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{{Short description|Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site in Mustang, Nepal}}
{{Infobox temple
{{Infobox Hindu temple
| name = Muktinath Temple
| name = Muktinath Temple
| image = Muktinath Temple.jpg
| image = The Muktinath Temple.jpg
| alt = Muktinath Temple
| alt = Muktinath Temple
| caption = Muktinath Temple
| caption = The temple of Muktinath ('lord of liberation or [[moksha]]') during winter months
| pushpin_map = Nepal
| map_type = Nepal
| map_caption = Location in [[Nepal]]
| map_caption = Location in [[Nepal]]
| coordinates = {{Coord|28.816854|N|83.871742|E}}
| latd = 28 | latm = 49 | lats = 0
| longd = 83 | longm = 52 | longs = 15
| native_name =
| coordinates_region = NP
| coordinates_display= title
| other_names = Saligram
| proper_name =
| devanagari =
| sanskrit_translit =
| tamil =
| marathi =
| bengali =
| country = [[Nepal]]
| country = [[Nepal]]
| state =
| state =
| district = [[Mustang District]]
| district = [[Mustang District]]
| location = [[Dhawalagiri Zone|Muktinath (Dhawalagiri)]]
| location = [[Dhawalagiri Zone|Muktinath (Dhawalagiri)]]
| elevation_m =
| elevation_m =3762
| deity = [[Vishnu]]
| primary_deity_God = Muktinath
| temple_tank = Gandaki River or Chakra Tirtham
| primary_deity_Godess = Sri Devi Thayaar
| utsava_deity_God = Sri Murthy
| tower = Kanaka Vimanam
| utsava_deity_Godess=
| Direction_posture =
| Pushakarani = Gandaki River or Chakra Theertham
| Vimanam = Kanaka Vimanam
| Poets =
| Prathyaksham =
| important_festivals=
| architecture = [[Pagoda#Architecture|Pagoda]]
| architecture = [[Pagoda#Architecture|Pagoda]]
|religious_affiliation=[[Hinduism]], [[Buddhism]]}}
| number_of_temples =
'''Muktinath''' is an ancient [[Vishnu]] temple located in [[Mustang District|Mustang]], [[Nepal]]. The temple of Muktinath, known as 'the lord of liberation', is sacred to both [[Hindus]] and [[Buddhists]] whom they worship as an abode of Hindu deity [[Vishnu]] and Buddhist deity [[Avalokiteśvara]] respectively.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Brief history of Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa at the Annapurna Circuit - Nepal |url=https://muktinath.org/muktinath/ |access-date=2024-06-28 |website=muktinath.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-04-13 |title=Muktinath Temple |url=https://templesofindia.co/listing/muktinath-temple/ |access-date=2024-06-28 |website=templesofindia.co |language=en-US}}</ref> Located in the Muktinath valley at the foot of the [[Thorong La]] mountain pass, it is one of the world's highest temples at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The temple is given a status of one of the 108 [[Divya Desam]]s of Hinduism (and the only Divya Desam located outside India) as well as one of the eight most sacred shrines, known as [[Swayambhu|Svayam Vyakta Ksetras]], of [[Vaishnavism]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Muktinath - A Religious site for Buddhist and Hindu followers |url=https://www.buddha-statues.info/blog/muktinath-a-religious-and-sacred-place-for-hindu-and-buddhist/ |access-date=2024-11-25 |website=www.buddha-statues.info |language=en}}</ref> It is also one of the 51 [[Shakta pithas]], associated with the head of goddess [[Sati (goddess)|Sati]]. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Alightindia |title=Muktinath Temple - History, information & Temple timings |url=https://www.alightindia.com/muktinath-temple |access-date=2024-06-28 |website=Muktinath Temple - History, information & Temple timings |language=en}}</ref> The temple complex is known as ''Mukti Kshetra'', which literally means "the place of liberation ([[moksha]])" and is one of the [[Char Dham, Nepal|Char Dham]] in Nepal.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|date=2019-03-30|title=Nepal's Top Pilgrimage and Holy Sites – The Abode of Spirituality|url=https://www.nepalisansar.com/tourism/nepals-top-pilgrimage-sites-the-abode-of-spirituality/|access-date=2020-12-14|website=Nepali Sansar|language=en-US}}]</ref>
| number_of_monuments=

