The Muktinath Helicopter Tour is one of Nepal’s most popular pilgrimage flights, offering a swift and spiritual journey to one of the holiest temples for both Hindus and Buddhists. Located at an altitude of 3,800 meters near the Thorong-La Pass in the Mustang district, Muktinath is revered as the “place of liberation” (Mukti = salvation, Nath = god). Known also as Mukti Dham and Chumig Gyatsa, it is part of the Annapurna Circuit and attracts thousands of pilgrims annually. The temple is nestled in the Himalayas, surrounded by snow-capped peaks including Annapurna I (8,091m) and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), offering a tranquil setting for spiritual reflection and mountain views.
This sacred site holds deep religious significance. According to Hindu belief, Lord Vishnu attained salvation here after being cursed by Brinda, the wife of demon king Jalandhar. The temple is believed to be self-manifested and is one of the 108 Vaishnava shrines, making it a must-visit destination for devotees. Worshippers come to perform Puja rituals and to bathe under the 108 water spouts, which are believed to cleanse sins and grant spiritual liberation. Muktinath is also sacred to Buddhists, who refer to it as Chumig Gyatsa, meaning "Hundred Waters." It is said that Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the revered 8th-century saint and founder of Tibetan Buddhism, meditated here on his way to Tibet. A Buddhist shrine dedicated to him stands within the temple complex, symbolizing religious harmony between the two traditions.
The Muktinath Helicopter Tour is available from both Kathmandu and Pokhara, with a total duration of approximately 3 hours from Kathmandu and 2 hours from Pokhara. The helicopter lands at Ranipauwa Helipad, just a short 20-minute walk from the temple. The tour is suitable for all age groups and requires minimal physical fitness, making it ideal for both spiritual seekers and Himalayan explorers. Whether flying privately or in a group, this tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience divine energy, sacred rituals, and the majestic beauty of the Himalayas in one unforgettable journey.