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Pashupatinath & Muktinath Darshan Tour

  • Duration7 Days
  • Route Grade Comfort Travel
  • Trip Style Classical Tours
  • Starting City Kathmandu
  • Ending City Kathmandu
Price fromUS$775US$475
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Pashupatinath & Muktinath Darshan Tour map

Trip Overview

This 7-day journey invites you to discover some of Nepal's most respected temples and pilgrimage sites. From the sacred temples of Kathmandu to Manakamana and the holy Muktinath Temple in Mustang, this tour simply offers a meaningful mix of culture, spirituality, and beautiful mountain scenery in under 7 days. It is ideal for families, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a comfortable temple tour without trekking.

Itinerary at a Glance

This trip moves through two very different sacred landscapes in a single week: the dense, ancient temple culture of the Kathmandu Valley, and the stark, high-altitude spirituality of Mustang. You'll spend the first days visiting Kathmandu Valley shrines and Manakamana before driving to Pokhara, then push north through Tatopani to Jomsom for the Muktinath darshan at almost 3,700 meters. There's no trekking involved; travel is by private vehicle, cable car, and a short domestic flight, though a few days do involve long drives and a jump in elevation. The pacing is what makes it work: enough time at each site to take it in properly, without the week feeling rushed.

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu. 

Day 2: Kathmandu Valley temple circuit — Doleshwar Mahadev, Sanga, Pashupatinath, Guheswari, Jal Narayan, Swayambhunath, Kal Bhairav. Overnight in Kathmandu. 

Day 3: Manakamana Temple by cable car, then drive to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara. 

Day 4: Hot spring bath at Tatopani, drive on to Jomsom. Overnight in Jomsom. 

Day 5: Muktinath Darshan, then drive back to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara. 

Day 6: Pokhara sightseeing, fly back to Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu. 

Day 7: Transfer to the airport and fly back home.

Route Map

Kathmandu → Doleshwar Mahadev → Sanga → Pashupatinath → Guheswari → Jal Narayan (Budhanilkantha) → Swayambhunath → Kal Bhairav (Kathmandu) → Manakamana → Pokhara → Tatopani → Jomsom → Muktinath → Jomsom → Pokhara → Kathmandu

Trip Highlights

This 7-day journey takes you to some of Nepal's most sacred temples, beautiful mountain landscapes, and important pilgrimage sites. Along the way, you'll experience spiritual traditions, scenic drives, and peaceful places that make this tour both meaningful and memorable.

  • Receive blessings at Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Visit Doleshwar Mahadev, believed to be the head part of the sacred Kedarnath Temple in India.

  • See the impressive Kailashnath Mahadev Statue at Sanga, one of the tallest statues of Lord Shiva in the world.

  • Offer prayers at Guheswari Temple, one of the 51 sacred Shakti Peethas.

  • Visit Jal Narayan (Budhanilkantha) and see the beautiful stone statue of Lord Vishnu resting on a bed of serpents.

  • Explore Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and enjoy panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.

  • Visit the historic Kal Bhairav Temple, an important shrine dedicated to the fierce form of Lord Shiva.

  • Enjoy a scenic cable car ride to Manakamana Temple, one of Nepal's most respected temples dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati.

  • Experience a beautiful drive through rivers, hills, and traditional villages on your way to Pokhara and Mustang.

  • Relax in the natural hot springs at Tatopani before continuing your journey to Muktinath.

  • Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple (3,710 m), an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

  • Explore the beauty of Pokhara, including Phewa Lake and its peaceful surroundings.

  • Enjoy beautiful Himalayan views during your flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, weather permitting.

Why You'll Love This Trip

This journey is more than just visiting temples—it's a chance to experience Nepal's rich culture, peaceful surroundings, and deep spiritual traditions. Every day brings something different, making the tour enjoyable from beginning to end.

  • Visit Nepal's most sacred temples in one well-planned journey, including Pashupatinath, Manakamana, and Muktinath.

