The Pashupatinath Temple, located in Kathmandu, is one of the most significant Hindu spiritual destinations in the world. Revered as one of the biggest and oldest Lord Shiva temples, it is a place where faith, heritage, and sacred geography converge. Pilgrims from India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Europe, the Americas, and beyond come here in search of blessings, peace, and a deeper connection to divine energy.
But as a first-time traveler or spiritual seeker, one of the most common questions is:
“How do I reach Pashupatinath Temple?”
Whether you're flying in, driving from India, or exploring Nepal overland, this guide provides comprehensive details on how to reach Pashupatinath Temple easily, safely, and spiritually prepared.
Where is Pashupatinath Temple Located?
Pashupatinath Temple is located in Gaushala, Kathmandu, approximately:
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5 km east of Kathmandu Durbar Square
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3 km from the main tourist hub of Thamel
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Only 2.5 km from Tribhuvan International Airport
It sits gracefully on the western bank of the sacred Bagmati River, which flows downstream into the Ganges River in India, making it not just geographically but also spiritually connected to the larger Hindu pilgrimage circuit.
Why Pashupatinath Temple is a Must-Visit
One of the Biggest Temples of Lord Shiva
Known globally as “Lord Shiva one of biggest temples”, Pashupatinath is believed to have existed since 400 A.D., making it one of the oldest functional temples dedicated to Shiva.
Sits Along the Sacred Bagmati River
The Bagmati River is the spiritual lifeline of the Kathmandu Valley. Devotees take ritual baths in its holy waters, and cremation rites along its banks are considered liberating for the soul.
Recognized by UNESCO
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pashupatinath is not just a temple - it’s a living museum of faith, art, architecture, rituals, and ancient Vedic traditions.
Tantric and Yogic Significance
Saints, sadhus, and yogis from around the world come here for spiritual practice and meditation.
How to Reach Pashupatinath Temple: Travel Routes Explained
Let’s break down the best ways to reach Pashupatinath based on your country of origin and preferred travel style.
1. Reaching Pashupatinath Temple by Air (International Travelers)
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way for global travelers.
Step 1: Fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA)
TIA is Nepal’s only international airport and is located just 10-15 minutes away from Pashupatinath Temple.
Direct Flights Available From:
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India: Delhi, Varanasi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore
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Southeast Asia: Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore
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Middle East: Dubai, Doha, Muscat
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Europe & North America: Via major hubs like Delhi, Istanbul, Doha
Step 2: Airport to Pashupatinath
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Taxi: ₹400-₹600 or NPR 500-800
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Hotel Shuttle: Often available for pre-arranged guests
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Tour Pickup: If you’ve booked a package like Pashupatinath Tour, pickup is included.
This proximity to the airport makes Pashupatinath Temple one of the most accessible world pilgrimage sites.
2. Reaching Pashupatinath by Road from India
For Indian devotees - especially those in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, or Sikkim - a road trip or train journey to Nepal is both affordable and adventurous.
Popular Border Crossings:
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Raxaul-Birgunj (Bihar): Closest access from Patna, Muzaffarpur
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Sunauli-Bhairahawa (UP): From Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Lucknow
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Panitanki-Kakarbhitta (West Bengal): Ideal from Siliguri and Darjeeling
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Banbasa-Mahendranagar (Uttarakhand)
Travel Options After Crossing:
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Deluxe Buses to Kathmandu (7-12 hours depending on entry point)
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Private Cabs or Jeeps (Flexible but a bit expensive)
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Tour Packages: Recommended for elderly or religious groups
Indian citizens do not require a visa, but carrying a government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport) is mandatory.
Reaching Pashupatinath Temple from Within Kathmandu
Once you're in the capital city, getting to Pashupatinath is very easy.
Local Options:
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Taxi from Thamel (Tourist Hub): 15-20 minutes
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Rickshaws or Tuktuks: Fun for short distances, especially from Gaushala
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Ride-Hailing Apps: Pathao or InDrive offer affordable and safe travel
Guided Tour Option:
For a hassle-free and educational visit, book a local tour with a spiritual guide. The Pashupatinath Tour includes:
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Pick-up and drop-off
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Entry tickets and permits
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Experienced local guide
What You’ll Experience Upon Arrival in Pashupatinath Temple Area?
Pashupatinath is not a single temple - it’s an entire sacred complex:
Main Pashupatinath Shrine
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Entry restricted to Hindus only
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Features a lingam with four faces, representing Shiva’s cosmic roles
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Surrounded by golden spires, ornate wood carvings, and a powerful spiritual aura
Bagmati River & Cremation Ghats
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Watch Hindu last rites performed at Arya Ghat
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Offer prayers or float diyas in the river for departed souls
Sadhus and Ascetics
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Meet Naga Sadhus and Shaivite monks
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Engage in spiritual conversations and blessings
Other Shrines
Explore over 500 small shrines dedicated to various deities like:
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Goddess Parvati
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Lord Ganesh
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Lord Vishnu
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Lord Hanuman
Best Time to Visit Pashupatinath Temple
Ideal Time of Day:
- Early morning (4:30 AM to 6:30 AM): Peaceful atmosphere, sunrise over Bagmati
- Evening Aarti (6:00 PM): Powerful Shiva chants, river worship, oil lamp rituals
- Open daily from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Major Festivals Celebrated in Pashupatinath Temple:
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Maha Shivaratri: Lakhs of pilgrims visit during this holy night
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Teej: A grand celebration for women’s devotion to Lord Shiva
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Saavan Mondays: Crowds swell during this holy month
What to Wear & Bring in Pashupatinath Temple?
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Traditional modest clothing: Saree, kurta, dhoti, or long trousers preferred
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Shawl or scarf: Required to cover shoulders/head inside the premises
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Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated
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Passport or ID: Required for certain entry gates or travel packages
Cultural Tips for First-Time Visitors
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No leather items inside the temple
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Photography is allowed outside but not inside the sanctum
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Always walk clockwise (parikrama) around shrines
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Respect local customs and avoid loud behavior
Conclusion: Begin Your Sacred Journey
Now that you know how to reach Pashupatinath Temple, there's nothing holding you back from beginning one of the most transformative spiritual journeys in the Himalayas.
Whether you're traveling from New York or New Delhi, by flight or road, solo or with family, Pashupatinath welcomes all with open arms and eternal blessings. And to make your visit seamless, enriching, and worry-free, let the experts guide your way.
Book Your Spiritual Tour with Best Heritage Tour
Website: www.bestheritagetour.com
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com
WhatsApp/Call: +977-9851149197
Office Location: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Let Best Heritage Tour take you from arrival to aarti - with care, comfort, and cultural insight. Your path to Lord Shiva begins here.
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 23rd July, 2025
