What Is The Pashupatinath Temple Story?

The Story of Pashupatinath Temple

A long, long time ago, Lord Shiva came to Nepal. He didn’t come as a god. He came as a deer.  He wanted to live a life of peace, far away from the world.

Shiva came to the forest a few miles along the Bagmati River. He was so enamored with the place that he decided that he would never leave it. Lying down like a deer, he rested amid the green forest. Other gods had come searching for him. 

They were sad to see Shiva had left Mount Kailash, his birthplace. They looked everywhere to find him.

At last, they did find him in that forest. He was relaxing like a deer, unwilling to leave. The gods had to seize him to show him his true power. When they seized him, Shiva dropped a fragment of his horn.  That horn turned into the first form of the Shiva Linga (holy stone). Thus began the Pashupatinath temple.

So, what is the story? Lord Shiva became a deer, rested in a forest, and left his horn there.That place became the holy land of Pashupatinath.

Who Is Lord Shiva?

Shiva is the strongest among all Hindu gods. He is also known as the "destroyer of evil" and the "protector of peace." He helps humans by destroying sadness and giving strength.

Shiva is humble and gentle. He lives in the hills and has a snake coiled around his neck. He has long hair, trident (trishul), and a third eye on his forehead.

Humans think Shiva likes nature and animals. He stays in deep meditation and guards the world. He is also known as "Pashupatinath," which means "Lord of Animals."

Nepalis worship Shiva a lot. That is why there are many Shiva temples here. But the Pashupatinath Temple is the biggest and most wondrous among them all.

Why is Shiva revered in Nepal?

Because he once came here in the guise of a deer and consecrated this land. People feel his power and blessings in this land.

How Lord Shiva Came to Nepal?

Long ago, Lord Shiva went out of his home on Mount Kailash. He wanted to relax and not be seen among the worldly crowd. So, he went down to Nepal with his wife, Goddess Parvati.

They reached the forest by the Bagmati River. Shiva loved this remote, peaceful area. He did not want anyone to look at him.

To hide, Shiva turned into a deer. Yes! The great god became a deer and stayed in the forest. He was content and serene there.

The gods observed that Shiva had disappeared. They searched everywhere for him. Finally, they located him in Nepal's forest.

The gods asked him to return to Kailash. But Shiva responded, "No, I adore this forest." So they were forced to pick him up and make him remember his powers.

After some resistance, Shiva surrendered and returned. But something remarkable was left behind—his horn. This is where the temple began.

Thus, why did Shiva come to Nepal? He came as a deer to take rest in a forest and consecrated the land.

Shiva and the Cow Story

Another story goes on about the discovery of the place for the temple. It is about a magical cow and a special hill in Kathmandu. Long ago, a cowherd had a cow that acted very strange.

Every day, the cow went to the same spot on a small hill. She dropped all her milk on the ground.

The cowherd became curious. He followed the cow and watched her from afar. He saw the cow give all her milk in the same place every day. He thought, "Maybe there is something beneath the land." He called the villagers and they started digging. Presently, they found a glowing Shiva Linga underneath the soil.

It was both a shock and joy for the people! They knew this was really an auspicious spot. Hence, they decided to build a temple there for Lord Shiva. This is how the place of the Pashupatinath Temple came to be Because of the cow's gift, the holy Shiva Linga was found.

The Hidden Shiva (Linga) Found

The moment that the people dug the soil, something extraordinary appeared in sight. There was a lustrous black stone in the shape of a pillar. This stone is called a Shiva Linga. A Shiva Linga is a symbol for Lord Shiva. It's not just any ordinary stone. It represents the power and presence of Shiva.

People offer obeisance unto it. The villagers perceived that this was not any normal stone. A strong white light emanated from it, along with a peaceful energy. Everyone felt that something sacred was there.

Thereafter, wise men were called along with the priests to behold it.  "Yes, indeed. This is Lord Shiva himself," they declared. "It must remain here forever." Hence they built a small temple there. That small temple was later developed into the large Pashupatinath Temple. The worshippers started coming from afar.

