Located on the sacred banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal, the Pashupatinath Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Pashupati, the “Lord of All Creatures.” This magnificent temple is a living symbol of Nepal’s religious heritage and spiritual devotion. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, it holds deep cultural, spiritual, and architectural importance.
Believed to have been built in the 5th century CE, the temple is a major Shiva Kshetra and holds a special place in the Skanda Purana and Tevaram hymns. Millions of devotees and tourists visit every year, especially during Maha Shivaratri and Teej festivals.
Let’s explore the Pashupatinath Temple Darshan timings, Aarti schedules, entry fees, and how to book your visit in 2025.
Quick Overview of Pashupatinath Temple
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Shree Pashupatinath Temple |
| Location | Pashupati Nath Road, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal |
| Deity Worshipped | Lord Shiva (as Pashupati) |
| Architecture Style | Traditional Pagoda Style |
| Total Area | 246 hectares (2.46 million sq. meters) |
| Mini-Temples on Premises | 518 smaller shrines |
| UNESCO Heritage Status | Declared in 1979 |
| Major Festivals | Maha Shivaratri, Teej |
| Management | Pashupati Area Development Trust |
| Website | kathmandu.gov.np |
Darshan Timings – 2025
| Darshan Type | Timings | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 04:00 AM | Daily |
| Morning Darshan | 04:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Monday to Sunday |
| Afternoon Break | 12:00 PM – 05:00 PM | Monday to Sunday |
| Evening Darshan | 05:00 PM – 09:00 PM | Monday to Sunday |
| Temple Closes | 09:00 PM | Daily |
Aarti & Pooja Schedule
| Pooja/Aarti | Timings | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Pooja | 05:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Daily |
| Evening Pooja | 05:00 PM – 07:00 PM | Daily |
| Bagmati Ganga Aarti | 06:00 PM – 07:30 PM | Daily (on riverbank) |
| Abhishekam | 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Daily |
Note: Aartis are performed with high devotion and attract large gatherings, especially during festive days.
Entry Ticket Prices
While Nepalese and Indian citizens can enter the temple complex for free, foreign nationals are required to pay an entry fee.
| Visitor Category | Entry Fee (NPR) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Nationals | 1,000 per day per entry | Ticketed from back premises |
| SAARC Nationals | 1,000 | Free for Indians |
| Chinese Nationals | 1,000 | |
| Nepalese Citizens | Free |
How to Book Darshan at Pashupatinath Temple
Currently, there is no online booking system available for darshan or temple entry. However, you can follow these steps:
✅ Steps for Entry Booking:
-
Visit the Temple Premises
Entry tickets are available on-site at the entrance gate. -
Contact for Advance Info
Call the temple administration at 01-4462767 or 01-4470340 to get updated details about group visits or guided tours. -
No Online Portal Yet
As of 2025, official bookings or pooja reservations are not available via online platforms.
Contact Information
| Contact Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Address | Pashupati Nath Road, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal |
| Phone Numbers | 01-4462767 / 01-4470340 |
| Official Website | kathmandu.gov.np |
FAQs
1. Is there any fee for Indian citizens to enter the Pashupatinath Temple?
No, Indian nationals can visit the temple free of charge.
2. What time does the Bagmati Ganga Aarti take place?
The mesmerizing Bagmati Aarti is held from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM every evening.
3. Can foreigners enter the inner sanctum?
No, only Hindus are allowed inside the sanctum. Non-Hindus can observe the temple from the surrounding areas.
4. Are photography and videography allowed?
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.
5. How can I perform a special pooja or abhishekam?
All poojas must be arranged directly at the temple. Contact the administrative office for special requests.
6. What is the best time to visit the temple?
Maha Shivaratri, Teej, and early mornings (around 5:00 AM) offer the most spiritual atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
The Pashupatinath Temple is more than just a monument—it’s a living heritage, where ancient rituals and deep spirituality still thrive. Whether you’re a devout pilgrim or a cultural traveler, your visit to this sacred site will be an unforgettable journey of peace, devotion, and discovery.
Plan ahead, respect the temple customs, and embrace the divine energy of Lord Pashupati in the spiritual heart of Nepal. For further details and temple-related services, visit kathmandu.gov.np.