Muktinath is a sacred place both for Hindus and Buddhists located in Muktinath Valley at an altitude of 3,710 meters at the foot of the Thorong La mountain pass (part of the Himalayas), Mustang district, Nepal. The site is close to the village of Ranipauwa, which sometimes mistakenly is called Muktinath as well.
The Hindus call the sacred place Mukti Kshetra, which literally means the "place of salvation". It is also one of the 51 Sakthi peetams. The Buddhists call it Chumig Gyatsa, which in Tibetan means 'Hundred Waters'. For Tibetan Buddhists Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa is a very important place of Dakinis, goddesses known as Sky Dancers and one of the 24 Tantric places. They understand the murti to be a manifestation of Avalokitesvara.
The central temple
The central shrine of Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa is considered one of the eight most sacred shrines for Hindu Vaishnavas known as Svayam Vyakta Ksetras, the other seven being Srirangam, Srimushnam, Tirupati, Naimisharanya, Totadri, Pushkar and Badrinath. The temple is very small. Muktinath is one of the most ancient Hindu temples of God Vishnu. The murti is of gold and is tall enough to compare with a man. The prakaram has 108 bull faces through which water is poured. It is of freezing temperature. There is an old Buddhist monk present in the temple. The worship is conducted by Buddhist nuns.
Legend
The Tibetan Buddhist tradition states that for this reason Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, had meditated at Muktinath on his way to Tibet.
The waterway downstream from Muktinath along Kali Gandaki is the source of all Silas or Shaligrams that are required to establish a temple of Vishnu anywhere in the world. It is considered to be one of the holiest places of pilgrimage of Hindus, Buddhists, and Vaishnavas. It has 108 water springs and this number carries great significance in Eastern philosophy. In Hindu astrology, there are 12 zodiac or Rashi and 9 planets or Graha, giving a total of 108 combination. Also there are 27 Lunar mansions or Nakshatras which are divided in 4 quarters or Padas each giving a combination of 108 Padas in total.
Travel access
Access is difficult because of tough weather conditions. One can fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then from Pokhara to Jomsom Airport. From there, one can either trek all the way or take a jeep to Muktinath. Some tourists are also known to charter a helicopter all the way to Muktinath which takes around forty five minutes to reach. The helicopter can be hired only when the weather permits.
Arriving by helicopter for a longer period of stay is not recommended because of the risk of acute mountain sickness. Accommodation is available in Muktinath, Kagbeni or Jomsom.
Muktinath
Monday, August 23, 2010
Mustang
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
This is a Trek that takes you along the Kali Gandaki Valley to the ancient Himalayan Kingdom of Mustang.
The word 'Mustang' conjures up ideas of remoteness and seclusion, a region lost amongst the mountains. This was an independent country until it was closely consolidated into Nepal just a few decades ago.
The kingdom of Mustang lies in the rain shadow formed by the Annapurna & Nilgiri Himalayas and thus gets very little rain which fortunately, makes the area ideal for trekking even in the mid monsoon while the other areas of Nepal remain unsuitable for trekking due to heavy monsoon rains.
The Trek to this mystique kingdom which requires a special permit that costs US$ 700 per person [valid for 10 Days] begins at the airstrip of Jomsom after flying up early from Pokhara. The trek is rather easy as most of the route goes along the bank of Kali Gandaki River and eventually leads you to Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang at 3730 meter, which is the highest point on this trip.
Fascinating areas: culturally and historically, picturesque villages, monasteries, unique landscapes with easy access and very few trekkers going to this area are the major highlights of this trip. This is among the very few adventure trips in Nepal which can be done throughout the year.
The region of Mustang lies north of the main Himalayan range in the area known as the trans-Himalaya. A vast high valley, arid and dry, it has a barren desert-like appearance similar to the Tibetan Plateau and is characterized by eroded canyons and colorful stratified rock formations. It was once an important route for crossing the Himalaya between Tibet and Nepal, and many of the old salt caravans passed through Mustang.
Known to its inhabitants as Lo, Mustang was only opened to trekkers in March 1992 and you will be part of a small privileged minority to visit this remote outpost of Nepal. The capital of the Mustang district is actually Jomsom but the Tibetan influenced area north of Kagbeni is known as Upper Mustang. It is this area which we will explore fully, discovering the wonders of the architecture, language, culture and traditions which are almost purely Tibetan in this once-upon-a-time mystical kingdom
> TRIP FACTS Trip duration: 17 Days Grade: Moderate to fairly challenging - Grade Explanation Activity: Sightseeing and trekking Starts in: Kathmandu Ends in: Kathmandu Trek type: FOT (Fully Organized Trek or Camping Trek) Accommodation: Hotel & camping Transportation: Flights & private car Maximum altitude: 3840m |
Kanchenjunga North Bse Camp
Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain, lies on Nepal's eastern border with Sikkim. On trekking along the challenging trails amid the mesmerizing vistas of Kanchenjunga, we get to witness exotic wilderness. This wonderful trek begins and ends at the small airstrip at Sukhetar [Taplejung], which lies in the remote north east corner of Nepal. It takes you through fascinating villages and pristine forests to the awe-inspiring South Face Base Camp at Ramche, before crossing the Mirgin La to the north side of Kanchenjunga and the Pang Pema base camp. As trekkers skirt through this amazing adventurous and exploratory trail, they attain a glorious and unforgettable experience that was so much worth the trip.
> TRIP FACTS Trip duration: 27 Days Grade: Strenuous Trek - Grade Explanation Activity: Sightseeing and trekking Starts in: Kathmandu Ends in: Kathmandu Trek type: FOT (Fully Organized Trek or Camping Trek) Accommodation: Hotel & camping Transportation: Flights & private car Maximum altitude: 5140m | ||
> OUTLINE ITINERARY |
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp
This trek approaches the South Face Base Camp of the world's third highest peak, Kanchenjunga [8598m] which lies in the eastern frontier of Nepal. Mt. Kanchenjunga, one of the world's most challenging peaks to climb, geographically lies on the Nepal-Sikkim (India) border. The trek begins right after landing at a STOL airstrip in Taplejung and goes through fascinating green, crop growing villages and pristine forests to the awe-inspiring South Face Base Camp at Ramche at [4360m], before crossing to the north side of Kanchenjunga via the Mirgin La, the highest pass at [4663m]. The glacial excursion around Ramche is truly an unforgettable experience. The return trek via Ghunsa is easier as most of the path passes along the river valley.
> TRIP FACTS | ||
> OUTLINE ITINERARY |
Langtang Trek
Trekking in the spectacular Langtang Valley is the closest you could get to the massive snow capped mountains from Kathmandu valley.
The Langtang Valley is located only 19 miles north of Kathmandu, close to the border of Tibet. The valley is dominated by Langtang Lirung [7246m], the highest peak in the area. This is a superb introduction to trekking in Nepal among some of the most beautiful scenery in the whole country.
This Langtang trek towards the base of Langtang Himal, north of Kathmandu valley, offers the shortest approach to snowy mountains from Kathmandu. The Langtang trek starts from Syabru Besi after a 9 hrs drive from Kathmandu. Following a trail upstream Bhote Kosi river through ethnic Tamang villages, lush green forests and the wide spread Kyangin valley surrounded by snowy peaks from all fours sides, takes you up to Kyangin at 3800 meter, where you get an opportunity to ascend Kyangjin Ri [4350m.], from where the 360 degree mountain views are truly panoramic. After an ascent of Kyangjin Ri, we retrace our route back down the valley to Syabru Besi and then drive back to Kathmandu.
Due to gradual ascent along the river valley this Langtang trek is not considered strenuous, but yet, it remains challenging as it reaches an altitude of 3800 meter at Kyangjin. The Langtang trek can be done any time of the year except during monsoons [July & August].
> TRIP FACTS Trip duration: 11 Days Grade: Moderate Trek - Grade Explanation Activity: Sightseeing and trekking Starts in: Kathmandu Ends in: Kathmandu Trek type: FOT/TH /GAP Accommodation: Camping/ Lodge (Teahouse) Transportation: Private car or tourist bus Maximum altitude: 4350m [FOT: Fully Organized Trek or Camping Trek |
> OUTLINE ITINERARY Day 01 - Arrive Kathmandu] Day 02 - Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu Day 03 - Kathmandu to Syabru Besi [1400m] Day 04 - Syabru Besi to Lama Hotel[2748m] Day 05 - Trek to Langtang village [3500m] Day 06 - Trek to Kyagjin [3800m] Day 07 - Rest day in Kyangjin Day 08 - Trek to Lama Hotel [2784m] Day 09 - Syabru Besi [1400m] Day 10 - Drive to Kathmandu Day 11 - Depart Kathmandu | ||
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp (a trek in sync with ecological beauty at its best)
Trekking in the shadows of the Annapurna
Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is a moderate nature trek that starts at Phedi, a short drive of about 45 minutes from Pokhara, which takes you to the foot [Base Camp, 4130m] of Mt. Annapurna, one of the most magnificent peaks in the world. The trail takes you through fascinating traditional villages of Nepal’s ethnic communities of the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali who will greet you very warmly if you cared to stop for a conversation. The hike continues through dense rhododendron forest with towering snowy peaks in the background. The return walk is even more interesting as the trek winds around different ridges towards Ghorepani, where you witness breathtaking views of an early morning sunrise where a red halo seeps through glistening gaps over the snow capped peaks of the Annapurna & Dhaulagiri Mountains. The sceneries seen throughout this trek grace the landscape of the Himalayas where imagination defines the beauty of nature as an experience that can never be forgotten.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek will be even more interesting in spring as the whole forest along the trail turns red, pink and white with rhododendron flowers. This wonder trip can be done anytime of the year except during the monsoons [July thru August].
