Shree Muktinath Temple

May 2, 2025

Blog By: Levinly Travel

Introduction

The Muktinath Temple, situated at an astonishing height in the rugged trans-Himalaya region, is not only one of the tallest temples in the world – it is a timeless symbol of spiritual liberation that unites various religious paths across borders. Situated at an altitude of 3,710 metres (12,172 ft) in the windswept Muktinath Valley in the Mustang District of Nepal, this sacred pilgrimage site is located very close to the mighty Thorong La pass – one of the highest and most challenging points on the famous Annapurna Circuit. Taking its name to mean 'Lord of Salvation', Muktinath has long been a revered site for both Hindus and Buddhists, providing a sacred place for seekers of salvation and spiritual purification, Making it a living embodiment of Nepal's rich spiritual blend of Indo-Tibetan traditions.

The divine significance of Muktinath: A place where faith transcends boundaries

• For Hindus: The Divine Abode of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Shakti
• Vaishnavism: A divine country that connects hearts across the world

Muktinath, considered one of the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu, is an important pilgrimage site in Vaishnavite theology, mentioned in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham – a Tamil Vaishnava text composed by Alvar saints between the 7th and 9th centuries. Muktinath has the unique distinction of being the only Divya Desam located outside India, emphasising its global significance and the widespread devotion to Hinduism that transcends geographical boundaries.

The temple enshrines a golden idol of Lord Vishnu, worshipped locally as Sri Mukti Narayan or Parampad Nath, signifying his role as the 'Lord of the Supreme Abode' and the ultimate source of salvation. Lord Vishnu in the temple is accompanied by his wives: Sridevi, the goddess of wealth; Bhudevi, the goddess of earth; and Neeladevi, each of whom represent different aspects of the Vedic cosmic order that governs the universe.

As one of the eight Swayam Vyakarta Kshetras or 'self-manifested temples', Muktinath is considered to be a divine creation, not brought about by human effort but manifested by divine spontaneity, endowed with sacred power.

Where stories are hidden in stones: Shaligram's connection with Kali Gandaki river

The nearby Kali Gandaki River, which originates from the glacial regions of the Himalayas, is of immense spiritual significance as it is the only known natural source of Shaligram stones – sacred fossil ammonites worshipped by Hindus around the world as supernatural forms of the god Vishnu. These sacred fossils, known as Shaligram Shilas, are worshipped as self-manifested forms of Lord Vishnu, with the unique spiral patterns, shapes and colours of each stone representing various incarnations of the god such as Narayana, Krishna or Vamana. Devotees often take these sacred Shaligram stones home as venerated spiritual relics and install them on personal altars, where they are worshipped daily with rituals such as abhishekam (bath), burning of incense, and chanting of Vishnu mantras.

Ritual of Liberation: Bathing under 108 Mukti Dhara (Liberation Streams)

Surrounding the sanctum of the Muktinath Temple are the famous Mukti Dhara - 108 Mukti Dhara carved in the shape of sacred bovine heads, representing the sacred number in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology and symbolising the purification of 108 worldly sins through ritual bathing. Pilgrims bathe under these 108 icy streams, which come from snow springs in the nearby Himalayas. This is a sacred act of purification, which is believed to wash away the sins accumulated over a lifetime.

Honoring the Goddess: Muktinath's Hidden Role in Shaktism

Muktinath is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas - Muktinath honours the divine feminine energy in the form of Goddess Gandaki Chandi, while Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Chakrapani, a sacred pair for Tantric traditions. The association with Sati's severed head elevates Muktinath's status beyond that of a pilgrimage site—it becomes a symbolic gateway to liberation, where the soul can rise above worldly attachments through divine union.

This miraculous flame, emanating from a jet of natural gas beneath a fissure in the rock, is believed to be a divine manifestation of Agni tattwa – the fire element – ​​one of the five primary elements of creation in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. This flame, lit by natural underground gas, represents Agni, the Vedic fire god and elemental force, symbolising purification, transformation, and the perpetual cycle of life and rebirth.