| inscriptions =
{{location map+|Nepal|width=260|caption=[[Char Dham, Nepal]]|places=
| date_built =
{{location map~|Nepal|label=[[Pashupatinath Temple|Pashupat Kshetra]]|position=right|lat=27.710509|long=85.348877}}
| creator =
{{location map~|Nepal|label=[[Ruru Kshetra]]|position=bottom|lat=27.934525|long=83.437684}}
| website =
{{location map~|Nepal|label=Mukti Kshetra|lat=28.819644|long=83.869652}}
{{location map~|Nepal|label=[[Barahachhetra|Baraha Kshetra]]|position=bottom|lat=26.877391|long=87.165708}}
}}
}}
For Buddhists, Muktinath is an abode of [[dakini|dakinis]] - goddesses known as Sky Dancers and is considered one of the twenty-four [[vajrayana|Tantric]] places. Tibetan Buddhists call it [[Chumig Gyatsa]], which in [[Standard Tibetan|Tibetan]] means "Hundred Waters" and the [[murti]] is revered as a manifestation of [[Avalokiteśvara]], who embodies the compassion of all Buddhas.<ref>{{cite book |last=Zurick |first=David |title=Illustrated Atlas of the Himalayas |date=2006 |publisher=University Press of Kentucky |location=Lexington |page=153}}</ref>
{{Hinduism small}}

[[File:Muktinath-dhaulagiri.jpg|thumb|Muktinath and [[Dhaulagiri]] (8.167 m)]]
'''Muktinath''' is a sacred place both for [[Hindus]] and [[Buddhists]] located in Muktinath Valley at an [[altitude]] of 3,710 meters at the foot of the [[Thorong La]] mountain pass (part of the [[Himalayas]]), [[Mustang District|Mustang]], [[Nepal]]. The site is close to the village of [[Ranipauwa]], which is sometimes mistakenly called Muktinath as well.

Within Hinduism, it is called the sacred place ''Mukti Kshetra'', which literally means the "place of liberation or [[moksha]]". This temple is considered to be the 105th among the available 108 [[Divya Desam]], which are considered sacred by the [[Sri Vaishnava]] sect. The ancient name of this place in [[Sri Vaishnava]] literature, before Buddhist origin, is ''Thiru Saligramam''. This houses the [[Saligrama|Saligrama shila]] considered to be the naturally available form of Sriman [[Narayana]] <ref>http://www.ramanuja.org/sv/bhakti/archives/sep97/0045.html</ref>- the Hindu Godhead. It is also one of the 51 [[Shakti]] [[Shakti Peetha|peethams]].<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.mukthinathyatra.com/|title= General Information about Muktinath}}</ref> The Buddhists call it [[Chumig Gyatsa]], which in [[Standard Tibetan|Tibetan]] means 'Hundred Waters'. Although the temple has a [[Vaishnava]] origin, it is also revered in Buddhism.<ref>{{cite book|last=Mittal|first=Sushil|title=The Hindu World|date=2004|publisher=Routledge|location=New York|isbn=0-203-67414-6|page=499}}</ref> For Tibetan Buddhists, Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa is a very important place of [[Dakini]]s, goddesses known as Sky Dancers and one of the 24 [[vajrayana|Tantric]] places. They understand the [[murti]] to be a manifestation of [[Avalokitesvara]].<ref>{{cite book|last=Zurick|first=David|title=Illustrated Atlas of the Himalayas|date=2006|publisher=University Press of Kentucky|location=Lexington|page=153}}</ref>

==The central temple==
The central shrine of Sri Muktinath is considered one of the eight most sacred shrines for Hindu [[Vaishnava]]s known as [[Swayambhu|Svayam Vyakta Ksetras]], the other seven being [[Srirangam]], [[Srimushnam]], [[Tirumala - Tirupati|Tirupati]], [[Naimisharanya]], [[Mangalagiri#Sacred places|Thotadri]], [[Pushkar]] and [[Badrinath]].
The temple is very small. Muktinath is one of the most ancient [[Mandir|Hindu temple]]s of God [[Vishnu]]. The [[murti]] is of [[gold]] and is tall enough to compare with a man.
The ''[[prakaram]]'' (outer courtyard) has 108 bull faces through which water is poured. It is of freezing temperature. The sacred water that flows in 108 pipes around the temple complex denote all sacred Pushkarini waters (Temple Tanks) from all 108 Sri Vaishnava [[Divya Desams]] including [[Srirangam]], [[Tirumala]], [[Vaikunta]], where the devotees take their sacred bath even in the freezing temperatures. There is an old Buddhist monk present in the temple. The worship is conducted by Buddhists.

