Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest and most revered sites in Hinduism, stands as a testament to Nepal’s deep religious and cultural heritage. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, this sacred temple attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists from around the world. In this article, we will explore the temple’s location, its distance from various key cities, and how to reach Pashupatinath from different places such as Kathmandu, Raxaul, and Delhi.
In this article, we will explore the history, architecture, rituals, significance, travel tips for visiting Pashupatinath Temple, and how to reach to reach from kathmandu to pashupatinath, and kathmandu to pashupatinath temple distance, and from delhi, raxaul to pashupatinath temple distance.
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Where is Pashupatinath Temple?
Pashupatinath Temple is situated in the eastern part of Kathmandu, Nepal, and is considered one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covers a sprawling area with intricate architecture, sacred ghats, and numerous shrines. The main temple houses a golden idol of Lord Pashupatinath, a form of Shiva, which is considered one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, making it an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Pashupatinath is located on the banks of the Bagmati River, which is believed to have purifying properties. The temple is also closely associated with Hindu cremation rituals. The surrounding area is a blend of spiritual and historical significance, with numerous other smaller shrines, monasteries, and a peaceful atmosphere conducive to prayer and reflection.
Pashupatinath Temple Distance from Kathmandu City
The distance from the heart of Kathmandu to Pashupatinath Temple is approximately 3 to 5 kilometers. Since the temple is situated in the eastern part of the city, it can be easily accessed by car, taxi, or even on foot, depending on your location in Kathmandu.
- By Taxi or Car: The most convenient way to reach Pashupatinath from Kathmandu’s main attractions, such as Durbar Square, Thamel, or Swayambhunath Stupa, is by taxi or private vehicle. The journey typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- By Public Transport: Public buses and microbuses also operate routes that pass near Pashupatinath Temple, offering an affordable option for locals and travelers alike.
- On Foot: For those staying nearby, walking to the temple can also be an option, especially if you’re staying in popular areas such as Thamel. The walk takes about 30-40 minutes, providing a great opportunity to explore Kathmandu’s streets along the way.
Raxaul to Pashupatinath Temple Distance
Raxaul, a town in Bihar, India, is located quite close to the Nepal-India border, making it a common entry point for travelers heading to Nepal. The distance from Raxaul to Pashupatinath Temple is approximately 200 kilometers by road.
- By Road: The most common route to reach Pashupatinath from Raxaul is via the Birganj border. After crossing the border into Nepal, travelers need to continue toward Kathmandu. The journey typically takes about 5-7 hours, depending on road conditions and the mode of transport. Private taxis, buses, or jeeps can be hired for this route, but it’s always advisable to plan ahead for a comfortable journey.
- By Train and Bus: While there is no direct train service from Raxaul to Kathmandu, you can travel by train from Raxaul to a nearby station like Barauni or Patna, and then take a bus or private vehicle to Kathmandu. The journey might take a little longer and involve multiple transfers.
Delhi to Pashupatinath Temple Distance
Delhi, the capital city of India, is a major starting point for international travelers heading to Nepal. The distance between Delhi and Pashupatinath Temple is about 1,100 kilometers by road. For those traveling by air, the distance is considerably shorter, around 800 kilometers.
- By Air: The fastest way to reach Pashupatinath Temple from Delhi is by taking a flight to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From the airport, Pashupatinath Temple is about a 10-15 minute drive by taxi or car.
- By Road: For those who prefer traveling by land, the road journey from Delhi to Kathmandu can take between 20 to 24 hours, depending on road conditions and the route taken. The most common route is via the Sunauli Border, which is around 200 kilometers from Kathmandu. Travelers will need to cross the border into Nepal and continue their journey by bus or private vehicle.
- By Train and Bus: You can take a train from New Delhi to a border town like Raxaul and then transfer to a bus or taxi to reach Kathmandu. However, this can be time-consuming and may take longer than traveling by air.
How to Reach Pashupatinath Temple
There are multiple ways to reach Pashupatinath Temple from different parts of Nepal and India. Whether you are traveling by air, train, or bus, here are the most common options:
From Kathmandu (Domestic Travel)
- By Taxi or Private Vehicle: As mentioned earlier, taxis and private vehicles are the most convenient way to reach Pashupatinath Temple from within Kathmandu. Simply ask the driver to take you to Pashupatinath, and they will know the route. The fare usually ranges from NPR 300 to NPR 700, depending on your location within the city.
