Rato Machindranath Festival

Rato Machindranath Raath yatra is a month long chariot pulling festival of Patan, takes place sometime during April-may.  Rato Machindranath, the god of rain resides for six months in the temple located near Patan Durbar Square.  The rain of god is brought to the chariot that is assembled in Pulchok.  The chariot is pulled through various parts of the town of Patan; the route begins from pulchok, goes thru Gabahal, Hakha, Sundhara, LaganKhel and ends in Jawalakhel.  On the last day of the chariot pulling festival, Bhoto Jatra (Vest festival) takes place.  During Bhoto Jatra festival, the jewel studded vest is displayed by officials from each corner of the chariot so that the entire public can see it.  After this festival, Rato Machindranath is then taken to Bungamati temple, where  Rato Machindranath resides for the rest of the year.