The expansive high-altitude cold desert region of Nepal known as Mustang Valley is home to one of the most underrated yet immensely spiritual Lord Vishnu temples in the world. The journey up to this ancient temple located in the remote corner of Nepal which was also initially functioning as a Buddhist Monastery is treacherous and a challenging pilgrimage. The jagged terrain is devoid of trees and shade of any kind and the weather conditions are unpredictable with limited amenities available for the pilgrims. However, if you wish to take up this journey without any hitch then here is a complete travel guide for Muktinath:
Pack the Best Quality Woolen Winter Clothing:
This is the first and foremost thing to keep in mind prior to commencing your pilgrimage on the mentally and physically testing terrain of the otherwise gorgeous mustang valley. Due to the absence of trees, the wind moves in an unobstructed manner which makes the people there feel colder. What works best against the biting cold are fleece warmers, Gloves, Socks, Beanies / Monkey Caps, mufflers, and puff jackets? Make sure that these items are of top-notch quality in order to ensure a comfortable trip.
Must Pack Essentials:
Remember that Muktinath is a pilgrimage of a lifetime that you must approach with a lot of care. Be sure to consult your trusted doctor and take some medications if required for altitude sickness, fever, high altitude mountain sickness, and upset stomach. Apart from the medication, you must carry sunscreen, reflector glasses, a purifying water bottle, energy bars, and a good pair of walking shoes. These are some essential things that you cannot miss out on packing in order to make your Yatra a success without any problem.
Briefing about the Route to Muktinath:
There are numerous Packages for Muktinath Dham Yatra available via road or helicopter for your ease. Here is how an average journey to the holy shrine takes place - first you have to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu by road (7 hours) or via a helicopter (25 minutes). The day will require you to travel via helicopter (15 minutes) or by road (7/8 hours) to Jomsom. Jomsom is the starting point for the Yatra which requires you to take a trekking journey of around 7 to 8 hours via the Kali-Gandaki Valley route. One can also hire ponies or other alternative services to reach the temple.
Permits Required:
The temple is situated in a preserved and conserved area which requires you to follow a certain set of rules and regulations for traveling or even for pilgrimage purposes. Prior to starting your Yatra either from Pokhara or Kathmandu, you shall be required to collect 2 different vital permits. They include the following - ACAP or the Annapurna conservation area project permit that can be collected from Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu, or Pokhara with the help of the Nepal tourism board. The other permit is TIMS or the trekker’s information management system permit which is easily available and can be collected from Thamel, Saat Ghumti, Mali Gaun, Kathmandu, or Pokhara.
Best Time to Visit:
Remember to be well prepared to face any climatic changes that may be unpredictable at such high altitudes. The months of September, October, and November i.e. the autumn season is the peak and the best time to visit Muktinath Dham. Being a rain shadow area the region receives almost next to nothing monsoon when the weather is not so hot or cold. To incorporate trekking and sightseeing adventure you can choose to travel during the spring months of March, April, and May.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Given below is a selection of questions that are frequently asked by travelers going on their way to the holy Dham for Darshan:
What Are The Temple Timings?
The temple timings for Muktinath Dham may differ depending on several factors, However; the general visitation timings include 7am to 12 noon and 1pm to 7pm.
What Is The Elevation of Muktinath Temple?
The temple is situated in the remote corner of Mustang Valley and placed on an elevation of 3,800 Metres above sea level i.e. 12,467 feet and is also deemed for being one of the highest temples in the world.
Why Is Muktinath Temple Famous?
The Yatra/pilgrimage to Muktinath Dham is considered to be an extremely pious journey. This lord Vishnu temple holds immense significance in the life of Vaishnavites and Hindus. It is believed that your Char Dham Yatra is not complete until you go for your Muktinath Dham pilgrimage.
How Far Is Muktinath From Pokhara?
There is more than 1 route available for Muktinath from Pokhara with an average driving distance of around 10 hours up to Jomsom. It is important for you to take a 4-wheeler keeping in mind the terrain. Taxis, cabs, and jeeps are easily available for this purpose and you also have the option of taking your vehicle.
What Are Some Sightseeing Options Apart From Muktinath Temple?
After completing your Darshan and taking the holy dip in the holy Muktinath Kundu can go and check out places of tourist interest like the Annapurna conservation area, Kagbeni, and Pokhara Lake to name a few.
How Far Is Jomsom From Pokhara?
The distance is 62 km and as mentioned above it can be covered via a jeep, taxi, cab, or private car.
What Is The Accommodations Situation During Muktinath Dham Yatra?
There are several lodges and hotels located in Jharkot and Ranipauwa offering minimal facilities and amenities for your comfort. Some hotels even have the service of solar-heated water and even an attached bathroom. There are also free Dharamshalas available for Hindu devotees.
What Are Some Miscellaneous Facilities In And On The Way To Muktinath?
There are STD/ISD booths available in places like Ranipauwa and Jharkot as there is no proper network connection available en route to the temple. There are post offices and health checkup posts in Jahrkot as well. The electricity facility is properly available along with clean drinking water and even the ACAP tourist information Centre.
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