Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine located in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus worldwide and attracts thousands of visitors each year. Many travelers from India and other countries visit Pashupatinath to experience its spiritual atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Pashupatinath Temple from India. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival in Nepal. Whether you prefer train, bus, car, or flight, this article covers all you need for a smooth journey.

Getting from India to Pashupatinath Nepal – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical choice for reaching the Nepal border from India. Though there is no direct train to Kathmandu, you can take trains to border towns and continue by road. This option suits budget travelers who do not mind longer travel times.

• You can take a train from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, or Gorakhpur to Raxaul or Jaynagar, which are key border stations near Nepal. These trains run frequently and have various classes to suit your comfort and budget.

• From Raxaul or Jaynagar railway stations, you need to cross the border on foot or by local transport and then take a bus or taxi to Kathmandu, which is about 130-150 km away and takes around 5-7 hours by road.

• Train fares to the border towns vary widely, typically between INR 200 to 1000 depending on distance and class. Booking through IRCTC is recommended to secure confirmed seats, especially during festivals.

• Train travel can be crowded during peak seasons like Dashain or Tihar festivals, so plan ahead. Also, monsoon rains may cause occasional delays on some routes.

• Food options are available at major stations and on some trains, but carrying snacks and water is advisable for the long journey to the border.

Bus

Buses provide a direct and affordable way to travel from Indian border towns to Kathmandu and Pashupatinath. This mode is popular among pilgrims and tourists looking for a straightforward route without multiple changes.

• From Indian border towns like Raxaul, Sunauli, or Jogbani, you can catch direct buses to Kathmandu. These buses are operated by private and government companies and run daily with varying departure times.

• The bus journey from the border to Kathmandu covers roughly 130-160 km and takes about 6-8 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Fares typically range from INR 400 to 800.

• Buses usually depart early morning to avoid heavy traffic and reach Kathmandu by afternoon or evening. Booking tickets a day in advance is advisable during holidays to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Comfort levels vary; deluxe buses offer reclining seats and air conditioning, while ordinary buses can be crowded and less comfortable. Night buses are available but may be less safe due to road conditions.

• There are several rest stops along the route with basic food stalls serving Nepali and Indian snacks. Carry water and light food for the journey, especially in summer.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from India to Pashupatinath Nepal is an option for travelers who prefer flexibility and comfort. This mode suits those familiar with Indian and Nepali road rules and willing to handle border formalities.

• The most common route is via the Raxaul-Birgunj border crossing, using National Highway 27 in India and the Tribhuvan Highway in Nepal. The total distance from Raxaul to Kathmandu is about 140 km.

• Driving time from the border to Kathmandu is approximately 5-7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Roads can be narrow and winding in Nepal, so cautious driving is necessary.

• Indian nationals need to carry valid passports, visas, and vehicle permits to cross the border. Temporary vehicle permits can be obtained at the border customs office.

• Tolls and fuel costs should be budgeted for. Fuel stations are available along the route but may be sparse in some stretches.

• Rest stops with food and washrooms are limited, so plan breaks accordingly. Avoid driving at night due to poor lighting and road hazards in some areas.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Kathmandu, especially for travelers coming from distant Indian cities. From Kathmandu airport, Pashupatinath Temple is easily accessible by road.

• Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu is the nearest airport to Pashupatinath Temple, located about 6 km away. Several Indian airlines operate daily flights from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Varanasi, and Lucknow.

• Flight duration from major Indian cities to Kathmandu ranges from 1 to 2 hours. Airfares vary widely, typically between INR 3000 to 8000 one-way depending on booking time and season.

• Flights are frequent but can be affected by weather conditions such as fog during winter or heavy rains in monsoon, causing delays or cancellations.

• From Kathmandu airport, you can take prepaid taxis, app-based cabs like Ola or Pathao, or local buses to Pashupatinath Temple. Taxi fares are around NPR 300-500 (INR 200-350) and take 15-30 minutes depending on traffic.

• Booking flights in advance through airline websites or travel portals is recommended to get better prices and seat availability, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time visitors traveling from India to Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal. It covers essential steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Step 1: Obtain a valid Indian passport and apply for a Nepal visa online or on arrival at the border. This is crucial as Nepal requires Indian travelers to have proper identification and visa clearance.

• Step 2: Choose your preferred mode of transport based on budget and comfort. Booking train or bus tickets in advance through IRCTC or bus operators helps avoid last-minute issues.

• Step 3: Reach the nearest Indian border town such as Raxaul or Sunauli by train or bus. Use local transport or walk to cross the border after completing immigration formalities.

• Step 4: From the Nepal border, take a bus, taxi, or rented car to Kathmandu. Confirm fares before boarding and keep small Nepali currency notes handy for payments.

• Step 5: Upon arrival in Kathmandu, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to reach Pashupatinath Temple. Avoid unmetered cabs to prevent overcharging.

• Step 6: Carry light luggage and dress modestly as Pashupatinath is a sacred site. Keep your travel documents and valuables secure throughout the journey.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa along with the originals to avoid any issues during border checks or hotel check-ins.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water in Nepal to avoid stomach infections. Avoid street food unless you are sure of its hygiene standards.

• Book tickets for trains, buses, and flights well in advance during festival seasons like Dashain and Tihar to secure your seat and avoid price surges.

• Use local transport apps like Pathao or Tootle in Kathmandu for safe and affordable rides. Always confirm the fare before starting your trip.

• Pack light but include a raincoat or umbrella if traveling during monsoon, and warm clothes for winter mornings and evenings in Kathmandu.

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded places like bus stands and markets. Use a money belt or secure bag to prevent pickpocketing.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Pashupatinath Temple is during the autumn and spring seasons when the weather is pleasant and clear. Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon months due to road disruptions.

Winter mornings can be foggy, causing flight delays and slower road travel, so plan accordingly. Festivals bring large crowds, so book transport and accommodation early.

• Avoid traveling during Dashain and Tihar festivals if you want to avoid heavy traffic and crowded transport, as many locals also travel during these times.

• Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains that can cause landslides and roadblocks on the route to Kathmandu, leading to delays.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid city traffic in Kathmandu and border towns, ensuring smoother and quicker journeys.

• Winter months from December to February can be cold, especially in the mornings and evenings, so carry warm clothing and check weather forecasts.

Arrival at Pashupatinath & What to Expect

When you arrive in Kathmandu, you will find several transport options to reach Pashupatinath Temple. Prepaid taxi counters are available at the airport and major bus stands, offering fixed fares to popular destinations.

The temple area is well connected by local buses and app-based cabs. Popular nearby neighborhoods to stay include Thamel, Lazimpat, and Patan, which offer a range of hotels and guesthouses. Walking around the temple complex is easy, but be prepared for some crowds during peak hours.

Conclusion

Traveling to Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal from India is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Flights offer the fastest and most comfortable journey, while trains and buses provide economical alternatives for those seeking a more immersive travel experience.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, carrying proper documents, and understanding local transport options will help you have a smooth and enjoyable pilgrimage. With this guide, you can confidently prepare your trip to Pashupatinath and experience one of Nepal’s most revered spiritual sites.