Muktinath Pilgrimage Tour - 7 days

History of Muktinath Temple

The Annapurna range, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and other famous mountains encompass significant Hindu and Buddhist sacred sites, including the Muktinath Temple. Muktinath is considered a form of Lord Vishnu. According to writings in the Puranas, due to the curse of Vrinda, Lord Vishnu resides in Muktin Kshetra in the form of Saligram. The demon king Jalandhar was immensely powerful and became the emperor of all demons across heaven, earth, and the underworld. Mahadev (Shiva) became attracted to Jalandhar's wife, Parvati, which led to a corruption of his mind. A prolonged war ensued between Shiva and Jalandhar at Kailash. Eventually, Shiva overpowered Jalandhar. In the battle, Shiva invoked Vishnu. Jalandhar's strength was rooted in the devotion of his wife, Vrinda, towards him, as she remained faithful. Aware of this, Mahadev was determined to defeat Jalandhar. In a pivotal moment, Vishnu took on the form of Jalandhar and tricked Vrinda into a physical relationship, thereby destroying her unwavering devotion. Upon realizing what had transpired, Vrinda became enraged with Vishnu, who then cursed her. Wrathful, Vrinda transformed into grass, trees, and stones on Earth. Consequently, due to this curse, Vishnu manifested as Tulsi, Peepal, Kush, and Saligram. The Saligram form of Vishnu is believed to grant liberation (Mukti) in the Kshetra of Muktinath. This sacred site was established at the confluence of Damodar Kunda Water and the Kali Gandaki River near Kagbeni. It is said that offering Tarpan to Vishnu at Muktinath saves 21 generations of one's ancestors.

In Nepali society, it is believed that this area is associated with the Svasthani Vrat Katha. According to the legend, Lord Shiva roamed over the dead body of Sati Devi, and her face fell in this area, which is why it is called Mukti Dham.

Places to Visit During Muktinath Tour

There are many temples to visit during the tour. First, we will explore Pashupatinath Temple, the greatest Hindu temple in Nepal dedicated to Lord Shiva. Next, we will visit Gyajeswari Shakti Peetha and Jal Narayan Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

On the way, we will stop at Manakamana Bhagwati Temple before continuing to Pokhara and then to Muktinath. Near Muktinath, there are numerous monasteries, and the surrounding mountain views are breathtaking. We will pass through Kagbeni village and Jomsom village on our way.

Once we reach Pokhara, we will visit the famous Phewa Lake and Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave. We will also see Pumdikot Mahadev Stupa and enjoy the stunning sunrise view from Sarangkot.

Finally, after flying back to Kathmandu, we will visit Doleshwor Temple and Kailashnath Mahadev Temple.

The best time to Visit Muktinath Temple

There are no specific seasons for the Muktinath Tour likewise other trekking of Nepal. Besides the Winter season (December to February), the Muktinath Tour is forever. People from Nepal and India mostly come here. Other nations like Singapore and Malaysia also came here for their Pilgrimage Purposes. 

During the trekking seasons like March to May and September to November, many foreigners also visit Muktinath Temple as it lies in between the way of Annapurna Circuit Trek