On Nawami, the ninth day of the two-week-long Dashain festival, devotees formed long queues at Taleju Bhawani Temple in Hanumandhoka, Kathmandu, to offer their prayers.

Normally closed to the public, the temple opens its doors just once a year on Nawami, giving devotees a rare opportunity to enter its sacred precincts.

The day features significant religious rituals, including the sacrifice of over 100 cattle, a tradition meant to honour the goddess Taleju.

Thousands of devotees patiently waited for their turn, seeking blessings on this special occasion.

These photos, captured by Suryams Upreti, showcase the devotion and vibrant spirit surrounding the rare opening of Taleju Bhawani Temple.