Pashupatinath Temple | Nepal’s Most Sacred Place

A very spiritual and holy temple, where ceremonies from birth to death takes place lies in the heart of Kathmandu. The Pashupatinath Temple is a very sacred Hindu site. It is on the sides of the Bagmati River, in Kathmandu, Nepal.

The holy temple worships Lord Shiva, known as Pashupati, the friend of all living beings. Anually thousands of pilgrims and other tourists to experience spiritual power and receive blessings. The atmosphere here is serene and godlike. The environment is calming with incense, bells, and chant Om Namah Shivaya.

Pashupatinath is not only a religious place but also the culture, history, and religion of Nepal. The roof of a golden pagoda, the silver-plated doors.  

It has a Shiva linga that resides in the temple to make it a masterpiece of artwork and worship. It is a spiritual voyage and not merely a trip to the temple. 

Pashupatinath Temple Location

The Pashupatinath Temple is in eastern Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. The temple is next to the holy Bagmati River, which is of tremendous significance to the Hindu tradition.

The coordinates of Pashupatinath are 27.7105° N, 85.3488° E. The area of Pashupatinath temple complex is 246 hectares.

Tribhuvan International Airport is approximately 1 kilometers away and thus can be easily accessible by locals and visitors as well. 

Gaushala surrounds it, one of the oldest and most colorful neighborhoods in Kathmandu.

The surroundings are filled with little temples, ashrams, and holy shrines. You can see several Sadhus, the Hindu holy men, either in the act of meditation or blessing followers.

Pashupatinath Temple History 

One of the oldest and sacred Hindu temples in the world is the Pashupatinath Temple. It is believed that the holy temple existed even in the 5th century CE.  

Even some indicate that the worship here might be earlier than that period. The temple is consecrated with Lord Shiva in the form of Pashupati, or Lord of animals or Lord of all living things. 

Legend says that Shiva and Parvati, his mistress, once appeared in the form of antelopes in the forest at the Bagmati River. Attempting to be seized by the gods, he resorted to his divine nature, and a horn was torn, which currently forms the linga, which is the foundation of the temple.

There is still another story of a sacred cow that spilled milk over a special place on the river. On digging the ground, people discovered one of the divine lingas. This linga came into the center of worship and the central temple shrine.

In the Licchavi period (5th-8th centuries CE), Nepalese kings were involved in the construction of the temple. The temple was reconditioned and rebuilt numerous times over time, the modern one being predominantly 17th-century.

Currently, the primary temple is encircled by over 500 smaller temples, shrines, and cremation ghats along the Bagmati River, which are significant in the Hindu funeral rituals.

Who Built Pashupatinath Temple? 

Pashupatinath Temple is considered the most important Hindu temple of Lord Shiva. It is thought that the temple was built during Licchavi period in the 5th century CE when King Prachanda Deva ruled.

Some believe that it was first built by early Hindu devotees who acknowledged the spiritual significance and importance of the Bagmati River’s banks. The temple has been expanded and remodeled over the years and the result is the structure we see today.  

The Malla period in the 16th century was significant for King Bhupatindra Malla of Kathmandu, who undertook the major renovation and construction of the temple.  

He adorned the temple with intricate wood carvings, pagoda roof architectural features and beautiful wooden flowers which helped transform the temple into a beautiful place with significant activity related to an important Hindu temple.  

King preserved the importance of Pashupatinath as a center of Hindu culture and a desired pilgrimage destination in Nepal and worldwide.

Why is the Pashupatinath Temple so famous?  

Pashupatinath is popular as one of the sanctuaries of Shiva. Worshipers think that a visit is a blessing, peace, and spiritual development. 

It has a uniquely Nepalese architecture: a golden roof, silver doors, and detailed wood carvings depict the masterpiece of Nepal. Within the complex is the spiritual heart, namely the powerful Shiva linga. 

The ghats and the Bagmati River make the place more famous. Rituals and ceremonies every day give an idea about centuries-old traditions to the visitors. 

Festivals that are also widely known about Pashupatinath are the Maha Shivaratri, where thousands of people gather to pray and celebrate.  

The temple has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO owing to the cultural and historical value it has. 

