Kathmandu, Oct. 27 -- Kathmandu Valley is expected to consume around 5.18 million flower garlands during Tihar this year, according to the Floriculture Association Nepal.

The association estimates demand for 4.5 million marigold garlands, 600,000 globe amaranth garlands, 20,000 chrysanthemum garlands and 60,000 mixed-flower garlands. It also expects 200,000 globe amaranth garlands to be exported.

Last year, the valley consumed 4 million marigold garlands and around 550,000 globe amaranth garlands. Rajesh Bhakta Shrestha, president of the Floriculture Association Nepal, said domestic production would meet most of this year's demand.

Flower garlands alone are expected to generate Rs480 million in sales during Tihar, Shrestha said. Domest...