In pictures: PM Modi's Nepal visit to focus on faith diplomacy

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to visit Nepal. Apart from the inauguration of key developmental projects, the other big focus will be faith diplomacy. He will visit famous temples and showcase common India- Nepal cultural ties.

In Jankapur PM Modi along with Nepal's PM KP Sharma Oli will jointly inaugurate a bus service. This bus will connect Janakpur in Nepal with Ayodhya in India. Both these cities hold a special significance for Hindus. (Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

Janakpur is the birthplace of goddess Sita, the wife of Lord Ram while Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram. The bus to Ayodhya from Janakpur and vice-versa will be PM Modi’s gift to Nepal. (Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

PM Modi's visit to Nepal is expected to enhance cultural and religious ties between the two countries. PM Modi will visit famous pilgrimage sites in Janakpur, Kathmandu and Muktinath. This is crucial at a time when both the countries are emphasizing the development of religious tourism through Ramayan and Buddha circuit. (Image source: Pixabay)

On May 12, PM Modi will travel to Muktinath. Nepali authorities have already banned trekking and flights along the popular Thorong la pass to tighten security ahead of PM Modi's arrival. The Indian PM's visit to these religious sites could help promote religious tourism in Nepal. A country with a large Hindu population which hosts millions of Indian tourists every year.

PM Modi will also visit the famous Pashupatinath temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Kathmandu. This will be PM Modi's second visit to Pashupatinath. He also visited the temple during his first visit in 2014. According to legend, the temple was constructed in the 3rd century BC.