Muktinath Pilgrimage Tour
Trip Overview
Embark on a soul-stirring journey to Muktinath Darshan Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage nested at 3,800 meters in the trans-Himalayan region of Mustang—revered across Vaidik Sanatan Dharma, Buddhism, Bon, and Himalayan shamanic traditions. Known as Muktikshetra, or the “Land of Salvation,” this spiritually vibrant site is believed to be where Lord Vishnu attained liberation, Guru Padmasambhava meditated among dancing dakinis, and the sacred flame of Jwala Mai eternally blazes from soil, water and air—symbolizing elemental union. Pilgrims ritually cleanse their karma under the Tsumig Gyatsha, 108 icy water spouts, believed to have channeled from the holy source of Damodar Kunda, absolve lifetimes of sin. As per ancient texts like the Skandapurana, Barahapurana, and Krishna Gandaki Mahatmya, Muktinath embodies the divine convergence of Hari (Vishnu) and Hara (Shiva), celebrated for harmonizing Vaishnava and Shaiva traditions, while Tibetan Buddhist lore hails it as the seat of Avalokiteshwara (Tib. Chenrezig). The broader spiritual geography of Krishna Gandaki Kshetra extends beyond— incorporating Triveni Dham, Devghat Ashram, Pulastya Pulhasrama-Galeshwor Dham (Myagdi), Muktikshetra and Damodar Kunda (Mustang)—echoes a deep-rooted legacy of religious coexistence across the Himavat Khanda. With over two decades of expertise, Karnali Excursions offers not just a pilgrimage, but a profound inner journey guided by history, myth, and devotion—an opportunity to walk ancient paths as a true seeker of moksha.
Trip Highlights
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Sacred Darshan of Muktinath, Pashupatinath, Manakamana Mata, and other holy sites
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Fly over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayas and drive through the Kali Gandaki Valley
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Experience spiritual cleansing under 108 Mukti Dhara (Tsumig Gyatsha)
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Experience Vaidik Sanatan and Himalayan Buddhist traditions
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Exploring the natural beauty of Pokhara
Detail Itinerary
- Airport pickup and hotel transfer by Karnali representative
- Briefing session and orientation on Muktinath Yatra
- Overnight in Kathmandu
- Accommodation in a Luxury Hotel (3-5 Star)
- Meals: BLD
- Scenic drive to Pokhara with en-route Darshan at Manakamana Temple
- Cable car ride and worship experience
- Overnight in Pokhara
- Accommodation in a standard hotel
- Meals: BLD
- Distance: 205 km
- Duration: 6-7 hrs
- Altitude: 822m / 2,697ft
- Early morning flight to Jomsom (20 mins)
- Drive through the Kali Gandaki Gorge to Muktinath Temple
- Optional Saligram search and Holy Tarpana at Kagbeni
- Darshan at Muktinath, Holy shower at 108 Water Spouts, visit Jwala Mai, and Neelkantha Varni’s Paduka
- Return to Jomsom for overnight stay
- Accommodation in a hotel
- Meals: BLD
- Distance: 24 km (Jomsom to Muktinath)
- Duration: 1.5-2 hrs drive
- Morning flight to Pokhara
- Visit Fewa Lake, Gupteshwor Cave, Davi’s Fall, and Bindabasini Temple
- Overnight in Pokhara
- Accommodation in a standard hotel
- Meals: BLD
- Fly to Kathmandu
- Evening Darshan & Aarati at Pashupatinath Temple
- Final overnight in Kathmandu
- Accommodation in a Luxury Hotel (3-5 Star)
- Meals: BLD
- Morning Transfer to Airport
- Time for Reflection
- Departure
- Meals: Breakfast
- Package Price: …..USD per person (twin-sharing basis)
- Single Supplementary: ……USD (for single occupancy accommodation)
- Airport pick-up/drop-off and all ground transfers via private tourist buses
- Hotel accommodation with pure vegetarian meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Domestic flights
- Professional English- and Hindi-speaking Karnali tour leader and support crew
- Guided sightseeing, Darshan Assistance, and Spiritual Briefings
- Duffel Bag for Travel
- First Aid Medical Kit
- International flight fares
- Nepalese Visa processing
- Personal expenses (e.g., bottled drinks, laundry, telephone, Internet)
- Temple Dakshina, Puja, and personal darshan costs
- Travel and Medical Insurance
- Any unforeseen costs not listed above
Resources
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- Essential Information
Essential Information Muktinath Pilgrimage Tour
Booking & Cancellation Policy:
- Non-refundable Booking Deposit: USD 2000 with a health certificate (mandatory)
- Remaining Balance: Payable in USD/GBP (cash only) upon arrival in Delhi
- Cancellation Terms:
- 50% payable if cancelled 20 days before departure
