Religious Sites

Muktinath

It is believed that all miseries/sorrows are relieved once you visit this temple (Mukti=Nirvana, Nath=God). The famous temple of Lord Muktinath lies in the district of Mustang and is situated about 18 km northeast of Jomsom at an altitude of about 3,749m. The main shrine is a pagoda shaped temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Set into the wall around it are 108 water spouts from which pour holy water. The temple is situated on a high mountain range and is visited during fair weather

h2>Swayambhunath

The most ancient and enigmatic of all the Valley’s holy shrines lies 2 km west of Kathmandu. The golden spire of Swayambhunath Stupa crowns a wooded hillock which has been a holy site since ancient times. Swayambhu Stupa watches over the valley from the top of a hillock on its western side. Historical records of its existence date back to the 5th century bu the stupa’s origins may go back even further. Swayambhu is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal and its establishment is linked to the creation of the Kathmandu Valley out of a primordial lake.

Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupa lies about 6 km to the east of down town Kathmandu. This ancient colossal Stupa is one of the largest in the world. It looms 36 m high and presents one of the most fascinating specimens of Stupa design. Bouddhanath, a World Heritage Site, is also known as Khasti. There are more than 45 Buddhist Monasteries in the area.

Budhanilkantha

About 8 km north of Kathmandu, at the base of Shivapuri hill is a remarkable colossal statue of Lord Vishnu, reclining on a bed of snakes. This is one of the masterpieces of stone sculptures of the Lichchhavi period. This fifth century statue is in the middle of a small pond and seems to float in water.

Pashupatinath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world, Pashupatinath lies 5 km east of the city center and is a World Heritage Site. The richly ornamented pagoda houses the sacred linga, or phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. Chronicles indicate the temple’s existence prior to 400 AD. Devotees can be seen taking ritual dips in the holy Bagmati river flowing beside the temple.

Dakshinkali

The temple of Dakshikali is situated about two km south of Shekha Narayan. Dakshinkali is regarded as one of the most important Hindu goddesses. Pilgrims visit this temple to offer their prayers and animal sacrifices are made to the goddess.

Namo Buddha

It is situated on a hill above Panauti. It requires an easy drive or good walk to get there. There is an amazing legend related to the Buddha which is commemorated by an ancient stone slab and a stupa with the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha.

Lumbini

Lumbini, the birth place of the Buddha is 250 km from Kathmandu.  A Buddhist pilgrimage site marooned in the midst of Muslim-Hindu country. Buddha was born around 543 B.C. in a Sakya Clan Lumbini, the birth place of the Buddha is 250 km from Kathmandu.  A Buddhist pilgrimage site marooned in the midst of Muslim-Hindu country. Buddha was born around 543 B.C. in a Sakya Clan.