So what happened? Although the Shiva Linga was buried beneath the earth, the discovery of it laid the genuine foundation for the temple.

The Start of the Temple

How the temple was built?

After the discovery of Shiva Linga, people felt the urge to protect it. Therefore, a small shrine was constructed around it. Thus arises the Pashupatinath Temple. Over time, with the kings' and people's cooperation, the temple grew. More rooms, gates, and towers were built. Making use of stone, wood, and gold for their adornment.

Several kings of Nepal supported the temple. They felt it was their duty to take care of Lord Shiva's abode. Some kings donated money and land to the temple. Thus was the temple in the pagoda style. It had a gilded roof and four silver doors. It glittered in the glare of the sun, glorious and sacred.

The temple is huge now, built to last. It stands shadowed by many other small temples. Loud with prayers, bells, and love for Shiva.

So, how does the temple start? With the finding of the Shiva Linga—and love from the people and kings.

Myth Behind Pashupatinath

What is the legend or belief behind the temple?

People think that Pashupatinath Temple was not just made by humans. They say that it was chosen by Lord Shiva. And that makes it a very divine and magical place. The myth says that Shiva came here as a deer. He left a part of his power, either his horn or his Linga,

which is what made the place so full of Shiva’s blessings.

Some say that the temple was built where heaven and earth touch, and that is why prayers here are so powerful. They say that wishes made here come true far quicker. Many people say they feel peace, healing or energy at the temple. Because it is not just a building, there is Holy power.

The river, the Linga and even the air feels different.

So what is the myth behind Pashupatinath? That it was chosen by Shiva himself, and that is why it holds his spirit.

Link Between Pashupatinath and Mount Kailash

Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal is deeply connected to Mount Kailash in Tibet. Why? Because both are related to Lord Shiva. In Hindu belief, Lord Shiva lives at Mount Kailash. That’s his spiritual home. And Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred temples of Lord Shiva. So, even though they are far apart, they are spiritually linked.

Link between Pashupatinath and Kailash

Many people believe that the power of Mount Kailash is also present at Pashupatinath. That’s why millions visit Pashupatinath, especially if they cannot go to Mount Kailash. The energy, devotion, and blessings of Lord Shiva are said to be felt in both places. This link is not about distance — it’s about faith and feeling. People say visiting Pashupatinath is like visiting a part of Kailash.

Shiva’s Home at Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It’s not just a mountain. It’s a very holy place for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. Hindus believe that Lord Shiva lives there in deep meditation. That’s why Mount Kailash is not climbed. People only walk around it in respect. Pashupatinath is like a doorway to connect with that divine home from Nepal.

Shiva Connection: Nepal and Kailash

Nepal and Mount Kailash are both special places for Lord Shiva. In Hindu belief, Lord Shiva is a very powerful god. Many people pray to him for peace, strength, and blessings. Both Nepal and Mount Kailash are deeply connected to Shiva’s story.

How both places are holy for Shiva?

Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal is one of the biggest Shiva temples in the world. It is in Kathmandu, near the Bagmati River. People believe that Lord Shiva came here as Pashupati – the Lord of all animals. So, this place became very holy.

Mount Kailash, in Tibet, is also very special. Hindus believe Lord Shiva lives on top of Mount Kailash with his wife, Parvati. It is like his home. The mountain is shaped like a pyramid and looks very calm and peaceful. So, both these places are holy – one is his temple, and the other is his home.

Why pilgrims visit both?

Pilgrims visit both places to feel close to Shiva. People from Nepal, India, and other countries come to Pashupatinath to offer prayers and watch big festivals like Maha Shivaratri.

Many also travel to Mount Kailash. It is a long and difficult journey. But they still go because they believe walking around the mountain (called Kailash Parikrama) will clean their sins and bring blessings.

Some pilgrims visit both places together – first Pashupatinath, then Mount Kailash. They feel it is a full spiritual journey of Shiva.

