Pashupatinath Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts devotees from all over India and the world. Patna, the capital city of Bihar, is a major starting point for travelers heading to this spiritual destination.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Patna to Pashupatinath Temple. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, costs, and useful tips to plan your trip confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Patna to Pashupatinath Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for many Indian travelers going to Nepal. While there is no direct train to Kathmandu, you can combine train travel with road transport to reach Pashupatinath Temple.

• Take a train from Patna Junction (PNBE) to Raxaul Junction (RXL), which is the nearest Indian railway station on the India-Nepal border. The journey covers about 170 km and takes around 4 to 6 hours depending on the train service.

• Train fares from Patna to Raxaul range from ₹150 to ₹500, depending on the class (Sleeper, 3AC, or 2AC). Trains run frequently, but booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during festivals.

• From Raxaul, cross the border on foot or by local transport to reach Birgunj in Nepal. This border crossing is busy, so allow extra time for immigration and customs, especially during peak hours.

• From Birgunj, take a bus or taxi to Kathmandu. The road distance is about 150 km and takes 5 to 7 hours by bus. Buses run regularly but can be crowded; taxis offer more comfort but cost more.

• Once in Kathmandu, local taxis or auto-rickshaws can take you to Pashupatinath Temple, located about 5 km from the city center. The temple is well signposted and easy to reach.

Bus

Direct bus services from Patna to Kathmandu are limited, but you can travel by bus to the border and then take connecting buses to Kathmandu. This option is suitable for budget travelers who do not mind longer travel times.

• Board a Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) or private bus from Patna to Raxaul bus stand. The journey takes about 5 to 7 hours covering roughly 170 km, with fares between ₹200 and ₹400.

• At Raxaul, cross the border to Nepal and catch a local bus from Birgunj to Kathmandu. These buses are frequent but can be crowded and less comfortable, taking 6 to 8 hours.

• Bus fares from Birgunj to Kathmandu range from NPR 300 to NPR 600 (approximately ₹180 to ₹360). Tickets can be bought at the bus stand or through local agents.

• During monsoon season, road conditions can worsen, causing delays. Plan extra travel time and carry water and snacks for the journey.

• Night buses are available but may not be recommended for first-time travelers due to safety and comfort concerns.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Patna to Pashupatinath Temple offers flexibility and comfort. The route passes through scenic areas but requires careful planning due to border formalities and road conditions.

• The total distance from Patna to Kathmandu is about 350 km, including the Indian and Nepalese road segments. Driving time is approximately 10 to 12 hours depending on traffic and border crossing time.

• From Patna, take NH 22 towards Raxaul. This highway is well maintained but has toll plazas and occasional traffic jams near towns.

• At the India-Nepal border near Raxaul, you must complete customs and immigration checks. Carry all necessary documents including passport, visa, and vehicle permits if applicable.

• After crossing into Nepal, continue on the Tribhuvan Highway (NH 1) to Kathmandu. Roads in Nepal can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously, especially during monsoon season.

• Parking near Pashupatinath Temple is limited. Use nearby public parking and walk or take a short taxi ride to the temple entrance.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Kathmandu from Patna. Although there is no direct flight, you can connect via major airports like Delhi or Varanasi.

• From Patna Airport (PAT), take a flight to Delhi (DEL) or Varanasi (VNS). These flights are frequent and take about 1 to 1.5 hours.

• From Delhi or Varanasi, board a direct flight to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. Flight time is approximately 1 hour.

• Flight fares vary widely, ranging from ₹4,000 to ₹10,000 depending on the airline and booking time. Booking early can save money.

• Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, taxis and app-based cabs like Pathao or Tootle are available to reach Pashupatinath Temple, about 6 km away. Prepaid taxi counters help avoid overcharging.

• Flight schedules can be affected by weather conditions like fog in winter or monsoon rains, so check status before traveling.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Patna to Pashupatinath Temple. It simplifies the journey and helps avoid common issues.

• Book your train or flight tickets early using IRCTC or airline websites to secure seats and get better prices.

• If traveling by train, reach Patna Junction at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform and avoid last-minute rush.

• Carry valid ID proof and passport for border crossing. Check Nepal visa requirements and apply online or at the border if needed.

• At Raxaul or Birgunj, be prepared for immigration queues. Keep your documents handy and avoid carrying restricted items to prevent delays.

• Use local buses or taxis from Birgunj to Kathmandu. Confirm fares beforehand and choose reputable operators for safety.

• In Kathmandu, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to reach Pashupatinath Temple. Avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and snacks, especially for long bus or car journeys, as roadside options may be limited or unhygienic.

• Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items during border crossings and crowded transport hubs.

• Book tickets online where possible to avoid last-minute unavailability and inflated prices, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri.

• Use local transport apps like Pathao or Tootle in Kathmandu for safe and affordable rides to the temple and around the city.

• Pack light but include a raincoat or umbrella during monsoon months (June to September) as sudden showers are common.

• Be aware of the time difference; Nepal is 15 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time, which may affect transport schedules.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Pashupatinath Temple from Patna is during the cooler months from October to March. Weather is pleasant and roads are generally clear.

Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September) as heavy rains can cause roadblocks and delays, especially on Nepalese highways.

• Festivals like Maha Shivaratri attract large crowds to Pashupatinath Temple, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid congestion.

• Winter mornings can have fog in Bihar and northern India, causing train and flight delays; mid-morning departures are safer.

• Early morning departures from Patna help avoid city traffic and ensure smoother border crossing during daylight hours.

• Summer months (April-May) can be hot and humid in Patna, so travel early or late in the day to stay comfortable.

Arrival at Pashupatinath Temple & What to Expect

When you arrive in Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple is easily accessible by local transport. The temple area is lively, especially during religious festivals, and offers a spiritual atmosphere.

Prepaid taxi stands and app-based cabs are available at Tribhuvan International Airport and main city points. Avoid unlicensed taxis to ensure safety and fair pricing. Popular areas to stay nearby include Thamel and Lazimpat, which have many hotels and guesthouses.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Pashupatinath Temple from Patna depends on your budget and time. Flights via Delhi or Varanasi offer speed and comfort, while trains combined with road travel provide an economical and authentic experience. Buses and self-drive options are also viable for flexible travelers.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, preparing necessary documents for border crossing, and choosing transport modes that suit your comfort level. With proper planning and awareness of seasonal conditions, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable pilgrimage to Pashupatinath Temple from Patna.