Pashupatinath Temple Bhaktapur
A 15th-century replica of Kathmandu's main shrine, dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring unique erotic carvings and a four-faced lingam.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Pashupatinath Temple Bhaktapur
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 15th-century replica of Kathmandu's main shrine, dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring unique erotic carvings and a four-faced lingam.
"A most fabulous place! I saw and photographed it on a very rainy day."
Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting. :pray: Dress modestly to show respect.
Photography Rules
No photos inside the main temple. :camerawithflash: Be mindful of local customs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pashupatinath Temple
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
A replica of Kathmandu's main shrine, dedicated to Shiva as 'Lord of the Animals.'
Erotic Carvings
Roof struts of Pashupatinath Temple
Intricate carvings depicting deities and a spectrum of human possibilities.
Four-Faced Lingam
Inside Pashupatinath Temple
A significant black stone lingum carved with the four faces of Lord Shiva.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Photography Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting. :pray: Dress modestly to show respect.
Photography Rules
No photos inside the main temple. :camerawithflash: Be mindful of local customs.
Explore the Details
Admire the erotic carvings on roof struts. :art: They tell a story.
Visit the Lingam
See the four-faced lingam inside. :statueofliberty: A replica of the original.
Tips
from all over the internet
Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting. :pray: Dress modestly to show respect.
Photography Rules
No photos inside the main temple. :camerawithflash: Be mindful of local customs.
Explore the Details
Admire the erotic carvings on roof struts. :art: They tell a story.
Visit the Lingam
See the four-faced lingam inside. :statueofliberty: A replica of the original.
Bhaktapur's Charm
Combine with other Bhaktapur sites. :world_map: It's a fabulous place!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Pashupatinath Temple Bhaktapur to be a beautiful and historically significant site, noting its replica status and unique erotic carvings. While photography is restricted inside, the temple's intricate details and spiritual ambiance are highly appreciated. It's considered a valuable addition to any exploration of Bhaktapur's rich heritage.
"very old and beautiful."
S Hiregoudar
"Must visit the temple, taking pictures in the temple is not allowed"
Rohit Agarwal
"Best time to visit Bhaktapur ."
satya sundar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pashupatinath Temple Bhaktapur is located within Bhaktapur Durbar Square. You can reach Bhaktapur by taxi, local bus, or private vehicle from Kathmandu. Once inside the Durbar Square, the temple is easily accessible on foot.
There are designated parking areas near Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It's advisable to use these official spots to avoid any issues.
Local buses are the most budget-friendly option, while taxis offer more comfort and speed. Many travelers opt for a combination of sightseeing in Bhaktapur, including Pashupatinath Temple.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to understand the history and significance of sites like Pashupatinath Temple Bhaktapur.
Ride-sharing apps like Pathao are popular in Nepal and can be used to get to Bhaktapur, offering a convenient alternative to taxis.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, where Pashupatinath Temple Bhaktapur is located, requires an entrance fee for foreign tourists. The temple itself is within this complex.
The temple is generally open during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee for Bhaktapur Durbar Square covers access to most of its attractions, including the Pashupatinath Temple.
Tickets for Bhaktapur Durbar Square are typically purchased on-site. It's advisable to check for any updates on online booking options closer to your travel date.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly. Photography is not allowed inside the main temple sanctuary.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally prohibited inside the main Pashupatinath Temple sanctuary. However, you can take photos of the temple's exterior and the surrounding Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
The entire Durbar Square offers numerous photogenic spots, including the Nyatapola Temple, 55 Window Palace, and the intricate details of various temples like Pashupatinath.
Yes, the erotic carvings on the roof struts of the Pashupatinath Temple are a unique feature and can be photographed from the outside.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour can create a magical atmosphere.
It's always respectful to ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially locals and devotees.
🎫 🕉️ Spiritual Significance
This temple is a replica of the main Pashupatinath shrine in Kathmandu and is dedicated to Lord Shiva as 'Lord of the Animals.' It's a significant religious site within Bhaktapur.
Lord Shiva is one of the principal deities of Hinduism, often depicted as the destroyer and transformer. He is revered as Mahadev, the great god.
A lingam is a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva, often depicted as a phallic symbol, representing divine generative energy. The one here has four faces.
While the main Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu is known for its elaborate rituals, the Bhaktapur replica is a place for prayer and contemplation.
Yes, the Pashupatinath Temple in Bhaktapur is a replica of the main shrine located in Kathmandu, which is one of the holiest temples of Lord Shiva in the world.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it part of a larger day trip to Bhaktapur, which offers other child-friendly attractions like the pottery square where kids can see clay being molded. Pack snacks and water, as amenities within the immediate temple area might be limited. The overall experience of being in a historic city can be educational and memorable for the whole family.
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Its designation as part of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further emphasizes its historical significance. Visiting this temple provides an opportunity to understand the evolution of temple architecture in Nepal and the cultural context of its creation. The temple's resilience and reconstruction efforts also tell a story of preservation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Pashupatinath Temple Bhaktapur
One of the most striking features of the temple is the detailed erotic carvings found on its roof struts. These carvings, depicting a wide range of human interactions and deities, are not merely decorative but are believed to hold symbolic meaning related to fertility and the cycle of life. Above these, depictions of Shiva and other gods further adorn the structure, adding layers of religious and artistic significance. Inside, visitors can find a large black stone lingam, intricately carved with the four faces of Lord Shiva, mirroring the central deity at the original Pashupatinath Temple.
While the main Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu is a bustling center for pilgrims and rituals, the Bhaktapur replica offers a more serene experience, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical and artistic elements. Its presence within Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, underscores its importance as a cultural and religious landmark. The temple's resilience, surviving even the 2015 earthquake, speaks to its enduring significance.
Understanding the Symbolism of Shiva and the Lingam
The lingam is a powerful symbol of Lord Shiva, representing his divine creative energy and the cosmic pillar of the universe. The four-faced lingam found within the Pashupatinath Temple Bhaktapur is particularly significant, with each face representing a different aspect of Shiva: Tatpurusha (the unmanifested), Aghora (the fierce), Vamadeva (the feminine), and Sadyojata (the creator). This multifaceted representation highlights Shiva's omnipresence and his role in the cosmic order.
Visiting Pashupatinath Temple Bhaktapur offers a chance to connect with these profound spiritual concepts. The atmosphere, often described as divine and peaceful, allows for reflection on the teachings and symbolism associated with Lord Shiva and his manifestations. The temple serves as a focal point for devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit