Namo Nepal

Discover the Sacred Majesty of Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu

Standing on the banks of the Bagmati River, the Pashupatinath Temple Kathmandu is the crown jewel of Nepal’s Hindu spiritual landscape and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dawn at Pashupatinath overlooking the cremation ghats and the main temple

Why Visit Pashupatinath Temple?

Spiritual Energy, History, and Cultural Heritage

Pashupatinath Temple Kathmandu is hailed as the oldest and holiest Lord Shiva temple in Nepal, with a history shrouded in myth and legend.

The temple is famous for its sacred Pashupatinath Shiva Linga and the vibrant daily rituals that draw pilgrims and cultural explorers.

Its unique Pashupatinath Temple architecture—golden pagoda roofs, intricate wood carvings, and silver-plated doors—stands as a marvel of Nepalese craftsmanship.

5,000+
daily visitors
3,200+
icon statues in the complex
Aarti performed at Pashupatinath Aarti time daily
Recognized as a Pashupatinath UNESCO site since 1979

The History & Legends of Pashupatinath

Discover Nepal’s Timeless Spiritual Symbol

The Pashupatinath Temple history is rooted in both fact and legend. It is believed the temple’s origins reach back to the 5th century CE, with the present structure dating from the 17th century. According to myth, Lord Shiva, enchanted by the Kathmandu Valley, took the form of a deer here, ultimately revealing himself as Pashupati, “Lord of the Beasts.”

Locals still tell the tale of the divine cow Kamadhenu, whose milk revealed the sacred Shiva Linga that became the center of worship at Pashupatinath. Over centuries, kings like Shivadeva and Ananta Malla expanded the temple, and today it is one of the holiest Hindu shrines in the world.

Close-up of the main Pashupatinath Temple shrine with golden roof Evening aarti being performed at the ghats of the Bagmati River

What to See and Experience at Pashupatinath

Main Shrine & Sacred Linga

The inner sanctum houses the famous Pashupatinath Shiva Linga with four faces symbolizing different aspects of Shiva. Only Hindus may enter the main shrine; others can admire its grandeur from outside.

Intricate interior sanctum art and carvings

Cremation Ghats and Bagmati River

The cremation ghats Bagmati River are central to the temple’s spiritual function, where life’s impermanence is honored through open-air cremations and rituals.

Cremation ceremony taking place at the riverbank

Festivals and Aarti

Major festivals at Pashupatinath include Maha Shivaratri, Teej, and Bala Chaturdashi—events marked by music, color, and a sea of pilgrims. Don’t miss the enchanting evening Pashupatinath Aarti time at 6:00 PM daily.

Priests performing the grand evening aarti ceremony

Essential Visitor Info for Pashupatinath

Pashupatinath Temple timing: Open from 4:00 AM – 9:00 PM, with Pashupatinath Temple darshan from early morning.

Pashupatinath Temple entry fee: Nominal fee for foreign visitors; free for Hindus.

Dress code for Pashupatinath: Modest, non-revealing clothes required; no leather items in the inner area.

Photography rules: Strictly no photos inside the inner sanctum; respectful photography allowed in the complex.

How to reach Pashupatinath Temple: Located 5 km northeast of central Kathmandu, best accessed by taxi, bus, or booked tour.

Respect the Kathmandu religious guide and local customs at this sacred Hindu site.

How to Reach and Explore Pashupatinath

Take a short drive or local taxi from Thamel or Tribhuvan International Airport. Use your Guide for visiting Pashupatinath to time your visit around aarti or festival days for the richest cultural experience.

Main entrance gate to Pashupatinath temple complex

Rituals, Festivals & Living Traditions

Join the Spiritual Pulse of Kathmandu

Attend special rituals at Pashupatinath Temple—including pujas by the Jyotirlinga, cremation rites, and the grand Maha Shivaratri celebration with sadhus and devotees from across the subcontinent.

Wander the complex to see smaller shrines like Guhyeshwari Temple and meet colorful ascetic sadhus. Experience centuries-old temple traditions and vibrant processions throughout the year.

Additional Tips:

Best time to visit Pashupatinath: Early morning or evenings for peaceful rituals and cooler weather.

Festival times are scenic but crowded; book tickets for key events in advance.

Feel the Divine—Plan Your Spiritual Journey to Pashupatinath

Engage with Nepal’s living faith, witness the grand aarti, and breathe in the legend of the Pashupatinath Temple Kathmandu.

Book Personalized Temple Tours Now

Evening lamps lining the Bagmati River at Pashupatinath

Must-See and Do at Pashupatinath

Quick Checklist Paragraph:

  • ✓ Attend the evening Pashupatinath Aarti time
  • ✓ Observe ceremonies at the ghats
  • ✓ Learn the Pashupatinath Temple history
  • ✓ Respect dress and conduct codes
  • ✓ Touch the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site

Pashupatinath Temple – Visitor FAQs

Plan your visit with answers on Pashupatinath Temple timing, entry fee, rituals, rules, and more.

When is Pashupatinath Temple open?
The temple complex is generally open from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Pashupatinath Temple darshan (viewing) starts at 4:00 AM, but the main doors close between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM for rituals.
What time does the aarti begin?
The spectacular evening Ganga Aarti by the Bagmati River at Pashupatinath usually starts around 6:00 PM and lasts for about an hour. It is a highly recommended experience.
Is there an entry fee for foreigners?
Yes, there is a nominal Pashupatinath Temple entry fee for non-SAARC foreigners, which helps maintain the UNESCO site. Entrance is free for Hindu devotees.
How can I reach from the airport?
Pashupatinath is located very close to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). A taxi ride takes about 10-15 minutes, making it a convenient first or last stop in Kathmandu.
Are guided tours available?
Yes, local authorized guides offer tours focusing on the history, architecture, and rituals. Hiring a Kathmandu religious guide is highly recommended for cultural insights.
Can non-Hindus enter the main shrine?
No, only followers of Hinduism are permitted inside the main temple housing the Pashupatinath Shiva Linga. All other parts of the sprawling complex are open to everyone.
What’s the temple’s earliest history?
The earliest documented mention of the temple dates back to 477 CE. Though the main structure has been rebuilt over time (the current one is 17th century), its origins are ancient.
Where should I stay nearby?
There are many guesthouses and small hotels in the surrounding Pashupatinath area. For higher-end accommodation, the airport and Boudhanath Stupa areas are close by.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main temple structure. It is generally allowed in the complex, but always be respectful, particularly around the cremation ghats Bagmati River.
How long does a typical visit take?
A typical visit to the entire complex takes about 2 to 3 hours, especially if you want to observe rituals at the ghats and the evening Aarti.
Can women attend all rituals?
Yes, women are welcome to attend the daily aarti and other public ceremonies. The only restriction is for the main shrine, which applies to all non-Hindus, regardless of gender.
When is the best time to visit?
The best season is Autumn (Sept-Nov) and Spring (Mar-May) for clear weather. The best time of day is early morning (4:00 AM - 7:00 AM) or evening (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM) to avoid crowds and witness key rituals.

Experience the Heart of Nepal’s Spiritual Heritage

Let the culture, stories, and living energy of Pashupatinath Temple Kathmandu inspire your Nepal journey.

Scroll to Top