Kathmandu, November 8
Flower sales have surged in Kathmandu on Sunday, the day of Laxmi Puja, which falls during the five-day Tihar festival.
Marigold flowers, which are in the highest demand during Tihar, are being traded in large quantities at various locations across the Valley.
Marigolds are widely used to decorate homes and shops for Laxmi Puja. The Kathmandu Metropolitan City has designated specific locations for flower trading.
The Floriculture Association Nepal estimates that flower transactions during this year’s Tihar will reach Rs 645 million. Trade in globe amaranth, which is used during Bhai Tika, has also increased alongside marigold sales.
According to the association, flower cultivation currently covers more than 325 hectares across the country, while the estimated investment in the floriculture business exceeds Rs 11.5 billion.
