Home » TRAVEL EVENT NEWS » Mahashivaratri Festival 2026 in Kathmandu, Nepal to Attract 800,000 Devotees at Pashupatinath Temple, Boosting Religious Tourism and Local Economy Published on
February 13, 2026As Nepal prepares to celebrate Mahashivaratri Nepal, the spiritual heart of the nation is set to witness one of its largest annual gatherings. The sacred premises of Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu are expected to welcome nearly 800,000 devotees during the revered night dedicated to Lord Shiva. The festival, regarded as one of the most significant events in the Hindu calendar, is not only a profound spiritual occasion but also a defining moment for Kathmandu religious tourism and the broader travel landscape of the country.This year’s preparations reflect the scale and importance of the festival. Organizers have completed extensive arrangements to manage the expected influx of pilgrims, ascetics, tourists, and spiritual seekers from Nepal and abroad. The celebration has evolved into a multidimensional event—combining faith, culture, logistics, security, hospitality, and economic activity—transforming Kathmandu into a vibrant pilgrimage destination.Spiritual Significance Meets Global AttentionMahashivaratri, known as the “Great Night of Shiva,” symbolizes devotion, meditation, and renewal. For devotees, visiting Pashupatinath on this sacred night is believed to bring spiritual merit and blessings. The temple, a UNESCO-recognized heritage site and one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, becomes the epicenter of intense devotion, illuminated by oil lamps, chants, and continuous rituals.Pilgrims begin arriving days in advance. Many observe fasting, prayer, and night-long vigils. The opening of all four temple doors at 2:00 am marks the beginning of a continuous flow of worshippers who queue patiently for a brief yet deeply meaningful moment of darshan.Advertisement AdvertisementWhile the religious aspect remains central, the festival’s growing scale highlights Nepal’s position as a major spiritual tourism destination in South Asia. International pilgri …
