About Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath is the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Shiva as Lord of All Animals. Its two tiered pagoda with gilded roofs and silver doors stands on the west bank of the Bagmati River on the eastern edge of Kathmandu. The complex forms part of the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Site and is a major destination for pilgrims from Nepal and India.
Only Hindus may enter the main courtyard, but visitors can watch daily life from the terraces across the river, where open air cremations take place on the Arya Ghat. Saffron robed sadhus, small shrines, monkeys and stone lingas fill the grounds. The evening aarti on the riverbank is a moving and photogenic event.
What to see
- Gilded pagoda and the great Nandi bull
- Cremation ghats on the Bagmati
- Terraces with lingas across the river
- Evening Bagmati aarti
- Sadhus during Maha Shivaratri
Visiting Pashupatinath Temple: practical guide
- Best time
- October to April
- Hours
- Grounds open daily about 4 am to 9 pm; inner temple for Hindus only
- Entry
- About NPR 1,500 for foreign visitors; free for Nepali and Indian citizens
- Dress code
- Modest clothing; remove leather items near the shrine
- Nearest airport
- Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (KTM), 2 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Do not photograph grieving families at cremations
- Sadhus may ask for money if photographed
- Visit Boudhanath on the same morning
Festivals and special days
- Maha Shivaratri
- Teej
- Bala Chaturdashi
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Hinduism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and legs covered.
- Some temples, such as Puri Jagannath, admit only Hindus; respect posted signs.
- Ask before photographing shrines, rituals or cremation grounds.
- Use your right hand to accept prasad, the blessed food offering.
- Avoid bringing leather items or meat into temple grounds.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Pashupatinath Temple?
Pashupatinath Temple is in Kathmandu, Bagmati Province, Nepal, Asia. GPS coordinates: 27.7105, 85.3487. The nearest airport is Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (KTM), 2 km.
What is the best time to visit Pashupatinath Temple?
October to April
Is there an entry fee for Pashupatinath Temple?
About NPR 1,500 for foreign visitors; free for Nepali and Indian citizens Opening hours: Grounds open daily about 4 am to 9 pm; inner temple for Hindus only
What should I wear when visiting Pashupatinath Temple?
Modest clothing; remove leather items near the shrine
Which religion is Pashupatinath Temple sacred to?
Pashupatinath Temple is sacred to Hinduism. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
