Muktinath: A Sacred Pilgrimage Destination

Muktinath is a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists, located in the Muktinath Valley behind the Great Himalayas, at an altitude of 3,800 meters, along the Annapurna Trekking route in Mustang, Nepal. Known as Mukti Kshetra (51 Shakti Pithas), which translates to "the place of liberation or moksha," the temple of Muktinath is mentioned in several Hindu scriptures, including the Ramayana, Barah Purana, and Skanda Purana.

One of the key features of Muktinath is the 108 sacred water spouts (springs) where pilgrims perform a ritual bath. Near the temple stands the Jwala Mai temple, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. This temple houses an eternal blue flame that burns continuously.

Every year, thousands of Hindu devotees from around the world visit this temple. It is considered one of the most famous holy sites for Hindus and Buddhists alike, attracting numerous tourists each year. The temple is unique for its blend of Hindu and Buddhist culture, with both Hindu priests and Buddhist nuns (called Aani) serving the temple. Interestingly, the Hindu priests (known as Jhuma) at this temple are not allowed to marry.

The area is also famous for the presence of fossil stones known as Shaligram, which are considered holy by Hindus. These stones, found along the Kali Gandaki River, are believed to represent Lord Vishnu in stone form. The temple itself, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is simple in architecture and built in the traditional pagoda style. It is believed to have been constructed in the early 19th century, although the idol of Vishnu in the temple is thought to date back to the 16th century.

While the temple has Vaishnava origins, it is also revered in Buddhism, where it is called Chumig Gyatsa, meaning "Hundred Waters" in Tibetan.