Located in Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, the protector of all living beings. The temple holds a very important place in Hinduism and is considered one of the most sacred shrines. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a vibrant cultural center where history, myths, architecture, rituals, and daily life come together.
Table of Contents
Highlights of the Pashupatinath Temple
Meaning of the Name “Pashupati”
The name “Pashupatinath” comes from two Sanskrit words: “Pashu” meaning “animal” and “Pati” meaning “lord.” Thus, Pashupatinath is “Lord of the Animals,” reinforcing Lord Shiva’s role as the guardian of all living beings.
Temple That Never Sleeps
Unlike many temples that close at night, Pashupatinath Temple remains open almost all day and night. Pilgrims and visitors can experience devotion at any hour, making it one of the few temples globally said to “never sleep.” This continuous flow of worship is part of the living traditions at the temple.
Legends of Shiva’s Antler
One traditional legend tells that Lord Shiva, disguised as a deer, lost one of his antlers at the site where the temple now stands. This antler became the first lingam worshipped at Pashupatinath, but it was later lost. Another legend says a herdsman’s cow showed where the buried lingam lay by pouring milk at the spot, leading to its rediscovery. This contributes to multiple oral histories around the temple’s divine origin.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Pashupatinath Temple is not just a religious destination but also a cultural one, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1979. This international recognition supports ongoing conservation and sustains the temple’s global prominence.
Nandi Bull Statue
In front of the main sanctorum is a large statue of Nandi, the holy bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva. This statue faces the main sanctum, symbolizing eternal vigilance and devotion.
Inscriptions, Artwork, and Sculptures
The temple is well-known for its collection of inscriptions, intricate artwork, and sculptures. Doors and structures throughout the complex display paintings and ornate woodcarvings, making it a visible expression of Nepalese craftsmanship and sacred symbolism.
Preservation of Ancient Rituals
The temple remains a site where centuries-old Hindu rituals are not just preserved but continuously practiced. Visitors witness the authentic spirit of living Hindu traditions involving life, death, and spiritual rebirth as seen in rituals on the ghats and in the temple.
Geographical Location
Pashupatinath Temple is located just a few kilometers from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, making it accessible for both local and international visitors. Its position along the Bagmati River also makes it a vital landmark for the city and for Hindu geography overall.
Festival Magnet
During Maha Shivaratri, the temple attracts not just millions of ordinary devotees but also numerous sadhus and mystics, many of whom travel from across Nepal and India to participate in rituals that include music, dance, and all-night meditation.
These facts make Pashupatinath Temple not only a religious and historical treasure of Nepal but also a vibrant, living center that bridges legend, art, community, and continuous spiritual practice.
History and Origins
Historical records mention the temple as early as 400 CE, and it is believed to have been first built in the 5th century. Chronicles attribute its early construction to Licchavi kings such as Prachanda Deva and later renovations to rulers including Shivadeva and Ananta Malla, with the current pagoda-style structure taking shape in 1692 CE after repairs from damage by termites and earthquakes.
According to tradition, the priestly lineage from Karnataka was established by Adi Shankaracharya. He is believed to have lived around 507 BCE, which suggests that the temple and its sacred traditions could be over 2,500 years old. While the current temple structure was built in later periods, the site itself and its religious significance are much older, deeply rooted in ancient worship and spiritual practices.
Hindu scriptures and legends give the site deep spiritual significance. The Shiva Purana describes the linga of Pashupatinath as capable of fulfilling all desires and links it to the Pandavas’ quest for Shiva, where different parts of the deity appeared at various Himalayan temples including Kedarnath and Rudranath. One popular legend tells how Shiva and Parvati, enchanted by the Bagmati River’s forest, took the form of deer until the gods compelled Shiva to reveal himself as Pashupatinath. Another story speaks of the divine cow Kamadhenu pouring milk over a buried linga, leading to its discovery.
Despite repeated earthquakes, including the major 2015 quake, the temple’s inner sanctum has remained intact, continuing to draw pilgrims who believe a visit here grants liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Architecture of the Temple
Pashupatinath Temple is an architectural masterpiece. It stands at 23.6 meters high on a single-tier pedestal. Its design follows the traditional Nepali pagoda style with a square, two-tiered golden roof and silver-plated doors on all sides.
