Pashupatinath & Bodnath

Boudhanath Stupa & Pashupatinath, both close to each other to the east of Kathmandu. Boudhanath is the largest Buddhist Stupa in Kathmandu whilst Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world.

Area

Kathmandu

Type

Art & Architecture

Spiritual & Wellness

Grade

Standard

Who

Adults

Difficulty

Moderate

Duration

1-2 Hours

Boudhanath Stupa, which lies about 6 km east of downtown Kathmandu and is the largest stupa in the Valley and one of the largest in the world. It looms 36 meters high and presents one of the most fascinating specimens of stupa design with hundreds of prayer wheels and 108 small images of Buddha all around. Just like the Swayambhunath, the stupa here is too has four sides with the watchful eyes of Lord Buddha. All the Buddhist throng to this stupa to take part in the sacred rituals during the Buddhist festivals.

Pashupatinath, is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world, Pashupatinath lies 5 km east from the city centre, and close to Boudhanath. The richly-ornamented pagoda houses the sacred linga, or phallic symbol, of Lord Shiva as well as the noteworthy gold plated roofs and silver coated doors. This is the abode of God Shiva and is the holiest of all the Shiva shrines. Religious pilgrims and sadhus, travel all the way from the remote areas of India to visit this sacred sight, especially during Shivaratri (the night of Shiva) that falls between February/March. Even though these devotees have denounced worldly possessions, each carries a Sadhu ID (identifications card) to freely cross over the border between India and Nepal. Chronicles indicate Pashupatinath’s existence prior to 400 AD. Devotees can be seen taking ritual dips in the holy Bagmati river flowing beside the temple, also a World Heritage Site. The crematorium is just outside the temple and it is a dream of almost every Hindu to be cremated by the side of Pashupati Aryaghat after their death.

Tours Featuring This Experience

Be inspired by the itineraries below which include this experience and let our travel specialists craft a bespoke luxury holiday for you.

Epic Nepal

Lose yourself in the unfamiliar of this epic adventure holiday through Nepal. From the colourful city of Kathmandu to the jaw-dropping views from the Annapurna region. On this ten-day adventure we’ll use our expert inside knowledge to make sure you not only witness the country’s biggest draws, but also uncover a whole host of little-known treasures that will enrich your experience and impress everyone who sees your pictures.

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Ultimate Nepal and India

Nepal and India are a fantastic combination and this classic itinerary introduces you to the highlights of Nepal with a brilliant trek in the Annapurna’s and a great taste of India, in the cultural triangle of Rajasthan.

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Recommended Hotels Nearby

A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.

Dwarika's Resort Dhulikhel

Dwarika's Resort in Dhulikhel is a charming resort with a truly Nepali feel just an hour's drive from Kathmandu, with fabulous views of the Himalayan mountains during a clear day. It is ideal for those guests not able to reach the Annapurna Region.

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The Inn Patan

The Inn Patan is a beautifully restored traditional boutique hotel located close to Patan Durbar Square in Kathmandu, Nepal. With just 10 rooms, the Inn Patan provides a fantastic bolt-hole from which to explore this secret corner of Kathmandu.

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Dwarika's

Dwarika's Hotel in Kathmandu is a stunning example of meticulous preservation of local architecture and is a fantastic opportunity to stay in a luxurious heritage property in the heart of Kathmandu, and is simply a Scott Dunn's favourite.

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More Experiences in This Area

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Back in time: The Medieval City of Bhaktapur

As you walk into Bhaktapur, you cannot but be overcome by a feeling of inner harmony. Such is the art and architecture and the special layout here.

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Kathmandu Durbar Square & Swayambhu Stupa

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1-hour Scenic Flight over Everest

Gain an unforgettable view over Mount Everest with an one-hour scenic flight.

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Patan

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