Trip Code: | JPT |
Trip Duration: | 12 days |
Max. Altitude: | 3862M |
Grade: | Strenuous |
Program Type: | Holy Trekking |
Trek Start Point: | Jomsom |
Trek End Point: | Jomsom |
Accommodation: | Tea house |
Meals: | Breakfast/Lunch and Dinner |
Mode of Travel: | Trekking |
Transportation: | Air/Bus/Car |
Minimum Pax: | 5 |
Best season: | March/April or September/October |
The Jomsom Muktinath Trek is one of the most popular and spiritually significant treks in Nepal. This 13-day journey takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the Mustang region, weaving together breathtaking mountain vistas, rich cultural experiences, and sacred religious sites. The trek culminates at the revered Muktinath Temple, a pilgrimage site sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Whether you are a seasoned trekker, a cultural enthusiast, or a spiritual traveler, this trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty, traditional lifestyles, and profound spirituality.
Spanning roughly 13 days, the Jomsom Muktinath Trek combines two classic routes: the scenic and cultural route from Pokhara to Jomsom, and the pilgrimage route to Muktinath. The trek is moderately challenging, with altitudes ranging from around 2,700 meters in Jomsom to about 3,800 meters near Muktinath. Along the way, trekkers cross rugged gorges, desert-like landscapes, and lush green valleys.
This trek is known for its relative accessibility—Jomsom can be reached by a short flight from Pokhara, which adds convenience and reduces trekking time. However, trekking the entire route on foot allows for deeper exploration of local culture and nature. The path passes through a variety of villages, each with its own traditions, architecture, and customs.
The trek is situated in the western region of Nepal, primarily within the Mustang District of the Gandaki Province. Starting from Pokhara, the route follows the Kali Gandaki River valley northwards, passing through the district headquarters, Jomsom. From Jomsom, the trail ascends to the sacred site of Muktinath, located at the foot of the Thorong La pass.
This region lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal’s largest protected area, which preserves the unique ecology and cultural heritage of the Mustang and Annapurna regions. Geographically, the trail is notable for the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world, flanked by towering peaks like Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m).
The communities along the Jomsom Muktinath route are culturally diverse. The primary ethnic groups include Thakalis, Gurungs, Brahmins, and Tibetans, each contributing to the region’s rich cultural tapestry. The Thakali people, known for their distinct cuisine and hospitality, dominate the lower Kali Gandaki valley, especially around Jomsom.
Further north, the Tibetan-influenced culture becomes prominent, especially near Muktinath and Mustang. These communities follow a traditional lifestyle that blends Tibetan Buddhism with Hindu beliefs. The people are warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to their spiritual traditions.
One of the main draws of the trek is the Muktinath Temple, a sacred site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is believed to grant liberation (mukti) from the cycle of life and death. Pilgrims visit from all over Nepal, India, and beyond to worship here.
Along the route, you will encounter several monasteries, stupas, and prayer flags that showcase Tibetan Buddhist influence. The region’s religious atmosphere is further enhanced by rituals, festivals, and local legends tied to the landscape, offering trekkers a spiritual dimension alongside physical adventure.
The lifestyle of the people in this region reflects a blend of traditional farming, animal husbandry, and trade. Villages are typically built from stone with flat roofs designed to withstand harsh weather. The residents grow barley, buckwheat, and potatoes, often relying on irrigation from mountain streams.
Animal husbandry, including yaks, sheep, and goats, plays an essential role in daily life and the local economy. In addition, the region has long been a hub for trade between Nepal and Tibet, influencing local crafts, dress, and cuisine.
Life here is simple but deeply tied to the environment and spirituality. Hospitality is a key value, and trekkers often find themselves invited for tea or meals, gaining insight into local customs and stories.
The Jomsom Muktinath Trek offers diverse ecological zones due to the range of altitude and climate. Lower areas near Jomsom are dry and desert-like, resembling the Tibetan plateau, with sparse vegetation such as juniper and hardy shrubs.
Higher up near Muktinath, the environment becomes alpine, supporting rhododendrons, alpine grasses, and medicinal herbs. Birdlife is abundant and includes species such as the Himalayan griffon vulture, golden eagle, and snow pigeon.
Wildlife in the region includes blue sheep (bharal), Himalayan thar, and the elusive snow leopard, although sightings are rare. The region’s biodiversity is protected under the Annapurna Conservation Area, which promotes sustainable tourism and conservation.
Vegetation varies markedly along the trek. At lower elevations (around 2,700m), the landscape features dry forests with scrub and thorny bushes adapted to the arid climate. Moving upward, forests become denser with pine, oak, and rhododendron trees.
Near Muktinath, vegetation transitions to alpine meadows and sparse shrubs adapted to the cold, windy environment. Medicinal plants such as rhododendron flowers, edelweiss, and various herbs grow here, some used by locals for traditional medicine.
The contrast between barren lower lands and lush upper slopes adds to the trek’s visual diversity and ecological interest.
The atmosphere along the Jomsom Muktinath Trek is a unique blend of rugged wilderness and deep spirituality. The dramatic landscape of towering cliffs, deep gorges, and snow-capped peaks sets a thrilling backdrop for the journey.
