Shri Pashupatinath Mandir - श्री पशुपतिनाथ मन्दिर

Shri Pashupatinath Temple is the most famous temple of Nepal apart from the twelve Jyotirlingas of Bhagwan Shiva. This temple of Bhagwan Shiva is dedicated to his Pashupatinath form, Pashupatinath means Bhagwan of all Pashu (animals).

Bhagwan Pashupatinath is said to be the protector of Kathmandu. Shri Pashupatinath Temple is located on the banks of the Bagmati Ganga in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. The huge golden statue of Nandi, the presiding deity of Bhagwan Shiva, in front of the western gate of the temple attracts the most visiting devotees.

The first existence of the Pashupatinath temple is believed to date back to 400 BC. The temple was renovated in the 15th century before the walls were weakened by termites.

There are 4 entrance gates in all four directions to enter the temple premises. Out of those four gates, the western entrance is the main entrance to the temple and the remaining three entrances are opened only during major festivals. The main temple in the complex as well as all the other temples are built in an almost square shape with wooden structures. The two-story roof of the main temple is made of copper and covered with gold, the main spire is inlaid in gold and the gates are inlaid with silver sheets.

Only Hindus and Buddhists of Indian and Tibetan origin are allowed to enter the main temple. This temple complex has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1979. Shri Ram Mandir, Virat Swaroop Temple, 12 Jyotirlingas have also been established in the temple premises.

One of the 52 Shaktipeeths of Adimata Shakti is also situated near the temple, one Shri Guhyeshwari Shaktipeeth, one of which leads from Pashupatinath towards the forest to the Shaktipeeth. You can find many other temples, ashrams, rest places on the temple premises. Some monkeys of the temple can be seen playing with people and sometimes scaring them. Deer are protected in the forest.

Prepare for the temple darshan in such a way that you must get to see the blissful evening aarti to be held at 6 in the evening. This evening aarti of Bhagwan Pashupatinath ji is very spectacular. And the scene of the cremation taking place on the banks of the Bagmati river can make you think about your life.

A parking facility is also available outside the temple premises. Flowers and worship material can be obtained from shops for worship in the temple. The holy month of Sawan, Shivratri and Mondays are considered to be the most sacred to visit the temple.