Pashupatinath Temple Visitor Guide 2026: Entry Rules, Aarti, Transport & Who Can Enter

Pashupatinath entry rules: who can enter?

PADT states that the main sanctum is for Hindus only. It does not publish a more detailed identity test on its visitor pages, so anyone unsure about eligibility should ask temple staff rather than assume that nationality, appearance or a fee category determines access.

Non-Hindu visitors are welcome in public parts of the wider Pashupatinath complex. PADT specifically identifies the ghats, gardens and surrounding shrines as accessible, and says visitors of all backgrounds may watch the evening aarti from the eastern bank of the Bagmati.

Pashupatinath tickets, opening hours and best visit time

Nepal Tourism Board currently lists a fee of NPR 1,000 per day per entry for foreign nationals, Chinese visitors and non-Indian SAARC nationals. Indian nationals and Nepali visitors enter free, but those fee categories do not change PADT’s Hindus-only rule for the main sanctum.

PADT lists the Pashupatinath area as open daily from 4:00 am to 9:00 pm. Its detailed temple page says the inner gates close at 2:00 pm, then reopen for evening aarti at 6:00 pm in winter and 7:00 pm in other seasons.

Visitors may choose early morning for the morning temple schedule. Those planning to see the Bagmati aarti should allow extra time for security, walking and a viewing position.

Pashupatinath aarti time and viewing etiquette

PADT’s published schedules currently conflict; confirm the day’s timing directly before visiting. Check its notices for current puja and festival arrangements rather than relying on an old timetable.

Non-Hindu visitors may observe from the eastern bank of the Bagmati. Stand where stewards direct, keep pathways open, silence your phone and avoid moving in front of worshippers during the ritual.

Do not photograph a religious ceremony. PADT permits respectful photography in exterior public areas and on the ghats, but the presence of cremation rites makes discretion essential even where a camera is technically allowed.

Dress, shoes, leather items and photography rules

• Dress modestly: Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops; follow PADT’s modest-dress requirement.
• Remove shoes: Take footwear off before entering any shrine and use the designated storage area if one is provided.
• Check leather restrictions: Nepal Tourism Board says shoes, belts, cameras and other leather items are forbidden within the main temple complex. Carry as little as possible and follow the checkpoint’s current directions.
• Keep the camera away during rituals: Photography is prohibited inside the main sanctum and during religious ceremonies.
• Ask before photographing people: Public ghats are not a licence to photograph worshippers, priests or grieving families. When in doubt, do not take the picture.
• Walk clockwise: Nepal Tourism Board identifies clockwise movement around temples and stupas as the traditional practice.

How to travel from Kathmandu to Pashupatinath

Pashupatinath lies in Gaushala, about 5 km east of central Kathmandu. Nepal Tourism Board says taxis, microbuses and tempos serve Gaushala, followed by a short walk to the temple.

PADT lists bus routes 11, 22 and 30 to Gaushala, with the complex about a five-minute walk from the stop. It estimates a taxi from Thamel at about 15–20 minutes, although traffic can make the journey longer.

If you want to stay within easy reach of both Pashupatinath and central-city sights, compare hotels in Kathmandu. Ask your accommodation to confirm road access before major festivals.

A respectful Pashupatinath visit plan

1. Check PADT’s live schedule and notices on the morning of your visit.
2. Wear modest clothing and leave unnecessary leather items and camera equipment at your hotel.
3. Carry local currency for the heritage-site fee if your visitor category requires it.
4. At the entrance, ask staff which route and viewpoints are open to you.
5. Keep clear of active rites, funeral areas and processions throughout the visit.
6. For evening aarti, reach the eastern bank early and use only the designated viewing space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

1. Pashupati Area Development Trust — visitor information and live day schedule
2. Pashupati Area Development Trust — visitor FAQs, access, transport and photography guidance
3. Pashupati Area Development Trust — main temple and inner-gate schedule
4. Nepal Tourism Board — heritage-site entry fees
5. Nepal Tourism Board — Pashupatinath visitor overview and access
6. Nepal Tourism Board — cultural etiquette

Disclaimer: We’ve worked hard to make sure the information in this article is as accurate and up to date as possible at the time of publishing. Travel details such as prices, schedules, visa rules, and entry requirements can change at short notice, so it remains your responsibility to verify the current details with official sources before you book or travel. Wego accepts no liability for any loss or inconvenience arising from the use of this content.