16/09/2024
A Muktinath Darshan tour by a shared bus is a cost-effective and spiritual journey to one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists, located in the Mustang region of Nepal. Hereβs a sample itinerary and cost breakdown for this tour:
Muktinath Darshan Tour by Shared Bus Itinerary (4 Days / 3 Nights)
Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara (200 km, 6-7 hours)
Morning:
Depart from Kathmandu by shared tourist bus to Pokhara. The drive offers scenic views of the Trishuli River, green hills, and local villages.
Afternoon:
Arrive in Pokhara and transfer to the hotel.
Explore Pokhara or enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake in the evening (optional).
Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Day 2: Pokhara to Jomsom and Drive to Muktinath (Approx. 8-10 hours)
Early Morning:
Start the journey from Pokhara to Jomsom via a shared jeep/bus. The route takes you through Beni, Tatopani, and Kagbeni, offering stunning views of the Kali Gandaki gorge and the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Afternoon:
Arrive at Jomsom and continue the drive to Muktinath. Upon arrival, you can rest and acclimatize to the altitude or explore the area.
Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Muktinath.
Day 3: Muktinath Darshan and Return to Jomsom
Morning:
Early morning visit to Muktinath Temple (3,800 meters). Perform puja (worship) and take a holy bath in the 108 water spouts. Visit the eternal flame inside the temple, which is a significant feature for pilgrims.
Afternoon:
After darshan, return to Jomsom by jeep or bus.
Evening:
Free time in Jomsom to explore the local market or visit the banks of the Kali Gandaki River.
Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Day 4: Jomsom to Pokhara to Kathmandu
Morning:
Depart from Jomsom early morning and drive back to Pokhara by shared jeep/bus.
Afternoon:
Arrive in Pokhara and transfer to the tourist bus heading back to Kathmandu.
Evening:
Arrive in Kathmandu by late evening.
Cost Breakdown for Muktinath Darshan Tour by Shared Bus
Transportation:
Kathmandu to Pokhara (Shared Tourist Bus): NPR 1,200 - NPR 1,500 ($10 - $15) per person (one way).
Pokhara to Jomsom (Shared Jeep/Bus): NPR 3,000 - NPR 4,000 ($25 - $35) per person (one way).
Jomsom to Muktinath (Shared Jeep): NPR 1,000 - NPR 1,500 ($8 - $12) per person (one way).
Accommodation:
Pokhara: NPR 1,500 - NPR 3,000 ($12 - $25) per night (standard hotel).
Jomsom/Muktinath: NPR 1,500 - NPR 2,500 ($12 - $20) per night (guesthouse/lodge).
Meals:
Cost per day for meals: NPR 1,000 - NPR 1,500 ($8 - $12) per person.
Entrance Fees:
Muktinath Temple entry fee (optional donation): Usually free, but small donations for rituals or puja are common.
Total Estimated Cost (Per Person for 4 Days / 3 Nights):
Transportation (round trip): NPR 10,000 - NPR 12,000 ($80 - $100)
Accommodation (3 nights): NPR 4,500 - NPR 7,500 ($35 - $60)
Meals (per day): NPR 3,000 - NPR 4,500 ($24 - $36)
Miscellaneous (Entry fees, personal expenses): NPR 1,000 - NPR 2,000 ($8 - $16)
Total Estimated Cost:
Budget Package: NPR 18,500 - NPR 23,000 ($145 - $180) per person.
Inclusions:
Shared bus/jeep transportation from Kathmandu to Muktinath and back.
Accommodation in Pokhara, Jomsom, and Muktinath (basic guesthouses/hotels).
All necessary permits for the trip.
Exclusions:
Personal expenses (meals, drinks, tips).
Any sightseeing in Pokhara.
Travel insurance (recommended).
This is a rough estimate; you may get different prices based on the travel agency, season, and number of people in the group.