Jomsom Muktinath Trek Overview
Trekking to Jomsom Muktinath is an exciting trek within the Annapurna and Mustang regions of Nepal. It’s one of the most important pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. The trek guarantees visitors an exquisite landscape of natural beauty, great Himalayan scenery, and unique tribal culture.
On the Jomsom Muktinath Trek, you will have the chance to stroll around the apple orchards in Marpha village and taste the special wine and apple products. During the Muktinath pilgrimage, you can also meditate at monasteries and gompas, with the flapping prayer flags overhead.
Muktinath lies about 18 km northeast of Jomsom within the Mustang district of Nepal at an elevation of 3,749 meters. As part of the trek, you will walk along the Kaligandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge on earth. The trek takes you through agricultural areas, showcasing an authentic picture of real Nepal.
We begin our 14-day tour in Kathmandu, visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Bauddhanath Stupa, Swayambunath Temple, and Patan City. The next day, we head to Pokhara by bus and then proceed to the Muktinath pilgrimage trek, blending local culture with delightful trekking adventure in Nepal.
We will make your trekking adventure in Nepal even better than you have imagined. We hope to see you soon!
Jomsom Muktinath Trek Overview
- A remarkable fusion of two iconic Annapurna treks: the classic Annapurna Circuit and the demanding Tilicho Lake trek.
- Discover the expansive Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal, a sanctuary of diverse landscapes.
- Explore the picturesque village of Manang, a well-known acclimatization stop along the Annapurna Circuit trek.
- Test your limits on the rewarding trek to Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world accessible by foot.
- Savor breathtaking views of some of the world's most renowned peaks, including Mt. Annapurna, Nilgiri, Chulu, Tukuche, Dhaulagiri, and Lamjung.
- Visit the historic Braga Monastery, the largest in the region, and soak in the serene ambiance of Tibetan Buddhist culture
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Gurung and Magar communities as you journey along the Annapurna trekking trail.
- Trek through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.
- Ascend the legendary Thorong La Pass, one of the world's highest accessible passes, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
- Explore Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site cherished by both Hindus and Buddhists, and connect with its deep spiritual significance.
- Enjoy a captivating flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, providing an unforgettable aerial view of the majestic Annapurna Himalayan Range.
- Take the chance to unwind and rejuvenate in Pokhara after completing the Annapurna Tilicho Lake trek.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Overview
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, we offer you pick up facility from the airport and manage your stay at the most comfortable hotel in the city. You get to meet the team of trekkers and together we prepare for the trek.
Today would be the most exhilarating day where you will be introduced to the most pious Hindu and Buddhist religious place that is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage sites and elucidates you to the entire mysticism over its existence Pashupatinath temple, Boudhanath stupa, Patan Durbar Square and Swayambhunath stupa.
Our trip will start with a tourist bus of around 6 to 7 hours through lush green forests meandering road through the hill and gracefully flowing riverside. We can also explore the lakes like Phewa and also we can explore caves and vibrant streets of Pokhara. We can also enjoy the evening time walk to the lakeside. Stay overnight in Pokhara.
The morning flies Pokhara to Jomsom (2,800m), then we will walk to reach the beautiful village of Kagbeni (3,100m). Stay overnight at Kagbeni.
Today there will be mostly uphill climbing. We will start the trek walking towards Jharkot. We walk ahead until finally reaching Muktinath. The place is of religious importance to both Hindus and Buddhists. People take Muktinath as the God of salvation. There are many other temples around the area. People take bath in the 108 water sprouts with the belief that it will cleanse away sins and consider the water holy. We explore the area and spend the night at Muktinath.
Muktinath is a famous pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists alike. In the morning, we pay our visit to a Vishnu Temple and a Gompa. Descending from Ranipauwa village down the steep and barren hillside, we tumble down toward Kagbeni and then to Jomsom finally arriving at Marpha. The trail today is quite surreal as we trek along a plateau above Kali Gandaki River, the world’s deepest gorge. The barren landscape of this area resembles Tibet. Marpha is also famous as the apple capital of Nepal where one can enjoy different items made from apple. The local apple brandy of Marpha is famous all over Nepal. Stay overnight at Marpha.
The trekking trail descends steeply through forests to Ghasa, the last Thakali village and the southernmost limit of Tibetan Buddhism. The beginning part of the trail is stretched at almost flat level up to KaloPani and then the trail begins descending steeply to Ghasa. The first part of the trek passes through the windy area covered with pine forests, rhododendron forests and birches are seen. The surrounding area of Ghasa is a famous destination for bird watching. Here you are quite amazed at the panoramic view of Mount Nilgiri North(7,061m), Nilgiri South(6,839m), Annapurna (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Tukuche peak (6,920m). Stay overnight at Ghasa.
