Visitor Interest in Guided Tours at Pashupatinath Temple: A Call for Youth Engagement
Introduction Pashupatinath Temple, located in Kathmandu, is one of the most sacred Hindu sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Pashupati (the Lord of all living beings), it has been a center of spiritual, cultural, and artistic life since at least the 2nd century CE during the Licchavi period. Over time, especially under the Malla kings, it grew into a complex of over 500 shrines, with stunning Nepali multiple-roof (pagoda) style architecture, detailed wood carvings, and the spiritually significant Bagmati River flowing alongside. Despite its global fame, many local visitors, especially young Nepalis, know little about its deep history, symbolic art, or intangible traditions. After leading a guided tour of the temple premises, I noticed this gap clearly. Most youth are familiar with foreign histories and global tourist spots but remain disconnected from their own heritage. This inspired me to offer free educational tours not j...