Muktinath is a sacred place for the pilgrimage of both religions: Hindu and Buddhist. And for those interested in studying the co-existence of nature and religion with significant impact on the culture and history, Muktinath region provides the canvas to portrait a unique feature of human civilization.
Muktinath translates as ‘Place of Salvation’ with human civilization dated 2000 years, is the area said to be as old as seventy million years back to the Jurrasic period when the area used to be the sea-bed of Tethis ocean before the formation of Himalayas. Many holy rivers such as Gages, Gandaki and Yamuna start their journey from the mountains here. Several Hindu and Buddhist scholars, tantriks teachers, pupils took refuge in this sacred land. You will enjoy the myths and ancient stories about the area too.
Situated in Baraha Gaun, at the altitude of 3710 m. and 48 km away from northeast of Jomsom, Muktinath tour is a popular touring destination that can be visited as the final destination as well as the adjoining package in Annapurna circuit trekking or Mustang region trekking.
The Temple has a pagoda-style design, in a picturesque location. There are two small ponds and 108 waterspouts behind this beautiful temple. where you can take a dip/bath which is believed to bring salvation.
Muktinath temple tour creates a buzz that this world is “Maya” (an illusion). Muktinath is considered to be one of the 24 Tantric places in the Tibetan Buddhist faith. According to tradition, Guru Rinpoche, who founded the Tibetan faith, stopped here to worship the Dakinis or sky dancing goddesses, on his way to Tibet.
For the Hindus, the importance of the shrine is a bit different. Hindu Vashanavites consider the Muktinath shrine to be one of the eight most sacred shrines on earth. They consider the Muktinath to be one of the 108 holy places where a person should worship Lord Vishnu.
Both religions will present their set of magnificent stories and myth that co-exist in harmony and high respect for each other.
To reach Muktinath – you can either take a few days’ bus rides from either Kathmandu or Pokhara or even take a short flight to reach Jomsom – the gateway to the Muktinath region. From here, you’ll take a jeep ride to the foothill of Muktinath temple.
The mesmerizing desert beauty of Mustang will steal your heart.
Tengboche Monastery
Tengboche Monastery is one of the popular monasteries in the Himalayas on Nepal. Every October, Tengboche Monastery hosts the colorful Mani Rimdu festival, which is a culmination of Buddhist celebrations with religious gathering, songs, dances, portrayals of legends. . A big bonfire is made in the courtyard which is fueled with yak butter and homemade liquor which aims to pull away from the bad spirits. You are welcomed to partake in the festivities. Tours of the monastery are conducted every afternoon.
Also known as Dawa Choling Gompa, this Buddhist monastery was burnt down in 1989 and rebuilt replacing the old building with a more solid structure. It shelters 55 monks who practice Tibetan Buddhism in a daily basis. This monastery is regarded as Mecca for Sherpa from high Khumbu valley and they have big respect and honor for this heritage.
Tengboche Monastery was built by Lama Gulu in 1916 is blessed by a surreal view of beautiful mountains. This monastery got the miserable tragedy that it was collapsed by an earthquake in 1934 which was rebuilt later. And again it got another mishap in 1989 damaged by fire and then it was built later. During the earthquake of 2015, it was partially damaged which was restored later.
This monastery is located at the elevation of 3867m Khola ridge across the canyon from Khunde, atop a hill across Imja. This holy land is surrounded by forest containing Rhododendron, Juniper and Fir trees which adds extra texture and beauty. You will have the Mesmerizing view of some world-renowned mountains including Mt Everest, Lhotse, Amadablam etc. Mt. Amadablam is claimed to be the most beautiful mountain in Everest region.
To reach this place you have few options – either you take a flight to Lukla or walk 34 km uphill above. Or you can take a helicopter for some unique fun and avoid toiling walks but acclimatization is highly recommended before you head to this place.