The trekking trail descends steeply up to Rupse Chhahara (Rupse Waterfall) which is amazing to look and enjoying the beauty. There is the deepest gorge of the world between two mountains Annapurna (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m) facing each other near Rupse Waterfall. Now the trail ascends slightly to Tatopani (1,190m) through different human settlements. You can enjoy the hot spring at Tatopani as the word Tatopani is termed after the natural hot spring situated at the bank of Kali Gandaki River. It is popularly believed that taking a bath in a hot spring helps you to get rid of skin diseases. Stay overnight at Tatopani.
We move from the Kali Gandaki and head up the Ghar Khola valley. The stream leads us through a terraced farmland with mountains all around. We pass through the villages of Shikha and Chitre before reaching a prettiest rhododendron forest. When in bloom the rhododendron trees with its average height of up to 100" will be covered with pink or red flowers. Walking further we reach Ghorepani, a beautiful village located at a ridge top. Stay overnight at Ghorepani.
To capture the sunrise over the Himalayas, we make an early morning climb along the steep trail to the viewpoint of Poon Hill (3,210m), the most popular trekking destination of the Annapurna region. It is also a beautiful viewpoint to enjoy the amazing views of Mustang, Pokhara and more than 20 of the highest mountains including the close-up views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The snowy peaks of the high mountains loom above and around us glowing in the morning light. Stay overnight at Hille.
You will enjoy the beautiful hill landscape of western Nepal on the way to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara. Stay overnight at Pokhara.
Today is for sightseeing around Pokhara valley (Devi’s falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Bindabasini Temple, Seti Gorge, Mountain Museum, Boating in Fewa lake). Free afternoon for optional activities such as paragliding, Avia flight, Bungee Jump. Stay overnight at Hotel in Pokhara.
On this day we have our breakfast by 6:00 a.m. in the morning and head towards tourist Bus Park and board a tourist bus back to Kathmandu. The bus ride will take around 7 hours through curvy roads of hilly terrain with a couple of breaks in between for snacks and lunch. There will be a farewell dinner (Nepali Food) to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.
Your wonderful adventure in Nepal comes to an end today. We wish you all the best. A representative will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
Cost Includes & Excludes
Cost Includes
- Pick up and drop off from and to International airport.
- 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and 3 nights in Pokhara & tea house during the trek.
- 3 nights’ hotel in Pokhara.
- Annapurna Conservation Park permit.
- TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card.
- All land transportation by bus/car.
- Flight ticket Pokhara - Jomsom.
- Accommodation in tea houses/lodges, twin sharing.
- 3 meals a day: breakfast, lunch, dinner during the trek (anything from the menu).
- Sightseeing car A/C with driver.
- Farewell dinner at a Nepalese cultural restaurant in Kathmandu.
- All taxes and company service charge.
Cost Excludes
- Nepal visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport-sized photographs).
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Monument site entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu.
- Excess baggage charges.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, and earlier return from the mountain (for any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- Travel and rescue insurance.
- Personal expenses (phone calls, internet/Wi-Fi, laundry, bar bills – tea/coffee, hot chocolate, juice, beer, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled or boiled water, shower, etc.).
- Tips for guides and porters (tipping is expected but not compulsory).
Packing List of Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
Clothing:
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Fleece jacket or sweater
- Trekking trousers
- Trekking shirts (moisture-wicking)
- Warm gloves and inner gloves
- Beanie or thermal hat
- Sunhat or cap
- Gaiters (for snow or mud)
Footwear:
- Trekking boots (waterproof with good ankle support)
- Comfortable camp shoes or sandals
- Trekking socks (wool or synthetic)
Accessories:
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Headlamp (with extra batteries)
- Trekking poles
- Water bottles or hydration bladder
- Buff or scarf (for dust and cold protection)
- Power bank
Personal Gear:
- Sleeping bag (rated for -15°C or lower)
- Duffel bag (carried by porters)
- Daypack (for personal items)
Toiletries and First Aid:
- Sunscreen and lip balm (high SPF)
- Personal medications
- Basic first aid kit
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes and tissue paper
Miscellaneous:
- Passport and necessary permits
- Cash (for tips and personal expenses)
- Camera and spare batteries
- Energy bars or snacks
FAQs
The Jomsom Muktinath trek is considered moderately difficult, suitable for individuals with average fitness levels. The trek spans around 56 kilometers over 5-6 days, reaching a maximum altitude of approximately 3,800 meters. While the altitude gain is gradual, trekkers should be mindful of the risk of altitude sickness. The trail offers diverse landscapes and stunning mountain views. Proper physical preparation, consulting with a local trekking agency, and carrying essential gear are recommended for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
On the Jomsom Muktinath trek, you can expect to walk for approximately 5 to 6 hours per day, covering a distance of about 12-15 kilometers. The trek typically begins around 7:30 AM after breakfast, with a lunch break around 1 PM. The goal is to reach the next destination by approximately 3:00 PM. However, these timings can vary depending on your pacing, trail conditions, and the specific itinerary set by your guide or trekking agency.
