We start on the west bank below the main gate, where your guide explains the layout of the complex, the role of the Bhatta priests and the ritual life of the ghats. Hindus in the group can take darshan in the main courtyard while others wait on the east bank terraces. Crossing the footbridge, we look over Arya Ghat from a respectful distance and talk through the stages of a Hindu cremation, from washing the body in the Bagmati to the final scattering of the ashes in the river.
Steps then climb into Mrigasthali, the forest named for Shiva's legendary wanderings as a deer. The path passes rows of small lingam shrines, the Gorakhnath area with its tall trident, a quiet deer enclosure and troops of rhesus monkeys. Some temples here, including Vishwarupa, are open only to Hindus, and your guide will point out where to stay outside. From the far edge of the forest the path drops back to the Bagmati and follows the river upstream for about 1 km.
Guhyeshwari is one of the Shakti Peethas, linked to the legend of Sati's body falling across the subcontinent, and the goddess is worshipped here in the form of a sacred water vessel. The present temple is usually dated to the 17th century and the reign of Pratap Malla. Only Hindus may enter the inner courtyard; others can view the gilded canopy over the shrine from the gate. The total walk is about 3 km on stone steps and paved paths, and we can finish back at Pashupatinath for the aarti.
Good for
- Pilgrims
- Families
- Couples
- First-timers
- Photographers
Questions travellers ask
How far is Guhyeshwari from Pashupatinath?
Guhyeshwari is about 1 km upstream of Pashupatinath along the Bagmati, roughly 15 minutes on foot by the river path or 25 to 30 minutes if you go through the Mrigasthali forest. Cars can reach Guhyeshwari by road from Gaushala and Sifal, and many pilgrims visit both temples in one morning.
Can non-Hindus enter Guhyeshwari Temple?
No. As at Pashupatinath, only Hindus may enter the inner courtyard of Guhyeshwari, and the rule is enforced at the gate. Visitors of other faiths can see the temple from outside and walk the river path and forest around it freely. Your guide will show you the best places to stand without crowding the entrance.
Why is Guhyeshwari important to visit with Pashupatinath?
Guhyeshwari is one of the Shakti Peethas, and many devotees believe a visit to Pashupatinath is complete only after paying respects to the goddess here, as Shiva and Shakti are worshipped together. Pilgrims often go to Guhyeshwari first and then to Pashupatinath. Our temple tours include both on the same morning.
