Classical and Folk Dance of Nepal

Classical Folk Dances in Nepal

Nepal is rich in classical and folk dances. Dance, song, and music have a close and interdependent relationship.

Therefore one will be incomplete in the absence of other. A dance based on the ancient precept is known as classical dance.

While in Nepal, there are several types of classical dances.

Similarly, a dance based on folk tradition is folk dance.

Classical dance is performed with classical music, whereas folk dance is performed with folk songs.

So the different types of classical and folk dances are as follows.


Nepali Folk Dances


Dhan Dance

This is a popular folk dance in the Limbu community. It is also equally performed in the Rai community. In this dance, dancers hold their hands together. It is performed at social occasions and fairs.

Chandi Dance

This dance is performed in the Udhauli and Ubhauli festival of the Kirat community of Nepal. They are found in the hilly eastern region of Nepal. This dance is performed by singing a Chandi song. While in this dance, Dholak and Jhamta are played.

Dandi [ fagu ] Dance

This dance is popular in eastern and mid-Terai of Nepal. Dandi dance is performed by hitting sticks each other on the eve of Holi. Dancers show an excellent combination of timing while hitting sticks in such dances.

Kaura Dance

Kaura dance is popular in the Magar community of Nepal. The Magar people of western Nepal perform this dance. It is formed with Kaura songs. Nowadays, people of other caste and communities also perform this dance. A youngster of the Magar community very much likes it.

Deuda Dance

This dance is performed in a circle by joining shoulders together. It is popular in the mid and far western region of Nepal. It is performed on special occasions in these regions. People living in Kathmandu valley also gather and perform this dance on their special eve.

Sorathi Dance

This is one of the classical dances performed in the Gurung community. Gurungs are found in the Gandaki Zone of Nepal. However, they are residing all over the country in traces. The Gurung youths perform this dance. Hence it is performed in several festivals of the Gurung community.


                                                                                                                    .

Scroll to Top