The accommodation on the Jomsom Muktinath trek primarily consists of tea houses, which are simple lodges or guesthouses along the trekking route. These tea houses provide basic amenities, typically offering twin-sharing beds or single beds in clean and comfortable rooms. While facilities may vary, you can expect beds with blankets, pillows, and basic furnishings. Some tea houses have attached bathrooms, while others have shared facilities. Hot showers may be available for an additional cost. Tea houses offer a rustic and cozy experience, but they may not have the same level of luxury as urban hotels, making them a convenient and authentic option for trekkers.
In case of an emergency, our guides are well-trained in managing altitude sickness and other medical situations. If needed, the guide will contact the insurance office and our team for rescue assistance, provided the insurance covers evacuations. We prioritize your safety and will take necessary steps to ensure the best possible response during an emergency.
The Jomsom Muktinath trek can be done year-round due to its location in a rain-shadow area. However, the best times to trek are during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) for favorable weather and clear views. The monsoon season (June to August) is possible but brings more rain and muddy trails, while winter (December to February) is colder and may involve snowfall. It’s always a good idea to check weather forecasts and consult local experts for the most up-to-date information before your trek.
Essential Info
Physical Fitness
Many people have questions as to what level of physical fitness is required for visiting Nepal, and that is extremely reliant on what activity the visitor is engaging in. With that said, for a standard trek of moderate grading (Everest Base Camp Trek is an example of moderate) the daily activity will be 7-8 hours, and elevation will generally not exceed 5,500 meters. The day’s trekking is sustained and will involve both long steep climbs, and descents with a variety of terrain underfoot from well-trodden paths, to rocks covered with ice or snow. A typical day would include a number of climbs or descents of 500 meters or more, starting after breakfast, resting at lunch, then continuous trekking until arriving at the teahouse.
In preparation for the trek, it is important to begin a training requirement at least 4 months before departing for Nepal. Three to four hours of aerobic exercise like running, walking, swimming, cycling & some gym work per week is the minimum and most will find it beneficial to add some basic strength training to their physical fitness routine. One of the best ways to prepare is to take practice hikes with a daypack roughly the same weight as what you will be taking on the trek. Do this only after a baseline of fitness has been reached. Moving fast is not the end goal, rather endurance is the focus, and will provide a more enjoyable and safe adventure.
Trekking Seasons in Nepal
There are two main seasons in which Nepal sees the most amount of visitors. Fall (September through November) being the most popular, and spring (March to May) coming in close behind. The summer months of June, July and August are the monsoon season and as such the trails are mostly washed out, and roads can sometimes be impassible due to landslide activates. Not to mention the view is non-existent. Still, there are a few places that lie in rain shadow areas and see significantly less rain if any at all, and summer can be a good time to visit these places.
Winter in Nepal is dry, with very cold nights where temperatures can drop to -20°C at the highest altitudes, but the days are pleasant and sunny. Additionally, the trails are much less crowded during this time of year. In Kathmandu, maximum daytime temperatures reach around 20°C.
Fall is the most popular because it’s after the monsoons, and the air is dry, the days are sunny, and everything is green in the lower valleys from the excessive rains. Spring is a popular choice because some rain returns, but the weather is generally warm and dry, and flowers are in bloom in the lower elevations.
Trekking Day
A typical trekking day begins with a cup of tea at around 6 in the morning. It is advised to pack your trekking gears in a duffle bag and essential supplies in your day pack in these early hours. After having breakfast, we begin the trek and head along the trail at around 8 am. The morning walk is designed to be longer as we begin with refreshed bodies and enthusiasm. Following a good morning’s walk, we make stop for lunch at around 11.30 am. The lunch involves group meals enjoying the vicinity around the stop. You can explore the surrounding or use the time according to your own consent. After resting for about an hour or two, we resume our trek to reach teahouse or camp by 3-4 pm. The afternoon walk is relatively shorter and can involve games and side trips as organized by the trekking guides. You also can enjoy breaks during the trek to relax, read or stroll around the area. You can converse with the local people and observe their lifestyle. Dinner is served around 7 in the evening to round off the day.
Meals and Accommodations
During the length of the trek, the accommodation style is commonly referred to as teahouse. These are family-run basic lodges that fill the role of the restaurant, meeting place, and boarding house for tourists. Electricity can be found in the rooms, which means one light bulb, and one or two outlets for charging electronics. The common areas are also lit by electricity. Teahouses may use solar, hydroelectric, or have electrical lines running into the village, so the commonality and availability of electricity may vary.
