The Pashupatinath Temple holds great significance as one of the most sacred and revered Hindu temples worldwide. The Pashupatinath Temple is situated in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, precisely in the capital city of Kathmandu. The ancient temple complex is devoted to Lord Shiva, a prominent deity in Hinduism. It carries great religious and cultural importance for Hindus, particularly in Nepal and India. The Pashupatinath Temple, situated in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, is widely regarded as one of the most sacred and revered Hindu temples globally.
The Pashupatinath Temple holds great religious significance and is also a prominent center of cultural and historical importance in Nepal. The symbol of Nepal's Hindu heritage and spirituality, the place continues to hold great significance as a pilgrimage site and a source of reverence for millions of people around the world.
The Pashupatinath Temple is a renowned Hindu temple situated on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal. The temple is widely regarded as one of the most sacred temples devoted to Lord Shiva. Additionally, it holds the prestigious distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex is believed to have been constructed in the 5th century, with certain sections dating back to the 3rd century. The temple is renowned for its exquisite carvings, sculptures, and stunning architecture. Additionally, this sacred site holds great significance as a pilgrimage destination for Hindus worldwide, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
The Pashupatinath Temple is renowned not only for its historical and cultural importance but also for its cremation ghats. These ghats serve as a place where Hindus gather to carry out the final rituals for their departed loved ones. The cremation ghats hold significant importance in Hindu culture and tradition. They are believed to play a crucial role in facilitating the transition of the departed soul to the next life.
The Pashupatinath Temple is an essential destination for those who have a keen interest in the fascinating history and vibrant culture of Nepal, as well as the profound beliefs and practices of Hinduism. The stunning architecture, beautiful surroundings, and cultural significance of this place make it an unforgettable and truly unique experience for visitors from all over the world.
The temple is adorned with a gold pinnacle. Visitors have the opportunity to encounter Sadhus at Pashupatinath and even capture photographs with them. The temple is renowned for its ancient art, culture, and sculpture. The Pashupatinath temple area is surrounded by approximately 492 temples. The temple cremations are also available for visitation. Funerals of Nepalese individuals continue to occur daily on the Ghats located to the south of the temple. Every evening, a group of people gathers on the bank of the Bagmati river, opposite the temple, to perform Aarti.
Also read about Budhanilkantha Temple in Kathmandu.
Some interesting facts about Pashupatinath Temple
Legends Behind Pashupatinath Temple
The Lingam at Pashupatinath Temple
The best time to visit Pashupatinath Temple
Daily Rituals at Pashupatinath
Significance of Pashupatinath Temple
The Pashupatinath Temple is a Hindu temple situated on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal.
The temple is dedicated to the manifestation of Shiva, who is revered as the supreme deity in the Hindu pantheon.
The temple complex also includes various small shrines and temples, such as the ones dedicated to Kirtimukha Bhairava, the deity associated with destruction, and Ganesh, the god with an elephant head.
The temple holds significant importance for Hindus as it is one of the four major pilgrimage sites, collectively known as the Char Dham Kshetra. Other examples of sacred places include Mukti Kshetra, Ruru Kshetra, and Baraha Kshetra.
The temple is believed to have been constructed by Prachanda Deva, who was both a Licchavi king and a devoted follower of Shiva.
The temple is built in the traditional Nepalese pagoda style, featuring a tiered roof and plinth.
The main shrine is a structure with two tiers and a roof that is plated in gold.
Within the main shrine, one can find a Nandi, which is Shiva's bull, as well as a lingam, which serves as the symbol of Shiva.
There is a platform for cremation rites located on the banks of the Bagmati River.
The temple was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the Maha Shivaratri festival alone attracts over 1.5 million visitors, making it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Nepal.
The temple premises are open exclusively to Hindus for entry, but individuals of all religions are welcome to appreciate the architecture and gain knowledge about the Hindu religion.
The optimal time to visit the temple is during the Shivaratri festival, which attracts devotees from all over Nepal and India who come to worship Shiva.
The temple is situated in the central part of Kathmandu, approximately 5 km away from the city center.
The location is conveniently accessible via public transportation, with a frequent availability of buses and taxis.
The temple's operating hours are from 4 am to 9 pm, with a closure period between 12 PM and 5 PM.
The temple complex does not permit the presence of photography or leather items such as belts and purses.
The temple is surrounded by Sadhus and Yogis who are tourist-friendly, allowing you to pose with them.
