Two Indian youths reach Muktinath on skates, bicycle

By Harikrishna Sharma,Muktinath (Mustang), Dec. 27: With freezing temperatures sweeping the area, only sparse traffic moves along the route to Muktinath. Walking in the morning and evening is difficult, and the water flowing on the road has frozen, making travel risky for both pedestrians and vehicles.

Despite these harsh conditions, two youths from neighbouring India have reached Mustang after travelling for 318 days on skates and a bicycle to promote religious tourism.

Roshan and Ajay KD, from Bihar State of India, began their journey by visiting India’s four major Hindu pilgrimage sites -- Jagannath, Rameshwaram, Kedarnath and Badrinath.

They then travelled to Nepal to visit Pashupatinath in Kathmandu and Muktinath in Mustang. Locals welcomed them on their arrival.

The two youths entered Mustang on the 318th day of their journey. Roshan said they planned to visit Muktinath Temple on Friday morning and then conclude their pilgrimage.

“After visiting Muktinath, our journey will be complete. Young people must contribute to promoting religious sites,” he said.

According to them, there is a strong belief among Hindus in India that one earns religious merit only after visiting Nepal’s Pashupatinath and Muktinath temples at least once.

Although skating on icy roads during winter is risky, the team travelled carefully via Beni-Jomsom and reached Muktinath through Kagbeni. Pilgrims along the route also welcomed them.

Ajay said they would cherish the support and cooperation they received from people in Nepal during their journey. “We will also contribute to promoting Nepal’s religious destinations. Religion and culture connect Nepal and India,” they said.

During their religious journey, they also visited several Buddhist sites in Nepal, including the birthplace of Lord Buddha.