Most teahouses have private rooms, though if the trek is in a more remote or high altitude place dormitories are the norm. Each room has 1 or 2 single beds with basic bedding, and the bathroom is shared. Expect a mix of western and squat style toilets in the bathrooms.
Breakfast and dinner are taken at the teahouse and these lodges have large family style dining rooms centered on a stove to provide heat. The menu will have Nepali style western foods such as pasta, pizza, pancakes, burgers, and fries. Also on the menu is the traditional Dal Bhat meal. This is a lentil soup with rice and vegetable or meat curry. Most menus will also offer a smattering of local cuisine.
Internal Flight Delays
Nepal is an incredible country of mountains and valleys, rivers and green rolling hills. With this incredible diversity of landscapes, road travel can be extremely time consuming and flights within Nepal to reach popular trekking destinations is a must. Along with this mountainous terrain also comes the possibility of in climate weather. Not to mention the incredibly high number of visitors during peak seasons makes internal flight delays a very real possibility. To manage this possibility, it may be helpful to have a few extras days on either end of your tour. If any cancellations or flight delays do occur (high chances of flight delays from around Kathmandu to Lukla, Everest region), we also provide services to arrange helicopter to help you to be on your schedule on the premises of Civil Aviation Rules in Nepal which state that helicopters can fly if the visibility is 1500m. The cost ranges from USD350 to USD650 according to the number of passengers. The payment can be made either to the helicopter company or to us directly and can be made either by cash or using a credit card. It will also be helpful to purchase and review your insurance as some of the alternative measures for travel may be covered. Flight insurance too may cover changing your international flight if necessary.
Travel Insurance
Many expeditions and tours require that travel insurance is purchased prior to arriving in Nepal, but other treks and tours may not. However, travel insurance is definitely an important consideration. There are a number of reasons to consider insurance. Firstly, it may be required, so check to see what is being asked for by the company. Second, Nepal is a landlocked country, and there are few direct flights. Travel in and out can encounter some disruptions and if purchasing insurance, make sure flight delays and cancellations are included. The next reason to choose insurance is that, though every safeguard is in place during your tour, there are always extenuating circumstances that may result in an accident. Read the fine print of insurance policies to ensure trekking or any other activity you are engaging in is covered, as some policies have stopped covering trekking in certain places. It is impossible to have a relaxing trip without the comfort of good insurance, so do the research and choose carefully.
Nepal Visa Entry Procedure
For entry into Nepal, there are visa requirements everyone (except Indian nationals) must complete before being allowed to pass through immigration. This is for air travel as well as overland transportation. Most visitors may obtain a visa to enter Nepal, however, there are exceptions.
Three options are available for entry
15-day single entry: US $30
30-day single entry: US $50
90-day multiple entries: US $125
Please have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry, and have cash ready, preferably in US dollars, though there are other currencies Nepal Immigration accepts. If you are entering via overland, you must have US cash and 3 passport photos. For arrival by air, the kiosks at the airport take your picture for you.
For the most up to date list of exceptions for visa on arrival or to obtain the most current visa information, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
Acute Mountain Sickness is usually seen in un-acclimatized people shortly after ascent to high altitudes. The condition occurs due to the thinning of air as the altitude increases. The condition, if not taken seriously and treated immediately, can be life-threatening and its symptoms can be seen generally above 3000 meters. Some of the symptoms of AMS are nausea, vomiting, tiredness, shortness of breath and cerebral pain. The treks are designed to properly acclimatize you to the change in high altitude climate and sufficient precautionary measures too are taken to take utmost caution. We also equip our staffs with cell phones and satellite phones in occurrence of any emergency cases. We are greatly driven to keep the safety and security of our clients as our foremost concern.
Drinking Water
Water is essential for life, and clean water is imperative while on holiday. When choosing to visit less developed countries it is a concern that all travelers should consider. A few options are available when trekking or traveling in Nepal that will mitigate any chances of drinking contaminated water which could cause disruption of an otherwise fun adventure. The first consideration to take into account is that tap water should not be ingested. That even means when brushing your teeth. Most will choose to buy bottled water and if doing so make sure the cap has not been opened previously. Plastic bottle refuse is a problem, and with that being said there are other options on the market to assist in making water drinkable. Your local outdoor store can help with choosing what option might be best to use in conjunction with a reusable bottle. Your guide can also steer you to water that has been filtered and purified so ask him or her what is available.
Arrival Instruction
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives are stationed to welcome you to the country. We request you to carefully look for your name being held by our representatives following the events upon landing. The representatives are responsible to escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will see men offering you to carry luggage and take you to your destination as you exit the airport. We request you pay no attention to these people and follow the designated representatives and follow their instructions. You will also need to keep an eye on your luggage and belongings to avoid any complications.
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