Dixya Poudel

In the bustle of work, study and home, most of us are likely to be distraught. Therefore, it is necessary to take a respite from daily stresses and travelling is one of the best ways to reinvigorate from the humdrum of life. Wanderlust is a wish to travel to new places so that one can reconnect with oneself. Further, new places inspire us with natural sceneries, views and vistas.

A while ago, I travelled to Muktinath temple with my mother and relatives. We travelled in the midst of the autumn season which meant clear skies. It took us hours to reach Jomsom even though we had started early on. The sights were stunning although the roads were rather frightening. Every now and then there were dents in the roads which seemed to drastically call for repair. While the roads seemed daunting and we had to wait out the traffic, the struggles of the drive were appeased by the natural sceneries.

And isn’t it surprising that the most beautiful of places are located at the remotest areas of the world? It certainly applies to Muktinath temple which is situated at the base of Thorong La mountain pass in the remote district of Mustang. It is known as one of the world’s highest temples since it is situated at the altitude of 3,710 meters. Revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, the temple is set among views of mountains and invites thousands of visitors yearly.

In Hindu religion, Muktinath is considered a Mukti Kshetra which stands for “a place of liberation (moksha).” Likewise, it is one of the Char Dhams or “four pilgrimages” in Nepal. As such, the way to Muktinath temple is quite windy with a dip in mercury. One has to climb steep stairs to reach the temple and once in the temple, one can bathe in the ponds and taps which is considered sacred. The visit to the temple is said to purify one’s soul.
I have realised that every now and then one must spend time in nature. Nature is certainly awe-inspiring and the breadth of its serenity is unparalleled. The remote areas are largely undisturbed by human activities and are in a pristine state unlike the urban life. Thus, travelling to such places is a way to connect to nature. People have always loved to travel while taking pictures to keep as memories. And, Nepal is famous as a tourist’s destination. It has been named one of the ten best destinations to travel in 2022.

While Nepal has been attributed with thriving international tourism throughout the past few decades, internal tourism is lately seeing a rise too. Nepali youth love to travel to remote places so as to connect with their heritage and better understand their roots. Travelling certainly broadens the mind while also inspiring the travellers. Since Nepal has a lot of potential in tourism, it is necessary to invest in the infrastructures such as roads so that journeys are facilitated.

Through my travel to Muktinath, I have come to realise the natural splendour of Nepal and how hospitable people are. New places certainly bring with them feelings of thrill and joys while extending one’s comfort zones. As Matthew Karsten has said, “Investment in travel is an investment in yourself.”