==The Muktinath Temple as a Shakti Peetha==
{{main|Shakti Peethas}}


Muktinath temple is seen as a symbol of religious harmony in Nepal where both the Hindus and Buddhists have been historically worshipping on the same spot, mutually respecting and including each other.<ref name=":1" />
The Muktinath Temple<ref>{{cite web |url= http://nepaltourism.net/images/HINDI-KAILASH.pdf|title= Muktinath Yatra Nepal Tourism}}</ref> Muktinath Yatra Nepal Tourism is considered as a [[Shakti Peetha]]. [[Shakti Peethas]] are sacred abode of [[Shakti]] formed due to the falling of body parts of the corpse of [[Sati (goddess)|Sati]] Devi, when Lord [[Shiva]] carried it and wandered. There are 51 Shakti Peethas revered by [[Shaktism]] connecting them to the 51 alphabets in Sanskrit. Each Shakti Peetha has a Shakti shrine and a [[Bhairava]] shrine in the temple. The "Shakti" of Muktinath Shrine is addressed as "Gandaki Chandi" and the "Bhairava" as "Chakrapani". [[Sati Devi]]'s [[Temple (anatomy)|temple]] on the forehead is believed to have fallen here. ''The mythology of Daksha yaga and Sati's self immolation'' had immense significance in strengthening [[Shaktism]]. Sati Devi immolates herself in this mythology. This mythology is the story behind [[Shakti Peethas]]<ref>{{cite book |last= (Translator)|first= [[Max Müller|F. Max Muller]] |authorlink= |title= The Upanishads, Vol I |url= |accessdate= |date= June 1, 2004|publisher= Kessinger Publishing, LLC |location= | ISBN= 1419186418|page=}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last= (Translator)|first= [[Max Müller|F. Max Muller]] |authorlink= |title= The Upanishads Part II: The Sacred Books of the East Part Fifteen |url= |accessdate= |date= July 26, 2004|publisher= Kessinger Publishing, LLC |location= | ISBN= 1417930160|page=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Kottiyoor Devaswam Temple Administration Portal|url=http://kottiyoordevaswom.com/|work=http://kottiyoordevaswom.com/|publisher=Kottiyoor Devaswam|accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref>


==Legend==
==Legend==
Muktinath's importance within Hinduism is described in ancient Hindu [[Vishnu Purana]]'s [[Gandaki River|Gandaki]] Mahatmya. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Gandaki Chandi Homam {{!}} Devi Homam {{!}} |url=https://www.vedicfolks.com/life-time-management/karma-remedies/homams/gandaki-chandi-maha-homam.html |access-date=2024-06-29 |website=www.vedicfolks.com}}</ref> The ancient name of Muktinath in Sri Vaishnava literature is ''Tiru Shaligramam''. The [[Gandaki River|Gandaki river]], which flows downstream from Muktinath, is considered to be the only source of the [[Saligrama|shaligrama shila]], the non-anthropomorphic representation of Vishnu. The Tibetan Buddhist tradition states that Guru Rinpoche, also known as [[Padmasambhava]], the founder of [[Tibetan Buddhism]], meditated at Muktinath on his way to [[Tibet]]. <ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Brief history of Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa at the Annapurna Circuit - Nepal |url=https://muktinath.org/muktinath/ |access-date=2024-06-28 |website=muktinath.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Alightindia |title=Muktinath Temple - History, information & Temple timings |url=https://www.alightindia.com/muktinath-temple |access-date=2024-06-28 |website=Muktinath Temple - History, information & Temple timings |language=en}}</ref> The temple is believed to have been blessed by numerous [[Mahasiddha|mahasiddhas]]. <ref name=":0" />
The Tibetan Buddhist tradition states that for this reason Guru Rinpoche, also known as [[Padmasambhava]], the founder of [[Tibetan Buddhism]], had meditated at Muktinath on his way to [[Tibet]]. This temple is praised by many saints of [[Hindu]] tradition. The scripts narrating the importance of this temple is available in [[Vishnu Purana]] with the [[Gandaki River|Gandaki]] Mahathmya.


==Architecture==
The waterway downstream from Muktinath along Kali Gandaki is the source of all [[Sila (murti)|Silas]] or [[Shaligram]]s that are required to establish a temple of [[Vishnu]] anywhere in the world. It is considered to be one of the holiest places of pilgrimage for [[Hindu]]s and [[Buddhist]]s. It has 108 water springs and this number carries great significance in Indian philosophy. An example of the mystery surrounding the number 108, in Hindu astrology, there are mentions of 12 zodiacs (or Rashi) and 9 planets (or Graha), giving a total of 108 combinations. There are also 27 Lunar mansions (or [[Nakshatra]]s) which are divided into 4 quarters (or Padas) each giving a combination of 108 Padas in total.
The central shrine of Muktinath is considered by Hindu [[Vaishnava]]s to be one of the eight most sacred shrines, known as [[Swayambhu|Svayam Vyakta Ksetras]]. The others are [[Srirangam]], [[Srimushnam]], [[Tirupati]], [[Naimisaranya|Naimisharanya]], Thotadri, Pushkar, and Badrinath. The [[murti]] inside the temple is made of gold and is the size of a man.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=History of Muktianth Temple |url=https://muktinathtempletour.com/history-of-muktianth-temple/ |access-date=2024-06-30 |website=Muktinath Temple Tour {{!}} Muktinath Temple Package {{!}} Muktinath Yatra |language=en-US}}</ref> The [[prakaram]] (outer courtyard) has 108 bull faces through which water is poured, called mukti dharas (liberation representing the [[Sacred waters|sacred water]] from [[Divya Desams|108 Divya Desams]] of Hinduism. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Muktinath Temple: Muktinath Dham History, Muktinath Mandir Dharshan 2022 |url=https://www.divinekailash.com/muktinath-temple/ |access-date=2024-06-30 |website=Divine Kailash |language=en-US}}</ref>


