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Visit the Pashupatinath Temple for a spiritual experience and to witness daily Hindu rituals. Observe the sacred cremation ghats along the Bagmati River, and explore the surrounding pagodas and shrines. Photography of the temple's architecture and rituals is popular, but be respectful of the spiritual atmosphere.
Pashupatinath Temple, located in Kathmandu, Nepal, is one of the city's most important Hindu temples. Hindu cremations are held here, and only Hindus are allowed inside; non-Hindus are not allowed into the main sanctuary. Cremations take place 24 hours a day, and while photography is permitted during the ceremony, visitors are advised to be respectful.
July to November
1 hour
1000 rupees
All day
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu temples in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus. The temple has a rich history dating back to the 5th century, though much of the current structure was built in the 17th century.
Pashupatinath Temple is located in the eastern part of Kathmandu, near the Bagmati River. You can reach it by taxi, bus, or walking from the city center. It is a 20-30 minute drive from Thamel, a popular tourist area in Kathmandu.
The temple is open daily from 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the temple is less crowded, and you can experience the rituals more peacefully.
The entrance fee for foreign visitors is NPR 1,000 (approximately $8 USD). Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and there are no online booking options for the general visit.
No advance booking is necessary. Tickets can be bought on-site, and you can visit any time during the temple's opening hours.
A typical visit to Pashupatinath Temple can take about 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend observing the rituals, exploring the temple complex, and walking around the nearby cremation ghats.
Key highlights include the main temple, which houses the Pashupati idol, the cremation ghats along the Bagmati River, and various smaller shrines and pagodas surrounding the temple complex. Don't miss the golden statue of Nandi, the bull, near the entrance.
Guided tours are available at the temple, and many local guides offer services in English, Hindi, and other languages. It’s advisable to hire a guide to learn more about the temple’s significance and rituals.
Good photography spots include the view of the temple complex from across the Bagmati River, the golden roof of the main temple, and the bustling ghats during the cremation ceremonies. Be respectful when taking photos, especially during religious rituals.
Start by visiting the main temple, then walk around the courtyard to explore the smaller shrines and pagodas. Take time to visit the cremation ghats along the river, which are a vital part of the Pashupatinath experience.
Night visits are not allowed inside the main temple, as it closes at 7:00 PM. However, special evening aarti (ritual) ceremonies are held on the banks of the Bagmati River, which is a unique experience to witness.
Pashupatinath can get crowded, especially during major Hindu festivals like Maha Shivaratri. The least crowded times are early mornings or late afternoons, especially on weekdays outside of festival periods.
The temple complex has basic facilities, including toilets and small shops selling religious items, souvenirs, and snacks. There are also a few cafes in the area where you can get food and water.
The temple complex is not fully accessible for people with mobility challenges, as there are steps and uneven pathways. However, elderly and children can still visit and enjoy the temple, though it may require assistance in some areas.
Cash is typically required for entrance fees and purchases inside the temple complex. Credit and debit cards are not commonly accepted, so it is recommended to carry cash in Nepalese Rupees.
Nearby restaurants include "Pashupatinath Cafe" and "Garden of Dreams," which offer a variety of Nepalese and international dishes. There are also local cafes around the temple complex for quick snacks and beverages.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan food options available in nearby restaurants. Halal options may be available in some of the cafes near the temple.
There are several hotels close to Pashupatinath Temple, including "Hotel Yak & Yeti," "Pashupati Plaza Hotel," and budget options like "Hotel Green Horizon." Many hotels are within a short walking distance of the temple.
Nearby attractions include the Boudhanath Stupa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square. You can easily combine these with a visit to Pashupatinath for a full day of sightseeing in Kathmandu.
Yes, there are souvenir shops around the temple selling religious items such as prayer beads, incense, statues of Hindu deities, and traditional Nepalese handicrafts like thangka paintings and singing bowls.
After visiting Pashupatinath, taxis and local buses are available for onward travel. You can also hire a tuk-tuk or walk to nearby attractions such as Boudhanath Stupa or the Kathmandu Durbar Square.
