Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple

A must-visit place in Nepal for 2023.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Pashupatinath temple is one of the most pious religious sites of the continent for Hindus. Built around the 5^th century, this temple is believed to be the largest temple complex in the country. The temple is located on the sides of the River Bagmati, which is considered a holy water body by Hindus. Due to the traditions of the Hindus, only Hindus are allowed inside the inner sanctum, which contains the Shiva lingam. The entire temple holds hundreds of Shiv Lingams around the complex.

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the eight heritage sites of the valley and is an important destination for pilgrims. It’s not one simple shrine. This complex holds more than 500 smaller shrines of various Hindu deities.

Most of the Hindu regions perform their last rituals and cremations near this temple. Thus, spotting a funeral or dead body is not uncommon here.

Things to be witnessed in Pashupatinath Temple:

1. Pashupatinath Temple

It is a pagoda-style temple, which is built with wooden structures, roofs made of copper, and doors covered with silver sheets.

2. Mukhalinga

The main temple holds a stone idol, which has four faces. Each face of the deity represents each element (air, water, fire, and earth). This statue is bathed with milk and water from the river, every day and it is an important ritual to be seen by pilgrims.

3. Guhyeshwari Temple

This temple is located very closer to the Pashupatinath temple. This temple is dedicated to Sati Devi, consort of Lord Shiva. Also called Guhyeshwari temple, this 17^th-century temple is located close to the forest region. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter this premise.

4. Gorakhnath Temple

This towering temple of the 11^th century is a Shiva temple. It is famous for forest landscapes, passing deer, and others.

5. Largest Nandi Statue

Nandi, the bull is said to be the vehicle of Lord Shiva. Right outside the inner sanctum, you can find the largest statue of Nandi. The statue is made of brass.

6. Western Cremation Ghats

This ghat of River Bagmati is considered the most sacred part of the river. Thus, Brahmins conduct their cremations in this region. On the northern end of this ghat, you can find many caves, which were used in medieval times for meditation. If you walk along the bank, you will find the 7^th century Buddha statue and Raj Rajeshwari temple.

7. The Eastern Ghats

This ghat is filled with holy men performing rituals. You can find people fishing here. There are two footbridges, which help you cross the river.

8. Religious Market

This market is found around the temple. This is the best place to buy religious items, ritual items, and small souvenirs.