==Religious significance==
==Sri Murthy Mahatmyam==
This is probably the only place on earth where you can find all five [[Classical element|elements]] from which all material things in the universe are made. According to the Hindu and Buddhist philosophies: [[fire]], [[water]], [[sky]], [[earth]] and [[air]] are these five elements. They are all found at the same place together in their own and distinct form. This place is near Jwala Devi temple.


=== Hinduism ===
The entire river bed has [[Shaligram]] stones which are used to worship Lord Vishnu.


==== Vaishnavism ====
According to Sri Vaishnava philosophy (a sub-sect of Hindu philosophy) it is considered to be one of the [[Divya desam]]s (108 in total) or holy places of worship of Lord [[Vishnu]] praised by [[Alwars]] in a compilation called the Nalayira [[Divya Prabandha]].
[[File:Muktidhara (4716458657).jpg|left|thumb|186x186px|108 mukti dharas, or the water spouts of liberation]]
Muktinath is sacred to the [[Sri Vaishnava]] tradition. The deities of Vishnu and his consorts, [[Lakshmi|Sridevi]] and [[Bhumi (goddess)|Bhudevi]], are regarded by adherents as offering [[Jivanmukta|jivanmukti]] to devotees, offering the epithet Muktinath to Vishnu. It is praised by Thirumangai Alvar in the compilation of the [[Naalayira Divya Prabandham|Nalayira Divya Prabandham]]. The river [[Gandaki River|Gandaki]], flowing adjacent to the temple has a kind of stone called [[Salagram|shaligrama]]. The different patterns of the stone are worshiped as different forms of [[Vishnu]]. The colour white is considered as [[Vasudeva]], black as [[Vishnu]], green as [[Narayana]], blue as [[Krishna]], golden yellow & reddish yellow as [[Narasimha]] and [[Vamana]] in yellow. The stones are found in various shapes with even shapes of the [[Panchajanya]] and the [[Sudarshana Chakra]], the attributes of Vishnu.<ref name="R">{{cite book |last=R. |first=Dr. Vijayalakshmy |url=https://archive.org/details/dli.jZY9lup2kZl6TuXGlZQdjZY2lZpy.TVA_BOK_0006115 |title=An introduction to religion and Philosophy - Tévarám and Tivviyappirapantam |publisher=International Institute of Tamil Studies |year=2001 |edition=1st |location=Chennai |pages=489–90 |ref=R.}}</ref> The temple is revered in ''[[Nalayira Divya Prabandham]]'', the 7th–9th century Vaishnava canon, by [[Kulasekhara Alvar]] in one hymn. The temple is classified as a ''[[Divyadesam|Divya Desam]]'', one of the 108 Vishnu temples that are mentioned in the book. Many devotees have contributed to it, most prominently the [[Alvars]]. [[Thirumangai Alvar]] could not reach Muktinath, but sang 10 pasurams from the nearest place, in praise of the deity. [[Periyalvar]] sang in praise of Vishnu as "Salagramamudaiya Nambi".<ref name="R" />[[File:Muktinath-temple-nepal.jpg|thumb|268x268px|The temple of Muktinath]]The pontiff of [[Srivilliputtur]] installed the idols of [[Andal]] (Gotadevi), [[Ramanuja]], and [[Manavala Mamunigal]] there during the ''[[yagna]]'' performed between 3 and 6 August 2009. This is considered by devotees of the tradition to be a milestone in the history of Muktinath. A large crowd of devotees visits this shrine, where the deity resides in the form of Sri Paramapada Nathan with his divine consorts Sridevi, Bhudevi, [[Niladevi]], and Gotadevi.
[[File:BRP Muktinath mainGate.jpg|thumb|263x263px|Gate of Muktinath overlooking [[himalayas]]]]
[[File:Inbound4822038242440480981.jpg|thumb|325x325px|Buddha statue inside Muktinath area]]
==== Shaktism ====
{{main|Shakta pithas}}


Muktinath Temple is considered an important place of pilgrimage in [[Shaktism]] as one of the [[Shakta pithas]] associated with goddess [[Sati (Hindu goddess)|Sati]]'s head (face). The [[Shakti]] of Muktinath is addressed as "Gandaki Chandi", and the [[Bhairava|Bhairav]] ([[Shiva]]) as "Chakrapani".<ref name=":2" />
It is said that one has to be gifted to get the [[Darśana|darshan]] of Lord Sri Murthi and Goddess Sri Devi.


