Pashupatinath Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for devotees of Lord Shiva. Many travelers from Delhi visit this temple to experience its spiritual atmosphere and cultural significance.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options from Delhi to Pashupatinath Temple. You will learn about trains, buses, flights, and driving routes, along with practical travel tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Delhi to Pashupatinath Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train from Delhi to Nepal involves reaching the Indian border town and then continuing by road. This option suits travelers who prefer a budget-friendly and scenic route.

• Take a train from New Delhi Railway Station to Gorakhpur Junction, a major railhead near the Nepal border, covering around 800 km in approximately 12-16 hours with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹1500 depending on class.

• From Gorakhpur, you can take a bus or taxi to Sunauli border, about 110 km away, which takes 3-4 hours; buses run frequently but can be crowded during festivals.

• After crossing the Nepal border at Sunauli, you can hire a taxi or local bus to Kathmandu, which is about 140 km and takes 5-6 hours on the Tribhuvan Highway; road conditions vary seasonally.

• Train travel offers a relaxed pace and scenic views but requires multiple transfers and planning for border crossing formalities at Sunauli.

Bus

Direct bus services from Delhi to Kathmandu are limited, but you can travel by bus to the Nepal border and then switch to local transport. This is a cost-effective option for budget travelers.

• MSRTC and private operators run buses from Delhi to Gorakhpur or directly to the Sunauli border, covering around 800-900 km in 15-18 hours; fares range from ₹700 to ₹1200 depending on service quality.

• From Sunauli, frequent local buses and shared jeeps connect to Kathmandu; the 140 km journey takes 5-7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Buses can be crowded and less comfortable, especially during monsoon season when roads may be slippery and slow.

• Night buses are available but can be tiring; booking tickets in advance during festival seasons is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Pashupatinath Temple offers flexibility and the chance to explore places en route. This option suits experienced drivers comfortable with long-distance travel and border crossing.

• The route covers approximately 1200 km via NH27 and Tribhuvan Highway, taking around 20-24 hours of driving time excluding breaks and border formalities.

• You will cross the India-Nepal border at Sunauli; ensure you have valid documents, vehicle permits, and insurance for Nepal entry.

• Road conditions vary; NH27 is mostly good, but the Tribhuvan Highway can be narrow and winding, especially during monsoon with landslide risks.

• Plan stops at major towns like Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Bhairahawa for food and rest; toll plazas on NH27 require cash payments.

• Driving allows you to carry luggage easily and explore local sights but requires careful planning for fuel, permits, and navigation.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Kathmandu from Delhi. It is popular among tourists and pilgrims who want to save time and avoid long road journeys.

• Direct flights operate daily from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu, with flight time around 1 hour 45 minutes.

• Airfare typically ranges from ₹6000 to ₹12000 one-way, depending on the airline and booking time; booking early can secure better prices.

• From Kathmandu airport, Pashupatinath Temple is about 5 km away; you can take prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Pathao or Tootle for a 15-20 minute ride costing around NPR 300-500.

• Flights are subject to weather delays, especially during monsoon and winter fog; check flight status before departure.

• This option is best for travelers prioritizing comfort and time over budget.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Pashupatinath Temple. It covers essential actions to ensure a smooth journey.

• Book your preferred mode of transport early, especially flights or trains, through official portals like IRCTC or airline websites to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Prepare your travel documents, including a valid passport, Nepal visa (available on arrival or online), and any permits required for vehicle entry if driving.

• Pack light but include essentials such as comfortable clothes, water bottles, snacks, and any medication; carry Indian currency and some Nepalese rupees for border and local expenses.

• On the day of travel, reach the departure point early—Delhi railway station, bus terminal, or airport—to manage security checks and boarding smoothly.

• At the India-Nepal border (Sunauli), complete immigration and customs formalities carefully; keep your documents ready and be patient during busy periods.

• Upon arrival in Kathmandu, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to reach Pashupatinath Temple safely; avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa separately from the originals to avoid issues if documents are misplaced during travel.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your journey and at the destination to avoid waterborne illnesses common in cross-border travel.

• Book tickets online through official platforms like IRCTC for trains and airline websites for flights to ensure authenticity and avoid scams.

• Use local transport apps like Pathao or Tootle in Kathmandu for safe and affordable rides; avoid unlicensed taxis especially at night.

• Pack your luggage securely and keep valuables like passports and money in a money belt or a secure bag to prevent theft during crowded transfers.

• During monsoon (June-September), expect road delays and possible landslides on the Tribhuvan Highway; plan extra travel time and check weather updates.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Pashupatinath Temple is during the dry and cool months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and fewer travel disruptions.

Monsoon season can cause roadblocks and flight delays, while winter fog in northern India may affect early morning departures. Planning your journey around these factors will ensure a smoother experience.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Dashain and Tihar in Nepal, as transport and accommodation become crowded and expensive.

• Monsoon rains can cause slippery roads and landslides on the route from Sunauli to Kathmandu, leading to delays and safety risks.

• Early morning flights and trains tend to be less crowded and more punctual, helping you avoid peak traffic and delays.

• Summer months (April-June) can be hot and humid in Delhi and lowland Nepal, which may be uncomfortable for long road travel.

Arrival at Pashupatinath Temple & What to Expect

When you arrive in Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple is easily accessible by local transport. The temple area is well-signposted and popular among tourists and pilgrims alike.

You can take prepaid taxis or app-based cabs from Tribhuvan International Airport or Kathmandu city center to the temple. The temple complex is busy, especially during weekends and festivals, so plan your visit accordingly. Nearby areas like Thamel and Lazimpat offer many accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.

Conclusion

Among all options, flying from Delhi to Kathmandu is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Pashupatinath Temple quickly. However, train and bus journeys offer budget-friendly alternatives for travelers who enjoy road travel and scenic routes.

Planning your trip with attention to booking tickets early, preparing travel documents, and considering seasonal weather will help you avoid common challenges. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey from Delhi to Pashupatinath Temple and enjoy a memorable pilgrimage experience.