Muktinath, Mustang (June 8, 2025): The revered Damodar Kunda, a sacred site for Hindu and Buddhist devotees, has been officially reopened for pilgrimage and tourism. Nestled at an altitude of 4,890 meters in Upper Mustang’s Lomanthang Damodar Kunda Rural Municipality, this remote spiritual destination has once again become a hub of activity since its reopening on May 3.
The Dhana Annapurna Damodar Kunda Committee has streamlined access to the pilgrimage site, ensuring visitors receive route information and essential services. Hariram Chaudhary, a constable from Surkhang Police Post, reported a notable increase in daily visitors, affirming that the police provide regular patrols and rescue services for those facing difficulties. “Our team is ready to assist pilgrims encountering challenges during their journey,” Chaudhary said.
Facilities for Pilgrims
The rural municipality, in collaboration with the committee, offers free food and accommodation at key points like Ghimithanti and Damodar Kunda itself. For travelers unable to make the trek on foot, horseback transport is available, costing up to NPR 10,000 per horse for the round trip. The committee has also ensured emergency medical assistance for altitude sickness, adding a layer of safety for pilgrims and tourists.
The area is accessible via road to Ghimithanti, from where the journey continues on foot or horseback. A 50-capacity guest house at the site provides resting facilities for visitors.
Restricted Zone Regulations
As a restricted zone, Damodar Kunda has unique entry requirements for non-Nepalese visitors. Indian and third-country tourists must pay a USD 500 permit fee for a 10-day visit. Despite these restrictions, the site attracts approximately 5,000 visitors annually.
Spiritual Significance and Natural Beauty
Damodar Kunda holds profound religious and ecological importance. Known as the source of the Kali Gandaki River, the site is famed for the Shaligram Shila, a sacred stone found only in this river. According to ancient beliefs, bathing in the Kunda absolves sins, a practice historically linked to the son of Kubera, the god of wealth.
The site features three distinct reservoirs: Chakra Kunda, Dudha Kunda, and Tama Kunda. The main reservoir, Chakra Kunda, is a spiritual focal point where visitors often meditate and perform rituals. The pristine natural beauty of the area, combined with its religious significance, draws pilgrims predominantly between May and October, with most visitors preferring the summer months due to extreme cold during the later season.
Promoting Pilgrimage Tourism
The reopening of Damodar Kunda underscores its potential as a hub for pilgrimage tourism, offering a unique blend of spirituality and natural wonder. The local authorities and the Dhana Annapurna Damodar Kunda Committee remain committed to enhancing the visitor experience while preserving the sanctity and ecological balance of this sacred site.
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