Muktinath & Pashupatinath Special Meditation retreat by Dr. Archika Didi
The divine temple holds importance in both Hinduism and Buddhism. The main shrine of Muktinath is considered as one of the eight most sacred shrines in Hinduism. The centuries old temple is believed to be the place visited by Lord Vishnu. In 1818, Tibetan Yogi, Shabkar also visited this place and spent few days here, connecting with the divine. The construction of the temple was overseen by the Nepali queen, Sabarna Prabha.
From the very name, it is clear that ‘Mukti’ means salvation. The place is believed to provide salvation to the believers. In the backyard of the temple, there are 108 waterspouts that continuously flow with frozen water, out of a bull’s head. Taking bath in these waterspouts is believed to provide salvation from birth and rebirth.
It is also referred to as ‘mukti-kshetra’ and legend has it that several people visit the place after death! It is said that souls visit here to achieve salvation or Mukti.
In Hinduism, Muktinath is a representation of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Lord Shiva and Jalandhar battled for supremacy at this place. It is also believed that Guru Rinpoche, founder of Tibetan Buddhism meditated at this place. Another famous legend is associated with death of Sati, at this place. It is from the legend of Sati, that the place derives its name. Lord Shiva wandered with the dead body of Sati and also visited this place. It is a “Shakti Peeth”. It is believed to provide “mukti” or salvation from one’s deeds.
Participation in Muktinath & Pashupatinath Yatra
