Pashupatinath
is one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations for
all the Hindus of the world. The temple is dedicated
to Lord Shiva, one of the trinity and the guardian
(patron) deity of Nepal. This is one of the oldest
temples, situated on the banks of the Holy Bagmati
River. It is double – roofed golden temple with
four triple silver doorways. Pashupatinath covers
and area of 281 hectares, which is one of the biggest
temple complexes in Nepal.
Pashupati is one of the many names of Lord Shiva,
which means "Lord of Animals” or “Lord
of the living beings”. Everyday thousands of
Hindus go to the temple. It is situated 7km. From
the old city of Kathmandu. The date of construction
of this temple is unknown. However, it is believed
to be built by the Licchavi King Supuspadeva in the
6th Century. It was renovated by King Jyoti Malla
in 1416 A.D. King Bhupatindra Malla reconstructed
it in 1697. All the Shah kings have splendor. Non
– Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple.
They can have a good view of the temple complex from
the other side of the Basmati River. There are many
Ghats on the bank of River Bagmati, which are rectangular
or round ones for ritual bat. There are many small
houses behind the Ghats; there are dying near the
complex is almost a guarantee for betterment in the
next life. After the death ritual of cremation is
started immediately, all the ritual can be observed
from the other side of the river.
People other than family members are requested not
to go very near and disturb the cremation activity.
Photos from far are possible