In Hinduism, Lord Shiva is one of "the supreme trinity". This festival, taking place at Pashupatinath temple is dedicated to the god Shiva, the God of Destruction. This is the grandest and prominent among the numerous festivals, which is celebrated in the honor of Lord Shiva. On the morning of Shivaratri day and also on proceeding days, thousands of worshippers throng Shivas' temple, but the most magnificent of all activities takes place at Kathmandu's Pashupatinath temple situated beside The Holy Bagmati River. Devotees spend the night there, lighting sacred fires, singing praises of Lord Shiva and keeping a vigil to welcome the decent of the deity. Pilgrims performed ritual bath in the holy river. On this day, people offer rice, vermilion, fruits, flowers and coins and priests in turn give back a small portion of Chandan Tika (made from Sandalwood), which is considered a gift from Lord Shiva, and a sign of his blessing. Many of them undergo one or more days of fasting.

Maha Shiva Ratri commences at mid night with the priests making ceremonial offerings inside the temple. There is a long military gun salute at Tundikhel parade ground in central Kathmandu to acknowledge the important occasion. In the evening, His Majesty the King, accompanied by the Royal Family, also pays homage to Pashupatinath. As darkness falls, hundreds of wick lamps are lit around the temple vicinity while on the surrounding hills, bonfires are lit, Throughout the night, prayers, singing and chanting continue; many worshippers also take holy baths at three- hour intervals. Bonfires are also lit at important crossroads and in village and town courtyards throughout the Valley. This day is also observed as a public holiday.

This day is dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of music and learning, and the second consort of Lord Vishnu. Sarswati, who symbolizes purity is always clad in white dress and with a harp like musical instrument known as veena. On this special day people visit the holy shrines housing the deity to seek blessing and the temple housing Saraswati wear an especially festive look. Buddhists worship the deity as Manjushree.

Craftsmen offer worship to enhance their skill, musicians worship to sharpen their dexterity, student adore the deity to gain success in their studies. The most spectular events take place near Swayambhu, at the Saraswati courtyard to the west of large stupa. A grand ceremony is held at Hanuman Dhoka Palace in the presense of His Majesty the King, Royal family and other Dignitaries. Basanta Panchami marks the end of the winter and the advent of the spring. People regards this day as most auspicious to tie the nuptial knot or to venture new enterprise.