Traditionally, the temple has been in the limelight as one of the holiest and the most famous pilgrimage centers of Nepal. Located in Mustang District, the temple is set up in the so-called north, on the Himalaya watershed, about 3,800 m above sea level. A temple sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, the Muktinath Temple. An immense number of pilgrims from Nepal and India visit that temple during the peak pilgrimage seasons.
Jomsom is one of the towns nearest to Muktinath. The town being a small one yet having an airport acts as the shadow of those planning an excursion to Muktinath Temple. From here, the journey does not so much seem difficult to the temple; meanwhile, problems of local transports come up in the mountainous terrain.
Let us consider the different ways in which the travelers, as well as pilgrims, can go to the temple from Jomsom, depending on how easy it is or whether it is cheap or expensive and how much time one wants to give.
- Jeep Ride or Offroad SUVs- The Usual Option
Jeep ride remains to be the most popular and convenient mode of travel from Jomsom to Muktinath. This road from Jomsom to Muktinath is about 20 kilometers road. While distance appears less, the road is primitive and mostly off-road, consuming about one and a half to two hours to reach the temple.
There are several local jeep operators functioning from the Jomsom jeep station. You can opt for the cheaper shared jeep or purchase the more comfort-flexible private jeep ticket. Shared jeeps depart once full, while private jeep services can be persuaded to depart at your convenient time.
Pros:
- There is always one available
- Nicely suited for large groups and families
- Good for people who would rather take the relaxed way than trek
Cons:
- Can be overwhelmingly bumpy and dusty
- During peak season, it will put a heavy hole in your pocket
Most travelers booking a Muktinath tour package from Gorakhpur naturally have the Jomsom-Muktinath jeep ride on their itinerary, as it provides the most comfortable and time-saving mode of reaching the temple.
- Trekking for Adventure Lovers
For trekking enthusiasts, the trail from Jomsom to Muktinath may well be something to consider, as it leads to the base of the majestic mountains of the Himalayas. It is one fine trekking option for anybody with good fitness and who might want to have a practically spiritual kind of bonding with nature.
It would take 6-8 hours for the completion of the trek depending on one’s trekking speed. The trek line passes through the beautiful villages of Kagbeni and Jharkot and offers superb mountain views. One can stay in an overnight habitat at Kagbeni for touring and enjoying local culture and hospitality.
Pros:
- Offers adventurous and spiritual experience
- Beautiful mountain and village views
- No vehicle required
Cons:
- Need to be physically fit
- Not suitable for bad weather or elderly pilgrims
This trekking opportunity is frequently added as a supplement to special adventure Package of Nepal tours, particularly for the travelers who want to explore beyond religious sites.
- Horse Ride-Fairly Traditional and Outstanding
Another very well traditional mode used in getting to Muktinath is on a horse. Locals rent out the horses, especially to pilgrims who may be having problems walking but do not have the means to pay for a jeep. This choice is also popular with elderly travelers or with those who want to experience something offbeat.
Horse rides more or less follow the trail trekkers use and present a slower-paced and calming ride through the mountain range. Locals provide one guide who leads the horse and assists you in navigating.
Pros:
- It is a unique and culturally rich experience
- Suitable for those who cannot walk long distances
- More affordable than a private jeep
Cons:
- Slower than a jeep
- Not as comfortable as the other options.
Most pilgrims from the rural parts of India and Nepal choose this method, especially when not going through pre-booked bus tour packages.
- Motorbike or Scooter – The Adventurous Solo Traveler
For the youngsters or solo travelers, renting a motorbike in Jomsom can be a fun way to get to Muktinath. The roads are rough and narrow and are enjoyed by many experienced riders for the thrill. Check the condition of the bike and carry your safety gear.
If you are a first-timer, or it happens to be monsoon season, then these are just two of the many factors that dismiss your possibility of trying the roads down.
Pros:
- Complete freedom to halt and explore
- Generally cheaper for solo travelers
- Great option for adventure seekers
Cons:
- Very risky for the inexperienced
- Bad weather can be perilous for any rider
Some cheap Package of Nepal for the young adventurers may suggest this for that once in a lifetime journey.
- The Helicopter Airmail: Quite Quick but Prohibitively Expensive
Available to those with time constraints or some physical limitations, helicopter services run from Jomsom to Muktinath within 15 to 20 minutes of flying time. It is said to be amongst the most beautiful aerial views of the Himalayan region.
Though being the most expensive one, it is also the fastest and most comfortable means. Many senior citizens and VIP travelers use this means.
Pros:
- Very fast and comfortable
- Amazing views from the sky
- Ideal for physically challenged visitors
Cons:
- Expensive
- Weather-dependent and subject to delays
Luxury Muktinath tour package from Gorakhpur options may also include helicopter rides for a premium pilgrimage experience.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Muktinath Temple is a tourist adventure all by itself. If you want it by jeep, trekking merits a charm, horse-riding has tradition, biking with thrill, while helicopter rides are speedy- there is something for every cyclist.
The choice of transport depends on your own health, budget, and perception of the journey. Many travel companies can customize your Package of Nepal, offering choices that vary based on your needs.
The very secure and memorable journey may be all yours to this sacred site by planning ahead and checking weather conditions.
Then, whether this is the Muktinath tour package from Gorakhpur or a personal one, the route from Jomsom to Muktinath will be a lifetime-remembered spiritual-cum-scenic venture.
