Ten Things to Do in Pashupatinath Temple, Lalitpur Nepal
Nestled in the Kathmandu Valley, Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, the temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over the world. Every year, thousands of devotees flock to the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Pashupatinath, the Hindu god of destruction. Here are ten things to do when visiting the temple.
1. Take a Guided Tour: Pashupatinath Temple is a vast complex of shrines, temples, and ghats. To get the most out of your visit, take a guided tour of the temple complex. You'll learn about the history and significance of the temple and get to see some of the most important shrines and monuments.
2. Attend the Aarti Ceremony: Every evening, devotees gather at the temple to take part in the Aarti ceremony. During the ceremony, priests chant prayers and offer incense and flowers to Lord Pashupatinath. It's a mesmerizing experience and a great way to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
3. Explore the Ghats: The ghats, or stone steps, of Pashupatinath Temple are a popular spot for pilgrims to bathe in the holy waters of the Bagmati River. Take a stroll along the ghats and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
4. Visit the Cremation Sites: The temple grounds are also home to several cremation sites, where Hindus cremate their deceased family members. While visiting the cremation sites, be respectful of the rituals being performed and maintain a respectful distance.
5. Visit the Monuments: The temple complex is home to several monuments, including the Shiva Linga, the Nandi Bull, and the Pashupatinath Temple itself. Spend some time exploring these monuments and learning about their significance.
6. Attend a Puja: Every day, devotees gather at the temple to perform puja, a ritual offering of flowers and incense to the gods. If you're lucky, you may be able to witness one of these ceremonies.
7. Explore the Markets: The streets around the temple are lined with shops and stalls selling everything from religious items to souvenirs. Spend some time exploring the markets and picking up a few souvenirs for yourself or your loved ones.
8. Visit the Ashrams: The temple complex is home to several ashrams, or religious retreats. Spend some time exploring these ashrams and learning about the various religious practices that take place there.
9. Take a Boat Ride: The Bagmati River is a great spot for a leisurely boat ride. Hop on a boat and take in the sights and sounds of the river.
10. Enjoy the Views: The temple complex offers stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley. Take some time to just sit back and enjoy the scenery.
Visiting Pashupatinath Temple is a unique and unforgettable experience. From taking a guided tour of the complex to attending a puja ceremony, there are plenty of things to do when visiting the temple. So, the next time you're in Nepal, make sure to add Pashupatinath Temple to your itinerary.