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. Mumbai, a major city in India, serves as a common starting point for travelers heading to this spiritual destination.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options from Mumbai to Pashupatinath Temple. You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical tips to plan your journey confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Mumbai to Pashupatinath Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train from Mumbai towards Nepal involves multiple stages and is suitable for budget travelers who enjoy scenic routes but have time to spare. Direct trains to Nepal are not available, so you must combine train and road travel.

• Take a train from Mumbai CST or LTT to Gorakhpur Junction, a major railway station near the Nepal border, covering approximately 1700 km in 30–36 hours with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹1500 depending on class.

• From Gorakhpur, board a bus or taxi to Sunauli border, about 110 km away, which takes 3–4 hours; this route is popular among pilgrims and budget travelers.

• After crossing the Sunauli border into Nepal, take a bus or taxi to Kathmandu, which is around 140 km and takes 6–7 hours; buses run frequently but can be crowded during holidays.

• From Kathmandu city, Pashupatinath Temple is easily accessible by local taxis or rickshaws, located about 5 km from the city center; prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Pathao or Tootle are reliable options.

Bus

Bus travel is a cost-effective option but involves long hours and multiple changes. It suits travelers who prefer overland journeys and want to experience local transport.

• Board a Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) or private bus from Mumbai to Gorakhpur, which can take 36–40 hours with fares around ₹800 to ₹1500; overnight buses are common but can be crowded.

• From Gorakhpur, take a local bus or shared jeep to Sunauli border; buses run every hour, but seats fill quickly during festivals, so arrive early.

• Cross the border on foot, complete customs, then catch a tourist bus or local bus to Kathmandu; tourist buses are more comfortable and cost around NPR 600–900.

• In Kathmandu, use local taxis or rickshaws to reach Pashupatinath Temple; negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based cabs for convenience.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Pashupatinath Temple is an adventurous option for experienced drivers who enjoy road trips and want flexibility. The route covers diverse terrain and requires careful planning.

• The total distance is approximately 1900 km via NH48 and NH27, passing through Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar before reaching the Nepal border at Sunauli; expect 35–40 hours of driving time excluding breaks.

• Plan your route to include rest stops at major cities like Indore, Lucknow, and Gorakhpur, where you can find hotels and good food options along NH highways.

• Be prepared for toll plazas on NH48 and NH27; toll fees vary but budget around ₹500–₹1000 for the entire route.

• After crossing into Nepal at Sunauli, drive to Kathmandu on the Tribhuvan Highway; road conditions can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously, especially in monsoon season.

• Parking near Pashupatinath Temple is limited; it is advisable to park in nearby paid lots and walk or use local transport for the last stretch.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Pashupatinath Temple from Mumbai. It suits travelers with limited time or those who prefer convenience.

• Book a direct flight from Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu; flight duration is about 2.5 hours with fares ranging from ₹6000 to ₹15000 depending on season and airline.

• Several airlines operate this route, including Air India, Nepal Airlines, and private carriers; flights are frequent but book early during festival seasons like Dashain and Tihar to avoid high prices.

• Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, take a prepaid taxi or app-based cab to Pashupatinath Temple, which is about 6 km away and takes 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.

• Flight schedules may be affected by weather conditions such as fog in winter or monsoon rains; check flight status before departure to avoid delays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to Pashupatinath Temple, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort; flights save time, trains and buses offer budget options, and self-drive gives flexibility.

• Step 2: Book tickets in advance using official platforms like IRCTC for trains or airline websites for flights; early booking helps secure better fares and seats.

• Step 3: Prepare necessary travel documents, including your passport and Nepal visa, which can be obtained on arrival at the border or in advance from Nepalese consulates.

• Step 4: Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank; Indian travelers should carry INR and some Nepalese rupees for border transactions.

• Step 5: On arrival in Kathmandu, use prepaid taxis or app cabs to reach Pashupatinath Temple safely; avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

• Step 6: Plan your visit timing to avoid peak hours at the temple, usually early morning or late afternoon, for a peaceful experience and easier parking or transport access.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a valid passport and visa for Nepal; Indian citizens can get a visa on arrival but having one beforehand speeds up border crossing.

• Drink bottled water and eat at clean, popular eateries to avoid stomach issues; street food near border areas can be tempting but may not always be hygienic.

• Book train and bus tickets through official websites or trusted agents to avoid scams; IRCTC and MSRTC portals are reliable sources.

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

• Pack light luggage with secure locks; crowded buses and trains can be targets for pickpockets, so keep valuables close to you.

• During monsoon (June to September), expect road delays and slippery conditions, especially on the Nepal side; plan extra travel time and check weather updates.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Pashupatinath Temple depends on weather and festivals. Avoid heavy monsoon months to reduce travel disruptions.

Winter months offer clear skies and pleasant weather but can be cold in Kathmandu, while spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant festivals.

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

• Monsoon season brings heavy rains and possible landslides on the Nepal route, causing delays and road closures; plan accordingly.

• Early morning departures from Mumbai help avoid city traffic and ensure timely connections, especially for trains and flights.

• Winter fog in northern India can delay trains and flights; check weather forecasts and allow buffer time for connections.

Arrival at Pashupatinath Temple & What to Expect

Arriving at Pashupatinath Temple, you will find it located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. The temple complex is large and busy, especially during religious festivals.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, rickshaws, and app-based cabs. The temple is well signposted, and many hotels and guesthouses are nearby in areas like Thamel and Lazimpat, offering convenient stays.

At the temple entrance, expect security checks and a small entry fee for foreigners. The area around the temple has shops selling religious items, food stalls, and guides offering temple tours.

Conclusion

For most travelers, flying from Mumbai to Kathmandu is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Pashupatinath Temple quickly. Flights save time and reduce the complexities of overland travel, especially for first-timers.

However, if you prefer budget travel or want to experience the journey overland, combining train and bus travel via Gorakhpur and the Sunauli border is a practical option. Careful planning, early bookings, and awareness of seasonal conditions will help you enjoy a smooth trip to this sacred site.

With the right preparation and knowledge of transport options, you can confidently plan your pilgrimage or visit to Pashupatinath Temple from Mumbai, making your journey both meaningful and comfortable.