The Pashupatinath Temple, located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal, is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is not only a spiritual heart of Nepal but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing thousands of pilgrims and travelers every year.
Temple Location
- City: Kathmandu, Nepal
- On the banks of: Bagmati River
- Proximity: ~5 km from Tribhuvan International Airport
Spiritual Significance
- Lord Shiva is worshipped here in his Pashupati form—“Lord of All Living Beings”.
- The temple is one of the four most important religious sites in Asia for Shiva devotees.
- It is considered the national deity of Nepal, and a vital Shaivite pilgrimage center.
According to legends, those who die in Pashupatinath are liberated from the cycle of rebirth, making the temple especially sacred for final rites.
Architecture & Layout
- Built in pagoda-style architecture, the temple features a gilded roof, silver-covered doors, and intricately carved wooden rafters.
- The main sanctum houses a five-faced (Panchamukhi) lingam of Lord Shiva.
- Only Hindus are allowed to enter the inner sanctum.
- The temple complex includes:
- Numerous shrines and ashrams
- Gauri Ghat and Arya Ghat for cremation rituals
- Temples of Vishnu, Parvati, Ganesh, Hanuman, and other deities
Daily Rituals & Worship
| Ritual/Event | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 4:00 AM |
| Morning Aarti | 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM |
| Midday Abhishekam | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM |
| Sandhya Aarti | 6:00 PM onwards |
| Shayan Aarti (closing) | ~7:30 PM |
Key elements include Rudrabhishek, Bilva leaf offerings, lamp-lighting, and chanting of Shiva mantras.
Best Time to Visit
- Maha Shivaratri (Feb/March): The grandest festival, when over a million pilgrims visit.
- Teej Festival: Celebrated by women for marital bliss.
- Shravan Month (July–August): Entire month is devoted to Lord Shiva.
Cremation & Moksha Belief
The Arya Ghat beside the temple is one of the most sacred cremation ghats in Nepal. It is believed that being cremated here ensures liberation (moksha). The Bagmati River is considered spiritually equivalent to the Ganges in India.
Cultural Importance
- Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1979)
- Serves as a bridge between Indian and Nepalese Hindu culture
- The temple is managed by Nepal’s royal priests and Indian Brahmins traditionally appointed from Karnataka.
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport (~5 km)
- From Kathmandu City Center: Easily accessible via taxi or local transport
- Visa Note: Indian citizens do not require a visa to visit Nepal.
Accommodation
- Pilgrim guesthouses and hotels are available nearby.
- Popular areas to stay: Gaushala, Thamel, or Durbar Marg.
Travel Tips
- Dress modestly and maintain temple decorum.
- Photography is not allowed inside the main sanctum.
- Early morning is best for a peaceful darshan.
- Donations and pujas can be arranged through official temple staff.
Spiritual Message
“Pashupatinath is not just a temple—it’s where the eternal meets the earthly, where silence speaks, and Shiva blesses all beings.”
Visiting Pashupatinath is more than a religious act—it is an immersion into ancient wisdom, devotion, and the universal energy of Lord Shiva that transcends borders.
Would you like:
- A custom Nepal spiritual itinerary (including Muktinath, Manakamana, Janakpur)?
- Info on Shivaratri 2025 special events at Pashupatinath?
- Help with temple puja bookings or rituals?
Let me know—I’m here to guide your spiritual journey!
Panchang Official