Located along the serene banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple is the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal and one of the most important Shiva shrines in the world. This ancient and spiritually significant site is not only a place of worship but also a window into Nepal’s deep-rooted Hindu traditions and rich cultural heritage. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pashupatinath is a powerful symbol of faith, devotion, and continuity.
Spiritual Access and Cultural Etiquette
While only Hindus are permitted inside the main temple, non-Hindu visitors are welcome to observe its grandeur and spiritual ambiance from across the Bagmati River, on specially designated viewing terraces. The temple strictly follows traditional customs—leather items, such as shoes, belts, and bags, must be left outside before entering the temple grounds. Photography is not allowed within the temple premises, preserving the sanctity of the sacred space.
Major Festivals and Rituals at Pashupatinath
Maha Shivaratri
The most significant festival celebrated at Pashupatinath is Maha Shivaratri, or the “Great Night of Shiva.” Celebrated annually in February or March, it marks the cosmic appearance of Lord Shiva. On this night, tens of thousands of devotees, including sadhus (Hindu ascetics) from Nepal and India—often with ash-covered bodies and matted hair—gather to offer prayers and witness the divine celebrations that continue through the night.
Teej Festival
Another vibrant celebration is Teej, held in August or September, which is dedicated to the well-being and longevity of husbands. On this day, the temple becomes a sea of red, as thousands of Hindu women dressed in red saris, green or yellow beaded necklaces, and traditional ornaments flock to Pashupatinath to worship Lord Shiva.
Ekadashi Observances
The temple also sees increased footfall on Ekadashi, the 11th day of every lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar. The most auspicious Ekadashis observed here include Harishayani Ekadashi (June/July) and Haribodhini Ekadashi (October/November), both drawing large crowds of devotees.
The Slesh Mantak Forest and Bagmati Evening Aarati
Surrounding the temple complex is the Slesh Mantak forest, home to monkeys and a few captive deer—honoring the form Lord Shiva is believed to have once taken, as told in the Swasthani Brata Katha, a revered Hindu scripture.
Each evening, as the sun sets over the Bagmati River, devotees gather on the riverbank to witness the Pashupati Bagmati Aarati—a captivating fire ceremony with chants, hymns, and rhythmic music that create an unforgettable spiritual experience.
Guhyeshwari Temple: Sacred Shakti Peeth of Kathmandu
Just a short walk upstream from Pashupatinath lies Guhyeshwari Temple, another sacred site dedicated to the divine feminine energy or Shakti. This temple is one of Nepal’s most revered Shakti Peeths, places believed to have originated from the dismembered body of Sati Devi, the first consort of Lord Shiva.
Mythological Significance
According to ancient Hindu mythology, when Sati Devi self-immolated in grief after her father insulted Lord Shiva, the heartbroken god wandered the earth carrying her lifeless body. As he roamed, parts of her body fell at various spots—each becoming a Shakti Peeth. It is said that at Guhyeshwari, the ‘guhya’ (reproductive organ) of Sati fell, making it a place of immense spiritual power. The goddess is worshipped here in the form of a silver-plated sacred water vessel, symbolizing fertility, power, and transformation.
Like Pashupatinath, entry to Guhyeshwari Temple is restricted to Hindus only, and strict religious customs are observed.
How to Get There
Both Pashupatinath and Guhyeshwari Temples are located approximately 5 kilometers east of Kathmandu’s city center. You can easily reach the area by taxi, local microbus, or the popular three-wheeled tempo. Disembark at Gaushala, from where it’s a short walk to the temple complex.