Kathmandu, Pokhara and Muktinath Pilgrimage Tour

  • Duration 5 Nights/6 Days
  • Difficulty Moderate
  • Region MUSTANG REGION
  • Activity NEPAL TOUR
  • Max. Altitude 3800m
  • Best Season Year Around
  • Start/End Point Kathmandu
  • Group Size 1-12 People

Kathmandu, Pokhara & Muktinath Pilgrimage Tour is a perfect combination of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and spiritual fulfillment. This 6 day journey takes you through some of Nepal’s most iconic destinations- the bustling capital city of Kathmandu, the scenic lakeside of Pokhara, and the sacred Himalayan pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple.

Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, where you will visit some of the valley’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Guheshwori Temple, These sites give you a deep insight into Nepal’s spiritual and cultural richness.

Journey to Muktinath

From Kathmandu, you will enjoy a scenic drive to Pokhara, famous for its serene lakes, breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and peaceful ambiance.

Pokhara offers a beautiful blend of natural landscapes and cultural attractions, including Bindabasini Temple, Gupteshwor Cave, and the powerful Davis Falls.

The highlight of the tour is a spiritual journey to Muktinath Temple, located at 3,800 meters in the Mustang district. Muktinath is one of the most sacred temples for both Hindus and Buddhists, believed to grant salvation and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, this holy site provides not only a religious experience but also an opportunity to witness the rugged beauty of the Mustang region.

Finally, the journey concludes with a return drive to Kathmandu, leaving you with cherished memories of Nepal’s culture, landscapes, and spirituality.

Highlights

• Kathmandu: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Guheshowri Temple, and rich cultural heritage.
• Pokhara: Phewa Lake, Sarangkot sunrise, Bindabasini Temple, Gupteshwor Cave, David Falls.
• Jomsom: Kali Gandaki Gorge, Tibetan style town, semi-arid Mustang landscapes.
• Muktinath: Sacred temple, 108 water spouts, Buddhist monuments, panoramic Himalayan views.

Itinerary

Adventure Himalaya Nepal Offers this 6 day itinerary for travelers. We Can Customize and modify this as per travelers’ request and interest.

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu. You will be warmly received by our local guide and transferred to your hotel in the vibrant Kathmandu. Check-in, freshen up, and relax after your flight. It’s the begining your Kathmandu heritage tour. This half-day journey focuses on iconic cultural and religious landmarks. Our Guide will pick up you from your hotel and we will start our Heritage Tour. Which includes : 1. Pashupatinath Temple – One of the holiest Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Observe devotees, priests performing rituals, and if you are lucky, witness the sacred evening aarti. 2. Guheshwori Temple – A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Guheshwori (an aspect of Sati). The temple is famous for its spiritual ambiance, intricate architecture, and serene surroundings. Visitors often enjoy walking around the temple courtyard and observing local rituals. 3. Boudhanath Stupa – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stupa is one of the largest in Nepal and a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Kathmandu. Walk around the stupa clockwise, spinning prayer wheels, and soak in the spiritual ambiance.After finishing Tour, you will be transferred again to your hotel. Enjoy local Nepali cuisine or What you like to prefer to eat and Take rest.

After having a breakfast, We will depart from Kathmandu via Prithvi Highway, a scenic route along the Trishuli River . You will see the views of terraced farmlands, lush hills, and local villages along the way. We will continue the drive and cross Bridges, small streams, and charming hill settlements, We finally arrive in Pokhara. After that we will check into our hotel and rest. Take a gentle stroll along Phewa Lake. Enjoy boating (Optional) with a panoramic view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). After having a dinner, it will be our time to take rest in beautiful Pokhara.

