Pashupatinath Temple
The oldest Hindu temple in Kathmandu, the Pashupatinath temple is sacred to Hindus the world over. Dedicated to the Hindu God Siva, the God of Love, this temple sits on the banks of the holy Bhagmati River. This temple attracts throngs of Hindu pilgrims, primarily worshippers of Siva. It is also well-known to be a conclave for sadhus (renunciates). The banks of this holy river is a place where many devout Nepalis also choose to be creamted.
The photo above shows an ariel view of the Pashupatinath temple and the photo on the left is of a sadhu with matted locks. These men have dedicated their lives to sadhana, spiritual practices, and the pursuit of enlightenment and can be seen residing in and around the temple.
Swayambhunath
One of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites, Swayambhunath is located atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley. Often known as the "Monkey Temple" the complex is centred around a white stupa. The stupa has Buddha's eyes painted on it. Local devotees can be seen circumambulating the stupa each morning and evening, spinning prayer wheels as they walk around in devotion.