The history of Pashupatinath Temple is steeped in centuries-old legends, adding a rich tapestry of significance to this revered site.
One legend recounts how Shiva and Parvati, drawn to the idyllic banks of the Bagmati River, chose to make this locale their dwelling place. Assuming the forms of two deer, they settled here, enamored by the serene surroundings. When word of their earthly abode reached the celestial realm, the gods implored Shiva and Parvati to return to heaven. Defying their divine summons, Shiva and Parvati engaged in a celestial altercation, during which one of Shiva's antlers broke and fell to the earth. The spot where this antler landed became the revered Shiv Linga, buried deep within the earth for many years. Lost to time, this sacred object was later rediscovered when a cow inexplicably began to offer milk at that very location. Witnessing this miraculous event, a shepherd excavated the earth and uncovered the Shiv Linga. Thus, this tale forms one of the origin stories of Pashupatinath Temple.
According to the historical chronicle of Nepal known as Gopal Raj Vamshavali, it was King Prachanda Deva, a notable figure from the Licchavi dynasty, who constructed Pashupatinath Temple.
Another widely accepted legend narrates the existence of a small shrine resembling a Shiv Linga. King Supuspa Deva transformed this modest structure into a grand five-storey temple. Over time, successive monarchs, including Shivadeva, contributed to the temple's expansion, adding more structures. King Ananta Malla, for instance, enhanced the temple's grandeur by adding a roof.
These captivating legends, spanning centuries, imbue Pashupatinath Temple with historical and spiritual significance, rendering it a compelling destination for seekers of culture and spirituality alike.
The lingam housed within the Pashupatinath Temple is truly one-of-a-kind. The Shiv Linga is commonly referred to as the "mukhalinga" or the linga with faces, also known as "mukhs". The temple is constructed using stone and features a silver base. Inside the inner sanctum, known as the garbha gruha, there is a lingam that is protected by a silver serpent. The object has four faces on its four sides, and the top face represents the different incarnations of Lord Shiva's avatars. These five faces represent the five Panch tattvas, which are the five natural elements that comprise the universe. The five faces are:
Sadyojata or Barun is the west-facing face.
Vamdeva or Uma Maheshwari is the north-facing face.
Tatpurusha is the east-facing face.
Aghor is the south-facing face.
Ishana is the zenith facing face.
Each face in this depiction possesses two hands: one hand holds a kamandal, while the other hand holds a Rudraksha Mala. The idol is adorned with a golden attire, known as vastram, which is only removed during the abhisheka ceremony. In temples across India and Nepal, Lord Shiva is not typically depicted wearing ornaments. The shiv linga in the Pashupatinath Temple is the only one adorned with gold ornaments.
The temple is most enjoyable to visit during local festivals such as Teej, Maha Shiv Ratri, Bala Chaturthi, and others. The best time to visit the temple is during the months of October to December. This is the time of year when the weather is delightful and arid. Furthermore, the sky is expected to be clear. If you visit during Maha Shiv Ratri, which typically falls in March or February, the climate can be quite hot. Bring as much water as you can carry with you. During your stay in the area, it is important to remain hydrated to avoid dehydration.
4:00 am: West gate opens for visitors.
8:30 am: After arrival of Pujaris, the idols of the Lord are bathed and cleaned, clothes and jewelry are changed for the day.
9:30 am: Baal Bhog or breakfast is offered to the Lord.
10:00 am: Then people who want to do Puja are welcomed to do so. It is also called Farmayishi Puja, whereby people tell the Pujari to carry out a special Puja for their specified reasons. The Puja continues till 1:45 pm in the afternoon.
1:50 pm: Lunch is offered to the Lord in the main Pashupati Temple.
2:00 pm: Morning prayers end.
5:15 pm: The evening Aarati at the main Pashupati Temple begins.
6:00 pm onward: Recently the Bagmati Ganga Aarati; done by the shores of Bagmati, has been gaining lots of popularity. We can see the shores of Bagmati crowded mostly on Saturdays, Mondays and on special occasions. Ganga Aarati along with Shiva’s Tandava Bhajan, written by Ravana, is carried out on evening Ganga Aarati.
7:00 pm: Door is closed.
Birth, death, and sex are all essential parts of life
Pashupatinath Temple embodies an ancient Hindu philosophy that embraces the fundamental aspects of life, including birth, death, and sexuality. It emphasizes that death should not be feared and sexuality should not be stigmatized. This concept is vividly illustrated by the presence of a ritual cremation ground in close proximity to the temple and the inclusion of sensual artworks on the temple's roof.
