The Muktinath Development Committee has announced the allocation of approximately NPR 400 million for the development of pilgrimage-friendly infrastructure in and around Muktinath and other sacred sites in the region. According to Committee Chairman and Chief District Officer, Bishnu Prasad Bhusal, the allocated budget will be utilized to enhance facilities at Muktinath Temple, Muktinath Ranipauwa Bazaar, Kagbeni, and Damodarkunda, among other important religious destinations.
Bhusal emphasized that the committee aims to ensure better accessibility, improved amenities, and a welcoming environment for pilgrims and visitors. To achieve this, the committee will implement the projects in collaboration with the respective local governments under cost-sharing arrangements.
Partnership with Local Governments
One of the major projects includes the allocation of NPR 100 million in partnership with Baragung Muktikshetra Rural Municipality. This fund will be used for river control works, construction of a ritual site for shraddha ceremonies, and other essential facilities at Kagbeni Dham. Committee Treasurer and Ward Chairperson, Pramesh Gurung, confirmed that the initiative is expected to significantly improve the management of religious activities and visitor convenience in the area.
Similarly, another NPR 100 million has been earmarked for the construction of a well-equipped dharamshala (pilgrims’ rest house) and other supporting infrastructure such as waiting areas and footpaths around Damodarkunda. This project will be executed jointly with Lomanthang Damodarkunda Rural Municipality.
Upgrading Pathways and Community Engagement
The committee has also allocated NPR 120 million to lay stone pavements from the Muktinath entrance gate to Ranipauwa Bazaar. This initiative, implemented in partnership with Baragung Muktikshetra Rural Municipality and the local community, is designed to improve the walking experience of pilgrims and tourists, while preserving the traditional aesthetics of the region.
In addition, the committee has announced plans to produce informative brochures and install hoarding boards to raise awareness about altitude sickness and provide important safety information for visitors. These measures are aimed at ensuring that pilgrims, many of whom come from lowland areas or abroad, can enjoy a safe and comfortable spiritual journey.
Outstanding Payments from Previous Fiscal Year
The Muktinath Development Committee has revealed that it still has outstanding payments amounting to NPR 2,067,321 from the fiscal year 2081/82. The unpaid amount corresponds to expenses already incurred for physical infrastructure development and pilgrimage-friendly facility construction. The committee assured that the pending payments would be settled in due course.
Over NPR 1 Billion Collected in Offerings
The committee has also disclosed that a substantial amount of offerings has been collected over the years. As of now, the committee’s accounts hold NPR 1.03 billion, which has been accumulated through offerings made by devotees in both cash and receipts. These funds are deposited across seven accounts maintained at five different banks and financial institutions.
In addition, foreign currency offerings from Indian and other international tourists are safely stored at the Land Revenue Office and the District Police Office. The reason for this safeguard is the challenge of converting foreign donations into Nepalese currency, which often involves lengthy formalities.
Foreign Currency Awaiting Conversion
According to the committee, foreign currencies yet to be exchanged include USD 918, Malaysian Ringgit 150, Canadian Dollar 100, Singapore Dollar 15, Australian Dollar 200, and Indian Rupees 1,701,548. The Indian currency, in particular, remains in custody at the District Police Office due to regulatory restrictions on exchange. The committee is coordinating with concerned authorities to facilitate the conversion process.
Annual Expenditure Report
In the fiscal year 2081/82 alone, the Muktinath Development Committee spent NPR 2,267,582 across 21 expenditure headings. These included staff salaries, computer and stationery expenses, tax submissions, and other administrative and operational costs. The committee has highlighted that a significant portion of its expenditure continues to be directed toward ensuring smooth management, infrastructural upgrades, and the overall betterment of facilities for pilgrims.
Promoting Religious Tourism in Nepal
The initiatives of the Muktinath Development Committee reflect a broader national push to develop religious tourism in Nepal. With Muktinath being one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists, the development of modern yet culturally sensitive infrastructure is expected to attract more domestic and international visitors.
The committee believes that with better roads, improved rest houses, safe walking pathways, and informative facilities, Muktinath can strengthen its position as a spiritual destination of global significance. At the same time, the development projects aim to provide economic opportunities for local communities through cost-sharing partnerships and active involvement in implementation.
