Temples & religious sites
Pashupatinath Temple
What It Is
Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River, east of Kathmandu. Dedicated to Shiva, it draws pilgrims worldwide. Visitors come to see traditional Newari architecture, historic shrines, and open-air religious ceremonies along the riverbank ghats. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main inner sanctum, but the surrounding terraces and grounds across the river are accessible.
Getting There
The site sits west of Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). From central Kathmandu or Bhaktapur, you can take a taxi or public bus. The trip generally takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Time to Allow
Plan to spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the riverbank, shrines, and viewing points.
When to Go
Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit to avoid heat and observe daily prayer ceremonies. The complex gets extremely crowded during major religious festivals, especially Maha Shivaratri. The dry months from October to April provide the best walking conditions.
Nearby Attractions
You can combine your visit with these destinations within walking distance:
- Guhyeshwari Temple (0.5km) – A historic temple along the river.
- Charumati Stupa (0.7km) – An ancient Buddhist stupa.
- Venkatesh Mandir, Kathmandu (0.7km) – A dedicated Hindu temple.
- Chabahil (0.8km) – A surrounding neighborhood with local shrines and markets.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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