Sacred and Religious Sites

As a Hindu majority country, Nepal is one of the best religious destinations boasting of various religious sites. With numerous religious hubs, especially for Hindus and Buddhists, the country attracts tourists seeking serenity and peace of mind. There are numerous holy temples, mountains and other spots worth visiting in the magical land of Nepal.

Boudhanath Stupa
Boudhanath Stupa is one of the holiest sites in Nepal, serving as a sacred hub for Tibetan Buddhist outside of Tibet. Built in the 14th century, the Boudhanath Stupa is one of the biggest stupas in the world. The Boudhanath area is a hub of Tibetan life in Kathmandu, and the lanes around the stupa are full of Tibetan trinket shops catering to locals as well as tourists.

Pashupatinath Temple
This pagoda style temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for the Shiva devotees. The temple has been enlisted by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The major festivals celebrated here are Maha Shivaratri and Teej. Famed for its ancient art, culture and sculpture, there are around 492 temples around the Pashupatinath temple area.

Lumbini
Lumbini is a small town in the Western Terai. If archaeological evidences are to be believed, it is indeed the place where Buddha was born in 623 BCE. Now, Lumbini is home to monasteries and Buddhist centres built by various countries with strong Buddhist traditions. Touring Lumbini is like taking a tour of Buddhist architectural traditions from around the world.

Manakamana Temple
Located high on a hill in Gorkha District, the Manakamana Temple is another popular religious site of Nepal. The temple can be reached by a steep trek, or one can also opt for cable cars. Since the temple was badly damaged in the 2015 earthquake, it is undergoing repairs. On a clear day, there are good views of the Himalaya.

Swayambhunath Stupa
An ancient Buddhist stupa on a hill overlooking the city of Kathmandu, the Swayambhunath Stupa can be reached via a steep staircase, or a more gradual road. This beautiful stupa is definitely one of the most iconic sites of Kathmandu, with its white dome, ornate bronze spire, and intricately painted Buddha eyes. The Swayambhunath Stupa is definitely a must-visit place in Kathmandu.