The sanctum houses the main Shivalinga, a unique four-faced lingam (Chaturmukha) representing four aspects of Shiva:
- Tatpurusha (East) – spiritual awakening
- Aghora (South) – destruction of ego and renewal
- Vamadeva (North) – compassion and harmony
- Sadyojata (West) – creative life force
Above the lingam is a fifth face, Ishana, symbolizing Shiva’s supreme consciousness. No other shivalinga in the world is crafted this way, making it truly unique.
The temple’s struts are carved with images of deities from both Shiva’s family and the Ramayana, including Parvati, Ganesha, Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman.
Temple Complex and Deities
The Pashupatinath Temple complex is far more than a single grand temple; it is an expansive spiritual city, spread over 246 hectares with more than 500 individual shrines, temples, ashrams, and sacred monuments, all nestled along the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu.
Guhyeshwari Temple
Guhyeshwari Temple is one of the most revered Shakti Peeths in Nepal and holds special significance for devotees of the goddess Parvati. It is located to the east of the main Pashupatinath shrine and is said to mark the spot where Sati’s hips fell according to ancient mythology. The temple is an essential stop for Shakta pilgrims and features strong tantric associations, drawing worshippers seeking blessings for power and protection.
Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple
Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple is tucked into the forested hillside within the complex and honors Lord Shiva in his form as the divine hunter, Kirata. According to legend, Shiva manifested as a Kirata—a wild hunter form—to bless the great warrior Arjuna. The temple is surrounded by natural beauty and is a peaceful refuge for meditation and prayer.
Budhanilkantha Temple
Budhanilkantha Temple, although sometimes referenced as part of the greater Pashupatinath pilgrimage, is located a few kilometers away but is spiritually linked to the Pashupatinath landscape. It features a unique and massive stone statue of Lord Vishnu reclining on a bed of nagas (serpents) in a pool of water. It attracts both Vishnu and Shiva devotees, highlighting the unity within Hindu worship traditions.
Temple of Vasuki
The small pagoda-style Temple of Vasuki sits in the northeast corner of the complex. It is dedicated to Vasuki, the king of serpents (nagas), often depicted wrapped around the neck of Lord Shiva. According to tradition, Vasuki is believed to reside here, offering protection and contributing to the spiritual energy of the area.
Other Notable Deities and Temples
The complex includes temples dedicated to:
- Ganesh, the remover of obstacles, with shrines near the main entrance
- Kali, Bhairav, Hanuman, and Durga, represented in various forms throughout the site
- The Ram Mandir, a significant temple devoted to Lord Rama, located within the inner complex
- The Raj Rajeshwari Temple for the goddess Raj Rajeshwari, frequented by those seeking family well-being.
A striking architectural feature is the presence of a massive golden statue of Nandi, the sacred bull and Shiva’s loyal mount, facing the main temple structure in veneration.
Artistic and Cultural Museum
Beyond worship, the Pashupatinath complex serves as a living museum. Intricate woodwork, ancient inscriptions, gold and silver-plated doors, and traditional erotic carvings found in struts and doorways showcase centuries of Nepali craftsmanship and artistic symbolism. The artworks span depictions of gods and goddesses, celestial nymphs, and mythological episodes, designed to evoke spiritual contemplation as well as appreciation for the cultural legacy of the Newari artisans.
Cremation Ghats and Ritual Sites
Adjacent to the river are several open-air cremation ghats, most notably Arya Ghat, where members of Nepal’s royal family are traditionally cremated. The ghats are integral to Hindu death rites and give insight into beliefs around karmic liberation and the eternal cycle of life and death.
From the masterful architecture and ritual worship to the bustling lanes filled with animals and pilgrims, Pashupatinath’s complex is a vibrant heart of spiritual and cultural heritage in Nepal.
Priests and Worship Traditions
Only four priests, known as Bhattas, are allowed to touch the lingam at Pashupatinath. They come from South India and follow strict Vedic and ascetic traditions. Assisting them are local Newar Rajbhandari priests, who help with rituals and temple management but do not enter the sanctum.
The chief priest, called Mool Bhatta or Raval, is directly accountable to the King of Nepal.
Daily Rituals and Darshan Timings
The temple follows a daily schedule of rituals, the most important being the Abhishek Puja (ritual bathing of the lingam) performed between 9:30 AM and 12:00 PM with water, milk, honey, and other offerings. Each evening, the Sandhya Aarti fills the Bagmati riverbanks with chants, lamps, and music.
