Throw my ashes to the wind

Located 30 minutes from Kathmandu is this Hindu spiritual Temple and cremation site, Pashupatinath. For me, who have not seen an open air cremation on a funeral, let alone 10 in a row all burning simultaneously, was a definite shock.

It is a fascinating exposure to the Hindu culture and tradition of cremation and and celebration of life. As you walk through the grounds you are exposed to every aspect of this process and as unusual as it may sound, photography is welcome.

As for myself, I could barely handle the smell of burning hair and for sure will not have any barbecue for quite a while. The rich people are cremated to the right, poor to the left, the places close to the temple come at a premium. You could also see little boys looking for gold, as in the gold teeth from the cremated rich.

  

There are many iconic Sadhu's (holy men) lounging in hidden nooks and prayer areas.

 

The spiritual river where the ashes are pushed into is the iconic Bagmati. This section is nothing short of putrid and foul. It remains however, a highly recommended spot to pay a visit to while in Kathmandu. It is one of the most significant Hindu temples of Lord Shiva in the world that is open to the public.