» TRIP FACTS Trip duration: 16 Days Grade: Moderate to fairly challenging - Grade Explanation Activity: Trekking and sightseeing Starts in: Kathmandu Ends in: Kathmandu Trek type: TH (Tea House / Lodge) Accommodation: Hotel, lodge (tea house) Transportation: Flight & private car Maximum altitude: 4130m | ||
» OUTLINE ITINERARY Day 01 - Arrive in Kathmandu Day 02 - Sightseeng in Kathmandu Day 03 - Fly to Pokahara & drive to Phedi, trek to Dhampus [1700m] Day 04 - Trek to Landrung [1550m] Day 05 - Trek to Chomrong [2100m] Day 06 - Trek to Himalaya hotel [2850m] Day 07 - A day for rest day Day 08 - Trek to Machhapuchhre Base Camp [3700m] Day 09 - Trek to Annapurna south base camp [4130m] Day 10 - Trek to Chomrong [2100m] Day 11 - Trek to Ghandrunk [1940m] Day 12 - Trek to Banthanti [2410m] Day 13 - Trek to Ghorepani [2880m] Day 14 - Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara Day 15 - Fly to Kathmandu Day 16 - Depart Kathmandu | ||
Ghorepani Trek
A soft adventure trek in Nepal's middle hills, with the awesome backdrop of the Annapurna Range – 10 days
This trek is well suited for the beginners or for those who have limited time but still want a real Himalayan experience. The trek starts from Phedi after a short drive from Pokhara, the trail passes through rhododendron forest and fascinating traditional Gurung villages at Dhampus & Ghandrung; a nice opportunity to witness the culture and tradition of Nepalese countryside. Along the way, there are spectacular views of the snowy peaks of the Annapurnas, capped off by the unforgettable mountain panorama from Poon Hill.
An easy trek which takes you up to an elevation of 2775 meter at Ghorepani can also be combined as an extension trip to cultural tours of Kathmandu & Pokhara. The trip can be done throughout the year except during monsoon [July & August].
> TRIP FACTS Trip length: 10 Days [FOT: Fully Organized Trek or Camping Trek | ||
| > OUTLINE ITINERARY Day 01 - Arrive Kathmandu Day 02 - Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley Day 03 – Fly or drive (optional) to Pokhara & Trek to Birethanti[1075m] Day 04 - Trek to Ghandruk [1940m] Day 05 - Trek to Tadapani [2540] Day 06 - Trek to Ghorapani [2775m] Day 07 - Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara Day 08 – Free day in Pokhara Day 09 – Fly or drive (optional) to Kathmandu Day 10 – Depart |
Everest Base Camp Trek
Mount Everest Base Camp has been a popular destination for trekkers since the very first expeditions to the Nepalese side of Everest in the 1953. To reach this part of the Himalaya within a limited time, we have devised this two week trek to Everest Base Camp which runs directly to and from Lukla.
The Everest Base Camp trek, a very well known mountain trek, starts at the upper Phakding and follows the Dudh Kosi valley which climbs up to the Sherpa capital of Namche, a bustling bazaar that’s a junction for trekkers, the local Sherpa and expeditions en route to the mighty Mt. Everest. All along this part of the trail, villages are interspersed with magnificent forests of rhododendron, magnolia and giant firs. In both the early autumn and late spring, the flowers on this portion of the trek make it the kind of walk you will remember for a long, long time.