Good Morning, This is your Travel day to Jomsom. After early breakfast, we will start our road journey toward Jomsom, situated in the Mustang region. The drive is an adventure itself. We will pass through Pokhara Valley, Beni(Mygdi District), and the Kali Gandaki, the world’s deepest gorge. We might have a chance to see marvel at the snow capped peaks and rugged landscapes. We will Stop in Beni for a simple Nepali meal and then continue the drive to Jomsom, located at 2,700 m above sea level. The landscape shifts from lush greenery to semi arid terrain. We will check into our lodge or hotel. Take a short walk in the town to explore local Tibetan style markets selling handicrafts, prayer flags, and woolen garments. We will have early dinner and overnight stay in Jomsom to acclimatize before visiting Muktinath.

Good Morning Jomsom! We will have early breakfast, then travel to Muktinath Temple. It will take apx. 45 min from Jomsom by road. Muktinath is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Key highlights: • 108 Holy Water Spouts (Muktidhara) – Pilgrims bath here seeking spiritual purification. • Temple of Muktinath – Worship Lord Vishnu and observe rituals performed by local priests. • Chorten and Mani Walls – Buddhist monuments surrounding the temple add spiritual serenity We will enjoy lunch at a local eatery in Muktinath or Jomsom town and we will depart from Beautiful Jomsom. After crossing beautiful path and scenic drive we will be arriving pokhra in the evening.After Dinner at a restaurant near lakeside we will say Goodnight to Pokhara.

We will take early morning drive to Sarangkot (sunrise viewpoint) to witness the sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and enjoy stunning sunrise view. After that we will be return back to Pokhara for breakfast.After breakfast we will visit following Places. 1. Bindabasini Temple – Dedicated to Goddess Durga, located on a small hill with panoramic views of Pokhara valley. 2. Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave – Houses a natural stalactite formation of Lord Shiva. The cave is linked to Davis Falls via an underground stream. 3. Devi’s (David) Falls – Known locally as Patale Chhango, this waterfall vanishes into an underground tunnel. After finishing tour, we will enjoy lunch in Pokhara town and this will be our last meal for pokhra in this tour. We will carry our bag and drive back to Kathmandu. It will take apx. 6-7 hrs. We finally arrive in the evening and check into our hotel. Your evening might be leisure; perhaps enjoy a cultural dinner show featuring Nepali folk dances and music or enjoy shopping at thamel. That actually will be your free time.

Time to Say Goodbye to Kathmandu ! We will have breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight time, we will drop off to you to the Tribhuwan International Airport. If you have have your flight in the afternoon, you may have free time for last minute shopping at Thamel, Kathmandu’s famous tourist district. Which includes: • Handicrafts and pashmina shawls • Singing bowls and prayer flags • Local spices and tea Our guide will assist you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. We wish safe journey with memories of breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual experiences.

Price Includes

  • Transportation: Comfortable Scorpio Jeep for the entire trip (Kathmandu – Pokhara – Jomsom/Muktinath – Kathmandu)
  • Accommodation: Standard hotels on a Bed & Breakfast (BB) plan during the tour
  • ACAP Permit: Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit
  • Government Taxes: All applicable government taxes and official charges

Price Excludes

  • Lunch and dinner throughout the tour
  • Entrance fees of monuments, temples, and sightseeing sites
  • Tips for driver and other service staff
  • Boating activities in Pokhara
  • Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, beverages, shopping, etc.)
  • Any extra cost due to unforeseen circumstances (road blockage, natural calamities, strikes, etc.)
  • Any services not mentioned in the Includes section

Altitude

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Essential Information

Religious & Spiritual Significance

Muktinath is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhists. For Hindus, it is a Vishnu Kshetra and one of the 108 Divya Desams, believed to grant moksha (liberation). For Buddhists, it is known as Chumig Gyatsa (Hundred Waters), a sacred place associated with Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava).
The natural elements of fire, water, earth, and air coexist here, making it a deeply spiritual destination.

