Nepal Names and Spellings · Names

Are Muktinath, Muktidham and Mukthinath the same place?

By Base Camp Tours, licensed Nepal travel agency (Tourism License 3121/080) · Updated · 1 min read

The short answer

Yes. Muktinath, Muktidham, Mukthinath, Mukti Nath and Muktinaath all refer to the sacred temple area in Mustang, close to Ranipauwa, at the foot of the Thorong La side. In Hindu tradition it is often called Mukti Kshetra, a place of liberation, and it is linked with Vishnu. For Tibetan Buddhists it is known as Chumig Gyatsa, meaning a hundred waters.

Because it is one place with two traditions, the names change with the person speaking and the script used. If you see one of these names on a package or a hotel, it is almost always the same Muktinath. The temple name does not refer to the Muktinath village names nearby, such as Ranipauwa or Jharkot, which are separate stops.

Key facts

Same place
Muktinath, Muktidham, Mukthinath
Hindu name
Mukti Kshetra
Buddhist name
Chumig Gyatsa
Nearby
Ranipauwa, Jharkot

How it works

  1. Match the nameTreat them as one place.
  2. Check the villageRanipauwa is the usual base.
  3. Read the temple pageSee the significance and rules.
  4. Plan the routeFlight or jeep.

Insider tip

Search the guide for any of these spellings to reach the Muktinath chapter.

Avoid this

Do not book a stay by name alone; confirm it is Ranipauwa near the temple.

Related questions

Is Muktidham a different temple?

No. It is another way to say Muktinath, used often in Hindi.

Is it in Nepal?

Yes, in the Mustang district of western Nepal.

Quick trip match

Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds

Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.

Keep reading

More guides to explore

Talk to a planner

Tell us the dates. We will draw the route.

Send your dates, group size and budget. A planner replies with a route, hotels and a clear price, free and with no obligation.

  • Licensed agency, Tourism License 3121/080
  • Own full-time guides and drivers
  • Private and customised departures