Maha Shivaratri 2026 Nepal-2 Days Itinerary and Cost

Maha Shivaratri 2026 Nepal
Quick Overview
Duration2 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Group Size1-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesReligious festival tour
Best TimeFebruary 14–15, 2026

This two-day festival for Maha Shivaratri 2026 takes you on a spiritual journey to Kathmandu, Nepal, where you will spend the night of Lord Shiva's Great Night at the ancient Pashupatinath Temple. This pilgrimage package gives devotees and spiritual seekers a chance to participate in one of the biggest Hindu gatherings in the world on February 14–15, 2026. The experience includes guided rituals, an all-night vigil (jaagran), cultural immersion, and being in the middle of the exciting religious atmosphere. This journey is a smooth and very meaningful way to see Maha Shivaratri at its most powerful epicenter, with all the details taken care of, such as lodging, local transportation, and expert guidance.

Highlights

  • Join the sacred Maha Shivaratri all-night vigil (Jaagran) at the Pashupatinath Temple.

  • Take part in the sacred Rudra Abhishek ceremony, which includes giving milk, water, and Bael leaves as offerings.

  • Join millions of devotees in the powerful group chanting of "Om Namah Shivaya."

  • Watch and talk to Naga Sadhus (holy men who live alone) while they do intense spiritual rites.

  • Get guided information about old Hindu customs, rituals, and how to behave at temples.

  • Get lost in the lively festival atmosphere along the Bagmati River, where sacred flames, bells, and devotional music fill the air.

Maha Shivaratri 2026 Nepal Package

We have carefully arranged this two-day pilgrimage to provide you with a full spiritual and cultural experience during Nepal's biggest festival for Lord Shiva. The Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the spiritual center of the celebrations and the main focus of the visit. Guests will learn about the deep meaning of Shiva Lingam worship, the importance of fasting, and the rituals that highlight this night of spiritual purification and the union of Shiva and Parvati.

 The experience goes beyond the main temple complex to include the lively, chaotic, and intensely spiritual areas around it, from the crowded courtyards to the ghats along the river. This package makes sure that you may participate in the celebrations in a pleasant, friendly, and informative way. It provides structure for important rituals and time for personal meditation and observation during one of Hinduism's most awe-inspiring events.

Reminder

For a smooth and stress-free start, we recommend arriving in Kathmandu by 4 PM the day before we leave. This gives you enough time for a final check and a trip briefing with your guide to ensure you have everything you need before heading out on the pilgrimage tour. 

Short Itinerary
Day 01: February 14, 2026 (the night before Maha Shivaratri) — Arrive and get ready spiritually
Max Altitude: 1,400m/4,593ft.
Day 02: February 15, 2026 (Maha Shivaratri), the most important rituals and leaving
Max Altitude: 1,400m/4,593ft.
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Detailed Itinerary
Day 01:

  • Morning or afternoon: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). Meet and greet, then take you to your accommodation in Kathmandu. Check in and unwind after your trip.

  • In the late afternoon, you will receive a guided orientation and introduction to the temple. Your spiritual advisor will tell you what Maha Shivaratri means, what the events are, and how to behave in the temple. Get ready for the vigil tonight.

  • In the evening, go to Pashupatinath. When it gets dark, move to the Pashupatinath area. Start getting into the spirit of the celebration. See the people coming together, the oil lamps being lit, and the first prayers.

  • Night: Start the All-Night Vigil (Jaagran). Join millions of worshippers in the temple complex. Take part in or watch the constant chanting, prayers, and early rituals. You will have a special place to sleep and watch all night.

  • Dinner was included, and it was usually a simple, satvik meal that fit with the fast.

Max Altitude: 1,400m/4,593ft.Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ DinnerAccommodation: Tent Camp
Day 02:

  • Before dawn and in the morning, engage in good rituals, including the Rudra Abhishek. This festival is the moment that holds the greatest spiritual power. See the height of dedication. Join in the special Abhishekam, which is the anointing of the Shiva Lingam with milk, honey, and water. Feel the strong energy as the Sadhus do their severe austerities and the group chanting reaches its peak.

