The pagoda temple
Stepped roofs over white walls.
Gaurav.aryal — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Nikesh balami — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Roman Raghu Shrestha — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Faj2323 — CC BY-SA 4.0
Muktinath is an ancient religious complex at the foot of the Thorong La pass in Mustang District, at 3,800 m, making it one of the highest temples in the world. Hindus and Buddhists both revere it, so pilgrims of the two faiths meet here, and trekkers and travellers come to see mountains and worship in one place. The name means «lord of salvation» for Hindus, while Tibetan Buddhists call it Chumig Gyatsa, or «Hundred Waters». It stands in a grove of poplars regarded as sacred. The main shrine was built in its current form between the 18th and 19th centuries. The area holds several shrines, some shared by both faiths and others closer to one of them. From outside you see a small temple with tiers of pagoda roofs above white walls, and in the courtyard two square water tanks, along with the Muktidhara channel, said to have 108 spouts under which pilgrims bathe. Around it are trees bare in winter, high mountains and colourful prayer flags. It is about 15 km in a straight line from Jomsom. Jeeps run to Ranipauwa village, then you walk a short way uphill. Bring warm clothes and take it slowly because of the altitude. Dress modestly, remove your shoes where asked, do not take photos inside the shrines and respect worshippers. Spring and autumn are best, as snow covers the place in winter.
Stepped roofs over white walls.
In the temple courtyard.
Sacred trees around the site.
Muktinath Valley, near Ranipauwa, Mustang District, Nepal
Visitors of various faiths enter the courtyard, but rules may differ at the shrines, so ask and respect any signs.
By jeep from Jomsom to Ranipauwa, then a short uphill walk.