The Basanta Panchami and Saraswati Puja festivals are held in January. Basanta (or Spring) heralds one of the loviest seasons in Nepal. Crowds gather in Kathmandu's Durbar Square as a band plays the song of spring and dignitaries welcome the new season.

As Swayambhu and at the Nil Barahi Shrine near Lazimpat in Kathmandu, a different celebration is held in which Saraswati, the Goddess of Learning, is worshipped at her temples. Artists, musicians, teachers and students bring offerings to her.