There isn't just one temple
Beyond a singular temple, the Pashupatinath complex encompasses a multitude of smaller temples. While the Pashupatinath Temple serves as the primary shrine, there are hundreds of ancillary temples within the complex, including the Guhyeshwari Temple, Vatasala Temple, Ram Temple, Sati's Gate, and others. Additionally, numerous smaller shrines and tombs are nestled within the Gorakhnath temple complex.
One of the Jyotirlinga complexes
Pashupatinath Temple holds the distinction of being one of the twelve Jyotirlingas worldwide. According to Hindu mythology, these Jyotirlingas mark the places where Lord Shiva manifested as a radiant pillar of light that pierced the Earth. Each Jyotirlinga site is now revered as a Shiva temple, and Pashupatinath in Nepal is considered one of these twelve sacred locations. It is held in high regard as an exceptionally pure pilgrimage destination.
After-life salvation
The temple is also associated with the concept of after-life salvation. It is believed that visiting Pashupatinath Temple and seeking its blessings can absolve the sins committed during one's lifetime, paving the way for spiritual redemption. Many saints and elders choose to reside in the temple precincts, aspiring to breathe their last in this hallowed place of religious salvation.
In truth, Pashupatinath Temple boasts remarkable features that make it a standout architectural and spiritual marvel. This temple is distinguished by its four gilded silver doors on each side, as well as the golden-gilded roofs of its struts. Every inch of available space is adorned with intricate paintings and carvings, featuring an array of decorative motifs. Adorning the struts are depictions of numerous gods and goddesses, captured in various poses. The current appearance of the temple can be traced back to the 19th or 20th century AD, a significant period in Nepalese history during the Rana regime from 1846 AD to 1950 AD. The temple, in its present form, showcases magnificent silver-gilded doors. The Rana rulers successfully asserted their dominance as the most influential prime ministers in the nation during this era. Furthermore, King Mahendra contributed to the temple's grandeur by constructing the entrance gate, adorned with a depiction of Lord Shiva. As one of Nepal's eminent monarchs, Mahendra played a pivotal role in advancing the country's economy and foreign policy.
Pashupatinath's main temple, known as the Pashupatinath Temple, serves as the focal point for daily pujas, festivals, and special religious ceremonies. Within the temple complex, there are an astounding 3,200 statues, each representing a different deity. Numerous smaller temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses are scattered throughout the temple grounds. These include the Kritimukha Bhairav temple (7th century), Vasuki temple, Unmatta Bhairav temple, Lord Brahma temple (9th century), Kotilingeswor Mahadev temple, Radha Krishna temple, and Parthiveswor temple (15th to 17th century AD), among others.
According to Hindu scriptures, Pashupatinath holds a position of paramount importance as a pilgrimage destination for adherents of the Hindu faith. The name "Pashupatinath" translates to "lord of all the animals of the natural world" in Sanskrit, signifying the deity's purported ability to govern all living beings in the universe.
Devotees from all corners of the globe embark on pilgrimages to this sacred site throughout the year. Particularly, the Maha Shivaratri festival, observed on the 14th day of the waning moon in late February or early March, draws hundreds of thousands of worshippers from Nepal and India. This event underscores the site's profound spiritual significance, recognized both locally and internationally.
The inclusion of the Pashupatinath area on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list in 1979 AD attests to its unparalleled array of temples, rich historical heritage, and profound religious import. The primary temple itself stands as an exquisite pagoda-style structure, proudly gracing the heart of an expansive courtyard.
Option 1:
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu, Our representative pick up from airport, assist you too hotel.
Day 02: Early morning breakfast at hotel and visit to pasupatinath, Budhanilkantha (sleeping bishnu,Guhyeshwari temple Overnight at Kathmandu.
Day 03: Fly back to home.
Option 2: with Muktinath Temple visit
Day 01: Arrival Kathmandu, Our representative pick up from airport.Overnight hotel kathmandu.
Day 02: Pasupatinath temple visit with ½ day city tour in Kathmandu and fly to Pokhara.
Day 03: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, visit muktinath temple. Overnight at jomsom.
Day 04: Fly back to Pokhara and ½ day pokhara city tour.
Day 05: Fly back to Kathmandu. Free day in Kathmandu.
Day 06: Final departure.
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Getaway Nepal Adventure (P.) Ltd.
Thamel Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel: +977 98510 38 908
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