  • No trekking required. Travel comfortably by private vehicle, cable car, and a short domestic flight, making the tour suitable for most travelers.

  • Enjoy a perfect mix of culture and nature, from the historic temples of Kathmandu to the beautiful lakes of Pokhara and the mountain landscapes of Mustang.

  • Relax at the natural Tatopani Hot Spring before continuing your journey to Muktinath.

  • Travel with experienced local guides who will share the history, traditions, and importance of each sacred site while assisting you throughout the tour.

  • Comfortable accommodations and reliable transportation allow you to focus on enjoying your journey without worrying about the travel arrangements.

  • A balanced itinerary gives you enough time to explore each destination without feeling rushed, making your experience more enjoyable and meaningful.

Trip Facts

Day

Location

Activities

Altitude

Average Hours

Day 1

Kathmandu

Airport pickup, hotel check-in, rest

~1,400 m

Under 1 hour (airport transfer)

Day 2

Kathmandu Valley (Bhaktapur/Sanga area & Kathmandu)

Doleshwar Mahadev, Sanga, Pashupatinath, Guheswari, Jal Narayan, Swayambhunath, Kal Bhairav

~1,300–1,400 m

4–5 hours driving

Day 3

Manakamana / Pokhara

Manakamana cable car & temple darshan, drive to Pokhara

~1,300 m (Manakamana); ~825 m (Pokhara)

5–6 hours (driving + cable car)

Day 4

Tatopani / Jomsom

Hot spring bath at Tatopani, drive to Jomsom

~1,190 m (Tatopani); ~2,700 m (Jomsom)

7–8 hours driving

Day 5

Muktinath / Pokhara

Muktinath Darshan, ritual bath, drive back to Pokhara

~3,710 m (Muktinath)

1.5–2 hours up to Muktinath; 7–8 hours back to Pokhara

Day 6

Pokhara / Kathmandu

Pokhara sightseeing, flight to Kathmandu

~825 m (Pokhara); ~1,400 m (Kathmandu)

2–3 hours sightseeing; 25-minute flight

Day 7

Kathmandu

Transfer to airport, international departure

~1,400 m

Under 1 hour (airport transfer)

Cost Includes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu

All ground transportation by private vehicle throughout the itinerary

Manakamana cable car tickets (return)

Domestic flight ticket, Pokhara to Kathmandu

Hotel/lodge accommodation for 6 nights as per the itinerary

Daily breakfast

An experienced guide for the temple circuit and pilgrimage sites

All applicable entrance fees for temples and monuments named in the itinerary

Government and local taxes

International airfare to and from Nepal

Nepal visa fees

Lunch and dinner (except where noted)

Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and phone/internet charges

Travel insurance

Tips for guides and drivers

Donations or offerings made at temples

Any costs arising from flight delays, road closures, or itinerary changes due to weather


 
Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal! After you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative from Thamel Travel and Tours will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After checking in, you can relax at the hotel or spend some free time exploring the nearby area if you wish.

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and a short tour briefing with your guide. This is a good time to learn about the journey ahead and ask any questions before your tour begins the next day.

  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu 
  • Meals: Dinner (as arranged)
  • ActivitiesAirport pickup, hotel check-in, rest
  • Trip HoursUnder 1 hour (airport transfer)
  • Max AltitudeKathmandu, approximately 1,400 m

After breakfast, you'll begin a full-day guided tour of Kathmandu's most famous temples and cultural landmarks. Today's journey takes you through important Hindu and Buddhist sites, giving you the opportunity to experience Nepal's rich religious traditions, local culture, and historic architecture.

Pashupatinath Temple

Your first stop is the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's most important temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, the temple is known for its beautiful pagoda architecture and daily Hindu rituals. You can also observe the traditional cremation ceremonies from the opposite side of the river and explore the surrounding temple complex.

