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Pashupatinath Temple

Kathmandu Valley · UNESCO World Heritage

Pashupatinath is the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal and one of the most important shrines to Shiva anywhere. The temple complex spreads along both banks of the Bagmati River, with shrines, ashrams and the ghats where cremations take place in the open.

It is an intense and moving place to visit. Life and death are on full view here, so come with an open mind, a respectful manner and, ideally, a local guide who can explain what you are seeing.

What to see

  • The main temple. Only Hindus may enter the main temple courtyard, but its golden roof can be seen from the terraces on the east bank of the river.
  • The cremation ghats. Arya Ghat and the stone platforms along the river are used for cremations throughout the day. Watch from the opposite bank and keep a respectful distance.
  • The east bank terraces. Rows of small shrines to Shiva line the terraces above the river, with views over the whole complex.
  • Evening aarti. Every evening around sunset, priests perform a fire ceremony with lamps, bells and chanting on the river bank. Arrive early for a place to sit.

Visiting respectfully

  • Do not photograph cremations up close or without care. Many families prefer no photos at all.
  • Sadhus, the holy men in orange robes and face paint, often expect a small tip if you take their picture.
  • Dress modestly and remove leather items if you are invited into any shrine.
  • Expect very large crowds during Maha Shivaratri, usually in February or March.

Multi-day tours that visit Pashupatinath Temple

Every tour here includes Pashupatinath Temple in its itinerary. Best rated first.

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Combine it with

Boudhanath Stupa

UNESCO

One of the largest stupas in the world and the heart of Kathmandu's Tibetan community, at its best at dusk when pilgrims circle it with prayer wheels.

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Kathmandu Durbar Square

UNESCO

The old royal palace square of Kathmandu, home to the Hanuman Dhoka palace and the house of the Kumari, the living goddess.

Visitor guide →

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Pashupatinath Temple: questions

Can non-Hindus enter Pashupatinath Temple?

Non-Hindus can visit the wider complex, the riverside ghats and the east bank terraces, but not the main temple courtyard. The temple's roof is clearly visible from across the river.

How much is the entry fee for Pashupatinath?

Foreign visitors pay NPR 1,000 at the ticket office near the main entrance. Fees change from time to time, so check on the day.

Is it appropriate to watch the cremations?

Yes, the cremations take place in public and visitors may watch quietly from the opposite bank. Keep your voice down, do not get in the way of families and avoid close up photos.

What time is the evening aarti?

It starts around sunset every evening, so the exact time moves with the seasons. Plan to arrive about 30 minutes before sunset.

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