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Pashupatinath Temple
KathmanduGroup of Temples
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Overview
This popular temple houses the holy linga of Lord Shiva. Perfect for witnessing festivals like Maha Shivratri, the complex comprises more than 500 temples and the largest Nandi bull statue.
Open Hours
Suggested Duration - 1-3 hours
What To Expect?
Attend the evening aarti, click pictures, get a local guide to show you around, take in the views from a hilltop or admire the architecture.
Tips
- This is also a site for cremations.
- Entry to the main temple is reserved for Hindus.
- The temple is open daily from 4 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Beware of the monkeys.
- You can either hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple from Kathmandu.
Pashupatinath Temple Overview: A Divine Sanctuary of Lord Shiva in Kathmandu
The Pashupatinath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. The temple complex showcases an intricate blend of architectural styles, including pagodas and traditional Nepali designs. Moreover, the temple also features a golden roof, intricate wood carvings, and a sacred atmosphere, which makes it a unique cultural and religious landmark.
In Skanda Purana, the Pashupatinath Temple is considered to be one of the most sacred Shiva Kshetras. Its ground has several smaller shrines, cremation ghats, and statues, all of which add to its historical and spiritual significance. The temple is primarily renowned for its open-air cremations, where you have to perform funeral rites in full public view. It adds a deep layer of reverence and contemplation. Beyond its religious importance, UNESCO World Heritage has also considered it a cultural heritage for Nepal. Hence, it is a must-visit destination in Nepal.
Pashupatinath Temple Information
| Ticket Price | There is no Pashupatinath Temple entry fee for Indian Nationals. Otherwise, the entrance fee is NPR 1000. |
|---|---|
| Timings | 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | During the Spring season (March to May) and Autumn season (September to November) |
| Famous For | It is renowned for its religious significance, architecture, and history. |
| Height | 23 meters |
| Time Required | Approximately 1-2 hours |
About Pashupatinath Temple History
The Pashupatinath Temple is the oldest Hindu temple, and its origin is rooted in ancient Hindu mythology and the worship of Lord Shiva. The earliest recorded evidence of the temple is from around 400 CE. Later, Prachanda Deva (a Licchavi King) built the temple. The temple has been renovated and expanded multiple times over the years. The Revenant architecture of the temple was renovated in 1692 CE after the previous structure was damaged due to termites and earthquakes.
Nearby Places
- Patan Durbar Square
- Boudhanath Stupa
- Swayambhunath Stupa
- Guhyeshwari Temple
- Dakshinkali Temple
- Gorakhnath Temple
- Garden of Dreams
- Kopan Monastery
- Bagmati River
- Nagarkot
Things to Do At Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu
- Witness Daily Rituals and Ceremonies:You should observe the temple's daily rituals and ceremonies, which are a key part of its spiritual significance.
- Attend Evening Aarti:Attend the evening aarti, as it will provide you with a powerful spiritual experience.
- Explore Temple Complex:You can also explore the temple's complex and embrace its intricate architecture, various shrines, and more.
- Visit Ghats:Do visit the temple's ghat along the Bagmati River. It is a sacred place for Hindus where cremation ceremonies happen.
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