Bouddhanath Stupa

Next, drive to Bouddhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk around the stupa while spinning the prayer wheels, visit nearby Tibetan monasteries, or relax with a cup of coffee at one of the rooftop cafés overlooking the peaceful temple complex.

Jal Narayan (Budhanilkantha)

Continue to Jal Narayan Temple, home to the famous stone statue of Lord Vishnu resting on a bed of serpents in a peaceful pond. This sacred temple is one of the most respected Vishnu shrines in Nepal and is an important stop for Hindu devotees.

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Afterward, visit Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. Climb the stone steps to the hilltop stupa, enjoy panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, and explore the surrounding temples, monasteries, and prayer wheels that make this one of Nepal's oldest and most important Buddhist sites.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

In the afternoon, explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historic center of the old city. Visit the Kumari Temple, Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kal Bhairav Temple, Kasthamandap, and several other temples and courtyards while learning about Kathmandu's rich history and Newari culture.

Rickshaw Ride Through the Old City

End the day with a traditional rickshaw ride through the lively streets of Ason and Indra Chowk, two of Kathmandu's oldest marketplaces. It's a wonderful way to experience local life, traditional shops, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city's historic center before returning to your hotel.

  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu 
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • ActivitiesFull-day temple circuit by private vehicle
  • Trip HoursApproximately 4–5 hours in total, spread across the day's stops
  • Max AltitudeKathmandu Valley, approximately 1,300–1,400 m

After breakfast, you'll leave Kathmandu and drive to Kurintar, where you'll take a scenic cable car ride to the famous Manakamana Temple. The ride offers beautiful views of the Trishuli River, green hills, and surrounding countryside before reaching the hilltop temple.

Manakamana Temple

Manakamana Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati and is one of Nepal's most respected Hindu temples. It is believed that devotees who pray here with a sincere heart will have their wishes fulfilled, making it a popular pilgrimage site for visitors from Nepal and India. After offering your prayers and spending some time at the temple, you'll return by cable car to Kurintar.

From here, continue your drive to Pokhara. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes of rivers, hills, and small villages before arriving in Nepal's beautiful lakeside city. After checking into your hotel, you can relax and prepare for the journey to Muktinath the next day.

  • Accommodation: 4 star Hotel in Pokhara 
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • ActivitiesManakamana cable car and temple darshan, overland drive to Pokhara
  • Trip HoursApproximately 5–6 hours total, including the Manakamana stop
  • Max AltitudeManakamana, approximately 1,300 m

After breakfast, you'll leave Pokhara and begin your drive toward Jomsom through the beautiful Kali Gandaki Valley. Along the way, you'll pass rivers, mountain villages, and enjoy views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Tatopani Hot Spring

Your journey includes a stop at Tatopani, a natural hot spring that has welcomed pilgrims and travelers for many years. You can enjoy a relaxing bath in the warm mineral water before continuing your journey. Many people also believe that bathing here before visiting Muktinath is a way to prepare for the sacred visit.

After your break, continue driving through Ghasa, Kalopani, and Marpha before arriving in Jomsom, the gateway to Muktinath. After checking into your hotel, you can relax and get ready for tomorrow's darshan at the sacred Muktinath Temple.

  • Accommodation: Lodge/hotel in Jomsom 
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • ActivitiesHot spring bath at Tatopani, continued drive to Jomsom
  • Trip HoursApproximately 7–8 hours total for the day, including the Tatopani stop
  • Max AltitudeJomsom, approximately 2,700 m

Early in the morning, you'll drive from Jomsom to the sacred Muktinath Temple, one of Nepal's most important pilgrimage sites. Located at an altitude of 3,710 meters, Muktinath is a holy place for both Hindus and Buddhists and attracts thousands of devotees every year.

Muktinath Temple

After arriving, you'll have time to offer your prayers and explore the temple complex. Many pilgrims choose to take a ritual bath under the 108 sacred water spouts, which are believed to bring spiritual purification. You can also visit the nearby Jwala Mai Temple, known for its natural eternal flame and its religious importance to both Hindu and Buddhist devotees.

