Nama·bharat
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dhams and sacred places

What is the Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu?

Pashupatinath is one of the most important Shiva temples in the world, sitting on the banks of the Bagmati river in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a deeply sacred place for Hindus across South Asia.

The deity and what the name means

Pashupati means Lord of all living beings. Pashu means creature or living being, and pati means lord. This is one of the most beloved names of Shiva, and this temple is seen as one of his greatest earthly homes. The main shrine holds a special form of the Shiva lingam, which is considered especially powerful and ancient. Shiva is worshipped here as the protector and master of all life.

A place of deep roots

Pashupatinath has been a centre of worship for a very long time. The tradition holds that the site is ancient beyond clear record, and it has been rebuilt, expanded, and venerated across many centuries. It sits on the Bagmati river, which itself is considered sacred. The temple complex holds many smaller shrines, statues, and structures that have grown up around the main temple over generations. UNESCO recognised the entire area as a World Heritage Site because of its outstanding religious and architectural importance.

What it means to pilgrims

For many Hindus, a visit to Pashupatinath is a once-in-a-lifetime hope. It draws pilgrims from Nepal, India, and the wider Hindu diaspora. The Bagmati river running alongside is considered purifying, and many important last rites and cremations take place on its ghats. This closeness to both life and death, birth and departure, is part of what makes the site feel so charged with meaning. Shiva as Pashupati is not a distant or fearsome god here. He is seen as close, caring, and present.

Visiting today

The temple is open to Hindu pilgrims. Non-Hindu visitors are generally not allowed inside the main temple, though they may visit the surrounding complex and watch from across the river. Major festivals, especially Maha Shivaratri, draw enormous numbers of pilgrims and sadhus from across South Asia. Entry rules, timings, and any fees can change, so anyone planning a visit is best served by checking current information from the temple or a trusted local source before travelling.

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How we write. We describe what the tradition holds, drawing on its texts and customs in general terms. We do not give religious, medical, or dietary advice, and we note plainly where there is no scientific evidence. Reviewed for accuracy by our editorial team.