- By Public Transport: Microbuses, city buses, and even cycle rickshaws ply the route to Pashupatinath, providing an affordable travel option. However, the comfort and convenience of public transport may vary.
- On Foot or by Bicycle: For those who enjoy walking or cycling, reaching Pashupatinath on foot from central Kathmandu is a viable option, though it might take up to 40 minutes. Many visitors prefer this option as it allows them to soak in the local atmosphere along the way.
From India (International Travel)
- By Air: The fastest way to reach Pashupatinath from India is by flying to Kathmandu. Multiple airlines operate direct flights from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata to Tribhuvan International Airport. Upon arrival, you can take a short drive to the temple.
- By Train and Bus: If you prefer a more economical route, you can take a train to Raxaul, Bihar, and then continue by bus or private vehicle to Kathmandu. While this option may take more time, it offers a chance to explore different places along the way.
- By Road: You can also travel from India by bus to the Sunauli border and then enter Nepal, continuing by bus or car to Kathmandu. The road journey can be long and tiring, but it’s an option for budget-conscious travelers.
Pashupatinath Temple Timings
Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest temples in Nepal, is open to visitors every day, and its timings are structured around the traditional rituals and ceremonies that take place throughout the day. Whether you are planning to visit for a quick sightseeing tour or to witness a religious ceremony, it is important to know the exact timings to make the most of your visit. Below are the details of Pashupatinath Temple’s timings:
Regular Opening Hours:
- Morning Timings:
- Temple Opening Time: 4:30 AM
- The temple opens early in the morning for the daily rituals. Visitors are welcomed to the temple complex from this time onwards. Devotees can join the morning Aarti (ritual of worship with lights and chants), which starts at dawn.
- Morning Aarti (Worship): The morning Aarti usually begins at around 5:00 AM. It is an important ritual where priests wave large oil lamps before the deity, and devotees sing hymns to honor Lord Pashupatinath.
- Evening Timings:
- Temple Closing Time: 7:00 PM
- The temple typically closes by 7:00 PM, after the completion of the evening Aarti ceremony, which is just as elaborate as the morning one. The evening Aarti takes place at around 6:30 PM or 7:00 PM, depending on the season, and offers a beautiful and serene experience, especially with the light fading over the temple complex and the Bagmati River.
Specific Ritual Timings:
- Morning Rituals and Abhishek (Ritual Bathing of the Idol):
- The morning rituals, which involve offering milk, honey, fruits, and other sacred items to Lord Pashupatinath, start early. Devotees often arrive before dawn to participate in these activities.
- The Abhishek (ritual washing of the idol) is one of the key morning rituals that takes place after the temple opens at 4:30 AM.
- Aarti Ceremonies:
- Morning Aarti: Around 5:00 AM (subject to seasonal variations).
- Evening Aarti: The evening Aarti starts around 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM depending on the time of year.
- Both Aarti ceremonies are major events in the temple and are a central part of the worship practices.
Special Days and Festivals Timings:
Pashupatinath Temple’s schedule may change during major Hindu festivals and special religious days. The temple becomes exceptionally busy during these times, with extended hours for prayers and worship.
- Shivaratri (Maha Shivaratri):
- Shivaratri, a major festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, usually falls in February or March. On this day, the temple remains open 24 hours for devotees. Thousands of pilgrims and devotees visit Pashupatinath Temple to offer prayers and participate in the grand Shivaratri celebrations, which include all-night vigils, chanting, and fasting.
- Tihar (Deepawali):
- During Tihar, also known as the festival of lights (around October or November), the temple sees a large influx of visitors. The temple remains open during special events like these, and the evening Aarti ceremony is more elaborate than usual.
- Buddha Jayanti and Other Special Occasions:
- The temple may have different timings for special occasions, such as Buddha Jayanti (celebrating the birth of Buddha, as Kathmandu is also a center of Buddhist pilgrimage) or other regional celebrations. These events often extend the temple’s opening hours for worship and allow for special ceremonies.
Conclusion
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most significant spiritual landmarks in Nepal, drawing visitors from around the world for both its religious importance and architectural grandeur. Whether you’re traveling from within Kathmandu, neighboring India, or further afield, there are several routes to reach this sacred site. From the short 3-5 km drive within Kathmandu to the longer distances from cities like Raxaul and Delhi, visiting Pashupatinath is an experience that connects you to Nepal’s spiritual heart.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace, interested in experiencing Nepalese culture, or simply want to see a stunning example of ancient architecture, the journey to Pashupatinath Temple is well worth the effort.