After completing your darshan, you'll return to Jomsom and begin the scenic drive back to Pokhara through the Kali Gandaki Valley. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening after a meaningful day.

  • Accommodation: 4 Star Hotel in Pokhara 
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • ActivitiesMuktinath Darshan, ritual bath at the 108 water spouts, drive back to Pokhara
  • Trip HoursApproximately 1.5–2 hours up to Muktinath and back to Jomsom, followed by roughly 7–8 hours from Jomsom to Pokhara
  • Max AltitudeMuktinath, approximately 3,710 m

After breakfast, enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Pokhara, one of Nepal's most beautiful cities. Visit the peaceful Phewa Lake, the island temple of Tal Barahi, the World Peace Pagoda, and Davis Falls. These popular attractions offer a relaxing end to your journey with beautiful lake, mountain, and city views.

In the afternoon, transfer to Pokhara Airport for your short flight back to Kathmandu. If the weather is clear, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Himalayan mountains during the flight. After arriving in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your hotel for your final overnight stay.

  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu 
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • ActivitiesPokhara sightseeing, domestic flight to Kathmandu
  • Trip HoursApproximately 2–3 hours of sightseeing plus a 25-minute flight to Kathmandu
  • Max AltitudeKathmandu, approximately 1,400 m

After breakfast, enjoy some free time at your hotel, depending on your flight schedule. If time allows, you can do some last-minute shopping or simply relax before your journey home.

At the scheduled time, our representative from Thamel Travel and Tours will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. We hope you leave Nepal with wonderful memories and wish you a safe journey home.

  • Meals: Breakfast

 

  • ActivitiesTransfer to airport, international departure
  • Trip HoursUnder 1 hour (airport transfer)
  • Max AltitudeKathmandu, approximately 1,400 m

Accommodation

Accommodation on this trip is a mix of standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara and simpler mountain lodges in Jomsom. Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels offer comfortable, private rooms with attached bathrooms and hot water; Jomsom's lodges are more basic, in keeping with the remote, high-altitude setting, but clean and adequate for an overnight stay before and after the Muktinath drive. If you'd prefer higher-category hotels in Kathmandu or Pokhara, Thamel Travel and Tours can upgrade accommodation on request.

Transportation

  • Private vehicle: Used for all road transfers, including the Kathmandu Valley temple circuit, the drive to Pokhara via Manakamana, and the Pokhara–Tatopani–Jomsom–Muktinath sector.

  • Cable car: Used to reach Manakamana Temple from Kurintar.

  • Domestic flight: Used for the Pokhara-to-Kathmandu sector at the end of the trip, avoiding a second long overland drive.

Trip Information

Best Time to Visit

The best seasons for this itinerary are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). However, most tourists visit during the monsoon every year! 
 

Know Before You Book

  • Visa: Most nationalities can obtain a Nepal visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport; check current requirements for your nationality before travel.

  • Passport validity: Your passport should generally be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Nepal.

  • Altitude: Muktinath is located at approximately 3,710 meters. Although there is no trekking on this tour, some travelers may experience mild altitude symptoms due to the increase in elevation. Stay hydrated, take it easy, and if you feel unwell, let your guide know immediately so they can assist you. 

  • Travel insurance: Given the mountain roads and altitude involved, travel insurance that covers trip delays and basic medical evacuation is strongly recommended.

  • Currency: The Nepali rupee is the local currency; ATMs are reliable in Kathmandu and Pokhara but limited in Jomsom, so carry sufficient cash for the Mustang leg.

  • Internet & electricity: Wi-Fi is generally reliable in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but can be patchy or slow in Jomsom. Power sockets in Nepal are typically Type C, D, and M; a universal adapter is a good idea.

  • Weather & road conditions: The road to Jomsom and Muktinath can occasionally be affected by landslides or weather delays, particularly outside the recommended seasons — build a little flexibility into your onward travel plans where possible.

