Kumbheshwor Temple, Kathmandu - Patan

The temple platform has two ponds whose water is said to come straight from the holy lake at Gosainkund, a long trek north of the valley. An annual ritual bath in the Kumbeshwar Temple's tank is claimed to be as meritorious as making the arduous walk to Gosainkund.

Thousands of pilgrims visit the Kumbeshwar Temple during the Janai Purnima festival in July or August to worship the silver-and-gold lingam that is set up in the tank. It's a colourful occasion: bathers immerse themselves in the tank while members of the Brahmin and Chhetri castes replace the sacred thread they wear looped over their left shoulder. Jhankris (faith healers) beating drums and wearing colourful headdresses and skirts dance around the temple to complete the dramatic scene.