As Nepal prepares to celebrate Dashain, households are busy planting jamara, worshipping Goddess Durga, buying new clothes and planning family reunions. Another age-old tradition closely associated with the festival is playing on traditional bamboo swings known as *Linge Ping*.
As Dashain approaches, communities across Nepal build these swings in neighbourhoods and villages. Continuing the tradition, a Linge Ping has also been installed at Tinkune in Kathmandu, attracting people from nearby areas.
More than a source of festive entertainment, Linge Ping represents Nepal’s cultural heritage and community spirit. Traditionally, local residents worked together to erect bamboo poles, weave ropes and construct swings. Once ready, children, young people and elderly residents would gather to enjoy them, strengthening community bonds through shared participation.
According to popular Nepali belief, everyone should swing at least once during Dashain, lifting their feet off the ground to leave behind bad luck and welcome good fortune.
However, changing urban lifestyles and a shortage of open spaces have made traditional swings increasingly rare in many parts of Kathmandu.
The photographs showcase people enjoying swings at Tinkune, Kathmandu, as the city continues to celebrate this cherished Dashain tradition.