  • Responsible tourism: Dress modestly at temple sites, ask before photographing priests or rituals, and follow guidance from your guide regarding areas that are restricted to non-Hindu visitors, such as the inner sanctum at Pashupatinath.
     

      Health and Safety

  • Altitude Information: The highest point on this itinerary is Muktinath, at approximately 3,710 meters. This is a moderate altitude by Himalayan standards, and since you are not trekking or sleeping at extreme elevation for several nights in a row, the risk of serious altitude sickness on this trip is relatively low compared to a multi-day trek. That said, the elevation gain from Jomsom to Muktinath happens fairly quickly, so it is still sensible to take things slowly, stay hydrated, and let your guide know right away if you feel dizzy, short of breath, or unusually tired.

  • Drinking Water: We recommend drinking only bottled or filtered water throughout the tour, and avoiding tap water, ice, or unpackaged drinks, particularly outside Kathmandu and Pokhara. Your guide can suggest reliable places to buy sealed bottled water or refill a reusable bottle from a safe, filtered source along the route, which also helps cut down on plastic waste over the course of the trip.

  • Emergency Assistance: Emergency medical services are available throughout the destinations included in this itinerary. If any unexpected situation arises, our team will assist with transportation, hospital arrangements, and any necessary support.

  • Healthcare Facilities: Kathmandu has the best healthcare facilities on this route, including hospitals experienced in treating international travelers. Pokhara also has good hospital and clinic facilities, with a solid standard of care for the most common travel-related issues. Jomsom, being more remote, has only a basic health post, so anyone with pre-existing medical conditions should carry adequate personal medication and inform their guide in advance.

  • Safety Tips: This is a pilgrimage and cultural sightseeing tour, moving between busy temple complexes, mountain roads, and high-altitude areas. We recommend keeping valuables secure, following your guide's advice during temple visits and mountain drives, and respecting local customs and religious etiquette at each site.
     

       Packing List

  • Comfortable, layered clothing (light layers for the valley, warmer layers for Jomsom and Muktinath)

  • A warm jacket, hat, and gloves for the higher-altitude days

  • Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes

  • A light rain jacket or poncho, especially outside the dry season

  • Modest clothing for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered)

  • Sunglasses and sunscreen for the high-altitude, high-UV stretch around Mustang

  • A basic first-aid kit and any personal medication

  • A reusable water bottle

  • A power bank, given occasional power fluctuations in Jomsom

  • Cash in Nepali rupees, since card facilities are limited outside Kathmandu and Pokhara
     

      Arrival Information

  • Airport Pickup Details: Our airport representative will be waiting outside the arrival terminal with our company name and logo board, once you have completed immigration and collected your luggage. From there, you will be transferred directly to your hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Meeting Point: As mentioned above, our representative will be waiting outside for your arrival with our company logo and name. If you experience any difficulty, our team is only a phone call or message away and will assist you immediately.

  • Arrival Procedures: After checking into your hotel, we will provide a short tour briefing covering your itinerary, sightseeing schedule, and useful travel information before your adventure begins the following morning.

  • Emergency Contact Numbers: You will receive our 24-hour emergency contact details before your arrival in Nepal. Our local team remains available throughout your journey should you require any assistance.

  • Check-in & Check-out Times: Most hotels included in this itinerary offer check-in from early afternoon and check-out around midday. If your international flight schedule requires early check-in or late check-out, we will gladly assist whenever possible.
     

Why Choose us For Muktinath Darshan Tour

At Thamel Travel and Tours, we're committed to making your journey comfortable, safe, and meaningful. Our experienced local guides will be with you throughout the tour, helping you understand the importance of each temple and assisting you whenever needed. We use reliable vehicles, carefully selected accommodations, and experienced drivers to ensure a smooth travel experience. From the moment you arrive in Nepal until your departure, our team is always ready to support you and make your journey as enjoyable as possible. 

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