Beyond materialism: Muktinath is the place of enlightenment for Buddhists

In Tibetan Buddhism, Muktinath is known as Chumig Gyatsa, meaning "hundred waters", which refers to the 108 sacred springs that symbolise purification and the merging of the physical and spiritual realms. It holds great significance in Vajrayana Buddhism as one of the 24 Tantric Maha-Peethas, sacred power places associated with the Dakinis, enlightened feminine energies who represent enlightenment, liberation, and spiritual transformation.

According to tradition, Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) – the revered 8th-century tantric master who played a key role in establishing Buddhism in Tibet – visited Muktinath and meditated, due to which it was sanctified as a spiritually powerful place for Tantric experience. The site has long served as a contemplative retreat for Buddhist nuns, locally known as Jhummas, who undergo rigorous spiritual training in the peaceful and ascetic surroundings of the trans-Himalayan landscape.

Located adjacent to the main Muktinath temple, Mharme Lhakhang Gompa is a revered Buddhist monastery that holds immense spiritual significance among Himalayan devotees. This serene temple houses the self-manifested statue of Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, who is worshipped as the second Buddha in Tibetan Buddhism.  According to legend, the image of Padmasambhava appeared spontaneously from the sacred earth, making this gompa a place of miraculous origin and profound tantric power. Pilgrims from Tibet, Bhutan, Ladakh and Sikkim travel long distances to pay homage here, believing that visiting here brings spiritual blessings, karma purification and protection on the path to enlightenment. The gompa's serene atmosphere and sacred relics make it a favourite place for meditation, especially for those engaged in Vajrayana practice and Guru Yoga. Mharme Lhakhang Gompa is an integral part of the spiritual art of Muktinath, symbolising the syncretic harmony between Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism, which defines the sacred character of the site.

Muktinath Temple: Mythological and Historical Heritage

Hindu legends and sacred texts

The Vishnu Purana and the Shiva Purana narrate the touching story of Tulsi (also known as Vrinda), a pious woman whose unwavering purity and devotion became the centre of a cosmic drama involving Lord Vishnu and the demon Jalandhara.  According to legend, Tulsi was the wife of the powerful demon king Jalandhar, whose invincibility in battle stemmed from her pure and loyal heart. In a divine attempt to defeat Jalandhar, Lord Vishnu assumed the form of her husband and deceived Tulsi, thereby violating her chastity and losing her husband's divine protection. Heartbroken by the betrayal, Tulsi cursed Vishnu to be transformed into a black stone – Shaligram – and collapsed in grief, her body transforming into the sacred Tulsi plant, now worshipped in Hindu homes and temples.  This myth symbolises the intertwined destinies of Tulsi and Vishnu, with Tulsi leaves becoming essential offerings in the worship of Vishnu, and the Shaligram stone representing his eternal form. This legend reflects profound themes of devotion, sacrifice, and divine intervention, and is particularly honoured during rituals such as the Tulsi Vivah, where the goddess is formally married to Lord Vishnu. In an act of divine atonement and compassion, Lord Vishnu accepted Tulsi's curse, transforming himself into the Shaligram – a sacred black stone – thereby granting her salvation and eternal spiritual union. This sacred transformation gave birth to the Gandaki River, whose banks are the only natural source of Shaligram stones, fossil ammonites worshipped as aniconic incarnations of Vishnu. This myth not only sanctifies the physical flow of the Gandaki River but also establishes the spiritual significance of its stones, making it a unique confluence of geological wonder and divine manifestation. Devotees believe that each Shaligram symbolizes a specific form of Vishnu, marked with distinct patterns and chakra-like imprints, connecting the sacred geology of the river directly with divine will. Thus, the legend forms the theological basis for Shila Puja, where the physical and the spiritual merge into a singular expression of devotion to the guardian of the universe.

