MUKTINATH

            The temple of Muktinath, located in the mountainous region of Mustang District within Dhaulagiri zone is considered a very important pilgrimage of both the Hindus and the Buddhists. Hindus regard Muktinath as one of their fie most sacred 'Dhams' pilgrimage site and 51 most sacred 'Shaktipeeths'.The temple situated at 3750 m above the sea level is known as Muktinath to the Hindus and the Tibetan name of Chhuming Gyatsa to the Buddhists.The temple carries enormous historic and religious importance and people believe that worshipping at the temple will free one from all the sins committed in their lives. Idols of Lord Vishnu as well as goddess Laxmi and the Eagle diety Garud is housed inside the temple. 

            Followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Vaisnavism from all corners of Nepal and India arrive in large to worship at the temple, a common holy site of multitude of faiths. 108 metal water snouts have been installed near the temple. Freezing cold water flows through these snouts shaped as the snout of bull and the worshippers first take a bath under these before entering the temple. Hinduks traditionallly hold a belief that the ancestors are allowed residence in the heaven by worshpping at the muktinath and performing the ritual "Shraddha" here. A large number of religious faithfuls gather here throughout the year to perform the Shraddha. Crowds of worshipper from Nepal and India throng the temple during the festivals of Ramnavami, Janaipurnima, Chaitedashain and Dashain. The temple of Jwalamai is located adjacent to the Muktinath temple. The temple houses an eternal flame glowing over water which people believe has been burning since time immemorable. The Jwalamai temple is one of the highligts of the area. Muktinath is popular among both the religious and the nature lovers. Anyone visiting the place leaves with an unforgetable memory of the wonder of nature. The area is also suitable for upclose observation of the lifestle and residents of mountainous area as well as their culture and tradition. Likewise it also provides an escape from the hectic city life. There are numerous hotels and lodges arround the Muktinath temple that serve tourists. Likewise, the nearby settlements of Jomsom, Kagbeni, Marpha and others are famous for sight seeing. It is the charm of Muktinath that none can have enough of visiting the place. The journey from Kathmandu starts with the 200 km ride along the highway to Pokhara followed by 85 km road to Beni and another 83 km to Jomsom. Muktinath is located at a distance of 21 km from Jomsom. A trek from Pokhara to Muktinath takes some 6-7 days while there is also an option of a 35 minites flight from Pokhara. Jeeps to Muktinath are also available from Jomsom.