Pashupatinath, on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, is Nepal's holiest Hindu temple and one of the most important shrines to Shiva in the world. It is also where Hindus come to cremate their loved ones, a moving and sometimes confronting experience for visitors.
Quick answer: non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but can explore the wider complex and watch from the east bank of the Bagmati. You will see open-air cremations on the ghats; be quiet and respectful, and don't photograph mourners closely. Visit at dusk for the evening aarati.
What you'll see
- The main temple: a pagoda with golden roofs, open only to Hindus.
- Cremation ghats: stone platforms along the river, where funerals take place throughout the day.
- Sadhus: Hindu holy men with painted faces; some pose for photos and expect a donation.
- Shrines and lingams: rows of small shrines along the east bank.
The evening aarati
Every evening, priests perform a fire ritual with lamps, bells and chanting by the river. See our Pashupatinath evening aarati tour.
Etiquette
- Dress modestly and speak quietly.
- Watch cremations from a respectful distance; never photograph grieving families.
- Don't touch offerings or the deceased.
- Agree a donation before photographing sadhus.
Maha Shivaratri
In February or March, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, including sadhus from across South Asia, gather for Maha Shivaratri, the great night of Shiva.
Practical tips
Foreign visitors pay an entry fee. A guide helps explain the rituals. Pashupatinath is close to Boudhanath; see hotels nearby.