Kathmandu, Jan. 15:  Maghe Sankranti, one of the main festivals of the Nepalese, is being celebrated throughout the kingdom today in accordance with age-old tradition.

It is customary to take holy dips in river confluences, perform worship at various shrines and take yam and ‘chaku’ as special food on this occasion.

Hindus observe this day as Makar Sankranti as it marks to the sun’s journey northwards.

As the belief goes, eating items like ghee and chaku, sesame seed candy, vegetables and yam and giving them away in charity on this day after taking holy dip helps one become healthier.

Devotees take holy dips at Devghat, Dolalghat, Barahachhetra, Ridi, Triveni and other rivers throughout the country.

Religious fairs are organised especially at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Trishuli River at Devghat in Tanahu district.

The Kankai River in Jhapa district is also a famous pilgrimage site. Devotees from various parts of the country take holy dip at Devghat and Kankai rivers also.

On the occasion of Maghe Sankranti, Gangasagar in India also attracts devotees in large numbers from Nepal