
Nepal has several ancient pilgrimage sites.
Each temple is attached to a legend or belief that glorifies
the miraculous powers of its deity. Kathmandu Valley is home
to the famous Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhu Stupa and several
other famous temples. Hundreds of famous temples are located
in and around the Kathmandu Valley. Some well-known pilgramage
sites are: Baraha Chhetra, Halesi Mahadev, Janakpur, Pathibhara,
Tengboche in East Nepal; Manokamana, Gorkha, Lumbini, Muktinath,
Gosainkunda, Tansen, Kathmandu Valley in Central Nepal; and
Swargadwari, Khaptad Ashram in West Nepal. Pashupatinath,
Swoyambhunath, and Boudhanath are the sites that are also
listed in the UNESCO Heritage Sites.
Nepal is also the Gateway to Kailash Mansarovar,
the mythical abode of Lord Shiva. Devotees from various parts
of Nepal and India throng the temples during special festivals.
Even though weak infrastructure renders some places hard to
reach, efforts are being made on national level to develop
and promote some popular sites.
Pilgrimage sites of Nepal like Muktinath
and Gosainkunda make popular trekking destinations. Tours
to these sites are encouraged for the novelty they provide
in terms of nature and culture.
Pashupatinath, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the holiest Hindu
destination in Nepal.
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Swoyambhunath is believed to have been established more than
2,500 years ago.
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Janaki Temple dedicated to Janaki (Sita in Ramayana).
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