Buddha's Presence in the Himalayas: Stories from Muktinath

According to the Vajrayan tradition, the guru Padmasambhava—venerated as the second Buddha—visited Muktinath during his travels in the Himalayas, where he is believed to have tamed unruly spirits and bound the land’s elemental forces into harmony with Dharma. In classic Buddhist Tantric cosmology, Muktinath is seen as a mandala – a sacred diagram representing the enlightened mind – where fire, water, earth, air, and space are brought into balance through ritual and meditation. The site's convergence of fire (through the eternal flame), water (through the 108 springs) and sacred earth (in the form of fossilised Shaligrams) is interpreted by practitioners as a living expression of tantric alchemy. Padmasambhava's spiritual conquest of this region symbolises the triumph of enlightened knowledge over ignorance, making Muktinath not just a physical destination but a symbolic gateway to inner liberation or moksha. As a result, Tibetan Buddhists consider Muktinath—or Chumig Gyatsa—a pilgrimage mandala, important for advanced practitioners seeking both virtuous and mystical transformation through direct contact with the natural and spiritual energies of the site.

Swaminarayan's Sacred Pilgrimage: Visit to the Divine Muktinath

In the late 18th century, Nilkanth Varni – who later became famous as Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan sect – set out on a solitary and arduous pilgrimage through rugged Himalayan terrain to reach the Muktinath temple. During his stay at Muktinath, Nilkanth Varni meditated for a long period of 21 days, engaging in intense austerity and spiritual practice which is said to have led him to profound revelations about divinity, self-realization and the path to liberation. His time spent in meditative solitude at Muktinath is considered a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey, which deepened his connection to God and laid the foundation for his future teachings and the Swaminarayan tradition. The holy site of Muktinath thus became a revered pilgrimage site for his followers, especially among the Swaminarayan community in Gujarat, India and abroad, who regard the temple as a place of spiritual significance and divine blessings. Swaminarayan's profound experiences at Muktinath have contributed to the temple's enduring significance in the Swaminarayan religion, inspiring many generations of devotees to seek solace, purification and divine insight at this sacred temple.

Muktinath Temple: Where architecture and nature meet in sacred harmony

• The Heart of Muktinath: Exploring the Sacred Temple Complex
  The Muktinath Temple, a spiritual gem nestled in the Himalayas, is built in the traditional pagoda style, a distinctive feature that blends Nepalese design architecture with Tibetan-Buddhist influences, reflecting the rich cultural and religious currents of the region. The temple structure, built of sturdy stone and adorned with gilded copper, exudes a quiet grandeur. Its relatively small size belies its profound spiritual significance for devotees of both Hinduism and Buddhism. Despite its modest scale, the temple's construction is steeped in symbolism, with every element – ​​be it the copper cladding or the intricately designed pagoda roof – representing key aspects of the divine and natural forces honoured by the temple. The temple's pagoda-style architecture, designed to withstand the harsh weather of the Himalayas, is adorned with artistic details that invoke awe, blending Tibetan influence with Nepalese craftsmanship to create a unique and enduring sacred space. Though modest in scale, the Muktinath temple's construction in stone and copper, with its iconic pagoda form, is a testament to the region's deep spiritual heritage, where the sacred and the architectural meet in perfect harmony.
• 108 Mukti Dhara: A sacred journey to liberation through flowing water
  The 108 Mukti Dhara water taps, installed in a beautiful semi-circular structure around the Muktinath temple, depict the deep connection between the 108 Divya Desams of Hinduism and the ancient Upanishadic concept of spiritual liberation through purification of the elements. These 108 sacred water taps, each representing a sacred divine abode from the Divya Desams, flow in a continuous stream, offering pilgrims a chance to experience karmic purification by immersing themselves in the pure water, in line with the Upanishadic teachings of moksha (liberation). Forming a semi-circle around the temple, the 108 Mukti Dhara water taps are more than just architectural features; they are sacred symbols, reflecting the Upanishadic belief in elemental purification and spiritual liberation. Each tap represents one of the 108 divine temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The 108 Mukti Dhara taps are not only an important part of the physical layout of the temple, but are also an expression of the spiritual philosophy of liberation, where the water flowing from each tap symbolically represents liberation from worldly burdens and purification of the soul. Located around the temple, the 108 Mukti Dhara water taps are an integral part of the sacred landscape. They are a tangible representation of the 108 Divya Desams, reflecting the Hindu tradition of seeking spiritual liberation through elemental purification and the divine power of water.
• Mukti Kund: The holy pool blessed by Lakshmi and Saraswati
  Mukti Kund, located at the foot of the Muktinath Temple, is a sacred pond revered for its spiritual significance, believed to be blessed by Goddess Lakshmi and Saraswati, who bestow prosperity, wisdom and grace to those who bathe in its pure waters. Mukti Kund is considered an integral part of the Muktinath pilgrimage. According to local legend, this holy pond is blessed by Lakshmi and Saraswati, who bestow divine blessings of prosperity, education and spiritual purification to those who take a dip in its sacred waters. Surrounded by spiritual symbols, the Mukti Kund at the Muktinath Temple is not just a water body – it is seen as a divine gift from Goddess Lakshmi and Saraswati. Those who take a ritual bath here are said to have their sins washed away and be blessed with wealth, wisdom and spiritual growth.
• Vishnu Paduka: Sacred Footprints of the Divine Presence
  Vishnu Paduka is an awe-inspiring stone bearing the sacred footprints of Lord Vishnu, believed to be a permanent symbol of his divine presence at Muktinath. Swaminarayan is said to have meditated at this spot, and the stone now serves as a revered site for both spiritual seekers and devotees of his teachings.
• Mukteshwar Mahadev: Located near the main Muktinath temple, Mukteshwar Mahadev is a sacred Shiva temple that symbolises the confluence of Shaivite and Vaishnavite traditions, reflecting Nepal's inclusive spiritual heritage where Vishnu and Shiva are worshipped together. Pilgrims often visit the main temple after paying homage at Mukteshwar Mahadev, which symbolises balance and unity between the two major deities of Hinduism - Shiva and Vishnu, both of whom in their respective revered forms, guide souls towards ultimate freedom.

