The Pashupatinath Temple is a famous, sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva also called Pashupati (Lord of Animals). It is situated on the banks of the river Bagmati in Deopatan, which is 5 Km north-east of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal.
The temple is considered as one of the most important Hindu burial sites in the world and the most sacred Hindu-shrine of Nepal. With its amazing architectural beauty, the temple stands as a symbol of religion, culture, faith and tradition. The temple attracts thousands of pilgrims every year and has become very popular throughout the world. The temple is banded to non-Hindus, however, a decent view of the temple can be seen from the alternative bank of the river.
A Brief History
As earlier told, Pashupati means “Lord of Animals” and it is one form of Lord Shiva. It is not known exactly when Pashupatinath Temple was founded. But according to tradition it is known that it had been made by Pashupreksha of the Somadeva Dynasty in the 3rd century BC though the primary historical records date back the 13th century.
Lord Shiva has 1008 names and forms and Pashupati is one of them. It is told that, as Pashupati Lord Shiva watches over the souls of men. According to a legend recorded in native texts, particularly the Nepalamahatmya and the Himavatkhanda, the Hindu god Shiva once escaped from the other gods in Varanasi to Mrigasthali. Mrigasthali is a forest on the alternative bank of the Bagmati River from the temple. There, within the sort of antelope, he slept along with his partner Parvati. When the gods found him there and tried to bring him back to Varanasi, he jumped across the stream to the alternative bank, where one in all his horns burst into four pieces. After that, Shiva was worshipped as Pashupati (Lord of Animals) in a four face (Chaturmukha) Linga.
- Suggested Tour: Pashupatinath Temple Tour Package
Things to Watch Out For At Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple is a square, two-tiered temple designed on a single-tier pedestal and it stands 23.6 metres high. It has ornamented gilt and silver-plated doors on all its sides.
River Bagmati
The river Bagmati which runs next to Pashupatinath Temple is said to have many sacred properties. So the banks are lined with several bathing spots (Ghats) to be used by pilgrims. Refurbishing or furnishing these sites has always been considered worthy.
The Priests
Bhattas is the name given to the priests of Pashupatinath Temple. The chief priest is called Mool Bhatt or Raval. The chief priest is answerable solely to the King of Nepal and also reports to him on a regular basis on temple matters.
Arya Ghat
Arya Ghat is a place of special importance. It is the only place where sacred water for Pashupatinath Temple can be obtained. It is also a place where the members of the royal family are cremated.
The Sanctum
The sanctum of Pashupatinath temple contains a one-meter high Linga with four faces (Chaturmukha) representing Pashupati, as well as pictures of Surya, Vishnu, Devi and Ganesha.
The Struts
The struts under the roofs, are well-decorated with wood carvings of members of Shiva’s family like Parvati, Ganesh, Kumar or the Yoginis. Additionally Hanuman, Rama, Sita, Lakshman and other gods and goddesses from the Ramayana are also depicted in it.
Chadeshvar and Dharamshila
On the southern side of Pashupati temple is the Dharmashila, a stone where sacred oaths are taken. The Chandeshwar, which is also located on the southern side, is a Licchavi linga from the 7th Century which is very popular.
Temple of Vasuki
A small pagoda temple, Known as the temple of Vasuki, is located in the north-east corner of the temple courtyard. Vasuki, is the king of the Nagas (A mythical snake). According to a traditional belief, Vasuki took up residence here to protect Pashupati.
Who Are Allowed to Enter
The Pashupatinath temple is open only for the Hindus. It has covered an enormous space and you’ll be able to wander there for hours enjoying the environment. You would be allows to enter the temple only if you say that you a Hindu. However don’t worry you’ll be able to watch everything that happens inside the temple from the opposite bank of Bagmati river.
Promising Time to Visit
During the Teej festival in August, thousands of women visit the temple to bathe in the holy waters of Bagmati. This ritual is performed to bring a long and happy marriage life. The Women are mainly dressed in red saris, traditionally worn during wedding ceremonies. Visiting the temple on full moon and new moon days is also considered favourable. Some other important occasions which are considered favourable are as follows:
Bala Chaturdashi
During this festival, folks head to Pashupatinath the previous night of Bala Chaturdashi and spend the full night in the temple. During this time, they sing Bhajans (Songs written of God) the whole night and entertain themselves. This is a very popular festival and attracts lot people.
Janai Purnima
The people of Nepal put the sacred thread on their body and with this thread they worship God every day. Janai Purnima is the day in which Hindus change their sacred thread in their body for the whole year. Hindus believe that wearing the thread prevents them from committing sin and bad things.
Shivratri
The word Shivaratri incorporates a distinct meaning. Shiva means that Lord Shiva and Ratri means “night”. This day is fully dedicated to Lord Shiva. This day is celebrated as a public holiday in Nepal.
Location
Regular bus services are available from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. It takes around forty-five minutes to reach Goshala, the halt for Pashupatinath.
Battery-operated Safaa tempos are also available. They depart from close to the Ratna Park workplace in Kathmandu and drop the pilgrims at Ring Road, west of Pashupatinath. Then, a tempo going to Chabahil or Boudhanath can be hired.
If you come from airport and want to go there, then you can board a cab or taxi. It will take 10 to 15 minutes to reach there.
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