Altitude & Health Considerations

  • Altitude: Muktinath lies at 3,710 meters (12,172 ft)
  • Some pilgrims may experience mild altitude symptoms such as headache or breathlessness
  • Walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol
  • Elderly pilgrims or those with heart, lung, or blood pressure conditions should consult a doctor before travel
  • Carry personal medications and basic first-aid supplies
  • Best Time to Visit Muktinath

  • Spring (March–May): Pleasant weather, clear mountain views
  • Autumn (September–November): Best season with stable weather and festivals
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  • Monsoon (June–August): Travel possible but road conditions may be challenging
  • Winter (December–February): Very cold; snowfall may block roads and flights
  • Bathing Ritual at 108 Water Spouts

  • Pilgrims traditionally take a holy bath under the 108 stone water taps (Muktidhara), followed by a dip in the nearby Jwala Mai hot spring.
  • Water is extremely cold, even in summer
  • Bring warm clothes and a towel
  • Bathing is optional; spiritual merit comes from devotion, not compulsion
  • Temple Dress Code & Etiquette

  • Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees)
  • Remove shoes before entering temple premises
  • Photography may be restricted inside the temple
  • Maintain silence and respect religious rituals
  • Follow instructions given by temple priests
  • Accommodation & Facilities

  • Simple lodges and guesthouses available in Muktinath and Jomsom
  • Basic amenities due to high altitude and remote location
  • Hot water and heating may be limited
  • Electricity and Wi-Fi can be unreliable
  • Transportation & Road Conditions

  • Access via Pokhara–Jomsom flight or overland jeep/bus through Beni–Jomsom
  • Mountain roads can be rough and dusty
  • Flight schedules depend heavily on weather conditions
  • Buffer day is recommended in case of delays
  • Weather & Clothing Advice

  • Weather can change rapidly
  • Daytime may be sunny, but mornings and evenings are cold
  • Wind is common around the temple area
  • Layered clothing is highly recommended
  • Currency & Expenses

  • Carry Nepali cash, as ATMs are limited
  • Small notes useful for offerings and local purchases
  • Major cards are not accepted in most places
  • Cultural Sensitivity

  • Muktinath is a living religious site, not just a tourist attraction
  • Respect local customs, monks, and pilgrims
  • Avoid loud behavior or inappropriate clothing
  • Seek permission before photographing people
  • Recommended for
    ✔ Hindu & Buddhist pilgrims
    ✔ Senior citizens with moderate fitness
    ✔ Spiritual seekers
    ✔ Cultural travelers
    ✔ Families with proper acclimatization

    FAQs

    Muktinath Temple is located in the Mustang district of Nepal, at an altitude of 3,710 meters (12,172 ft), near the base of the Thorong La mountain pass.

    Muktinath is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Hindus believe it is a Vishnu Kshetra granting liberation (moksha), while Buddhists know it as Chumig Gyatsa, a holy site associated with Guru Rinpoche.

    The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) due to clear weather and safer travel conditions. Winter is very cold, and monsoon may cause road difficulties.

    Yes, due to the high altitude, some travelers may experience mild symptoms. Walking slowly, staying hydrated, and proper acclimatization help reduce the risk. Medical consultation is advised for elderly pilgrims.

    No, bathing under the 108 water spouts is optional. It is a traditional ritual, but spiritual merit comes from devotion. Pilgrims may choose according to comfort and health.

    The tour is moderate. It includes a short walk of around 15–20 minutes from the drop-off point to the temple. Most pilgrims with normal health can complete it comfortably.

    Accommodation includes basic lodges and guesthouses in Jomsom and Muktinath. Facilities are simple due to the remote, high-altitude location.

    Muktinath can be reached by flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, followed by a drive, or by overland jeep/bus from Pokhara via Beni and Jomsom.

    Wear warm, layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and dress modestly inside the temple premises. Weather can change quickly, even during the day.

    Yes, the Muktinath Pilgrimage Tour is suitable for senior citizens with reasonable health. Extra care, slow pacing, and medical consultation are recommended due to altitude.