Located in the trans-Himalayan region of Nepal’s Mustang district, a spiritually uplifting and nature-endowed Muktinath Temple is truly worthy of note. This soul-stirring location from where thousands of Hindu and Buddhist devotees depart on pilgrimage, alongside people eager for an adventure every year, is what most travelers do not think to realize is just an entryway to further fascination in nature. At the opposite side of the Muktinath Temple are a few lesser-known yet extraordinary sites—mostly free or cheap—that backpackers would relish.
If you have booked your Muktinath tour package from Gorakhpur, knowing these places would really add to your experience. So, let’s explore some top places that you can visit on your budget during the Muktinath journey.
- Jwala Mai Temple (Eternal Flame)
This temple stands just a stone’s throw away from the main Muktinath Temple complex, being a spiritual wonder in itself. Herein resides a small shrine with a flame that burns perpetually and mysteriously on the natural gas supplied to it. The flame shoots out of a water spring creating a marvel where forces of nature- fire and water- combine, symbolically binding two opposing entities.
Entry Cost: Free
Highlight: The flame is believed to be one of the manifestations of the goddess and is highly revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- 108 Mukti Dhara (Sacred Water Spouts)
Within the Muktinath complex, 108 bull-faced water spouts pour glacier-cold water in a semi-circle behind the main temple. Devotees believe that bathing in these spouts purifies sins and grants liberation or “moksha.”
Entry Cost: Free (included in temple entry)
Tip: Carry a towel and dry clothes if you plan to take a bath—it’s cold, but refreshing!
- Muktinath Village Walk
Taking a stroll across Ranipauwa, the village around the temple, offers an inside look into Himalayan culture. The village counts teahouses, friendly locals, and direct views of the snowy Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri.Â
Cost: Free unless you stop for snacks or souvenirs.
Best Time: Early morning or afternoon, with light shining just right for photography.
- Kagbeni Village – A Gateway to Upper Mustang
Right from the name, it indicates that Kagbeni village is one of the oldest in Mustang. It is a small jeep ride or trek away from Muktinath. Serving as a gateway to Upper Mustang, it has medieval architecture with narrow alleys, ancient monasteries, and riverside scenic charms.
Entry Cost: Free (ACAP permit required for foreigners, often included in Nepal tour packages)
Extra Tip: Try the local apple cider—cheap and refreshing!
- Jharkot Monastery and Village
Lying on the way to and on the return from Muktinath, stop here for a breath in the calm air of an ancient traditional village set on a hill. The monastery with very few tourists offers you the blissful silence required for meditative musings and scenic views. Some archaic Tibetan-style dwellings and herbal medicine centers also adorn Jharkot.
Entry Cost: Small donation (optional)
Highlight: Ideal for those looking to meditate or learn about Tibetan healing practices.
- Dumba Lake (Near Jomsom)
Dumba Lake is heaven for nature lovers. It sits softly near Jomsom, on the way to Muktinath. Surrounded by pines and calm hills, local legends surround the lake, and it is a wonderful base for a picnic or a walk soaking in nature.
Entry Cost: Free
Tip: Carry your own water and snacks because there are hardly any vendors nearby.
- Kali Gandaki River Valley
The Kali Gandaki River Valley is this one of the deepest gorges in the world. As it follows a parallel course to the route going to Muktinath, the valley has the black stones (shaligrams) considered holy by the Hindus; trekking routes and rest stops allow for free exploration.
Cost: Free
Fun Fact: The black stones (shalagrams) are worshipped here as symbols of Lord Vishnu.
- Local Tibetan Markets
In the vicinity of Muktinath, small local bazaars vend Tibetan handmade artifacts, woolen clothes, prayer flags, and semi-precious stones. Even if you have no intention to shop, the very act of wandering around such colorful stalls is a cultural event.
Cost: Free to enter
Budget Tip: Bartering is customary, so be solicitous about exchanging prices.
- Eco-Friendly Tea House and Homestays
There is no guarantee of you having a free stay at such tea houses nearby or further into Muktinath, but you might find an even more affordable way to bask in the local hospitality at such dwellings. They provide a small setting of modest lodgings, with meals at times included in your stay-a true bargain facilitating intermingling with the locals.
Cost: ₹300–₹800 per night (approx.)
Insight: Genuine and highly immersive—a must for all backpackers!
- Short Hikes to Nearby Viewpoints
There are short hikes to try around Muktinath. Hikes take you to a viewpoint that really attracts with its stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Another path is through barren yet dramatic landscapes much like those of Tibet.
Cost: Free
Required: Comfortable hiking shoes and a bottle of water.
Correct Package – Enhance Your Journey
The Muktinath tour package from Gorakhpur are an affordable option and strategically ideal for travelers coming from North India, especially beyond Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The packages normally cover transport to Sunauli border and to guided transfers in Nepal, lodging, and some permits.
Some tour companies combine Muktinath in bigger Nepal tour packages combined with Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini, and Chitwan. Including these places would complement the other sites you are going to visit and yet keep the whole package serviceable.
Final Thoughts
Muktinath Journey was an idea for a sightseeing pilgrimage. It is a nature-worshiping multi-sensory experience involving cultural exchanges and much philosophical introspection. And the best part? You need not squander money to enjoy the journey! Planning ahead and then knowing about the top free or cheap places around Muktinath Temple would make this journey both spiritually fulfilling and very cheap.
These hidden gems should not be missed in your list if you are looking for a customized Muktinath tour package from Gorakhpur or planning your spiritual adventure wisely. Now they are worth so much in beauty and meaning that they will make memories for you that are so rich in experiences rather than in monetary expenses.