  • Late Morning: Time to think about and explore what happened throughout the ritual. After the main ceremonies, your guide will show you around the temple's grounds. Get up close to the Sadhus (shooting may be allowed if done properly), check out the smaller shrines in the compound, and soak up the festival vibe.

  • Afternoon: Go back to the hotel to recuperate, check out, and have a late lunch.

  • Late in the afternoon, go to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) for your flight home, taking with you the blessings and memories of Maha Shivaratri.

Max Altitude: 1,400m/4,593ft.Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
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Cost Includes

  • Visit the Shiva Ratri Festival at the Pashupatinath temple for a full day and night of worship.

  • A group camp setup on Pashupatinath.

  • Pick up and drop off at the Pashupatinath.

  • 1 guide who speaks both English and Hindi for the complete Shiva Ratri tour with all entrance prices included. 

  • Every day, it includes a vegetarian lunch and dinner.

Cost Excludes

  • Bar tabs and drinks

  • Extra tour

  • Tips for the guide

Essential Information

Visa Requirements

All foreigners, except Indian citizens, need a visa to enter Nepal. Getting a Tourist Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu is the easiest way to do it.

  • You will need a passport that is valid for at least six months, a recent passport-sized photo, and the completed arrival form.

  • Visa fees (in cash in USD) are about $30 for 15 days or $50 for 30 days. For a simpler operation, please make sure you have the correct amount in crisp notes.

Travel Insurance is Required

You must have full travel insurance to book this pilgrimage.

  • Your coverage must clearly cover emergency medical evacuation, hospitalization, trip cancellation or interruption, and lost luggage.

  • Make sure your coverage is good enough for this excursion, which will include large crowds, an all-night outdoor vigil, and general travel. After you book, please send us a copy of your insurance policy.

The Best Time to Go and the Dates of the Festival

  • Dates for the festival: This package is only good for February 14–15, 2026.

  • Weather: February in Kathmandu is usually nice, with clear skies, but nights may be rather cold, especially during the all-night vigil. It is very important to pack warm clothes, such as a jacket, hat, and gloves.

Money and currency

The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the currency in Nepal.

  • Cash is King: There are ATMs in Kathmandu, but you need cash to buy anything at the festival and in the temple. When you get to the airport or Thamel, we suggest that you exchange enough money.

  • Small Denominations: Bring small NPR notes for personal costs, contributions, tips, and offerings at the temple (for flowers, milk, etc.).

  • The package already includes all planned meals, transportation, and guided services.

  • Safety, health, and how to act on a pilgrimage

  • Vaccinations: It is best to stay up-to-date on all of your normal immunizations. Talk to your doctor before going to Nepal.

  • Temple Etiquette: Your guide will give you a full tour. When you go to the temple, remember to dress modestly (with your shoulders and legs covered), take off your shoes before going inside the sanctum, and be courteous throughout the rites. In some interior locations, photography may not be allowed.

  • There are millions of people at Maha Shivaratri. Stay with your group, monitor your belongings, and adhere to the guide's instructions for meeting points.

  • Food and drink: Only drink bottled or purified water. The meals that will be served will be basic, vegetarian (satvik), and good for people who are fasting throughout the festival.

Making a reservation with The Everest Holiday

The Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) has licensed and bonded The Everest Holiday as a tour operator.

  • Deposit: To guarantee your booking for this popular festival package, you must pay a refundable deposit.

  • Please send clear copies of your passport and travel insurance policy when you book.

  • Final Payment: You can pay the rest in Kathmandu (in any currency or the same amount in NPR).

Leaving

The formal package ends on Day 2 (February 15) in the late afternoon, after lunch and check-out.

  • Transfer to the airport: A timely transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is provided. Please let us know your flight information ahead of time.

  • Certificate: You will get a certificate for participating in this holy journey.

Tipping

In Nepal, it is normal to give a tip to express that you appreciate excellent service.

  • Your devoted spiritual guide.

  • The person who drives.

  • At the end of the trip, it's usual and welcomed to give a group gratuity based on how happy you were overall.