From Namche, we trek along a high traversing path where we have our first good views of Everest and then head towards Thyangboche Monastery, which is a 2 hour climb. The monastery sits at 3867m in a clearing surrounded by dwarf firs and rhododendrons. The monastery is structurally located on a ridge top with commanding views of the Everest landscape. The view from this spot, seen to best advantage in the morning, is absolutely mesmerizing and stunning and is rightly deemed to be one of the most magnificent in the world.
We then descend to the Imja Khola and continue to the villages of Pangboche and Pheriche before finally approaching the Khumbu Glacier. We then follow the glacier, first to Lobuche, a vantage point for some spectacular views of the Ama Dablam, Taweche and other peaks and then hike to Gorak Shep for a breather.
We also have the opportunity to ascend Kala Pattar [5554m] from where we can get some awesome views of the Himalayan giants which literally numb your senses with breathless admiration that beholds the eye; and makes up for the lung-bursting climb that took you up there. You soon realize it was absolutely worth it. This also includes fantastic views of the south west face of the colossal Mt. Everest. We then trek down to Everest Base Camp at the foot of the Khumbu ice fall before finally making our way back down to Lukla.
| | > TRIP FACTS Trip duration: 16 Days Trip grade: moderate to fairly challenging - Grade Explanation Activity: Trekking and Cultural excursion Starts in: Kathmandu Ends in: Kathmandu Trek type: TH (Tea House / Lodge) Accommodation: Hotel, lodge (tea house) Transportation: Flight and car Maximum altitude: 5357m | |
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> OUTLINE ITINERARY Day 01 - Arrive Kathmandu Day 02 - Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu Day 03 - Flight to Lukla & trek to Phakding Day 04 - Trek to Namche (3450m) Day 05 - Rest day in Namche Day 06 - Trek to Thyangboche[3864m] Day 07 - Trek to Pheriche [4252m] Day 08 - Rest day in Pheriche Day 09 - Trek to Lobuche[4930m] Day 10 - Trek to Gorak Shep [5184m] Day 11 - Trek to Everest BC [5357], back to Gorak Shep Day 12 - Trek to Pangboche [3985m] Day 13 - Trek to Namche[3450m] Day 14 - Trek to Lukla[2900m] Day 15 - Flight to Kathmandu Day 16 - Depart Kathmandu | ||
Mountain Treeking in Nepal
You don't have to be an Olympic athlete to tackle the Himalayas. Nor do you need any special experience. Trekking is just walking, and anyone who is moderately fit and has a sense of adventure will enjoy hiking and trekking in Nepal. The range of treks varies from a short gentle hikes through terraced foothills to lengthy expeditions to mount Everest's summit. Whatever your level of fitness or experience, you'll find an adventure of life time that is waiting for you in Nepal.
Nepal is a never-ending outdoor adventure play-ground. Being home to eight out of the fourteen highest peaks in the world, each over 8000m. and ancient cultures, Nepal is the place to visit. If you are looking for adventure and cultural experience of life time. Nepal has some of the best ever popular hiking, trekking, rock climbing, peak climbing, mountaineering, kayaking, rafting, canyoning, wildlife safari, mountain biking, paragliding, cultural sites and much more.
Rich cultural spirit that represents unique blend of Buddhism and Hinduism, Birth place of Buddha, Home of Mount Everest, World class rivers, World heritage sites - this is Nepal and it has something to enjoy for everyone.
Trekking in Nepal offers ultimate opportunity for intrepid explorers who are forever in quest for adventures in the Himalayas. With captivating landscape of Nepal Himalaya range and unrivaled diversity of flora and fauna, Nepal is trekkers’ paradise. Nepal trekking holidays is indeed, an inspirational treat to the trekkers. From the warm and lush vegetation of the lower hills to the ice slopes of the highest mountain range on earth, one will experience a truly delightful bond with the nature instilling in you an amazing spirit of adventure. Nothing can be more fulfilling experience than trekking in Nepal Himalaya that will let you camp in the jungles, surrender to the wilderness, bond with the nature, eat and sleep under an open sky, sing and dance around campfire and directly interact with local people. It is truly the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and to relax and enjoy nature at its very best.
Explore Himalaya is a highly proactive trekking agency in Nepal which offers the largest range of Nepal adventure travel itineraries offering opportunities for people with any grade of experience and almost any time frame. For more than a decade, we've pioneered and led thousands of trips all over Himalayan range in the most eco-friendly way. Please check out our website for thorough information on Nepal treks and ‘about us’ section to know more about our concern over fragile Himalayan environment.