Darshan Schedule:
- 4:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Four-face darshan
- 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Single-face darshan
- 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Four-face darshan
- 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Single-face darshan
- 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Temple closed
- 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Single-face darshan
- 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM: Final four-face darshan
After 7:15 PM, the temple remains closed until 4:00 AM.
Non-Hindus cannot enter the main sanctum but can view rituals and activities from the opposite banks of the Bagmati River.
Festivals Celebrated at Pashupatinath
Maha Shivaratri
The biggest annual festival, celebrated in February or March, attracts thousands of devotees. Pilgrims bring offerings of milk, flowers, fruits, and even cannabis, while all-night prayers, dancing, and music fill the temple complex.
Teej
Falling in August or September, Teej is a festival celebrated mainly by women. Married women fast for the wellbeing of their husbands, while unmarried women pray for a good partner. The Bagmati ghats become crowded with women in red saris performing rituals throughout the day.
Bala Chaturdashi
Held in November or December, this festival commemorates Bal Narsingh Malla, a prince who died from a snake bite. Families stay awake all night, light lamps at graves, and offer sesame seeds and flowers in memory of ancestors.
Other Important Occasions
- Janai Purnima – Renewal of the sacred thread
- Full Moon and New Moon days – Considered highly auspicious for visiting
Pashupatinath, Kedarnath, and Doleshwor Connection
Hindus believe Pashupatinath represents the head of Lord Shiva, whereas Kedarnath in Uttarakhand represents his hump. The Doleshwor Mahadev Temple in Bhaktapur, Nepal, is considered the continuation of this divine alignment, symbolizing the head portion of Kedarnath.
The legend dates back to the Mahabharata, when the Pandavas sought Shiva’s blessings after the war. Shiva took the form of a bull and disappeared, leaving body parts across the Himalayas, now revered as the Panch Kedar temples. Due to this cosmic connection, many pilgrims visit Pashupatinath before or after Kedarnath to complete their pilgrimage.
Social and Cultural Importance
Beyond its religious standing, Pashupatinath Temple also serves as a community institution. It funds schools, hospitals, orphanages, and shelters for the elderly and homeless. Free food and medical care are provided to those in need.
The temple is also home to sadhus (holy men), many of whom are ascetics practicing meditation, tantra, and yoga. Visitors often recognize them by their long dreadlocks, ash-smeared faces, and unique attire.
Visiting Guidelines
- Entry: Only Hindus are allowed inside the main sanctum. Non-Hindus can view from outside and across the river.
- Dress Code & Conduct: Modest clothing is advised. Photography is prohibited inside the temple.
- Offerings: Flowers, bilva leaves, rudraksha beads, milk, and jewelry are common offerings. Monetary donations are also accepted.
- Best Time to Visit: Festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Teej, or auspicious lunar days, are preferred times for pilgrimage.
Nearby attractions worth exploring include Boudhanath Stupa, Old Kathmandu heritage streets, and local rudraksha markets.
FAQs about the Pashupatinath Temple-
Where is Pashupatinath Temple located?
Pashupatinath Temple is located in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. It is situated about 5 kilometers east of central Kathmandu and near Tribhuvan International Airport.
How old is Pashupatinath Temple?
The temple’s existence is recorded as early as 400 CE, but it is believed to be much older, with origins steeped in legend and mythology possibly dating back several centuries before that. According to tradition, the priestly lineage of Pashupatinath Temple from Karnataka was established by Adi Shankaracharya, who lived around 507 BCE. This suggests that the temple and its sacred rituals could be over 2,500 years old. While the current temple structure dates from a later period, the site itself carries a deep religious significance rooted in ancient worship and spiritual heritage.
Who built Pashupatinath Temple and why?
The original wooden temple was likely built by early rulers, but the stone and metal temple seen today was constructed in the 15th century by the Lichhavi kings, particularly King Lichhavi. It was built to honor Lord Shiva as Pashupati, the protector of all living beings.
What makes Pashupatinath Temple special?
It is renowned for its unique four-faced Shiva Lingam representing the different aspects of Shiva, its richly decorated architecture, its status as a spiritual hub for Hindu devotees worldwide, and its location by the sacred Bagmati River. The temple also acts as a cremation site and a community center supporting education and welfare programs.
Is Pashupatinath Temple one of the 12 Jyotirlingas?