Pashupatinath Temple Architecture and Structure 

Pashupatinath attracts Nepalese architecture. The main temple is a pagoda which roof is of two layers of gold, which shines in the sun. 

Windows and structural beams are decorated with silver-plated doors and decorative carvings made of wood, indicating the capabilities of the ancient artisans.  

The complex is located along the banks of the Bagmati River and has hundreds of smaller ghats of shrines and cremation, plus a great area that encircles a sacred compound of worship, rituals, and cultural gatherings.

The Shiva linga, which is the main deity, is worshipped indoors as one of the most powerful hearts in the temple. Access to the inner sanctum is restricted to priests due to the daily rituals, whereas devotees contribute offerings of flowers, milk, and sacred water at the entrance as per the centuries-old traditions. 

A Nandi Bull, which is a representation of obedience and security, is a stone in front of the temple and indicates its spiritual guarding.  

The design is not just pretty, but it is practical, you can host a big crowd in the festival like Maha Shivaratri and maintain a calm ambience.

What is Inside Pashupatinath Temple? 

The four-faced Mukhalinga of Lord Shiva at the center of the inner sanctum is the most significant of all elements of the main Pashupatinath Temple. This divine linga is a four-faced one with the four faces to look towards the east, west, north, and south.  

Besides the linga, the sanctum also has silver-plated doors, a golden roof, and carved wooden beams for the support of the inner area. 

It is the priests and Hindu devotees who are allowed to go inside the sanctum, where they perform the offering of water, flowers, bel leaves, and do the daily puja. The atmosphere there is very calm, pure, and totally dedicated to the worship of the Mukhalinga. 

The space around the sanctum within the main temple building is for the priests to move, store the puja things, keep the oil lamps, and perform the rituals.  

The inner temple also has smaller ritual elements such as the yoni base of the linga, brass and copper puja vessels, and lamp stands used for daily prayers.  

There are no idols or extra structures placed inside the main chamber except the Mukhalinga, its base, and the ritual objects required for worship. Everything that is inside the temple is only for Lord Shiva.

The Five Faces of the Shiva Linga Inside Pashupatinath 

The five-faced Shiva Linga is the main attraction inside the Pashupatinath Temple sanctum. Each face, as we read in the Hindu scriptures, is a representation of an abstract idea of life. 

Pashupatinath is a temple where rites of the life cycle are performed, and the five faces are a representation of the most powerful and energetic deities, radiating their protection, blessing, and spiritual force in different directions. 

The face looking east is called Tatpurusha and it is the representation of knowledge and wisdom. The west-face or Sadyojata is the one that offers the symbolism of material wealth and financial growth. 

The north-facing side of the Linga is Vamadeva, the one that indicates marital harmony and family life. The south-facing side is Aghora, the one that speaks about the destruction of one’s enemies and evil‍‌ forces.

Daily Routine of Pashupatinath Temple 

The priests (Bhatt) wake up Lord Pashupatinath at 4:00 AM. After giving the deity a ritual bath, the temple area is cleaned, and fresh clothes are put on the Shiva Linga.  

Then Balabhog (a sweet offering, usually halwa) is offered to the deity. A special puja is held from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM and in the evening at 5:30 PM, the evening Aarti is performed. On regular days, the temple usually closes at 6:00 PM.  

Likewise, at Vasuki Nagraj Temple, an Aarti is also performed at the same time as the main temple’s evening Aarti. Aarti is also done at the main Pashupatinath Temple during special occasions and ritual‌ times.

Main Attractions Inside Pashupatinath Temple

The following are the key attractions within the Pashupatinath Temple complex, which are described in an easy and understandable manner:

Main Pashupatinath Temple

This is the centre of the complex. The pagoda is covered with golden roofs that are located where the sacred Shiva linga is. The inner room should remain closed to outsiders; only priests may enter it, yet the linga may be seen by outsiders through the door.  

The HolyShiva Linga (Mukhyalinga)

The most significant attraction is this linga. It has four faces, which are varieties of Shiva. It is said to be self-manifested and very powerful.

