Temple · Hindu
Pashupatinath Temple
Kathmandu, Nepal
Part of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site
Temple · Hindu
Kathmandu, Nepal
Pashupatinath is a sprawling Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, and one of the most significant Shiva temples in the world.
The temple is dedicated to Pashupati, a form of Shiva as "Lord of Animals," and is regarded as one of the four holiest Shiva sites (Char Dham of Shiva) in the subcontinent. It is also an active cremation site, with ghats along the Bagmati used for Hindu funeral rites.
The current pagoda-style temple dates to the 19th century, though the site's religious use is recorded from at least the 5th century and is believed to be considerably older, with the temple rebuilt multiple times through its history.
Year-round, with Maha Shivaratri (February/March) drawing the largest crowds of devotees and sadhus.
The main temple sanctum is restricted to Hindus; non-Hindu visitors can view the complex and cremation ghats respectfully from designated areas across the river. Modest dress is expected. Photography of cremation ceremonies is considered inappropriate.
The inner sanctum is restricted to practicing Hindus. Non-Hindu visitors can view much of the wider temple complex and the cremation ghats from designated public areas across the river.