Talk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Talk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Pashupatinath Temple is not just a religious site—it is a spiritual experience, a historical marvel, and a cultural treasure of Nepal. Its legends, rituals, and vibrant ambiance make it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Kathmandu. Whether you’re a devotee, a pilgrim, or a curious traveler, Pashupatinath offers an encounter with the divine, history, and humanity all in one place.
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, this sacred temple is a sprawling collection of temples, ashrams, and inscriptions that date back centuries. The temple is not only a religious symbol but also a testament to Nepal’s cultural, architectural, and spiritual legacy.
The origins of Pashupatinath Temple are steeped in legend and devotion. It is believed to have been built in the 5th century by King Prachanda Dev, though the existence of the site dates back much further. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva once took the form of a deer and roamed the forest on the Bagmati River’s banks. Gods searching for him discovered the divine animal and recognized the site as sacred. Shiva then declared that he would be worshipped here as Pashupati – Lord of Animals.
Over the centuries, many kings and dynasties, including the Malla rulers, contributed to the temple’s expansion and maintenance, making it one of the most revered Shiva temples in the world.
Situated about 5 km northeast of Kathmandu Durbar Square, the Pashupatinath Temple complex extends over 264 hectares and includes more than 500 temples, shrines, and monuments. The main temple is a stunning two-tiered golden pagoda with intricate wood carvings, silver-plated doors, and a sacred Shiva Linga inside.
This sacred site bustles with daily prayers, cremation rituals on the Bagmati River ghats, and festive celebrations—particularly during Maha Shivaratri, which draws hundreds of thousands of devotees.
Distance from Kathmandu Airport: Only 2.5 km (approximately 10 minutes by car).
From Thamel (tourist hub): Around 4 km (20 minutes by taxi or local bus).
Entry Tickets:
Foreign Tourists (Non-SAARC): NPR 1,000
SAARC Nationals: NPR 100
Nepali Citizens & Hindus: Free
Note: Entrance to the main temple is restricted to practicing Hindus only, but the temple's surroundings and the Bagmati riverfront are open to all visitors.
Pashupatinath is globally renowned for being:
One of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The site of sacred cremation ghats beside the Bagmati River.
A major pilgrimage destination, especially during Maha Shivaratri.
A center of Hindu and Shaivite culture and ascetic life, where sadhus (holy men) reside and meditate.
The main deity of Pashupatinath is a unique Shiva Linga with five faces, each symbolizing different aspects of Lord Shiva:
Sadyojata – Creator
Vamadeva – Preserver
Aghora – Destroyer
Tatpurusha – Concealer
Ishana – Revealer
These five faces represent the Pancha Mukha Shiva, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s omnipresence in the universe.
Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the inner sanctum of the main temple. However, they can freely explore the outer premises, witness rituals and cremations along the Bagmati River, and admire the architecture and spiritual ambiance of the area. This respectful restriction is based on traditional religious practice to preserve the sanctity of the temple.
While Pashupatinath is one of the most revered Shiva temples in the world, it is not classified among the twelve Jyotirlingas located in India. However, due to its spiritual significance and ancient legacy, it holds a comparable stature among devotees worldwide.
Only Hindu priests are permitted to touch the main Shiva Linga inside the sanctum of Pashupatinath Temple. Devotees can offer prayers, flowers, and water from a respectful distance. The tradition maintains the temple's sanctity and ritual purity.
While Pashupatinath is one of the oldest temples in Nepal, dating back to at least the 5th century, the title of the oldest known temple in the world goes to Göbekli Tepe in Turkey, built around 9600 BCE. However, in terms of continually active places of worship, Pashupatinath ranks among the oldest and most significant.
In general Hindu practice, women are allowed to worship Shiva Lingam, though touching may be restricted in certain temples or during specific rituals. At Pashupatinath, only the temple priests can touch the Lingam, regardless of gender.
The term “Pashupati” is derived from Sanskrit:
Pashu = animals or all living beings
Pati = lord or protector
So, Pashupati means “Lord of All Living Beings,” emphasizing Lord Shiva’s role as the compassionate protector of life. It also reflects his role in the cycle of creation and destruction in the universe.
The Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia holds the title for the largest religious monument in the world. However, Pashupatinath Temple is the biggest and most sacred Shiva temple in Nepal, with a vast complex of shrines and spiritual landmarks spread across more than 264 hectares.
Visiting and offering prayers at Pashupatinath Temple is believed to:
Cleanse sins and negative karma
Grant blessings of good health, peace, and prosperity
Help attain moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth)
Provide spiritual calmness and divine connection
Fulfill wishes when devotees pray with a pure heart and devotion
Located near the temple entrance, Pashupati Market is a vibrant area known for:
Rudraksha beads, holy threads, incense, and Shiva statues
Religious artifacts, pictures, and souvenirs
Traditional puja items used in rituals
Shops selling books, prayer items, malas, and cultural crafts
It’s a great place to pick up spiritual souvenirs or participate in local rituals and cultural interactions.
Pashupatinath Temple is the epicenter of Shiva worship in Nepal. Every day, thousands of devotees, sadhus, pilgrims, and tourists gather to witness the divine energy of this sacred temple. During major festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Teej, and Shravan Mondays, the temple sees millions of visitors from Nepal, India, and beyond.
Similarly, many other Shiva temples across the country—like Doleshwar Mahadev in Bhaktapur, Kailashnath Mahadev in Sanga, and Halesi Mahadev in Khotang—also attract throngs of worshippers seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings.
One of the most popular and trusted local travel companies in Nepal, Nepal Himalayas Trekking is proud to offer an immersive and spiritually enriching Pashupatinath Temple Sightseeing (Darshan) experience as part of its comprehensive Kathmandu Valley Cultural Tour. This sacred journey is thoughtfully combined with Kathmandu sightseeing, offering travelers a perfect blend of religious, historical, and cultural exploration.
The Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important religious landmarks in South Asia. Every day, thousands of pilgrims and curious travelers visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site to experience its spiritual vibrations, ancient rituals, and majestic architecture. With Nepal Himalayas Trekking, you can explore this iconic temple under the guidance of knowledgeable local guides who share stories, myths, and historical insights that make the visit truly meaningful.
As part of the Pashupatinath Darshan tour, visitors can:
Witness the daily aarti (ritual worship) at the Bagmati River.
Observe Hindu cremation ceremonies on the river ghats.
Visit nearby temples like Guhyeshwari Temple, Bachhareshwari Temple, and the ashrams of holy sadhus (ascetics).
Learn about the symbolism of the five-faced Shiva Linga and the sacred importance of the site.
In addition to the sacred visit to Pashupatinath, the tour also includes sightseeing of Kathmandu’s iconic UNESCO sites, such as:
Boudhanath Stupa – one of the largest spherical stupas in the world.
Swayambhunath Stupa – also known as the Monkey Temple, with panoramic views of the valley.
Patan Durbar Square – a fine example of medieval Newari architecture.
Kathmandu Durbar Square – home to ancient temples, palaces, and the Living Goddess (Kumari).
Nepal Himalayas Trekking ensures a smooth, guided, and insightful experience, ideal for both spiritual seekers and cultural enthusiasts.
Apart from Kathmandu and Pashupatinath sightseeing, Nepal Himalayas Trekking is widely recognized for offering:
Everest Base Camp Trek (including Budget, Luxury, and Helicopter Return options)
Annapurna Base Camp & Circuit Treks
Langtang Valley & Gosaikunda Treks
Manaslu Circuit Trek & Restricted Area Permits
Bhutan and Tibet Tours
Jungle Safaris in Chitwan National Park
Scenic Mountain Flights & Helicopter Tours
As a locally owned and operated company with over a decade of experience, Nepal Himalayas Trekking ensures:
Authentic travel experiences
Fair pricing with no hidden costs
Government-licensed guides and porters
Customized itineraries based on your needs, time, and fitness level
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Whether you're on a spiritual quest, a photography tour, or a first-time Nepal visitor, the Pashupatinath Temple Sightseeing tour with Nepal Himalayas Trekking is a perfect starting point. Explore the depth of Nepal’s spiritual heritage, combined with the rich tapestry of Kathmandu’s ancient art, architecture, and everyday life.
👉 Contact Nepal Himalayas Trekking today to customize your Kathmandu and Pashupatinath sightseeing tour or combine it with a multi-day trek for the complete Himalayan experience.
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