Pashupatinath And Boudhanath day trip - Skylark Himalayan Travels & Treks

Trip Overview

This tour will let you see how two different religions and cultures co-exist peacefully in Kathmandu. This short 4 hrs tour gives you a great opportunity to visit the religious sites of two of the most common religions Hinduism (about 80%) and Buddhism (about 10%) in Nepal – Pashupatinath and Boudhanath, both of which are UNESCO world heritage sites. Religion is a way of life and at the heart of every religion lies designated sacred places where deities are remembered and worshiped. These sacred places are often the birthplace center of the finest architecture, symbols, and culture within that religion. Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa also bear these hallmarks.

Your tour starts by picking up from your Kathmandu hotel in the morning and directly drive to Pashupatinath. Pashupatinath is the most sacred of the Hindu temples in Nepal dedicated to lord Shiva, first established in 5th century which is located on the banks of Bagmati River. It is a must visit pilgrimage place in Nepal for Hindu. The word Pashupatinath is originated from two words Pashu- animals and Patinath-protector in all it is known as Protector of Living beings. It is listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO since 1979. Only Hindus are allowed to enter inside the temple, all other visitors may look in from the opposite bank of Bagmati river and walk around the outer complex. Pashupatinath is also known for most Hindu cremation sites. It is believed the person who is cremated in its premises, washed out all sins and will take birth as human again. There are many festivals throughout the year. Maha Shivaratri is the major festival here and many people from all over the world come to attend this festival.

Next, you’ll head to Boudhanath area, which is just 5 mins drive away from Pashupatinath. Boudhanath is a very old Buddhist stupa that was built in 5th century (2500 years ago). Boudhanath stupa is famous as a wish granted stupa. People believe, one who visit this stupa and pray, their wish is granted. It is also declared as the largest Buddhist shrine of Nepal as well of south Asia. This Stupa is popular for its pair of eyes designed on all its four sides signifying the “God’s all-seeing” perspective topped with a dome and a golden triangle-shaped spire. It has become one of the most important centers of Buddhism and today it remains one of the famous and important place of pilgrimage and meditation for Tibetan Buddhists, foreigners and even for local Nepalese. Every year, thousands of Tibetans visit and pay homage to Boudhanath Stupa. People also called mini Tibet as many refugees from Tibet live here.

Both Pashupatinath and Boudhanath are the most common and easy day tours and can be reached in short drive from Kathmandu and this tour adds a good flavor to your Kathmandu stay.