February / Marchreligious Festival
Maha Shivaratri
महाशिवरात्रि
About the Celebration
The Great Night of Shiva, one of Nepal's most revered spiritual events. Hundreds of thousands of sadhus, devotees, and pilgrims gather at the world-famous Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu.
Spiritual & Cultural Significance
Marks the divine night Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction (Tandava).
Key Rituals & Days
- Nightlong fasting and vigil (Jaagran) around holy bonfires (Dhuni)
- Bathing in sacred rivers such as the Bagmati
- Offering Bel-patra (wood apple leaves) and milk to the Shiva Linga