- 100% payable if cancelled less than 15 days before departure
- Claim refundable losses via your travel insurance
1. Required Documents
- Valid Passport and Visa
- Two passport-size color photographs
- Health certificate and travel insurance (mandatory)
2. Accommodation & Facilities
- Limited infrastructure in remote areas
- Occasional power/water shortages; candlelight may be provided
3. Travel & Arrival Logistics
- Share flight details early for airport pick-up
- Look for “Karnali Excursions” sign at the airport
4. Health & Insurance
- Carry cashless travel insurance (must cover emergency air rescue & cancellation)
- Maintain good hydration (3 liters/day recommended)
- Consult your doctor for any chronic health conditions
- Karnali provides a basic medical first aid kit
5. Yatra Preparation Tips
- Begin light walking/hiking exercises and breathwork
- Bring a power adaptor (220-240V) and a personal daypack
- Local e/SIMs available at Kathmandu airport; Wi-Fi in hotels in Nepal
- Keep duffel bag ID handy; suitcases stored securely during the Yatra (storage cost applies)
- Carry basic snacks and essentials in your backpack
A Journey of Faith with Karnali Excursions:
With seasoned staff and deep cultural understanding, Karnali Excursions ensures a soulful, secure, and serene journey through the mystical terrain of Nepal Himalayas. Pilgrims are not just escorted to a holy sites but are guided toward inner awakening in the presence of Lord Vishnu, Shiva, Shakti and Buddhist cultural beliefs. This is not just a trip. This is a Yatra of the soul.
For more details, please contact
1. USA
Sarla Dave (coordinator USA and Canada)
Cell: +1 (708) 689-7848
Email: sarladave1@aol.com
2. UK, Africa and Australia
Savi Meghani
Cell: +447435217216
Email: savi_meghani@hotmail.co.uk
Vanita Hirani
Email: vanitahirani@hotmail.com
3. UAE
Middle East: +971508627927
Whatsapp: +971508627927/ +919833058968Email: journeywithvaishali@gmail.com
4. Nepal, Karnali Excursions Head Office
Hira Dhamala (Head office)
Cell: +977 9851035496
Email: karnaliexcursions@gmail.com
www.karnaliexcursions.com
- Trip Preparation Guide
Trip Preparation Guide
Nature & Culture Travel Experiences in NepalBy Karnali Excursions
(Applicable to: Lumbini Tour, Red Panda Tour, Tiger & Temple Tour, Bird Watching Tours, Wildlife Safari Tours, Multi-Adventure Tours, Kathmandu Day & Half-Day Tours)
Introduction: Welcome to Nepal
Nepal is a land of extraordinary diversity, where sacred heritage sites, subtropical forests, wetlands, grasslands, and Himalayan foothills coexist within a compact geographical space. Karnali Excursions designs nature and culture itineraries that are immersive, ethical, and thoughtfully paced, allowing travelers to experience Nepal’s wildlife, spiritual landmarks, and living traditions with comfort and insight.
This guide provides essential pre-departure and on-arrival information to help you prepare for a smooth, safe, and enriching journey.
1. Nepal Visa Information
Most international travelers can obtain a Tourist Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
Visa Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- At least one blank page
- Passport-size photograph
- Visa fee payable in cash (USD preferred)
Visa Options:
- 15 Days
- 30 Days
- 90 Days
Travelers may also apply online in advance through Nepal’s official immigration portal to speed up airport procedures. Entry regulations may change, so we advise checking official government updates shortly before departure.
You can obtain a visa from your nearest Nepal Embassy or Consulate, or upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport. For more details, visit Nepal Immigration.
1. Department of Immigration, Government of Nepal – main portal for visa information & online services
https://www.immigration.gov.np/
2. Online Visa Application Portal (Official)
https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
(Used for pre-arrival tourist visa forms)2. Entry & Arrival in Nepal
- Arrival airport: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
- Karnali Excursions representatives will meet guests for pre-arranged airport transfers
- Most tours begin in Kathmandu Valley, unless otherwise specified
3. Health & Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travelers and mandatory for multi-day adventure programs.
Insurance should cover:
- Medical treatment and hospitalization
- Emergency evacuation (especially for wildlife or remote areas)
- Trip interruption or cancellation
- Loss of baggage and personal belongings
4. Physical Requirements & Activity Levels
Nature and culture tours are non-technical and suitable for most travelers.
