The holy month of Ramadan which began on Saturday saw Nepali Muslim worshippers thronging mosques in the capital Kathmandu and other parts of the country for prayers.

During the month-long period that falls on the ninth months of Islamic calendar, Muslims fast throughout the day with a belief that the fasting makes one closer to God.

Devotees also wish for the well-being of their families during the festival considered to be the toughest and holiest by the Muslim community.

During Ramadan, Muslims refrain from food, drink and sex from dawn until sunset, when they break the fast with the meal known as Iftar. However, incapacitated, sick and children are exempt from fasting