Pashupatinath is the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva and set on the banks of the Bagmati River. Only Hindus may enter the main temple, but visitors can watch the cremation ghats and evening aarti ceremony from the opposite bank. Sadhus gather around the complex. The Maha Shivaratri festival draws huge numbers of pilgrims each year.

Dakshinkali Temple lies in a forested gorge south of Kathmandu near Pharping and is dedicated to the fierce goddess Kali. It is famous for animal sacrifices offered to the goddess, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays and during the Dashain festival. Pilgrims crowd the steps down to the shrine. Visitors who are sensitive may prefer to come on other days.

Changu Narayan is considered the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley, with origins in the 4th century. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it stands on a hilltop above the valley and is richly decorated with stone, wood and metal carvings. The courtyard holds some of Nepal's oldest inscriptions. It is part of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nyatapola is a five-tiered pagoda temple in Bhaktapur's Taumadhi Square, built in 1702 by King Bhupatindra Malla. It is the tallest pagoda in Nepal and has survived major earthquakes. Pairs of stone guardians, including wrestlers, elephants, lions and goddesses, line the stairway. The square around it is a lively spot to sit with a cup of tea and watch daily life.

Bindhyabasini Temple is one of the oldest and most important Hindu temples in Pokhara, dedicated to the goddess Bhagawati. It sits on a small hill in the old town with several shrines in its grounds. Worshippers come especially on Saturdays and during Dashain. On clear days the Annapurna peaks are visible from the temple platform.

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is a cave near Davis Falls in Pokhara with a Shiva lingam shrine inside. A spiral stairway leads down into the cave, and a further passage reaches a viewpoint behind the waterfall. The cave is damp and slippery, so wear good shoes. Photography is not allowed in the shrine section. It is easy to combine with a visit to Davis Falls.

Janaki Mandir is a white marble temple in Janakpur dedicated to the goddess Sita, believed to have been born in this ancient city. Built in the early 20th century in a Mughal-Rajput style, it has domes, towers and ornate arches. Huge crowds gather for Vivah Panchami, which celebrates the marriage of Sita and Rama. The temple is lit beautifully at night.