FAQs

Q.1. What are the package dates, and when is Maha Shivaratri 2026?

Maha Shivaratri in 2026 will start on the night of February 14 and last until February 15. Our thoughtfully scheduled 2-day pilgrimage tour runs from February 14 to February 15, 2026, which is the perfect period for you to see all of the key rites and the sacred celebration at Pashupatinath Temple.

Q.2. What is the best part of this Maha Shivaratri package?

The best part is participating in the sacred all-night vigil (Jaagran) at Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with millions of other devotees. You will also take part in the Rudra Abhishek ceremony, where you will see the Shiva Lingam being anointed while tremendous voices of "Om Namah Shivaya" fill the air.

Q.3. Is this package good for someone who doesn't know much about Hindu rituals?

Yes, for sure. This is for people who are already religious and others who are looking for spirituality. A spiritual guide who speaks both English and Hindi will give you a full introduction to Hindu customs, ceremonies, and how to behave in a temple. They will walk you through each stage, making the experience deep and easy to understand.

Q.4. Will I be able to view the Naga Sadhus, who are holy men who live in the woods?

Yes, the gathering of Naga Sadhus is a special part of Maha Shivaratri at Pashupatinath. Your guide will take you to places where you can politely watch and talk to them (with permission, you may be able to take pictures), giving you a rare look into their deep spiritual practices.

Q.5. What do you get when you take part in the "Rudra Abhishek" ceremony?

You will join a special session where you can participate in the ritual anointing (Abhishek) of the Shiva Lingam with help. This usually includes giving milk, water, honey, and Bael leaves, which are all included in the box, making it a very personal spiritual occasion.

Q.6. What do I need to do to get a visa and enter Nepal for this trip?

Everyone who is not an Indian citizen needs a visa. A Tourist Visa on Arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is the easiest way. You will need a passport that is good for at least six months, one photo, and the fee in cash (USD) ($30 for 15 days). We can help you with the details when you book.

Q.7. Is it necessary to have travel insurance, and what should it cover?

Yes, you need to have full travel insurance. Your coverage must clearly cover medical evacuation in an emergency, hospitalization, vacation cancellation, and events with a lot of people and an all-night vigil outside. After you book, please show evidence of insurance.

Q.8. What should I bring to the all-night vigil at Pashupatinath in February?

You need warm clothes. Kathmandu nights in February are frigid. Bring a heavy coat, a hat, gloves, and warm socks. Also, it is a good idea to wear comfortable shoes for standing, bring a reusable water bottle, and dress modestly (with shoulders and knees covered) to go into the temple.

Q.9. Is food included, and what kind of food is served during the fast?

Yes, all meals are provided. We provide dinner on Day 1 and breakfast and lunch on Day 2. The cuisine will be simple, vegetarian (satvik), and good for people who are fasting for Maha Shivaratri. It is meant to help you get through the spiritual exercises without breaching the rules of the fast.

Q.10. How does the package deal with the huge crowds at Pashupatinath?

We make sure that everything is organized and safe. We have a special guide to help you find your way through the crowds, find a safe place for the vigil, and set up clear meeting spots. This lets you securely become immersed in the energy.

Q.11. Is it possible for me to book this package as a single traveler?

Yes, those traveling alone are welcome. You will be with other pilgrims. The structured guidance and group setting make this hectic festival safe and supportive for anyone who is going alone.

Q.12.  How do you pay for and schedule a trip with The Everest Holiday?

To get a spot at this popular festival, you need to pay a non-refundable deposit. You can pay the rest of the money when you get to Kathmandu. You need to send in a copy of your passport and travel insurance after you book. We are a licensed TAAN operator, which means you can trust us to handle your transaction.

Q.13. Does the price include picking up and dropping off at the airport?

Yes, the package covers collection at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) on February 14 and drop-off on February 15. Please send us your flight information ahead of time so that we can coordinate smoothly.

Q.14. What do I do if my flight is late and I miss part of the trip?

If you can, we strongly suggest arriving a day early because the festival program is set. But our local team will help latecomers get to the event grounds as quickly as possible. This shows why trip delay insurance is necessary.