Shivaratri is a unique festival in Nepal, first because it isn't held on the full moon. It's held on the no moon or new moon phase. It's an exciting festival in that people all gather at the Shiva temples, particularly Pashupatinath. Typically, marijuana is smoked or eaten in the form of candy balls during this festival.
We took our 360 camera with us to enjoy this celebration and did a live shoot. Check it out to get the feel of what the festival is all about. Be sure to adjust the quality to the highest so you can get that 'being there' feeling. If you have 3d goggles it's really nice. Spin the screen to see what's behind the camera.
Please do not let these warnings below stop you from enjoying this festival. I really wanted to use this as a way to educate our readers and viewers about drug use in Nepal. It isn't dangerous; just don't let it get you into trouble.
Tip #1. Do not eat the balls. There is a treat that's readily available at this festival made from ganja. Many hands were working on these and there may not be running water anywhere in the area. You can easily become ill if you eat them.
Tip #2. Although the Nepali police are polite and helpful for tourists, please obey the laws. If you do want to smoke ganja it's best to not have much on you at any time. Just pack a few cigarettes. The police have enough to do without dealing with problems from this.
Tip #3. Drug Warning: Be very careful about partaking of anything stronger than marijuana or organically made hashish. Sometimes they make hashish with things like petrol, so smell it to make sure there isn’t petrol or something worse. Generally, hashish is made by a process of shaking and rubbing to get the THC out of the plant; I’m not sure of the exact methods used here.
Tip #4. Be sure to leave your valuables, passport, etc. in the guesthouse. I accompanied a tourist one time to a festival and she got pick-pocketed within minutes of paying her ticket.
Tip #5. It's best to stay near the airport and walk to Pashupatinath for Shivartri. They often close the road so taxis and buses are unable to get you close enough. But when it's time to go back you can walk a ways and find a taxi. It isn't so far but you'll be walking the entire day. Here's a guesthouse by the airport that we stayed at that was nice and moderately priced.
Tip #6. Understand what is expected of you, what to do and what not to do. You are welcome to join in just about anywhere. You'll find Nepalese are so welcoming you will have a great time.
Tip #7. Be careful about dealing with sadhus. These are the people walking around with painted faces and dressed in orange. Many are con men, so always negotiate the money issue before you allow them to put a tika on your forehead, get a picture with them or let them tell your future. Then, after you think you are finished, they ask you for money to help them get back to India. Keep in mind that a local bus to India costs less than $25.
If you ever think you are being taken advantage of just look for a police officer or call the tourist police. You should have that phone number logged into your cell phone. 014247041
What not to do: If you take a picture with a sadu, street beggar or vendor please give them a bit of money. Usually 50-100 rupee is fine. Otherwise, ask before taking a picture or video where a person may be uncomfortable.
Do not take pictures of burning bodies or mourners close up. If it's a picture of the grounds and there are bodies burning, that's fine, but don't feature that in the picture without asking permission.
If you have a tip for travelers who want to enjoy this festival please leave it in the comments.
