Pashupatinath area all prepared for Mahashivaratri [In Pictures]

KATHMANDU: The Pashupatinath Temple complex is abuzz with excitement as pilgrims and visitors from all over Nepal and abroad gather to celebrate the auspicious Mahashivratri festival.

The Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) has estimated that an impressive three million visitors will flock to the Pashupati area, with two million devotees expected to pay homage to Lord Shiva at the main temple. In anticipation of the large crowds, the PADT has set up multiple entry gates to ensure that the devotees can easily access the temple and participate in the celebrations.

The chief of the Govardhan Math in Jagannathpuri, Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati, has already arrived in Nepal at the invitation of the PADT to pay homage to Lord Shiva.

To enhance the festive atmosphere, the PADT has given the buildings in the Pashupati area a fresh coat of paint, and the entire complex has been decorated with vibrant flowers and sparkling lights.

As part of the celebration, the PADT has also made arrangements to distribute chandan (sandalwood paste) by the students of Nepal Veda Bidyashram Sanskrit School.

The Mahashivratri festival is a significant occasion in the Hindu calendar, and devotees believe that observing this festival will bring them prosperity, happiness, and divine blessings.