally close to the time rather than relying on a date announced weeks ahead.

Following It

Because the chariot moves slowly and stands still for long periods, this is an unusually approachable festival to see: the chariot can be visited where it stands, at leisure, without a crowd, on most days of the month. The crowds concentrate on active pulling days and at the conclusion. Asking anyone locally where the chariot currently is will get an accurate answer; it is common knowledge in Patan for the duration.

The End

At Jawalakhel the month closes with Bhoto Jatra, the showing of the sacred vest, after which the deity is returned to his temple.