Muktinath temple complex is also revered as a place on earth to host all [[Pancha Bhuta|five elements]] (fire, water, sky, earth, and air) from which all material things in the universe are made. The goddess Jwala Mai Temple situated adjacent to the Muktinath Temple is worshipped for its sacred flame fueled by natural gas emanating from the earth.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tour |first=Pilgrimage |date=2024-01-08 |title=Places to Visit In and Around Muktinath |url=https://medium.com/@pilgrimagetour.in/places-to-visit-in-and-around-muktinath-194e57cd6488 |access-date=2024-06-30 |website=Medium |language=en}}</ref>
==Prasad==
A local nun manages the pujas in the temple. Pilgrims who go there are expected to offer a [[prasad]] to the deity.


=== Buddhism ===
==Darshan, sevas and festivals==
The most suitable time to visit Muktinath is from March to June, as the weather conditions would not be safe enough to travel in other months. The journey passes through many archeological sites and temples.


The temple has been worshipped by Buddhists as an abode of [[Avalokiteśvara]], the Buddha who embodies the compassion of all Buddhas. In [[Tibetan Buddhism]], the place is known as "Chumig Gyatsa" (the Hundred Springs) and is venerated as one of the important places related to [[Padmasambhava]], the founder of [[Tibetan Buddhism]] and one of the 24 [[vajrayana|Tantric]] (sacred) places of [[Tibetan Buddhism]]. <ref name=":0" /> The area of the temple is worshipped as a residence of 21 [[Tara (Buddhism)|Tara]] and many Dakinis, goddesses known as Sky Dancers.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Muktinath: An Exemplar of Religious Symbiosis {{!}} Buddhistdoor |url=https://www2.buddhistdoor.net/features/muktinath-an-exemplar-of-religious-symbiosis |access-date=2024-06-30 |website=www2.buddhistdoor.net}}</ref> <ref name=":0" /><gallery mode="nolines" widths="170" heights="170">
==Sri Vaishnavaitic reference==
File:Photo-chhairo gompa padmasambhava shrine.JPG|Statue of Guru [[Padmasambhava]]
[[Sri Vaishnava]] tradition is a sub-sect of Hindus, predominant in present-day Tamil Nadu in southern India. Many great devotees ([[bhakta]]s) have contributed to the society, most prominent of them being the [[Alvars]].
File:Mustang-Marpha-Gompa-24-Padmasambhava-gje.jpg|Buddhist Goddess in Muktinath temple complex
[[Thirumangai Alvar]] could not reach Muktinath, but had sung 10 pashurams from nearest place in praise of Lord Sri Murthy. [[Periyalvar]] had sung in praise of Sri Murthi as "Salagramamudaiya Nambi". Recently the pontiff of [[Srivilliputtur]] (the most venerated Srivaishnava pilgrim centre in [[Tamil Nadu]] in [[India]]), 'Sri Manavala Mamunigal Mutt' [[H.H 23rd peetam Sri Sri Sri Satakopa Ramanuja Jeeyar Swamiji]] has made the installation of the idols of [[Andal]] (Sri Gotha Devi), [[Ramanuja]], and [[Manavala Mamunigal]] in this sacred place of predominant [[Sri Vaishnava]] origin during the yagna performed between 3-8-2009 and 6-8-2009. This is considered to be one of the mile stones in the History of Muktinath by the devotees. A large crowd of Sri Vaishnava Devotees pay their visit to this most sacred Sri Vaishnavaitic Shrine where the lord resides in the form of Sri Paramapatha Nathan with His divine consorts of Sri, Bhoomi, Neela and Gotha Devis. The importance of this place is very high that even [[Buddhism]] worships this Lord Sriman Narayana of Muktinath for attaining Salvation [[Mukti]]. The sacred water that flows in 108 pipes around the temple complex denote all sacred Pushkarini waters from all 108 Sri Vaishnava [[Divya Desams]] including [[Srirangam]], [[Tirumala]], [[Vaikunta]], where the devotees take their sacred bath even in the freezing temperatures.
File:Mustang-Marpha-Gompa-30-Padmasambhava-2015-gje.jpg|Buddhist thangka

</gallery>The nuns of the temple complex are considered to be female goddesses called Dakinis and to be the offsprings of the females who were taught by [[Padmasambhava]] during his stay in Muktinath. It is believed that Padmasambhava built a statue in his own image before departing from Muktinath to Tibet, which resides in the Mharme Lhakhang Gompa and is tended by these nuns.<ref name=":3" />
==Travel access==
Access is difficult because of tough weather conditions. One can fly from [[Kathmandu]] to [[Pokhara]] and then from Pokhara to [[Jomsom Airport]]. From there, one can either trek all the way or take a jeep to Muktinath. Some tourists are also known to charter a helicopter all the way to Muktinath which takes around forty five minutes to reach. The helicopter can be hired only when the weather permits.

