Pashupatinath Temple, Timings, History, Travel Guide and How to reach

Pashupatinath Temple – Guide

Pashupatinath Temple is a famous and sacred Hindu temple complex located on the banks of the Bagmati River in the eastern part of the Kathmandu Valley, the capital of Nepal. Pashupatinath is one of the four most important religious sites in Asia dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple was built in the 5^th century and later renovated by the Malla kings. The site is said to have been in existence since the beginning of the millennium when a Shiva Lingam was discovered. The temple of Pashupatinath has about 492 shrines, 15 pagodas dedicated to Lord Shiva and 12 Jyotirlingas.

History of this Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is considered to be the oldest temple in Kathmandu. According to history, the temple was built by Pashupreksha of the Somdev dynasty in the 3^rd century BC. The main complex of the Pashupatinath Temple was last built in the late 17^th century, having been destroyed in places by termites. Don’t know how many times the original temple was destroyed, but the present form was given to the temple in 1697 by King Bhupalendra Malla.

The statue of lord Shiva in this temple is considered to be the human form of Lord Shiva. It is seen as an incomplete idol which is sunk into the earth from the waist down. Every year this idol rises above the waist and it is believed that if this idol rises completely then the world will be destroyed.

Best time to visit Pashupatinath Temple

The most important festivals are Mahashiv Ratri, Bala Chaturthi festival, and Teej festival. Teej is one of the most famous festivals in Pashupatinath Temple. It is celebrated by Hindu Nepalese women for the happiness of their husbands for a long time.

Pashupatinath Temple Timings

Pashupatinath Temple opens at 4:00 AM in the morning and close at 7:00 PM in the evening. Morning aarti is performed at 8:00 AM in the morning and evening aarti is performed at 5:15 PM in the evening. And ganga aarti is performed at 6:00 PM in the evening.

Places to visit near this Temple

Swambhu Temple

This temple is located at a distance of about few kms away from Pashupatinath Temple. This temple is built with the eyes of the lord.

Lumbini

Lumbini is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha. Gautam Buddha was born at this place. This place is situated in Rupandehi district of Nepal.

Chitwan national Park

This national Park is located at a distance of about few kms away from this temple. Here all types and variety of animals are seen.

Changunarayan Temple

This temple is dedicated to lord Vishnu. This temple is located at a distance of about few kms away from the Temple.

Also Read: Jageshwar Dham Temple, Timings, History, Travel Guide and How to reach

How to reach Pashupatinath Temple

By Air- The nearest airport from Pashupatinath Temple is Kathmandu Nepal airport which is at a distance of 5 km away from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.

By Road- Pashupatinath Temple is located just 5 km from the valley of Kathmandu. There are plenty of buses and taxis that will take you from Kathmandu to Pashupatinath Temple. You can take buses from the City Bus Station or Ratna Park in Kathmandu.