Pashupatinath is the holiest Hindu
pilgrimage destination in Nepal. There are linga images of Shiva
along with statues, shrines, and temples dedicated to other deities
in the complex. A temple dedicated to Shiva existed at this site
in AD 879. However, the present temple was built by King Bhupatindra
Malla in 1697. A gold-plated roof, silver doors, and woodcarvings
of the finest quality decorate the pagoda construction.
Guheswari Temple, restored in AD 1653, represents the female "force".
It is dedicated to Satidevi, Shiva's first wife, who gave up her
life in the flames of her father's fire ritual.
A circuit of the Pashupati area takes visitors past a sixth-century
statue of the Buddha, an eighth-century statue of Brahma the creator
and numerous other temples. Some other places to visit are Rajrajeswari
Temple, built in 1407, Kailas with lingas more than 1,400 years
old, Gorakhnath temple, and the courtyard of Biswarup. There are
rows of Shiva shrines and Hindu pilgrims from all over South Asia
offer worship to Shiva, the Lord of Destruction.
The Bagmati River flows close by and the Arya Ghat cremation grounds
are here. We strongly advise photographers not to take photos of
cremations and of bereaved families. Sadhus, sages who follow the
lifestyle of Shiva, may be seen covered in ashes and loin-cloths.
They ask for money in case you want to take their photos. The main
Pashupatinath courtyard may be entered by those of Hindu faith only.
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