What is the story about?
A new direct bus service linking Beni Municipality in Nepal to New Delhi, India, was inaugurated on February 4, 2023, to facilitate pilgrims traveling
to the revered Muktinath shrine. This initiative aims to streamline the journey for both Hindu and Buddhist devotees visiting the ancient temple. The Muktinath Temple, located in the Mustang district of Nepal, is a significant pilgrimage site for worshippers of both faiths, dedicated to the deities Vishnu and Avalokitesvara. The service, launched by Modern Era Tours and Travels and Sristi Yatayat Pvt Ltd, aims to enhance connectivity and promote tourism between the two countries.
Details of the Bus Service
The Nepal-India Friendship Bus Service was inaugurated by Beni Municipality Mayor Surat Kesi, with Deputy Mayor Jyoti Lamichhane providing insights into its operational details. The bus departs daily from Beni Kalipul Bus Park, traveling through Syangja, Waling, Bhairahawa, Ayodhya, and Agra before reaching New Delhi.This new route is expected to significantly reduce travel time and costs for pilgrims, who previously faced lengthy and complex journeys involving multiple transfers. The service will take approximately 27 hours to cover the distance of about 1,400 kilometers.
Convenience for Pilgrims
The fare for the journey from Beni to New Delhi is set at NPR 5,400, while the return fare from New Delhi to Beni is INR 3,200. Each bus has a seating capacity of 45 passengers, and daily departures are scheduled at 6:45 AM from Beni and 4:00 PM from New Delhi.Upon arrival in Beni, travelers can reach the Muktinath Temple by jeep, taxi, or local bus within three to four hours. This convenience is expected to attract more visitors to the sacred site, which sits at an altitude of 3,710 meters near the Thorong La Pass.
Broader Implications
Officials believe that the bus service will not only benefit Indian pilgrims but also Nepalese citizens traveling to India for educational, employment, or medical purposes. Passengers are required to carry valid identification documents, although passports are not necessary for the journey.Transport entrepreneur Ain Bahadur Shahi estimates that over 100,000 Indian tourists visit Muktinath annually, and this new service is anticipated to further boost those numbers by providing a more accessible and efficient travel option.
