Pashupatinath is the most important Hindu site in Nepal and one of the great temples of Shiva on the subcontinent. Pilgrims and sadhus come here from all over India.
The name means Lord of the Animals, one of Shiva's titles. More than a single temple, it is a sacred complex on the banks of the Bagmati, a tributary of the Ganges. As on the Ganges, cremations take place on the riverbank every day.
We'll explain the symbolism that accompanies believers through every stage of life, from birth to cremation. The main temple is open to Hindus only, and we ask visitors to respect grieving families and to limit photography.
Walks we suggest
Pashupatinath to Boudhanath on foot
A pleasant walk of about half an hour through fields and villages strung with prayer flags. We cross the river opposite the Guhyeshwari temple and head gently towards Boudhanath.