Arriving by helicopter for a longer period of stay is not recommended because of the risk of acute mountain sickness. Accommodation is available in [[Ranipauwa]], Jharkot, Chhongur, [[Kagbeni, Mustang|Kagbeni]] or [[Jomsom]].


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery widths="190" heights="190">

File:Muktinath Valley, Ridge, Nepal.jpg|Muktinath valley
<gallery>
File:Kali Gandaki Valley260, Nepal.JPG|Muktinath Temple
File:Entrance to Muktinath-Temple in Mustang-Region of Nepal.JPG|Entrance to the temple area
File:Entrance to Muktinath-Temple in Mustang-Region of Nepal.JPG|Entrance to the temple area
File:Inside Muktinath Temple.jpg|The Vishnu shrine inside Muktinath Temple
File:Mukthinathsaligram.JPG
File:Mukthinath1.jpg|Goddess Jwala Mata Shakta pitha Temple
File:Mukthinath2.jpg|
File:Holy Shree Muktinath Temple.jpg|Muktinath Temple with 2 ponds (right) and 108 spouts (left)
File:Mukthinath1.jpg|
File:Tap in Muktinath-Temple - Mustang - Nepal.JPG|Close-up of one of the 108 holy spouts
File:Mukthinath3.jpg|
File:The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Muktinath Temple, in Nepal on May 12, 2018 (3).JPG|[[Narendra Modi]], Prime Minister of India, offering prayers
File:Muktinaath.jpg| Muktinath Temple
File:Muktinath Temple, Mustang, Nepal.JPG
File:Main Muktinath temple and ponds c.2016.jpg|Temple and pond
File:Muktinath After2.jpg|Prayer flags over Muktinath area
File:Pilgrim showering under the 108 holy Taps at Muktinath-Temple - Mustang - Nepal - with friends filming.JPG|Pilgrim showering under the 108 holy Taps with friends filming
File:Gumba at Mustang atop Dhumba lake.jpg|Gumba
File:Tap in Muktinath-Temple - Mustang - Nepal.JPG|Close-up of one the 108 holy Taps
File:PSX 20190506 224558.jpg|Buddha overlooking valley
File:Smoking candles at muktinath temple, nepal.JPG|Bells, burning incense and a smoking candle
File:Muktinath Bus Stand,Mustang Nepal.jpg|Muktinath bus stand
</gallery>
</gallery>


==See also==
==See also==
* [[Narsingh monastery|Narsingh Gompa]], a Buddhist monastery nearby
* [[Bajrayogini Temple]]
* [[Bajrayogini Temple]]
* [[Guhyeshwari Temple]]
* [[Guhyeshwari Temple]]
Line 113: Line 91:
* [[Budhanilkantha Temple]], Sleeping Vishnu
* [[Budhanilkantha Temple]], Sleeping Vishnu


== References ==
==References==
* [http://www.muktinathdarshan.com]
* [http://www.sharmatravelsnepal.com/muktinath]
* [http://www.lumleholidays.com/pligrimage-tours/muktinath-tour.html]
* [http://www.tirupatiholidays.com/tour/Muktinath.htm]
* [http://www.muktinathtour.com/muktinath.html]
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


Picture in map of nepal
==External links==
{{Commons category|Muktinath}}
{{Commons category}}
*[http://www.muktinath.org/muktinath/ More backgrounds on Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa]


{{Mustang District}}
{{Mustang District}}
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{{Famous Vishnu temples}}
{{Famous Vishnu temples}}
{{Hindu deities and texts}}
{{Hindu deities and texts}}

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[[Category:Divya Desams| ]]
[[Category:Divya Desams| ]]
[[Category:Hindu pilgrimage sites]]
[[Category:Hindu pilgrimage sites in Nepal]]
[[Category:Hindu temples in Nepal]]
[[Category:Hindu temples in Gandaki Province]]
[[Category:Char Dham temples in Nepal]]
[[Category:Vishnu temples in Nepal]]

