Set on the banks of the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is one of the most important Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva anywhere in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right. Non-Hindu visitors cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding ghats and courtyards are open to all.
Cremation ceremonies take place along the riverbanks daily, offering visitors a rare, respectful window into Hindu rites of passage. Arrive in the late afternoon for the evening Aarti ceremony, when priests perform a fire ritual accompanied by drums and bells.
It’s a site that rewards a slower visit, so plan for at least two hours. From Tulsi Kathmandu Hotel it’s an easy taxi ride, and many guests combine it with Boudhanath Stupa on the same outing.
