In Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu you can see sadhus (Hindu ascetics) smear sacred ash (vibhuti or bhasma) on their bodies as part of their spiritual practice. This tradition has deep religious and symbolic significance.
Symbol of Renunciation & Detachment
Ash (bhasma) represents the transient nature of life and the physical body. By wearing ash, sadhus remind themselves that the material world is temporary (“Ashes to ashes, dust to dust“).
Connection to Lord Shiva
Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred Shiva temples in the world.
Shiva, the destroyer and ascetic god, is often depicted covered in ash from cremation grounds and Sadhus imitate Shiva’s appearance to show devotion and seek spiritual liberation (moksha).
Purification & Spiritual Power
Ash is considered purifying and is believed to ward off negative energies.
It is made from homa (sacred fire rituals) or cremation grounds, symbolizing the burning of ego and desires.
Mark of a True Aghori or Shaiva Sadhu
Many sadhus at Pashupatinath belong to Shaiva (Shiva-worshipping) sects, including Aghoris and Naga Babas.
For them, ash signifies fearlessness, they meditate in cremation grounds to conquer the fear of death.
Blessings & Identity
Applying ash is also a ritual act which some receive as prasad (blessing) from the temple.
It marks them as holy men, earning respect from devotees who seek their blessings.
Cultural Significance at Pashupatinath
Pashupatinath is a major cremation site, and the ash serves as a constant reminder of life, death, and rebirth—core themes in Hinduism.
Many sadhus gather here for Shivaratri and other festivals, where ash-smearing is a prominent practice.
Thus, the ash on a sadhu’s body is not just dirt, it’s a sacred symbol of their path to enlightenment.
Pashupatinath Temple and witnessing sadhus are included in this walking tour:
3 hour Pashupatinath and Boudhanath Private Walking Tour
$17,50 pp small group tour of max 5 people, or $60 private tour.
Your guide decodes complex rituals, from priestly ceremonies at Pashupatinath to Buddhist practices at Boudhanath, so you don’t just see, you understand.
Witnessing cremations at Pashupatinath can feel overwhelming. Our guides navigate sensitivities with clarity and compassion, ensuring you observe traditions appropriately.
