Kathmandu, February 15 – The sacred premises of the Pashupatinath Temple are experiencing an extraordinary surge of devotees and sadhus today as Nepal celebrates the grand festival of Mahashivaratri 2026. The revered UNESCO World Heritage Site has transformed into a vibrant spiritual epicenter, drawing pilgrims from across Nepal and abroad for one of Hinduism’s holiest nights dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Thousands of Sadhus Gather for Sacred Rituals
According to the Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT), the number of resident sadhus has significantly increased in recent days. Ascetics representing diverse monastic traditions have arrived at the temple complex to perform penance, meditation, and special rituals in honor of Lord Shiva.
Dedicated accommodation areas and essential facilities have been arranged within the temple zone to uphold traditional hospitality for visiting saints. PADT officials confirmed that logistical management has been strengthened to handle the seasonal spiritual influx.
Lakhs of Devotees Expected to Throng the Temple
The flow of general devotees intensified from early morning, with long queues forming along the temple corridors and Bagmati ghats. Authorities estimate that lakhs of pilgrims will visit the temple throughout the day and night to offer prayers, light oil lamps (diyas), chant hymns, and observe fasting rituals.
The atmosphere is filled with devotional chants of “Om Namah Shivaya,” as worshippers await the auspicious midnight hour, considered the most sacred time of Mahashivaratri.
Free Health Camps and Bhandaras Organized
The Pashupati area has also become a hub of community service and volunteerism. NGOs, youth groups, and local organizations have established:
These initiatives aim to support devotees amid the massive gathering and ensure a safe, comfortable pilgrimage experience.
Round-the-Clock Security and Crowd Management
PADT, in coordination with security agencies and local authorities, is implementing strict crowd management, sanitation, and safety measures. Officials are working continuously to regulate entry points, manage queues, and maintain cleanliness around the heritage site.
Given the overwhelming turnout, this year’s Mahashivaratri celebration at Pashupatinath is expected to be one of the largest in recent years, reflecting the enduring spiritual and cultural importance of the temple.
As night falls, the temple complex will glow with thousands of oil lamps, continuous prayers, and devotional music, marking a deeply spiritual celebration of faith, devotion, and tradition.