Latest revision as of 22:29, 13 December 2024

Muktinath Temple
Muktinath Temple
The temple of Muktinath ('lord of liberation or moksha') during winter months
Religion
AffiliationHinduism, Buddhism
DistrictMustang District
DeityVishnu
Features
  • Tower: Kanaka Vimanam
  • Temple tank: Gandaki River or Chakra Tirtham
Location
LocationMuktinath (Dhawalagiri)
CountryNepal
Muktinath is located in Nepal
Muktinath
Location in Nepal
Geographic coordinates28°49′01″N 83°52′18″E / 28.816854°N 83.871742°E / 28.816854; 83.871742
Architecture
TypePagoda
Elevation3,762 m (12,343 ft)

Muktinath is an ancient Vishnu temple located in Mustang, Nepal. The temple of Muktinath, known as 'the lord of liberation', is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists whom they worship as an abode of Hindu deity Vishnu and Buddhist deity Avalokiteśvara respectively.[1][2][3] Located in the Muktinath valley at the foot of the Thorong La mountain pass, it is one of the world's highest temples at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The temple is given a status of one of the 108 Divya Desams of Hinduism (and the only Divya Desam located outside India) as well as one of the eight most sacred shrines, known as Svayam Vyakta Ksetras, of Vaishnavism.[4] It is also one of the 51 Shakta pithas, associated with the head of goddess Sati. [5] The temple complex is known as Mukti Kshetra, which literally means "the place of liberation (moksha)" and is one of the Char Dham in Nepal.[1]

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Char Dham, Nepal

For Buddhists, Muktinath is an abode of dakinis - goddesses known as Sky Dancers and is considered one of the twenty-four Tantric places. Tibetan Buddhists call it Chumig Gyatsa, which in Tibetan means "Hundred Waters" and the murti is revered as a manifestation of Avalokiteśvara, who embodies the compassion of all Buddhas.[6]

Muktinath temple is seen as a symbol of religious harmony in Nepal where both the Hindus and Buddhists have been historically worshipping on the same spot, mutually respecting and including each other.[7]

Legend

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Muktinath's importance within Hinduism is described in ancient Hindu Vishnu Purana's Gandaki Mahatmya. [8] The ancient name of Muktinath in Sri Vaishnava literature is Tiru Shaligramam. The Gandaki river, which flows downstream from Muktinath, is considered to be the only source of the shaligrama shila, the non-anthropomorphic representation of Vishnu. The Tibetan Buddhist tradition states that Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, meditated at Muktinath on his way to Tibet. [7][9] The temple is believed to have been blessed by numerous mahasiddhas. [2]

Architecture

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The central shrine of Muktinath is considered by Hindu Vaishnavas to be one of the eight most sacred shrines, known as Svayam Vyakta Ksetras. The others are Srirangam, Srimushnam, Tirupati, Naimisharanya, Thotadri, Pushkar, and Badrinath. The murti inside the temple is made of gold and is the size of a man.[10] The prakaram (outer courtyard) has 108 bull faces through which water is poured, called mukti dharas (liberation representing the sacred water from 108 Divya Desams of Hinduism. [11]

Religious significance

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Hinduism

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Vaishnavism

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108 mukti dharas, or the water spouts of liberation

Muktinath is sacred to the Sri Vaishnava tradition. The deities of Vishnu and his consorts, Sridevi and Bhudevi, are regarded by adherents as offering jivanmukti to devotees, offering the epithet Muktinath to Vishnu. It is praised by Thirumangai Alvar in the compilation of the Nalayira Divya Prabandham. The river Gandaki, flowing adjacent to the temple has a kind of stone called shaligrama. The different patterns of the stone are worshiped as different forms of Vishnu. The colour white is considered as Vasudeva, black as Vishnu, green as Narayana, blue as Krishna, golden yellow & reddish yellow as Narasimha and Vamana in yellow. The stones are found in various shapes with even shapes of the Panchajanya and the Sudarshana Chakra, the attributes of Vishnu.[12] The temple is revered in Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the 7th–9th century Vaishnava canon, by Kulasekhara Alvar in one hymn. The temple is classified as a Divya Desam, one of the 108 Vishnu temples that are mentioned in the book. Many devotees have contributed to it, most prominently the Alvars. Thirumangai Alvar could not reach Muktinath, but sang 10 pasurams from the nearest place, in praise of the deity. Periyalvar sang in praise of Vishnu as "Salagramamudaiya Nambi".[12]

The temple of Muktinath

The pontiff of Srivilliputtur installed the idols of Andal (Gotadevi), Ramanuja, and Manavala Mamunigal there during the yagna performed between 3 and 6 August 2009. This is considered by devotees of the tradition to be a milestone in the history of Muktinath. A large crowd of devotees visits this shrine, where the deity resides in the form of Sri Paramapada Nathan with his divine consorts Sridevi, Bhudevi, Niladevi, and Gotadevi.

