Pashupatinath Temple Tour
Duration
1hr
Group Size
Max Elevation
Difficulty
Easy
Start & End Point
Kathmandu
Accomodation
Tea walk and Lodge
Permit
No
Discount
Best Time
Anytime
Highlights
- One of the four major temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered by Hindus worldwide.
- Intricately carved pagoda-style temple with a golden roof and silver-plated doors.
- Witness traditional Hindu cremation rituals along the Bagmati River, offering insight into Hindu practices and beliefs.
- Experience the mesmerizing evening Aarati, a devotional ritual performed with fire and music, attracting visitors from around the world.
- The temple complex provides stunning views of the surrounding hills and the Bagmati River.
Nestled on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal, Pashupatinath Temple stands as a beacon of spirituality and devotion. As one of the holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit for those seeking a blend of cultural immersion, spiritual awakening, and historical exploration.
A Glimpse into the History and Significance of Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple’s origins trace back to as early as 400 A.D., making it one of the oldest and most significant temples in Nepal. It holds immense religious significance for Hindus worldwide, being dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. The temple’s name, "Pashupatinath," translates to "Lord of All Animals," and it is believed that visiting this temple and offering prayers leads to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
The main temple, with its magnificent pagoda-style architecture and a two-tiered golden roof, is an architectural marvel. Its intricate wood carvings, silver-plated doors, and the sacred Shiva Linga inside the main sanctum reflect the rich cultural heritage and religious artistry of Nepal.
Typical Itinerary
- Morning Arrival: Begin your journey early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the serenity of the temple complex. Your guide will provide insights into the temple's history, architecture, and religious significance.
- Exploring the Temple Complex: Visit the main temple area and observe the rituals being performed by priests and devotees. Witness the sacred Linga of Lord Shiva and marvel at the architectural beauty of the temple.
- Observing the Cremation Rituals: Head towards the Arya Ghat along the Bagmati River, where traditional Hindu cremation ceremonies take place. While it might feel intense, this experience provides a deep understanding of Hindu philosophies about life and death.
- Lunch Break: Enjoy a local Nepali lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring authentic dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), or Newari cuisine.
- Evening Bagmati Aarti: Conclude your visit with the captivating Bagmati Aarti. As the sun sets, the aarti ceremony begins with priests performing fire rituals, chanting Vedic hymns, and offering prayers to the sacred river. The spiritual vibrations and energy of the place are truly uplifting.
- Return to Your Hotel: After a spiritually enriching day, return to your hotel in Kathmandu with a sense of peace and fulfillment.
Inclusion
- A knowledgeable guide to take you through the history, architecture, and significance of the temple complex.
- Covering the cost of entry tickets to the Pashupatinath Temple and surrounding areas.
- A guided experience of the evening Aarti on the banks of the Bagmati River.
- Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Kathmandu.
- A taste of traditional Nepali snacks during the tour.
Exclusion
- Souvenirs, personal donations, or additional snacks and beverages.
- Any charges for cameras or video equipment inside the temple complex
- Tips for the guide, driver, or any other staff involved in the tour
- Lunch or dinner is not included in the package.