So, Nepal and Kailash are like two big steps toward Shiva. One shows his temple power. The other shows his peaceful mountain life. Both places bring peace and faith to his followers.

Journey from Pashupatinath to Mount Kailash in 2025

The journey commences at Pashupatinath Temple located in Kathmandu, Nepal. Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples in the world. Many people from Nepal, India, and other countries make their pilgrimage to this holy temple.

After praying at Pashupatinath, some pilgrims may choose to travel on a spiritual journey to Mount Kailash, Tibet, China. This is a big step, as the trip is lengthy and potentially arduous. However, for many pilgrims, traveling to Mount Kailash can be a blessing.

It is believed, among Hindu followers, that Mount Kailash is the home of Lord Shiva. So, going to Pashupatinath Temple and going to Mount Kailash is like going to two Lord Shiva temples from two different places, one in Nepal and the other in Tibet. 

Travel to Both Places

Typically, people travel together, in groups called Kailash Yatra groups. This is a special type of trip, one that is designed for the pilgrim.

Most commonly pilgrims travel to Kathmandu and visit Pashupatinath Temple first. After visiting Pashupatinath Temple, the group sets out to Mount Kailash.

There are different ways to go:

• Some fly or take local public transportation across the border from Nepal and China.
• Others may fly to a much closer destination and continue by road.
• In Nepal, there are routes that only travel through Simikot and Hilsa, which are much further west.
• As well as Kerung, which is a border town in Nepal with Tibet.
• It's important to note that everyone is traveling high in the mountains, so being healthy and taking your time to acclimatize to altitude are factors that should be considered.

Religious Reasons Behind It

Both Pashupatinath and Mount Kailash are extremely holy for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bon. For Hindus, it is like being closer to Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath is one of the most famous temples dedicated to Shiva. Mount Kailash is supposedly the ultimate abode of Shiva. To many, walking around Mount Kailash (kora) is a way of purging bad karma, and eventually obtaining peace.

One of the most sacred pieces of this journey is that many practitioners have a very strong connection to their faith, to nature, and their inner-self. Their journeys are not simply bound to a location they will reach — it is about feeling something very deep within.

The Sacred Bagmati River

What is the Bagmati River? Why is it important near Pashupatinath?

The Bagmati River flows beside the Pashupatinath Temple. It is a holy river in Nepal, just like the Ganga River in India. Hindus believe the water of Bagmati is sacred. It helps wash away sins and brings peace to the soul

Many people take a holy bath in the river before visiting the temple. They believe they become pure and ready to meet Lord Shiva. The river is also where people perform final rituals. Families bring loved ones here after they pass away. They pray for their souls to reach heaven. Bagmati is more than just a river. It is a symbol of life, death, and rebirth in Hindu belief.

So, why is the Bagmati River important? Because it cleans the body and soul and connects people to Lord Shiva.

The Architecture of Pashupatinath Temple

What does the temple look like? How was it built?

Pashupatinath Temple is built in a special Nepali style. It has a pagoda roof with two layers and a golden top. The temple looks very old, strong, and beautiful. The roof is covered with real gold. It shines in the sunlight and looks royal and holy. The main doors are made of silver. They have carvings of gods, flowers, and holy signs.

Inside the temple is the Shiva Linga. It is kept in the center room where only special priests can go. All around the temple are many small shrines. These are for other gods and goddesses related to Shiva.

So, how is the temple built? With wood, gold, stone, and faith—made to honor Lord Shiva.

Who Can Visit Pashupatinath Temple?

Pashupatinath Temple is open to many visitors. People come from all over the world to see it. But there is one important rule: Only Hindus are allowed to enter the main temple building.

Non-Hindus can visit the temple grounds. They can see the temple from outside and explore the nearby shrines.

This rule is made to keep the inside space pure for worship. It is a tradition followed for many years.

Everyone, no matter their religion, can enjoy the peace and beauty of the place. The river, the small shrines, and the lovely views are for all.