Yes, Pashupatinath is considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva across the Indian subcontinent. It is unique as the only Jyotirlinga located outside India, in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Are there any other Jyotirlingas in Nepal?
While Pashupatinath is the primary Jyotirlinga in Nepal, Doleshwor Mahadev Temple in Bhaktapur, Nepal, is recognized as the head portion of Kedarnath’s sacred presence, strengthening the religious link between Nepal and Indian Jyotirlingas.
Why is Pashupatinath Temple so famous in Kathmandu?
The temple is a center of religious, cultural, and social activities, attracting millions of pilgrims annually. Its unique architecture, sacred rituals, festivals like Maha Shivaratri, and its sacred location on the Bagmati River contribute to its fame.
What is the connection between Pashupatinath Temple and Kedarnath Temple in India?
Pashupatinath is believed to represent the head or crown of Lord Shiva, while Kedarnath represents his hump or back. These two temples symbolically form parts of a single divine cosmic body, making them spiritually inseparable pilgrimage sites.
Why does Pashupatinath Temple require priests from India?
The main priests, called Bhattas, come from South India and belong to the Adi Shankaracharya tradition. Their selection is based on strict Vedic knowledge and purity codes that have been maintained for centuries, preserving the temple’s orthodox rituals.
Why was Pashupatinath Temple unaffected by Nepal’s earthquake?
Despite severe damage to many buildings in the 2015 earthquake, the temple sustained only minor cracks, believed to be due to its strong construction and foundation, as well as considered by devotees as a sign of divine protection.
When is the best time to visit Pashupatinath Temple?
The best times to visit are during major festivals such as Maha Shivaratri (February/March), Teej (August/September), and Bala Chaturdashi (November/December). Full moon and new moon days are also considered auspicious.
What should Indian visitors know before going to Pashupatinath Temple?
Indian visitors should note that only Hindus are allowed inside the main sanctum. Modest dress is recommended, and photography inside is prohibited. They should also be prepared to participate respectfully in the temple’s rituals.
How can one reach Pashupatinath Temple from Delhi?
Visitors from Delhi can fly to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. From there, Pashupatinath is a short taxi ride or arranged transport away, easily accessible within the city.
How much does it cost to visit Pashupatinath Temple?
Entry to the outer temple area is generally free for both locals and tourists, but foreigners may need to pay a nominal fee (around NPR 100-150). Donations for rituals or offerings vary depending on the type of puja performed.
Are there any offerings that are not allowed at Pashupatinath Temple?
While many offerings are welcomed, consuming or offering meat, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food is discouraged. Certain intoxicants are only offered during specific rituals, and visitors should consult priests before presenting unusual offerings.
Can visitors touch the Shivalinga at Pashupatinath Temple?
No, only the four appointed Bhattas priests from South India are allowed to touch the Shivalinga. Devotees can have darshan (view) but cannot physically touch the idol.
Why are non-Hindus not allowed inside Pashupatinath Temple?
The temple restricts entry to Hindus as it follows strict religious traditions tied to internal sanctum access and rituals that are specific to Hindu belief and practice. However, non-Hindus can observe rituals from across the Bagmati River.
Can a Christian tourist enter Pashupatinath Temple?
Christian tourists are not permitted inside the main temple sanctum due to religious restrictions but can visit and observe the temple complex from designated viewing areas outside and across the river.
Is Pashupatinath Temple the oldest Hindu or Shiva temple?
Pashupatinath Temple is not necessarily the oldest Hindu or Shiva temple worldwide, but it holds a prominent place among the oldest temples.
What rituals or festivals should visitors know about when visiting Pashupatinath Temple?
Key rituals include the daily Abhishek Puja (9:30 AM to 12:00 PM) where the Shivalinga is bathed, and the evening Sandhya Aarti (6:00 PM to 7:00 PM). Major festivals include Maha Shivaratri, Teej, and Bala Chaturdashi, featuring night-long prayers, music, fasting, and large pilgrimages.
Is there any mandatory dress code to visit the Pashupatinath Temple?
There is no strictly enforced official dress code to visit Pashupatinath Temple, but modest and respectful attire is strongly recommended for all visitors, both men and women. Sleeveless tops, shorts, and revealing clothes are discouraged. Shoes must be removed before entry, and head coverings are optional.
Leave a Comment