Nandi Statue

Outside the main temple is a fortuitously big stone statue of Nandi, the divine bull, and the carrier of Lord Shiva. The believers are convinced that Nandi will hear the prayers of the believers and deliver them to Shiva.

Cremation Ghats and Bagmati River

The temple is along the Bagmati sacred River. The cremation grounds and the Arya Ghat are important to the Hindu funeral rites. Hindus think that by burning here, the soul is assisted in gaining liberation.

Smaller Temples and Shrines

The complex is home to hundreds of tiny temples to various deities and goddesses, including:    

• Vasuki Nath Temple    
• Unmatta Bhairav Temple    
• Surya Narayan Temple    
• Kirateshwar Temple    
• Ram Mandir    

These temples indicate the variety of the Hindu religion in Nepal. 

Guhyeshwari Temple    

This temple is situated close to Goddess Parvati. It is a holy Shaktipeeth and a significant pilgrimage place to the Nepali and the Indian religions.

Sadhus (Hindu Holy Men)

Sadhus spends a lot of time living and meditating in the temple. They are famous due to their covered bodies with ash and a distinct look. Tourists usually interact with them by talking to them and taking photographs, requesting that they be blessed.

The Deer Park (Mrigasthali)

They say that Shiva used to walk around here as a deer. The location is calm and green, thus a relaxing walking area.

Ritual Platforms and Prayer Halls

There are a few open spaces where prayers, aartis, and pujas are done daily. Evening Bagmati Aarti has been a major tourist attraction.

Stone Sculptures and Carvings of ancient times

The complex is overrun with ancient stone carvings and statues of gods, sages, and mythical creatures. These carvings reflect the artistic heritage in Nepal.    

Major Festivals at Pashupatinath Temple 

The Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most colorful religious places in Nepal. A lot of significant Hindu festivals are held there, and they are highly worshipped. 

These festivals help to bring together thousands of followers of Nepal, India, and other nations. The noteworthy festivals observed in Pashupatinath are as follows, explained in a detailed but simple and friendly manner:

Maha Shivaratri

The greatest and most significant festival at Pashupatinath Temple is Maha Shivaratri. It normally occurs during February or March. All the complexes are active from early morning to late hours.    

Thousands of worshippers come to the temple. Individuals starve, recite Om Namah Shivaya, and pour milk, bel leaves, and flowers over Shiva. Indian and Nepalese sadhus come together, meditate, do rituals, and offer spiritual teaching.    

The temple is open 24 hours, and long queues are lined up on the premises. The vitality, passion, and the environment of Maha Shivaratri make it one of the greatest experiences throughout Pashupatinath.

During the festival, the head of the nations visit the temple and helicopters shower flowers all around the holy temple.

Teej

Teej is a festive occasion among the Hindu women, regardless of whether it is in August or September. Unmarried and married women go to Pashupatinath to offer prayers towards a happy married life, good health, and the welfare of the family.    

The women wear bright red sarees and sing traditional songs, dance in groups, and pray to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The temple is made colorful and vibrant.    

Most of the women observe fasts throughout the day and only break them in the evening. Teej is regarded as one of the most exquisite cultural events that takes place in Nepal because Pashupatinath is the center of the celebration.

Bala Chaturdashi

Bala Chaturdashi is a festival that glorifies the dead. It normally occurs during the month of November or December.    

Worshippers remain up during the night, repeating prayers and lighting lamps. They also plant Satabij (seven holy seeds) on their way to the temple in the morning and some ways to the Bagmati River.

The ceremony is perceived to leave the souls of the ancestors in peace. The temple environment is full of worship as people recall the deceased. 

Pashupatinath Temple As A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Pashupatinath Temple is listed among the world’s key cultural heritage sites. In 1979, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its international importance in religion, history, culture, and architecture. 

The complex occupies a very large area along the Bagmati River. It has numerous temples, shrines, ashrams, statues, and customary buildings. The structures have their history and religious importance, as Nepal has strong spiritual traditions and ancient art.

Pashupatinath stands out in UNESCO because of its diversity of art, culture, rituals, and spirituality. The temple is some thousands of years old, and its daily pujas, aarti, and ceremonies are still carried out in their original traditional manner; thus, the site can be described as a living example of ancient Hindu rituals. 

