Bhutnath

Bhutnath is a sacred site located near the town of Kathmandu in Nepal. It is a Shiva temple situated in the Bhaktapur Municipality. The site is considered one of the sacred Shiva temples in the Kathmandu valley. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is associated with the god in the form of Bhuteshwar Bhairab.

The temple dates back to the 13th century during the reign of the Malla dynasty. It is a trialsite for offering human sacrifices, which was a common practice in Nepal during those times. However, the custom was later abandoned, and the rituals have been replaced by cultural performances.

The temple infrastructure is a combination of different architectural styles. The complex has a mandapa, an open pavilion with columns, which adds to the temple's aesthetic beauty. The water tank situated in the temple premises serves as a spot for devotees to take holy dips, further contributing to the site's sanctity.

Bhutnath attracts numerous worshippers who chant mantras to invoke the blessings of Lord Shiva. An annual festival is celebrated at the site where the devotees circumambulate the Bhutnath temple, accompanied by theatrical performances, music, and dance.

Despite efforts to attract more tourists, Bhutnath is yet to reach the same level of popularity as other Nepal temples like Pashupatinath and Kichha Purba. However, local residents consider the site an essential part of their cultural heritage, and this adds to its significance.