Buddhist monastery and sacred symbols in Muktinath

• Samba Gompa: Samba Gompa is a serene Tibetan Buddhist monastery located near the Muktinath temple complex, dedicated to both Shakyamuni Buddha and Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), who are credited with establishing Vajrayana Buddhism in the Himalayan region. Nestled amid the rugged terrain of Mustang, Samba Gompa offers a peaceful place for contemplation, adorned with vibrant murals, prayer flags and spinning wheels that are reminiscent of centuries-old Himalayan monastic traditions. This serene monastery is a testament to the harmonious co-existence of Hinduism and Buddhism in Muktinath, where the presence of both deities and bodhisattvas reflects the deep spiritual inclusiveness of the region. Inside Samba Gompa, visitors can see beautifully painted thangkas, intricate mandalas, and sacred statues of the Buddha and Padmasambhava, creating a meditative atmosphere filled with spiritual symbolism and tantric wisdom. Pilgrims and trekkers often visit Samba Gompa to light butter lamps and receive blessings, where they experience a gentle blend of devotion, ritual and the quiet power of Himalayan Buddhist practice.
• Narsingh Gompa: Narasimha Gompa is a unique monastery in the Muktinath area that reflects the rich fabric of religious syncretism in Mustang, with Hindu and Bon-Buddhist iconography blended together in a single sacred space. At the centre of the gompa is a fascinating composite iconography representing Narasimha – the lion-faced incarnation of Vishnu – merged with local Bon deities, symbolising the spiritual integration of Vedic and pre-Buddhist Himalayan traditions. The iconography within Narasimha Gompa reflects the harmonious co-existence of two profound belief systems, where fierce protective energies from both Hindu and Bon cosmology are invoked for blessings and protection. This sacred structure serves as a cultural bridge between Hindu pilgrims and Tibetan Buddhists, embodying Mustang's long-standing heritage as a confluence of diverse religions and philosophies. Narasimha Gompa, though small in size, offers powerful insights into the mystical past of the region, where oral legends, animist beliefs and classical theology meet in an enduring spiritual dialogue.

