Pashupatinath Temple - The Largest Hindu Temple in Nepal

Pashupatinath Temple is located on both banks of the Bagmati River on the eastern outskirts of Kathmandu. Bagmati is the most sacred river to the Nepalese, akin to the Ganges for the Indians. Pashupatinath is the largest Hindu temple in Nepal and the most important temple dedicated to Shiva in the country. Before embarking on long journeys or important tasks, the Nepalese king often visits this temple to pray and receive blessings from the gurus. Although Pashupatinath was constructed in the 19th century, many of the statues, rafters, and smaller shrines within the temple date back over 300 years, with some being as old as 700 years. Even before reaching and admiring Pashupatinath from the outside, the smaller shrines with their distinct Hindu characteristics and intricate carvings are enough to captivate visitors. Pashupatinath is more than just a temple; it is also a site where the deceased are cremated according to Hindu customs. Visitors can even witness open-air cremations right on the riverbank.