Activity Levels by Tour Type:
- Cultural Tours (Kathmandu, Lumbini): Easy walking, city sightseeing
- Wildlife Safaris: Jeep safaris, short nature walks, boat rides
- Bird Watching Tours: Gentle walking, early mornings
- Red Panda Exploration: Moderate hiking in forested hills
- Multi-Adventure Tours: Rafting, walking, and short trekking (e.g. Poon Hill)
No prior trekking or wildlife experience is required unless specified.
5. Accommodation Overview
Accommodation varies by destination and itinerary:
- Kathmandu / Pokhara / Lumbini: 3–5 star hotels or heritage boutique hotels
- National Parks & Wildlife Reserves: Eco-lodges and jungle resorts
- Hill Regions (Ilam, Sandakpur): Comfortable lodges or guesthouses
- Short Treks: Tea-house lodges
Accommodation is generally twin-sharing, with single supplements available.
6. Transportation in Nepal
- Private tourist vehicles for sightseeing
- Domestic flights where applicable
- 4WD jeeps for wildlife safaris
- Boats (Koshi Tappu, Chitwan)
- Rafting equipment and certified river guides for adventure tours
Road conditions may vary due to terrain and weather; flexible timing is essential.
7. Food & Dietary Needs
Nepal offers a diverse cuisine influenced by Himalayan, Indian, and Tibetan traditions.
- Meals are provided according to itinerary
- Vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice
- Bottled or purified drinking water is recommended
8. Climate & Best Travel Seasons
- Spring (Mar–May): Flowers, wildlife activity, pleasant temperatures
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Clear skies, ideal for culture and nature
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild in lowlands, cooler in hill regions
- Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, excellent birding in wetlands
9. Packing Essentials
Recommended items include:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket or fleece
- Rain protection (especially during monsoon)
- Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Binoculars (for wildlife and birding tours)
- Camera with zoom lens
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medications
- Power bank and universal adapter
10. Wildlife & Nature Ethics
Karnali Excursions follows responsible tourism principles:
- No wildlife disturbance or feeding
- Maintain silence during safaris and birding
- Respect park regulations and guides’ instructions
- Photography without flash in sensitive areas
11. Cultural Etiquette
- Greet locals with “Namaste”
- Dress modestly at temples and monasteries
- Remove shoes before entering religious sites
- Ask permission before photographing people
- Walk clockwise around stupas and shrines
12. Safety & Local Support
- All tours are led by trained local guides
- Wildlife safaris are conducted with licensed naturalists
- Emergency support is coordinated through Karnali Excursions’ Kathmandu office
- Medical facilities are available in major cities and park headquarters
13. Currency & Practical Information
- Local currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
- ATMs widely available in cities; limited in remote areas
- Credit cards accepted in hotels and major restaurants
- Carry small denominations for tips and local purchases
14. Responsible & Sustainable Travel
Your journey supports:
- Community-based tourism
- Conservation of wildlife habitats
- Local employment and heritage preservation
Final Note
Nepal is not only a destination—it is an experience of living culture, sacred landscapes, and remarkable biodiversity. With thoughtful preparation and the guidance of Karnali Excursions, your nature and cultural journey will be enriching, comfortable, and deeply memorable.
- Recommended Readings
Recommended Readings
01.Rough Guide to Nepal by Rough Guides03.Nepal (Insight Guides) by Insight Guides02.Lonely Planet Nepal
by Lonely Planet - Fixed Departures Dates
Fixed Departure Dates
SN Name of the Pilgrimage Fixed Departure Dates Number of Days 1. Muktinath Pilgrimage Tour TBA 6 days
Trip Extension
- Helicopter journey to sacred pilgrimage sites—Muktinath and Damodar Kunda.
- Marvel at the trans-Himalayan landscapes from above.
- Optional ritual holy bath at Muktinath and Damodar Kunda.
- Helicopter flight to the sacred Haleshi Mahadev Cave.
- Explore the cave with its religious and historical significance.
- Experience the spiritual ambiance and perform optional rituals.
- Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the surrounding Himalayan terrain.
- Helicopter ride to the pristine Kagbhusundi (Tilicho) Lake, Manang.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
- Explore the tranquility of the Tilicho lake.
- Engage in photography of the high-altitude Himalayan landscapes.
- Experience panoramic Drashan of Kanchanjunga, Everest, Gaurishankar and Dhaulagiri, revered as Four Kailash in Vaidik Sanatan Tradition.
- Experience panoramic views of Himalayan peaks and valleys.
- Enjoy a safe, comfortable, and scenic Himalayan flight.
- Capture stunning close view photographs of snow-capped ranges, glaciers and diverse landscape.
Ready to make this journey your own?
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Budhanilkanta 44600, Nepal
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+977 9851035496
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Karnaliexcursions@gmail.com