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Visit the main temple and observe the ritualistic Hindu ceremonies. You can also explore the surrounding areas, which include other smaller temples, the holy Bagmati River, and the cremation ghats. It's a great place for cultural immersion and photography.
Pashupatinath is one of Nepal's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the largest Hindu temple in Nepal and the most famous Shiva temple in the subcontinent. Pashu means "living beings" and Pashupatinath means "Lord".
Chinese tourists also call it the "Burning Corpse Temple" because of the six stone pyres on the banks of the Bagmati River outside the Pashupatinath Temple, where Nepalese Hindus perform open-air cremations. Hindu cremations can be seen here almost daily. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter any of the halls, so tourists are often forced to stand at the entrances and gaze in.
Tropical monsoon climate, the best time to travel is from September to November.
1-2 hours
1000 rupees
4:00 Open to receive pilgrims
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back over 2,000 years. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus around the world. The temple is considered the most important and sacred in Nepal.
Pashupatinath Temple is located on the eastern side of Kathmandu, near the Bagmati River. It is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or a 20-minute walk from the city center. There are no metro services in Kathmandu.
The temple is open daily from 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning during the aarti ceremony or late afternoon to avoid large crowds and witness the evening rituals.
The entrance fee for foreign visitors is NPR 1,000. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate of the temple. There is no online ticketing system.
No, tickets are available at the entrance gate, and there is no need to book in advance.
You should spend at least 1 to 2 hours exploring the temple complex and the surrounding area, especially if you wish to participate in or observe the rituals.
The main temple, the ghats along the Bagmati River, and the surrounding smaller temples are the must-see areas. You should also observe the cremation ceremonies at the ghats, as they are an important aspect of the religious practices here.
Guided tours are available in English and other languages. They are often available through local guides at the entrance, or you can arrange for one via hotels or travel agencies in Kathmandu.
The best photography spots are near the main temple and along the banks of the Bagmati River, especially during rituals. Capture the colorful processions, the temple architecture, and the scenic views of the river and cremation ghats.
Start by visiting the main Pashupatinath Temple, then walk along the ghats by the Bagmati River to witness the rituals. Explore the smaller shrines and temples around the main temple complex before exiting the area.
There are no light shows or night visits, but the evening aarti ceremony is a special event, providing a unique and vibrant atmosphere for photography.
The temple is busiest during major Hindu festivals and in the afternoons. The least crowded times are early in the morning, especially during weekdays.
There are toilets available near the entrance. You can find several local restaurants and food vendors around the temple complex. There are also shops selling religious items and souvenirs.
The temple complex has steps and uneven pathways, which may make it difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. Children will find the area interesting, though they should be closely supervised, especially near the river.
Cash is needed for the entrance fee and for most purchases at the temple. Mobile payments and credit cards are not widely accepted in the area, so it is best to carry cash in Nepalese Rupees.
Nearby cafes include "Pashupati Restaurant" and "Shiva's Cafe," which offer Nepali and international cuisine. Many food stalls around the temple sell snacks and drinks.
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in the nearby eateries. Halal food is also available in the area.
There are several hotels near Pashupatinath Temple, including "Hotel Shambala," "The Dwarika's Hotel," and "Hotel Vajra." Budget options are also available in the nearby area of Boudhanath.
Nearby attractions include Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), and the Kathmandu Durbar Square. These can all be easily visited in one day.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops around the temple selling religious items such as prayer beads, incense, Hindu statues, and thangka paintings.
For further travel, taxis and private vehicles are the most convenient options. Local buses are also available, but they may be crowded and slower. You can easily arrange transportation to nearby landmarks from Pashupatinath Temple.
