Introduction to Hinduism and Buddhism in Nepal

Let’s Discover the basic beliefs and lifestyle of Nepalese People

Nepal is predominant a Hindu country with more than eighty percent following Hinduism , nine percent Buddhism and remaining Christianity, Islam, Sikhs, Jain and others. However, the intrinsic belief of normal Nepalese comprises the values from both Hinduism and Buddhism practices and worships deities from both pantheons. A running joke is that – an average Nepalese is 60 percent Hindu and 60 percent Buddhist, because they are seen celebrating and worshiping in every occasion, making it more than a hundred.

Every day is a festival in Nepal – we just don’t happen to know, because of the multiple ethnic groups and their own culture & traditions, something is always happening somewhere. Despite the popular everybody’s festivals, every ethnic group – more than 125 speaking their own language – have their own distinct style of worship to a variety of deities, following with a ceremony or rituals accordingly.

We will be walking from Paknajol to Swayambunath Stupa, around 2.2 km, for 35 minutes total (one way).
We will stop at two different temples - Indrayani Temple and Shobha Bhagwati Temple before arriving at Swayambunath Stupa.

To enter Swayambunath Stupa – travelers need to pay Rs 200 as entry fee. All the other attractions are free to enter, although you can make a small donation for the temple if you like.
Please note:
- Meals and transportation are not provided in this tour.

The tour lasts 3 hours

Available in English

Guide: Milan

Guiding since 2022

Namaste! My name is Milan and I am from the eastern part of Nepal. I studied in Kathmandu and have long time experience working in tourism sector in different roles, and also had opportunity to explore bit of country as well. There is so much to see, feel, taste, explore, learn and understand in our small Himalayan country, which makes me very curious about so-so many things, keeping me motivated to learn different aspects of complex structure of our own lifestyles, culture, and philosophy. Meeting people from around the world and sharing & learning ideas, knowledge, and bizarre thoughts are things that I like most about what I do. I hope to convey facts and stories, to best of my knowledge and provide insights into the historical, natural & cultural beauty of Archaic Nepal ♥

3 stops

1.8 km walking

3 hours

Meeting point:Paknajol Marg 16, Kathmandu 44600, NepalYou can find me at the Paknajol Line (in front of Gokarna House Restaurant). I am 5'5 ft (165cm), have matted long hair, wear All Star Converse (black and white), carrying a bagpack, and wearing face mask.Open in Google Maps →

Free entry

Indrayani TempleIndrayani is one of the mother goddess from the group of eight Matrikas, who are the different forms of Goddess Parvati. She is consort and queen of Lord Indra (King of Gods and Thunder & Lightning), described as endless beauty with orange and golden complexion. Known to be Goddess of Jealousy and Wrath, she also bestows any wish for her devotees.

Free entry

Shova Bhagwati TempleShoba Bhagwati is the holiest temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati (one of the form of Goddess Parvati) and have statues of different forms including nine Durga and eight Matrika. It is one of the oldest, yet smallest temples which attracts many worshippers during biggest festival like Dashain, and perform rituals and animal sacrifices.

Entry not included

Swayambhunath MahachaityaSwayambunath, popularly known as Monkey Temple, is an ancient and sacred Buddhist Stupa located on top of a hillock where you will be greeted with fluttering prayer flags, burning incense and long staircase walk towards the complex which is full of different carving, chaityas, murals, statues etc depicting various aspects of Hinduism and Buddhism along with the myths and legends that are associated with temple. One has to pay Rs 200 as entrance fee to enter the temple.

3 stops

1.8 km walking

3 hours

Free entry

Entry not included

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Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and $50 per participant.

Accessibility

Not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Groups

Does not accept large group bookings.

Pets

Not suitable for bringing pets.

Minimum attendees

Requires a minimum of 1 people to conduct the tour.

Additional costs

The tour requires payment for entries or additional expenses.

Free cancellation

If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.