The holy Bagmati River flows inside the Pashupatinath Area. It is said that the river going through Pashupatinath removes sins and assists the soul to unite peace with death, hence the importance of the temple area to Hindus.  

The complex has been preserved and conserved thanks to its UNESCO World Heritage site. There is conservation work that preserves the wooden carvings, gold roofs, Stone temples, and ancient statues. UNESCO also helps in the management of rituals, festivals, and the cultural surroundings of the temple.

Pashupatinath Temple Process of Cremation 

Pashupatinath Temple is a Nepalese temple with the highest number of Hindu cremations taking place along the Bagmati River Ghats, and more so at the Arya Ghat.  

It is done in both the old-fashioned wood cremation and the modern electric cremation.   

Wood‑Fire Cremation:

The customary way is to build a piece of wood along the riverbank. The pyre itself is on which the body that was covered by a white cloth is placed, and the ritual of lighting the fire is carried out by the eldest son or a close relative of the male gender.

There are mantra chanting, prayers, offerings, and cremation. It is thought that the soul comes to moksha (liberation) through the smoke that exudes from the pyre.  

This method is the most widespread and is regarded as very sacred.   

Electric Cremation:

Electric crematoriums have also been added to the temple in recent years as an alternative, a cleaner, faster, and environmentally friendly one.  

Even the families who choose electric cremation adhere to the traditional rituals of prayers, offerings, and ceremonial lighting, except that the body is burnt in a confined chamber rather than an open pyre.

It is a type of cremation especially favored by people who prefer a modern, comfortable look or do not have much space or means.

Entry Fees

Pashupatinath Temple does not charge Nepali or Indian visitors. Foreigners need to pay Rs.1000 per day to enter the area.

It costs only during entry to the main sanctum. The external complex, ghats, and other surrounding shrines are free to everyone. 

Pashupatinath Dress Code

Temple demands modest and pious clothes. Visitors should avoid short dresses, revealing attire, and sleeveless items. Both men and women should also wear ornaments to show respect to the sacred location.

Any footwear worn should be removed before entering the main sanctuary but avoid leather products in the shrine.

Pashupatinath Temple Opening and Closing Hours 

The temple opens early in the morning. The principal gate opens at approximately 4:00 AM and closes at noon. While overall way opens at 4 AM and remains until 9 PM. 

For the cremations, there are no fixed timings since they can happen throughout the day.

These hours also allow pilgrims to conduct their daily puja, observe Aarati during the evening in Bagmati Ghat, and pray in the sanctum. Several hours can be prolonged during such great festivals as Maha Shivaratri and Teej. 

Pashupatinath Temple Pujari 

Thers is a very unique type of culture for selecting the Pujari for Pashupatinath temple. Until today’s date, Nepalese pujari works as the major in the temple. 

There is a belief saying if the King dies then as a Nepali pujari, they cannot perform puja as in the mourning.  

So, in that case if the Pujari is Hindu and of different country then he can perform the puja during this phase. The major pujari of Pashupatinath temple is of Indian nation. 

How to reach Pashupatinath Temple? 

The temple is in eastern Kathmandu on the side of the Bagmati River. Located at many of the city’s hotspots, it is easily accessible. Major closer locations are provided quickly below: 

From Gaushala  

Gaushala surrounds the temple. You can walk to the entrance in a minute if you are there, since most streets lead directly there.

From Thamel 

Thamel is a renowned tourist hub in Kathmandu. Thamel and the temple are separated by about 5-6 km, 5 km, which is 15-20 minutes depending on the traffic. There are public buses and microbuses that operate between Thamel, Gaushala, and the temple. 

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) 

It takes only about 5 km to reach the Tribhuvan International Airport to reach the temple. The time taken by a taxi or personal car to reach there is approximately 10-15 minutes, and it is convenient for those travelers who arrive at the place. 

From Kathmandu Durbar Square 

In the middle of the city, there is Kathmandu Durbar Square. This temple is approximately 6-7 km southeast. The taxi, or rickshaw, ride takes 2030 minutes of the day, depending on the road conditions. Buses in the city also travel to Gaushala. 

