The Pashupatinath–Muktinath yatra takes pilgrims across Nepal to two profoundly sacred shrines: the ancient Pashupatinath temple of Lord Shiva in Kathmandu, and the high-altitude Muktinath temple in the Mustang region, holy to both Hindus and Buddhists. This guide covers the darshan, the route via Pokhara and Jomsom, the best time to go, the documents Indian pilgrims need, and how to reach.
Pashupatinath, on the banks of the Bagmati river in Kathmandu, is one of the most important Shiva temples in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex, the evening Bagmati aarti and the atmosphere of devotion make it the spiritual anchor of any Nepal yatra. Only Hindus are permitted inside the main sanctum.
Muktinath, at around 3,800 metres in the Mustang region, is revered by Hindus as a sacred Vishnu shrine (one of the Divya Desams) and by Buddhists as well. Pilgrims bathe under its 108 water spouts and the two sacred kunds, and seek the eternal flame within the complex. The thin mountain air means you should take the altitude seriously.
A typical yatra starts in Kathmandu (Pashupatinath and sightseeing), then travels to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city. From Pokhara you reach Muktinath either by a short flight to Jomsom followed by a jeep drive, or by road through the mountains. Some pilgrims add a helicopter option to save time. Allow a day for acclimatisation given the altitude.
The yatra usually takes about 6 to 8 days depending on whether you travel by flight, road or helicopter, and how much time you spend in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Build in buffer days, as mountain flights to Jomsom can be delayed by weather.
Indian citizens do not need a visa to visit Nepal, but you must carry a valid government photo ID — a passport or Voter ID is accepted (not Aadhaar for some checks, so a passport is safest). Carry a few passport photos as well. Confirm the current requirement before you travel.
The best seasons are March to May and September to November, when the skies are clear and the mountain roads and flights are most reliable. Winter brings snow and cold at Muktinath, and the monsoon (June to August) can disrupt mountain travel.
Because of the mountain flights, altitude and cross-country travel, this yatra is far smoother with an experienced operator handling flights, permits, acclimatisation and logistics. You can see the full itinerary and inclusions on our Pashupatinath & Muktinath yatra package, explore our other pilgrimage tours, or get in touch with The Temple Tours for a tailored plan. Om Namah Shivaya!