Pashupatinath is the most important Hindu shrine in Nepal. Built in the 17th century, the artistic temple houses the sacred lingam or phallic symbol of Lord Shiva, the destroyer in the Hindu trinity. Its gilded pagoda roofs and silver doorways are specimens of marvelous workmanship. The temple marks the spot where Lord Shiva romped through the woods in the guise of a deer. The bank of the holy Bagmati River flowing beside it is a pilgrimage spot where devotees take holy dips. Pashupatinath is also the cremation site for all Hindus, right from paupers to royalty; all Hindus are cremated at this site. UNESCO has declared Pashupatinath a World Heritage Site.