From Boudhanath Stupa 

Another UNESCO site in the temple is Boudhanath Stupa, located approximately 56 km north. It takes approximately 15-20 minutes to drive the car. Most tourists visit both locations in a day due to their proximity. 

Local Transport Options 

• Taxi / Private car: Fast and easy anytime, anywhere. 
• Public bus/Microbus runs between Thamel, Boudhanath, and the city center. Approach to Gaushala or temple. 
• Rickshaw or walking: The Streets around Gaushala are walkable.  

When to Visit Pashupatinath Temple? 

The temple is open all year round, and there are months that offer a more enjoyable and worthwhile experience. 

Autumn (September -November) 

The best time to visit is autumn (September -November). The atmosphere is clean, and the skies are sunny, making it ideal for visiting sights and taking photos. Cultural colors can be added by such festivals as Gai Jatra and Indra Jatra. 

Spring (March - May) 

Spring (March-May) is a pleasant, warm season. The temple is surrounded by flowers, and people can walk in the ghats and shrines without any discomfort. 

Monsoon (June -August) 

The latter is less ideal in the times of monsoon (June -August). During heavy rains, roads become muddy and congested. Nevertheless, the temple remains in operation, and the banks of the river appear to be green. Morning trips are taken to prevent wet roads and traffic. 

Winter (December - February) 

In winter (December -February), there will be colder mornings, and there will be fewer crowds. It is perfect for a quiet, peaceful visit. Dress in warm clothes because the temperatures may go down, and in the early mornings, it gets very cold. 

During Major Festivals 

A visit to all major festivals like Maha Shivaratri or Teej is a fun, religious experience. The temple is crowded with devotees, sadhus, and potent rituals, so prepare. 

The best season to visit is from September to November. The weather is clear, there are cultural celebrations, and a good mood. Spring would be appropriate, as well as monsoon and winter, which are less noisy but might require additional preparation.

Hotel Stays in the Pashupatinath Temple   

There are numerous places of accommodation around the temple. Budget guesthouses, Dharamshalas, and ashrams accommodate pilgrims and those seeking a spiritual experience. They are usually basic, clean, and very close, which makes it easy to access early morning rituals or evening aratis. 

Mid-range hotels and boutique accommodation are closer to be more comfortable. They provide modern facilities without having to walk too far to the temple. A stay in such hotels would leave the guest to not only experience the spiritual ambience of the temple but also to access the other Kathmandu attractions with ease. 

Other tourists, above all, like homestays or guesthouses further away in areas like Thamel or Old Baneshwor. The alternatives are applicable to the visitors who would like to explore Kathmandu yet still have the temple within reach. Homestays are small and local in nature and tend to be affordable.  

Things to Do Around Pashupatinath Temple  

• Worship at the Bagmati River daily with Aarti. Observations of the evening rituals and prayers that take place on the ghats of the river cause one to sense the spiritual and serene atmosphere. 
• Explore smaller shrines. Explore the temple complex and see many smaller temples and statues of different gods and goddesses. 
• Interact with sadhus. Visit the holy men who inhabit the temple, look at their meditation, or declare on them their blessings. 
• Visit Guhyeshwari Temple. Located only a few strides away is this Holy Shaktipeeth of the Goddess Parvati.  
• Take the architecture and golden roofs, carved wooden pillars, and blazing fetes.  
• Observe cremation rituals. Traditional Hindu funeral practices: Knowledge learn about the Hindu funeral customs in the ghats that line the Bagmati River.  
• Walk along the Bagmati River. Take a leisurely walk and see the spiritual meaning of the river and the greenery.  
• You can visit there on the Maha Shivaratri, Teej, or any other local festival to enjoy lively festivals.  
• Buying religious things. Shop locally at the local shops and buy flowers, incense, or souvenirs. 
• One can visit Boudhanath Stupa, Thamel, or Kathmandu Durbar Square in the vicinity of the temple.  

Dos and Don’ts of tourists in Pashupatinath Temple

There are certain things that one should follow and no do while they are in the area of Pashupatinath Temple.

