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4.9(57 reviews)Highlights for Muktinath Helicopter Tour
- Get on a thrilling helicopter tour towards the Mustang region of Nepal with astonishing aerial views of rugged terrains, landmarks, and mountain ranges.
- Witness the majestic peaks like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri in a unique and comfortable travel option via helicopter.
- Land near the sacred Muktinath Temple and explore the complex, which includes the waterspouts and eternal flame.
- Visit the holy pond situated near the Muktinath temple, which is said to purify the soul spiritually.
- Get a chance to interact with the locals and learn about their unique lifestyle, culture, and traditions.
- Aerial view of Pokhara, Marpha Village, Jomsom Village, Kagbeni, and Muktinath.
Why Choose a Muktinath Helicopter Tour?
Traditionally, reaching Muktinath involves a long, physically demanding trek through Mustang’s rugged terrain. The helicopter tour eliminates the strenuous journey while offering:
Time-saving Travel: Reach Muktinath from Pokhara or Kathmandu in just a few hours.
Panoramic Aerial Views: Soar above the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri ranges. Witness snow-clad peaks, deep valleys, and terraced landscapes from a unique perspective.
Comfort and Safety: Avoid long treks, unpredictable weather, and high-altitude fatigue.
Perfect for All Travelers: Elderly pilgrims, families, and photography enthusiasts can enjoy the spiritual and scenic journey comfortably.
Exploring Muktinath Temple
The Muktinath temple in the village of Ranipauwa in Mustang district has been a beacon of religious and spiritual significance for Hindus and Buddhists. It is about one kilometer from the city of Pokhara. The temple is an example of religious harmony between Hindus and Buddhists and is situated inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. Muktinath is decorated as one of the eight most sacred shrines in the Hindu religion, known as Swayam Vyakta Kshetras, where Lord Vishnu manifested himself.
Similarly, Muktinath Temple is also one of the 24 tantric places where Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) meditated, thus making it very important for Buddhism. Many believe that visiting Muktinath can help one attain spiritual enlightenment, which can help one achieve Buddhahood.
On the other hand, the Vishnu temple is the area's primary attraction. The temple includes 108 water spouts, the Jwala Mai Temple with the eternal flame, the Mukti Kunda, and the Saraswati Kunda, along with numerous shrines and structures.
History of Muktinath Temple
There is no rigid explanation regarding the origin of the Muktinath temple. However, it is believed it was built in ancient times, with history tracking back to the 19th century. The Tibetans state that Guru Rinpoche meditated at Muktinath on his way to Tibet.
Similarly, numerous legends suggest that Lord Vishnu sought refuge at Muktinath Temple after being cursed by a Sage. Another legend suggests that a great Indian philosopher and theologian, Adhi Shankaracharya, established the temple during his visit in the 8th century.
Major Attractions in Muktinath Temple
- Mukti Kunda: In front of the temple are two sacred water pools called "Laxmi Saraswati Kunda. It is said that diving in here will wash away your sin.
- Mukti Dhara: This temple's backyard features 108 bull-headed water spigots continuously drip sacred, cold Gandaki River water. The spouts are made of brass and carved with various animals' heads. It is said that bathing under all 108 of these Muktidhara will bring salvation.
- Jwala Mai Temple: In the southern section of the temple, there is a perpetually burning holy light from a rock inside Dhola Mebar Gompa, which is only five minutes' walk away.
- Mharme Lha Khang Gompa: This monastery devoted to Guru Rimpoche, known as Padmasambhava, is situated in the northern part of the temple.
- Swaminarayan: Sabij Yoga's Satguru.
- Shaligram (Ammonite): Jurassic Park-era fossils were discovered in the Kali Gandaki River. This black stone, which is maintained in the home's prayer chamber, represents Lord Vishnu.
How does the Muktinath Helicopter Tour start and end?
The Muktinath Temple Helicopter Tour starts from the bustling city of Kathmandu. The tour proceeds through the scenic flight towards the Mustang region via helicopter from Tribhuvan International Airport. As you board the chopper, there will be a short briefing session regarding the guidelines during the helicopter tour. The captain will be the one doing the briefing. Similarly, after the session, passengers will fly towards Jomsom.
The flight will take about three hours, with time to refuel at Jomsom. Refueling will take 10-15 minutes, depending on the situation. Afterward, passengers will be taken for a flight towards Muktinath Temple, where they will get the first aerial sight of the temple area and then land at the check post about half an hour below the temple.
Likewise, as the Muktinath Darshan is complete, visitors can explore the Jwala Mai Temple complex located at Muktinath. The Jwala Mai temple is dedicated to the goddess Jwala Devi, who has a notable eternal flame that burns continuously from a natural gas source.
When the Muktinath exploration is completed, passengers can return to Kathmandu on the same helicopter flight, marking the end of a one-day Muktinath helicopter tour with Holiday Tours Nepal.
Muktinath helicopter tour cost for Nepali citizens from Pokhara to Muktinath
No of passengers | Cost of a helicopter from Pokhara |
5 | 650$ |
4 | 800$ |
3 | 1070$ |
2 | 1600$ |
1 | 3200$ |
The cost for a single helicopter is 3200$, and it’s a private chartered helicopter. 5 people can fit inside a helicopter, and the cost of sharing a helicopter is divided among the number of people taking the helicopter ride.
Muktinath helicopter tour cost from Kathmandu to Muktinath
No of passengers | Cost of a helicopter from Kathmandu |
5 | 1040$ |
4 | 1300$ |
3 | 1750$ |
2 | 2600$ |
1 | 5200$ |
The cost for a single helicopter is 5200$ and it’s a private chartered helicopter. 5 people can fit inside a helicopter, and the cost of sharing a helicopter is divided among the number of people taking the helicopter ride.
Outline Muktinath Helicopter Tour Itinerary (1 Day)
Morning:
Pickup from Pokhara or Kathmandu airport
Scenic helicopter flight over the Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri ranges
Arrival at Muktinath
At Muktinath Temple:
Participate in rituals and explore the temple
Witness the sacred 108 water fountains and Agni Kunda
Experience the peaceful surroundings and take photographs
Afternoon:
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (optional)
Helicopter return flight to the base city
Drop-off at your hotel or airport