Gate of Muktinath overlooking himalayas
Buddha statue inside Muktinath area

Shaktism

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Main article: Shakta pithas

Muktinath Temple is considered an important place of pilgrimage in Shaktism as one of the Shakta pithas associated with goddess Sati's head (face). The Shakti of Muktinath is addressed as "Gandaki Chandi", and the Bhairav (Shiva) as "Chakrapani".[10]

Muktinath temple complex is also revered as a place on earth to host all five elements (fire, water, sky, earth, and air) from which all material things in the universe are made. The goddess Jwala Mai Temple situated adjacent to the Muktinath Temple is worshipped for its sacred flame fueled by natural gas emanating from the earth.[13]

Buddhism

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The temple has been worshipped by Buddhists as an abode of Avalokiteśvara, the Buddha who embodies the compassion of all Buddhas. In Tibetan Buddhism, the place is known as "Chumig Gyatsa" (the Hundred Springs) and is venerated as one of the important places related to Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism and one of the 24 Tantric (sacred) places of Tibetan Buddhism. [2] The area of the temple is worshipped as a residence of 21 Tara and many Dakinis, goddesses known as Sky Dancers.[14] [2]

  • Statue of Guru Padmasambhava
    Statue of Guru Padmasambhava
  • Buddhist Goddess in Muktinath temple complex
    Buddhist Goddess in Muktinath temple complex
  • Buddhist thangka
    Buddhist thangka

The nuns of the temple complex are considered to be female goddesses called Dakinis and to be the offsprings of the females who were taught by Padmasambhava during his stay in Muktinath. It is believed that Padmasambhava built a statue in his own image before departing from Muktinath to Tibet, which resides in the Mharme Lhakhang Gompa and is tended by these nuns.[14]

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  • Muktinath valley
    Muktinath valley
  • Muktinath Temple
    Muktinath Temple
  • Entrance to the temple area
    Entrance to the temple area
  • The Vishnu shrine inside Muktinath Temple
    The Vishnu shrine inside Muktinath Temple
  • Goddess Jwala Mata Shakta pitha Temple
    Goddess Jwala Mata Shakta pitha Temple
  • Muktinath Temple with 2 ponds (right) and 108 spouts (left)
    Muktinath Temple with 2 ponds (right) and 108 spouts (left)
  • Close-up of one of the 108 holy spouts
    Close-up of one of the 108 holy spouts
  • Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, offering prayers
    Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, offering prayers
  • Temple and pond
    Temple and pond
  • Prayer flags over Muktinath area
    Prayer flags over Muktinath area
  • Gumba
    Gumba
  • Buddha overlooking valley
    Buddha overlooking valley
  • Muktinath bus stand
    Muktinath bus stand

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b "Nepal's Top Pilgrimage and Holy Sites – The Abode of Spirituality". Nepali Sansar. 2019-03-30. Retrieved 2020-12-14.]
  2. ^ a b c d "Brief history of Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa at the Annapurna Circuit - Nepal". muktinath.org. Retrieved 2024-06-28.
  3. ^ "Muktinath Temple". templesofindia.co. 2024-04-13. Retrieved 2024-06-28.
  4. ^ "Muktinath - A Religious site for Buddhist and Hindu followers". www.buddha-statues.info. Retrieved 2024-11-25.
  5. ^ Alightindia. "Muktinath Temple - History, information & Temple timings". Muktinath Temple - History, information & Temple timings. Retrieved 2024-06-28.
  6. ^ Zurick, David (2006). Illustrated Atlas of the Himalayas. Lexington: University Press of Kentucky. p. 153.
  7. ^ a b "Brief history of Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa at the Annapurna Circuit - Nepal". muktinath.org. Retrieved 2024-06-28.
  8. ^ "Gandaki Chandi Homam | Devi Homam |". www.vedicfolks.com. Retrieved 2024-06-29.
  9. ^ Alightindia. "Muktinath Temple - History, information & Temple timings". Muktinath Temple - History, information & Temple timings. Retrieved 2024-06-28.
  10. ^ a b "History of Muktianth Temple". Muktinath Temple Tour | Muktinath Temple Package | Muktinath Yatra. Retrieved 2024-06-30.
  11. ^ "Muktinath Temple: Muktinath Dham History, Muktinath Mandir Dharshan 2022". Divine Kailash. Retrieved 2024-06-30.
  12. ^ a b R., Dr. Vijayalakshmy (2001). An introduction to religion and Philosophy - Tévarám and Tivviyappirapantam (1st ed.). Chennai: International Institute of Tamil Studies. pp. 489–90.
  13. ^ Tour, Pilgrimage (2024-01-08). "Places to Visit In and Around Muktinath". Medium. Retrieved 2024-06-30.
  14. ^ a b "Muktinath: An Exemplar of Religious Symbiosis | Buddhistdoor". www2.buddhistdoor.net. Retrieved 2024-06-30.

Picture in map of nepal

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