Do’s

Here are the things that one can do in the temple:

• Wear decently and respectably, including shoulders and knees.  
• Take off your shoes before leaving the main temple.  
• Keep quiet and calm when walking in the temple.  
• Please the rituals, priests, and sadhus, and ask them to allow you to take photos of them.  
• Take a slow walk along the Bagmati River and through the temple complex to enjoy the architecture and the religious atmosphere.  
• Go in the early morning or late in the afternoon when the place is not crowded, particularly during festivals.  
• Bring some water, a hat, and sunscreen in case it is a sunny day. 

Don’ts

These following are the things that one should not in the temple:

• Never step into the inner sanctum if you are not a Hindu, since it is not open to everybody. 
• One should not handle sacred objects and offerings without permission.  
• Avoid the dismays and wastes of plastic around the temple and the river.  
• It is discouraged to talk loudly, to shout, or to run inside the temple complex.  
• Do not wear provocative outfits or inconsiderate clothes.  
• The ghats should not be interfered with or photographed without permission.  
• Leather goods should not be carried to the inner temple precisely because they are said to be unclean.   

Pashupatinath and Nepalese Culture and Tourism 

The Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred place in the hearts of the Nepalese people. It is not just a religious site but a demonstration of Nepal’s cultural heritage and traditions.    

The temple shows the centuries of worship, art, and spirituality. It is a place of crucial rituals, festivals, and ceremonies that define the religious life of thousands of families in the country.    

Nepalese tourism is also largely dependent on temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and therefore it receives many foreigners annually.  

One of the reasons why tourists visit it is to wonder at its golden pagoda, its fine carvings, the holy Bagmati River, and the living traditions of sadhus and priests.    

The festivals, particularly the Maha Shivaratri and Teej, offer a cultural experience that is not available elsewhere.

Also, Pashupatinath sustains the local economy. Hotels, ashrams, surrounding shops, and guides enjoy constant pilgrimage and tourist traffic.  

The aesthetic temple location supports the preservation of traditional arts, rituals, and architecture as an important element of Nepalese identity, heritage, and cultural tourism. 

Interesting Facts of Pashupatinath Temple

There are random facts of Pashupatinath Temple that makes people wonder about its history and existence:

A Shiva Linga:

It is believed that the Swayambhu, a linga that is assumed to be self-created, serves as the main linga of Pashupatinath and that it is one of the few lingas attained through a natural process in the world.

Four faces, four powers:

The Mukhalinga possesses four aspects or faces, each of which portrays a different form of Shiva: sadyojata (creation), vamadeva (preservation), aghora (destruction), and tatpurusha (concealment). This symbolism is rare, and Pashupatinath is peculiar in this regard.

Holy cow legend:

The sacred linga was found after a cow mysteriously poured milk on a spot on the riverbank.

Constant spiritual action:

Pashupatinath is an active temple, unlike most heritage sites. Since time immemorial, rituals, prayers, and cremation have been occurring, and it is a place of continuous spiritual energy.

Cremation on sacred ghats:

The ghats of the Bagmati River permit the Hindus to practice cremation rituals immediately adjacent to the temple. The souls are supposed to acquire moksha (liberation) by being cremated on earth, which is very uncommon in the world.

Ash‑covered sadhus:

There are hundreds of Naga sadhus and holy men here, who are ash-covered and wear rudraksha beads, and are meditating and carrying out their ceremonies-building an airy, almost heavenly ambiance.

Mrigasthali:

The legend of the deer park. A serene deer park is located on the temple grounds and is also connected to the myth of Shiva roaming as a deer, which makes the area unique for both its spiritual and visual experiences.

Architectural Marvel:

The door of the golden-roofed temple, silver-plated, and complicated wooden carvings are unparalleled in Nepal, combining artistic beauty with religious significance.

Magnet pilgrimage on Maha Shivaratri:

Among the most important spiritual festivals in South Asia is Maha Shivaratri, which makes Pashupatinath a spiritual city where people in large numbers pay their homage to Shiva. It one of the largest gatherings of Shiva worshippers in the world.

Priest Sanctum Restricted:

Only a priest can enter the sanctum, who maintains the holiness of the linga, whereas those who worship observe the performances through outsider windows- something the large temples would hardly do.