Beyond the temple: The breathtaking landscapes of Muktinath

Mustang's stark, awe-inspiring landscape – defined by wind-sculpted ochre cliffs, deep gorges and high-altitude desert plains – creates a natural amphitheatre around Muktinath, adding to its spiritual appeal. Surrounded by towering Himalayan giants, the temple stands in solemn communion with nature, where silence, space and sanctity blend into profound Himalayan peace. The presence of Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), the world's seventh highest peak, the Annapurna range and the Nilgiri ranges gives the temple's surroundings an ethereal quality, making the visit feel both mythical and spiritual. As the light shifts across the rugged terrain, the colours of the rocks and snowscapes evolve, creating an ever-changing tableau that pilgrims interpret as a divine manifestation. This dramatic interaction between earth and sky fills Muktinath with an atmosphere of otherworldliness, where physical distance reflects the inner quest for liberation and salvation.

Visitor Logistics: Reaching the Sacred Heights of Muktinath Temple

The ways to reach Muktinath Temple are as varied as the travelers who visit it - whether you are a spiritual seeker, a luxury pilgrim or a high-altitude trekker, there is a route to suit your pace and purpose. A journey to Muktinath is about more than just a physical arrival; each route – by air, road or foot – offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters and personal transformation. Be it flying over the majestic Himalayas, walking through rugged mountain paths or trekking on alpine trails, every journey to reach Muktinath becomes a pilgrimage in itself. Muktinath's remote location in the trans-Himalayan belt demands effort, but modern access – via flights, jeeps or trekking routes – has made it accessible to travellers of all levels. No matter how you reach Muktinath – by helicopter for faster access or on foot through the Annapurna Circuit – each route adds to the sanctity of the journey through its difficulties and rewards. The temple’s location at the crossroads of geography and faith ensures that the visit also becomes a deeply spiritual and beautiful prelude to the divine encounter.

Muktinath Tour By Air

• Muktinath by Helicopter Charter

Chartered helicopter flights from Pokhara offer a fast and breathtaking journey to Muktinath, covering the dramatic Himalayan landscape in just 35 minutes. Ideal for time-pressed travellers or those seeking comfort and convenience, this option offers unrivalled aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges while traversing rugged terrain. For pilgrims with limited mobility, elderly devotees or VIPs, this is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach the holy site, providing not only speed but also a spiritually charged visual spectacle from the sky. The helicopter ride becomes a transcendental experience in itself, soaring above deep valleys, glacial rivers and snow-capped peaks before landing in the serene Muktinath Valley. Often chosen by international pilgrims and luxury spiritual travelers, helicopter charter transforms pilgrimage into a seamless union of devotion and adventure. Though it is more expensive, the helicopter route is extremely easy to reach and offers an unforgettable view of Nepal's remote Himalayan region.

• Muktinath Tour By Domestic Flight + Jeep Combo

This popular travel method combines an exciting 20-minute mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom – crossing the dramatic Kali Gandaki Canyon – with a scenic jeep ride through the semi-arid landscape of Mustang to the sacred temple. The flight offers awe-inspiring aerial views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, as well as glimpses of Nepal's unique trans-Himalayan geography. Upon arrival at Jomsom, visitors change into rugged four-wheel-drive vehicles for a scenic 1 to 1.5-hour drive that passes through windswept valleys and the ancient trading post of Kagbeni, known for its traditional mud houses and fluttering prayer flags. The route offers a harmonious blend of accessibility, adventure and cultural immersion, making it ideal for pilgrims and travellers who seek a balance between comfort and an authentic Himalayan experience. With proper acclimatization and stunning high altitude terrain, this trek prepares the pilgrims physically and spiritually for the sanctity of Muktinath.

Muktinath Tour By Road

• Pokhara to Muktinath (7–8 Hours)

For those who prefer a more adventurous journey, the 8 to 9 hour drive from Pokhara to Muktinath offers a fascinating experience of the diverse landscapes of Nepal. The road passes through dramatic terrain ranging from lush valleys to barren areas, with the breathtaking Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges visible in the distance. Along the way, travelers get a glimpse of traditional villages like Marfa, famous for its apple orchards, wineries, and laid-back atmosphere. Apart from the village stops, natural attractions like soothing hot springs and the sacred Shaligram riverbank enrich the journey, offering pilgrims moments of contemplation and ritual. A 4WD vehicle is a must for traversing the rugged and often unpaved trails that wind through rocky cliffs and river crossings, making this a thrilling ride for even the most experienced hiker. As the trek progresses towards Muktinath, the landscape changes dramatically, revealing views that highlight the stunning beauty of Mustang – a region marked by ancient Tibetan influence and mystical energy.

