Understanding the Nepali Calendar System

5 min read

The Nepali calendar, officially known as Bikram Sambat (BS), is the official calendar of Nepal. It is approximately 56 years and 8 months ahead of the Gregorian calendar (AD) and has been in use for over a thousand years.

Historical Background

The Bikram Sambat calendar was established by Emperor Vikramaditya of India and was later adopted as Nepal's official calendar. The calendar began in 57 BCE in the Gregorian calendar, which is why it is ahead by about 56-57 years.

Key Historical Facts

  • Established in 57 BCE
  • Named after Emperor Vikramaditya
  • Adopted as Nepal's official calendar
  • Used in government, education, and daily life

Calendar Structure

The Nepali calendar follows a unique structure that aligns with both astronomical events and cultural significance. Each month is carefully calculated based on solar movements, making it a solar calendar system.

The 12 Nepali Months

1
Baisakh (बैशाख) Mid-April – Mid-May
2
Jestha (जेठ) Mid-May – Mid-June
3
Ashadh (असार) Mid-June – Mid-July
4
Shrawan (श्रावण) Mid-July – Mid-August
5
Bhadra (भदौ) Mid-August – Mid-September
6
Ashwin (असोज) Mid-September – Mid-October
7
Kartik (कार्तिक) Mid-October – Mid-November
8
Mangsir (मंसिर) Mid-November – Mid-December
9
Poush (पुष) Mid-December – Mid-January
10
Magh (माघ) Mid-January – Mid-February
11
Falgun (फाल्गुन) Mid-February – Mid-March
12
Chaitra (चैत) Mid-March – Mid-April

Calendar Characteristics

  • Solar calendar based on ancient Hindu calendar system
  • Months typically have 29 to 32 days
  • New year begins in mid-April (Baisakh 1)
  • Months align with agricultural and cultural seasons