Devotees also thronged Shiva shrines, while a large number of people swarmed especially at the confluence of rivers. The festival is also known as Makar Sakranti and, according to astrologers, from this day onwards the sun enters Makar astrological sign from Dhanu sign. On this day, the sun is believed to leave its southernmost position and begin its northward journey.

Newar community of Kathmandu Valley also observed the festival as ‘Ghyo-Chaku San’ eating ghee and chaku. It is believed that eating ghee and chaku, sesame seed candy, vegetables and yam, and giving them away in charity on this day after taking a holy dip helps one become healthier.