Introduction
Mukthinath or Gandaki Shakthi peeth is the temple where Sati’s Right Cheek has fallen. Devi Sati is worshipped as Gandakichandi (one who overcomes obstacles or Gandi) and Lord Shiva as Chakrapani. (one who holds discus).
Location
Mukthinath Shakthi peeth is located in Nepal near the banks of the River Gandaki. The temple is about 125 kms from Pokhara. Non Nepalis have to take a visa grant to visit this temple. Nearest airport is from Kathmandu to Pokhara and from Pokhara to Jomsom. From Jomsom, pilgrims either trek upto the temple or hire private vehicles. Personal vehicles are not allowed, but quite a few buses ply from major cities in India to the temple. March to June is the best time to visit the temple due to weather conditions.
Other places of tourist attraction
Balmiki Ashram : Sita Mata stayed here after she was exiled from Ayodhya. Sita mata also gave birth to Lava and Kush here.
Other places are:
Damodar Himal, Damodar Kunda, Devghat are some of the ancient temples which attracts devotees.
The temple
Mukthinath Shakthi Peeth built in Pagoda style is an ancient temple. Mukthinath temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3800 meters. The temple is one among the eight most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The other seven temples are Srirangam, Srimushnam, Tirupathi, Namisharanya, Todatri, Pushkar and Badrinath. The tall idol of Lord Vishnu is made of gold. In the courtyard of the temple is a pond in which water from 108 bull faces fall into the pond. The water from 108 bull faces is believed to be from all 108 Sri Vaishnav temples including the seven most sacred Vishnu temples. There are 108 water springs near the temple.
The temple is sanctified with the flowing of the River Gandaki. Shaligram stones are found in the depths of the River Gandaki.
Puranic Reference
There is mention of Mukthinath temple in Vishnu Purana.
The Shaligram which is required for building Lord Vishnu temple is formed due to the water flowing downstream along River Kali Gandaki at Mukthinath. People who take bath in the stream are said to wash away all their sins and attain salvation.
Festivals
Navaratri is celebrated for nine days during Chaitra masa (March- April) and Ashvija masa (Sep- Oct). Special pujas and Yagnas are offered to Gandaki Devi during Navaratri. Shivaratri is also another festival celebrated with great fervour.
MAA GANDAKI GANDAKI TEMPLE MUKTHINATH TEMPLE