Heritage and recognition by UNESCO:

In contrast to other heritage sites that are often characterized as being in a state of state, Pashupatinath still remains an active spiritual center, which explains why it is considered a cultural, as well as a living, heritage site by UNESCO.

Statue of Birupachhe

The statue is half immersed in the ground, and half (above the torso) remains above the ground. It is believed that when the statue fully comes out of the ground, the earth will be destroyed.

Pashupatinath Evening Aarti Timings

One of the most spiritual, as well as visually impressive, rituals found in Kathmandu is the Pashupatinath Aarti. It is held by the ghats of the Bagmati River every evening, and much of what it does starts around 6:00 PM

Pilgrims, devotees, and visitors come to observe this religious event, which is especially lively on days such as Maha Shivaratri.   

Priests in conventional clothes sing and chant in prayers and hymns in the aarti, as they move flaming lamps in circular movements.  

People gather with incense, flowers, and holy water. They join devotees who clap, sing, or silently pray to bring a quiet but overwhelming spiritual energy.   

Sounding bells, conch shells, and drums will accompany the ritual, contributing to the feeling of devotion. Individuals also place little lights on the Bagmati River, which symbolize prayers and wishes swept along the river.  

Pashupatinath Aarti is a ritual, as well as a very engaging cultural experience, which is centuries of Nepalese Hindu culture and worship.   

Please visit the temple in the evening and watch the aarti, which will enable both the tourists and the devotees to experience the spiritual nature of Pashupatinath Temple.

Pashupatinath Temple Puja and Aarti Booking 

There is a booking system for Pashupatinath Temple puja and aarti system. While one needs to pay for booking. The cost for booking the temple puja ranges from Rs.2100 to Rs.25,00,000. 

One can also pay for the aarti bookings. The people who have booked the aarti can stay at the major aarti area beside the pujaris. The pujari also announces the person’s names and their purpose for doing so. 

Pashupatinath Temple Before and after Earthquake 

You will be shocked hearing the fact that during the 2015 AD, not a single structure of Pashupatinath was destroyed. Many people belief that this might be due to the strong power of Lord Shiva on Pashupatinath Temple.

FAQs 

Can a non-Hindu enter the Pashupatinath temple? 

Yes, around the periphery of Pashupatinath any religion can enter but in the main sanctum of the temple only Hindus are allowed to enter. 

Are photography and mobiles allowed in Pashupatinath Temple? 

No, photography is not allowed inside the major sanctum of Pashupatinath, use of photo is prohibited, but if you want to use in periphery and outside area then you can capture. 

What is the timing for Pashupatinath Aarati? 

The Pashupatinath Aarati timings are 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM in winter and 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM in summer and springs.

Can foreigners enter the Pashupatinath temple and visit? 

Yes, everyone is allowed to visit the Pashupatinath temple and its surroundings but only Hindu can enter the main temple area. 

How old is Pashupatinath Temple? 

Pashupatinath Temple is believed to be around 1,400 years old.

Is parking available at Pashupatinath Temple? 

Yes, a huge parking space is available at the Pashupatinath Temple, so you do not need to worry about parking. 

Can I buy puja items near the Pashupati Temple? 

Yes, various shops are around the temple where you can buy different types of puja items including Rudrakshya and souvenirs. 

What should I eat before visiting Pashupatinath? 

As per Hindu beliefs, you can eat vegetarian foods and avoid non-veg before visiting the area. 

Is Pashupatinath Temple open everyday? 

Yes, Pashupatinath Temple is open everyday for visit and Saturday and Monday are the most crowded days. 

Are there lockers or storage facilities inside the temple? 

Yes, the temple does have a locker facility for shoes. Visitors must keep their valuable belongings with them. 

How many temples are there inside the Pashupatinath complex? 

There are more than 500 temples, shrines, and monuments within the large Pashupatinath area. 

Are drones allowed in Pashupatinath? 

No, drones are strictly prohibited anywhere inside the temple premises. 

Are there public toilets inside the temple area? 

Yes, basic public toilet facilities are available near the entrance.