• Kathmandu to Muktinath (16–18 Hours over Two Days)

For those looking for an intense spiritual experience or an adventurous trek through the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, the long journey from Kathmandu to Muktinath is a unique and enchanting pilgrimage. This 16- to 18-hour journey takes travelers through the central heartland of Nepal, offering them the opportunity to witness the natural beauty and diversity of the country's landscapes, from lush valleys to arid, high-altitude regions. Pilgrims often split the journey into two days, staying overnight at Pokhara or Tatopani, where they can rest and refresh themselves before continuing the second leg of their journey towards Muktinath. Although the journey is physically demanding, it allows travelers to experience intimate encounters with local cultures, bustling villages, and sacred sites, as well as traverse the vibrant topography that defines Nepal. The route offers a deep connection to Nepal’s pilgrimage tradition, with every turn evoking a sense of devotion and awe for those on the sacred quest to reach Muktinath. For many, this long journey through the beautiful backdrop of Nepal becomes a transformational experience, where the raw energy of the Himalayas fills both body and soul with new spiritual energy.

Trekking to the Holy Muktinath Temple

• Annapurna Circuit Route (7–8 Days)

For trekking enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper connection with nature, the Annapurna Circuit offers an unforgettable, multi-day pilgrimage to Muktinath. The route passes through ancient pine forests, terraced fields and traditional Tibetan-style villages, with every step offering new views and a rich cultural glimpse of the Annapurna region. As trekkers climb up through the circuit, they gradually approach the legendary Thorong La pass (5,416m), one of the highest points of the trek, Where panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri provide an awe-inspiring reward for their efforts. Descending from Thorong La, the final leg of the trek takes pilgrims to Muktinath, where they can bathe in the holy waters and complete their spiritual journey at one of Nepal's most revered temples. This challenging yet spiritually gratifying trek is not only a physical test but also an intense pilgrimage, where trekkers experience both the natural beauty and sacred energy of the Himalayas, making it one of the most famous high-altitude journeys in the world. The Annapurna Circuit trek to Muktinath offers a unique opportunity for spiritual and personal growth, as trekkers immerse themselves in both the serene natural surroundings and the deep spiritual significance of their destination.

Muktinath Permits:

To visit Muktinath, trekkers need to obtain two essential permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System). These permits are important to ensure the safety and regulation of trekking activities in Nepal's protected areas.

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
  ACAP allows trekkers to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, which covers a large part of the Annapurna region, including the route to Muktinath. The permit helps support conservation efforts in this ecologically diverse and culturally important area.
• TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System):
  The TIMS card acts as a tracking and security measure, ensuring that all trekkers are registered and monitored by the authorities. This card is mandatory for anyone trekking in the Annapurna region and is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board.
• How to Obtain Permits:
  Both ACAP and TIMS cards can be obtained online before the trek or in person at Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The process is straightforward and requires basic identification and a trekking itinerary.
• Cost of Permits:
  The cost of ACAP and TIMS cards varies depending on the trekking season and nationality, but they are generally affordable and contribute to the maintenance of the Annapurna Conservation Area.
• Permit Validity:
  Permits are usually valid for the duration of the trek, with the ACAP being specific to the Annapurna region, and the TIMS card covering general trekking areas in Nepal. It is important to carry both permits at all times during the trek, as they may be checked at various checkpoints along the route.

Best Time to Visit Muktinath Temple

• Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, moderate temperatures (5–15°C), ideal for pilgrimage and trekking.
• Winter (December–February): Sub-zero temperatures and snow offer serene, uncrowded visits but require proper gear.
• Monsoon (June–August): Travel may be hindered by landslides; not ideal.

Cultural Synthesis and Legacy of Muktinath Temple

The Muktinath temple is a profound symbol of religious harmony, where Hindu priests recite Vedic hymns to Lord Vishnu at dawn and Buddhist nuns pray to Tara and Padmasambhava in the afternoon, which reflects Nepal's unique spiritual heritage of shared sanctity and inclusive liberation.