Travel Guide
Pashupatinath Temple Hours, Non-Hindu Access, and Photo Rules
Pashupatinath is a living Hindu sacred site and one of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO monument zones. Your plan should begin with access limits—every area isn’t open to every visitor.
ByMomentBook EditorialPublishedUpdated
Pashupatinath is a living Hindu sacred site and one of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO monument zones. Your plan should begin with access limits—every area isn’t open to every visitor.
As checked on 5 May 2026, PADT lists temple hours as daily 04:00–21:00. The main sanctum is for Hindus only, while non-Hindu visitors may observe from the ghats and surrounding public areas.
What to know first
- Official visitor information lists daily hours of 04:00–21:00.
- The main sanctum is for Hindus only; the ghats are open to all.
- Non-Hindu visitors may observe evening Aarti from the eastern bank of the Bagmati.
- Photography is prohibited inside the main sanctum and during religious ceremonies.
- Drone photography requires prior written permission from PADT.
_Image: Wikimedia Commons, Shadow Ayush._
Know the access boundary
You can experience the wider temple complex, ghats, gardens, and surrounding shrines, but the main temple interior is restricted. If a boundary is unclear, ask staff before crossing it.
Respect worship and cremation space
The Bagmati riverfront is both devotional and funerary. Even in exterior areas where photography may be possible, avoid close photographs of people and never interrupt a ritual.
Choose your timing
Early morning is devotee-heavy; evening brings Aarti viewers. For quieter observation, use daytime hours for the outer complex and ghats.
Check before you go
Festival and ritual schedules can change. Recheck PADT for the day’s darshan schedule, notices, and contact details.