Travel Tips

Religion in Nepal

Hinduism and Buddhism constitute the two major religions of Nepal. A remarkable feature of the kingdom is the religious homogeneity that exists between these two communities. The exquisite medieval art & architecture of the Kathmandu valley vividly reflect the artistic ingenuity and religious tradition of the people.

Hinduism
Roughly 60% of the population are Hindu, worshiping thousands of gods and goddesses that make up the Hindu pantheon. Each god has His/Her own steed which is often seen kneeling faithfully at the feet of the deity or sometimes outside that god's temple. Symbolic objects are carried by the multiple hands of each deity which empowers them to perform great feats.

Buddhism
Sakyamuni Buddha is the founder of Buddhism who lived and taught in this part of the world during the sixth century BC. The great stupas of Swayambhunath and Bouddhanath are among the oldest and most beautiful worship sites in the Kathmandu Valley. With almost 40% of Nepalese following this religious path, spinning of prayer wheels, prostrating pilgrims, collective chants and burning butter lamps are but some Buddhist practices encountered by visitors.

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