Shivaratri is one of the major festivals of Nepal mainly observed and celebrated by the Hindu community. On Shivaratri, many visitors from across the world are seen crowding Lord Shiva temples of Nepal. However, the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathamandu witnesses the biggest gathering on this day. So, what makes Shivaratri the most visited festival of Nepal? And, why should you consider visiting Nepal during Shivaratri?

Here are the top 5 reasons why you must visit Nepal during Shivaratri –

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The Pashupatinath Temple

The famous 5th century Pashupatinath temple itself is an iconic place to visit during Shivaratri. Set along the banks of the Bagmati, the Pashupatinath temple is devoted to Shiva’s incarnation as Pashupati. Being one of the oldest temples in Nepal, it is extensively visited by the devotees and Sadhus during Shivaratri. A religious rally is held each year from the temple across the town to mark the annual festivities.

holy temple Pashupatinathtemple — The Pashupatinath Temple Area

The Aura

A thousand lit lamps, the holy chants, the fragrance of the essence sticks mixed with the charcoal dust creates a divine aura during the Shivaratri festival. Moreover, the ambience created by the bonfire in celebration of the special night in attendance of the Sadhus is worth experience it yourself.

The Sadhus

Thousands of Sadhus from India and Nepal arrive at Pashupatinath Temple in Kathamandu. The Sadhus perform Tandav – the cosmic dance and self-sacrificing acts that has gathered huge attraction. Sadhus also amaze visitors with their eccentric behaviour that has been a terrific anthropological talk for centuries.

Naga Baba - Pashupatinath — Naga Baba – Pashupatinath

The Legal Marijuana

Sadhus including devotees smokes marijuana from a clay pipe as a holy offering for Lord Shiva. Marijuana is illegal in Kathmandu, however, during the festivities the marijuana is used and consumed in the courtyard of the Pashupatinath temple and the surroundings.

The Sugarcane Bonfire

Shivaratri is not only an enticement in the Kathamandu area, but the festivities are celebrated across the country. In Pokhara, Sugarcane Bonfire are created, and people gather wood from each other to add to the flames. The fires are believed to please Lord Shiva. The long sugar cane poles are heated and smacked against the roadway forming a flaming sugar bomb.

So, what to expect while visiting Nepal during Shivaratri?

While visiting Nepal during Shivaratri you can expect to encounter a cosmic connection if you are a follower of Lord Shiva. Shivaratri in Nepal is a festival to discover your innermost self while feeling allied to the universe through devotion to Lord Shiva. There is great admiration among people towards the celebration of Shivaratri. Worshipper visit different temple and various rituals are held to observe the festivities. It is also a grand opportunity to spectate the community, amuse to the bizarre traditions and gather quirky snaps.

Beside these, learn more about How safe is Nepal for travelers? and reason to travel Nepal. These articles may help you to plan a trip to Nepal.

So, if you have planned to visit Nepal during Shivaratri, then you have made the right decisions! But speak to a CoreTreks travel expert beforehand. The festivities can get chaotic if you do not have the right information or are travelling with a child. Hence, it is best to consult a travel expert before you visit Nepal during Shivaratri.

We at CoreTreks guide you through every travel requirement. We do not only safeguard your travel plans but also create a bespoke travel itinerary as per your preference. For more information, schedule a Call or WhatsApp our travel gurus today!