About Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu, Nepal
Pashupatinath Temple stands on the banks of the Bagmati river in Kathmandu, Nepal, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Pashupati, the Lord of all living beings. It is the most important Shiva temple in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Kathmandu Valley.
The complex includes many temples, ashrams and ghats on both sides of the river. Pilgrims from India and Nepal visit throughout the year, especially on Maha Shivaratri.
Story of Pashupatinath Temple
The temple has a long history, and the present main structure is a pagoda-style building with a gilded roof and silver doors. The sanctum holds a lingam with four faces and is surrounded by smaller shrines.
Only Hindus are allowed inside the main temple. Visitors of other faiths can view the temple from the opposite bank of the Bagmati.
What Makes Pashupatinath Temple Sacred for Devotees
Pashupati, Lord of Beings
Pashupatinath is regarded as the guardian deity of Nepal. Devotees believe that darshan here brings peace and spiritual merit.
Sacred Ghats and Cremation Tradition
The ghats along the Bagmati are used for Hindu cremation rites, which are part of the religious life of the site.
Annual Festivals & Rituals at Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu, Nepal
Maha Shivaratri Celebrations at the Temple
Hundreds of thousands of devotees and sadhus gather for the night of Shiva, one of the largest festivals at the temple.
Teej Celebrations at the Temple
Women observe the festival with prayers at the temple, especially in the month of Bhadra.
Evening Aarti Celebrations at the Temple
An evening aarti is held on the ghat on the Bagmati river and draws many visitors.
Sacred Places to Visit Near Pashupatinath Temple
Guhyeshwari Temple : A Shakti Peeth close to Pashupatinath, dedicated to Goddess Guhyeshwari.
Boudhanath Stupa : One of the largest stupas in the world, a short distance from the temple.
Bagmati Ghats : The riverside ghats and temples on both banks.
Common Questions About Visiting Pashupatinath Temple
Visitor Information
Darshan Timing
Address
Pashupatinath Temple, Gaushala, Kathmandu, Nepal
How to Reach the Temple
By Air: Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is the nearest airport, a few kilometres away.
By Rail: There is no railway service to Kathmandu.
By Road: The temple is reached by road within Kathmandu.