So, who can visit? Hindus can enter the main temple, but all others are welcome around it.

Festivals Celebrated at Pashupatinath

The most important festival at Pashupatinath are:

• Maha Shivaratri — the Great Night of Lord Shiva: On this night thousands come to the temple. They light candles, sing songs, and pray all night long. Sadhus (holy men) travel from India and Nepal to be here as well.
• Teej — a special day for women: On this day women dress in red saris, fast, and pray for happy married lives.
• Bala Chaturdashi: People throw seeds to remember family members that have died. They do this at night while walking around the temple.

All of the other Hindu festivals are also celebrated such as Janai Purnima and Kartik Ekadashi, with happiness, music, and prayer.

Who Are the Sadhus at Pashupatinath?

Sadhus are holy men who give up normal life to follow Lord Shiva. They do not care about money, jobs, or homes. They spend their lives praying and meditating. You can see many Sadhus at Pashupatinath. They wear orange or no clothes, cover their bodies with ash, and grow long hair.

They live around the temple and talk about Shiva’s stories. People often take photos with them and ask for blessings. Some Sadhus do yoga or sit silently in deep meditation. Others walk around or chant mantras softly. During big festivals like Maha Shivaratri, even more Sadhus come. They gather from India and Nepal to celebrate together.

Pashupatinath in Modern Times

The Pashupatinath site holds more or less the same significance today. Visitors come from within Nepal and far corners of the globe to pay homage to the temple. It is not only a religious site anymore; it has become a cultural, and historical site as well. People come to pray, but they also come to admire its aesthetics and feel a soothing ambience.

The temple is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. That means the entire world recognizes its worth and wants to share in its glories and protect it.

How the Temple is Taken Care of

Nowadays, a governing body called the Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) looks after the temple. This body makes sure that the temple remains clean, safe, and well arranged; and they also look into the surrounding areas, the old buildings, and the riverbanks. They are trying to maintain the same look of the temple as it had in olden days, so that visitors can still feel its old charm through the temple.

Temple Rules and Preservation

There are some rules for visitors. 

• Only Hindus can go inside the main temple. Others can walk around and see it from outside.
• Everyone must dress respectfully and act quietly. No shoes are allowed inside.
• Photography is not allowed in some areas. This is to protect the holy space.
• Also, no one is allowed to damage or write on the walls of the temple.

Temple Architecture: What does the temple look like?

The temple is a tall building. It looks very peaceful and beautiful. Many people visit it to pray and feel calm. It is made of strong stones and wood. Some temples are big, and some are small. Golden roof and special design. One of the best things about the temple is its roof. The roof is golden and shines when the sun touches it.

The design is very special. You can see carvings of gods, animals, and flowers on the walls. Some temples also have statues and colorful paintings.

The temple is not just a place for prayer. It is also a part of art and culture. When you look at it, you feel proud of history and tradition.

Conclusion: Why the Story Still Matters

The story of Pashupatinath temple is still remembered because it is very special. It explains how Lord Shiva, the greatest god, made the choice of settling in Nepal. Of all the holy places, he had a special fondness for Nepal. That somehow elevates Nepal's status to be proud and blessed. People believe that Pashupatinath is no mere temple but the actual residence of Lord Shiva.

Consequently, every year, and at times in thousands, people gather here from all parts of Nepal and beyond. The story also teaches the fundamental virtues of love, faith, and respect. The love of Lord Shiva for this land kind of tells how much Nepal means to the gods. Hence, this is why the story still touches our hearts.

Lord Shiva’s Love for Nepal Lives On

Till today, there exists a common feeling that Lord Shiva is watching over Nepal. During grand occasions like festival Maha Shivaratri, the temple is brimming with lights, prayers, and joyful celebration, as though Lord Shiva himself is standing there giving blessings to everyone.

The story of Pashupatinath thus reiterates that Nepal is not merely a country-it is the sacred abode of the gods. And this is why this story still resonates even after many years.