The trail is often quiet, especially beyond Jomsom, allowing trekkers to experience the profound silence and vastness of the region. The blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences creates a contemplative mood, especially near Muktinath, where pilgrims and locals gather for ceremonies and worship.
Evenings in the villages are peaceful, with warm fires, local music, and star-filled skies, offering moments of connection and reflection.
At The Himalayan Realms Treks and Expedition Nepal Pvt. Ltd., we provide comprehensive services for the Jomsom Muktinath Trek. From the initial planning and permit arrangements to transportation, accommodation, and guiding, we ensure a seamless and enriching trekking experience.
We collaborate closely with experienced Nepal freelance guides, many of whom are locals from the Mustang region or surrounding areas. These guides bring intimate knowledge of the terrain, culture, and spiritual significance of the sites along the trail. Hiring a freelance guide not only supports the local economy but also enriches your journey with authentic insights.
Whether you prefer a group tour or a private customized trek, our team prioritizes safety, comfort, and cultural respect. We also emphasize responsible tourism practices that protect the natural and cultural heritage of this fragile region.
The Jomsom Muktinath Trek is much more than a physical journey; it is an exploration of culture, spirituality, and natural wonders. Over the course of 13 days, trekkers traverse dramatic landscapes shaped by ancient rivers and mountain giants, encounter diverse communities preserving timeless traditions, and visit one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites.
This trek offers a rare chance to witness the harmonious blend of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, experience traditional lifestyles untouched by rapid modernization, and enjoy some of the most spectacular mountain views in the world. Moreover, the accessibility of Jomsom and the availability of quality guide services make this trek suitable for a wide range of adventurers.
Partnering with The Himalayan Realms Treks and Expedition Nepal Pvt. Ltd. and knowledgeable Nepal freelance guides guarantees an authentic, safe, and unforgettable experience. Step onto this remarkable path and uncover the spiritual heart of the Himalayas—where every step is a story, every village a new friendship, and every mountain a timeless guardian.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu international (TIA) Transfer to the hotel.
Day 02: Kathmandu to Pokhara: Kathmandu to pokhara by drives or flight.
Day 03: Pokhara to Kagbeni (2858m.): Take a morning flight to Jomsom,
Day 04: Kagbeni to Muktinath (3817m.) about 5hrs.
Day 05: Muktinath to Jomsom (2709m): The trail desends to the valley for over 1525 m about 6 hrs.
Day 06: Jomsom to Larjung(2522m) about 5/6-hrs.
Day 07: Larjung to Ghasa (1970m) About 6 hrs.
Day 08: Ghasa to Tatopani (1189m): about 5/6 hrs.
Day 09: Tatopani to Ghorepani (2855m.): about 6/7 hrs.
Day 10: Ghorepani to Tirkhedhunga (1577m.): Descending to Tirkhedhunga, Mules loaded with goods can be seen enroute (5/6-hrs. walk).
Day 11: Tirkhedhunga to Pokhara (915m.): Walk up to Nayapul ( New Bridge ) and drive to Pokhara for 5 hrs.
Day 12: Pokhara to Kathmandu (1350m): Drive or fly back to Kathmandu from Pokhara
Day 13:- Final departure own your destination
Day 01:- Arrival in Kathmandu Tribhuban international airport (1,300m/4,264ft): then pick you up and take a short drive from the airport to the hotel check in the hotel and rest for few hrs then we meet again with guide and barging about the trek what we need the equipment for then trek and what time we live from Kathmandu details.
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara (827m/2,700ft): 6-7 hours:-We can enjoy the beautifully terraced farms, little shops by the side of the road and the raging Trishuli River on our drive to Pokhara also referred to as the ‘City of Lakes.’ From the city, we get great views of the Himalayas including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, the five peaks of Annapurna. Pokhara is also a tourist destination, so we take some time out in the evening and enjoy! Stay overnight hotel in Pokhara.
Day 03. Pokhara to Kagbeni (2858m.): Take a morning flight to Jomsom, the Head quarters of Mustang district. Reach to Jomsom village after crossing the Kaligandaki River Bridge then trek about 3 hrs. Through the bank of Kaligandaki and reach to Ekley Bhatti village; trek one hour more to reach Kagbeni which lies at the band of two rivers, Kaligandaki (flows from Muktinath) and Nilgiri (flows from Mt. Nilgiri). There is good current of wind that blows 10 A.M. to 5. P.M. through out the trail. (4/5 hrs. walk).
Day 04. Kagbeni to Muktinath (3817m.): Muktinath is an important pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists with a Gompa and pagoda style. Pagoda is dedicated to Lord bishnu. The most interesting and importance of the area however is the spot with burning natural gas (3/4 hrs. walk).
Day 05. Muktinath to Jomsom (2709m): The trail desend to the valley for over 1525 m. below and there is a dramatic arid landscape, which continues upto Jomsom. On the Kaligandaki trading route, it is a major and almost busy village.
Day 06. Jomsom to Larjung(2522m):The valley is dominated by Thakalis interestingly related to Gurung and Magars of the Lutheran slopes (5/6-hrs. walk).
Day 07. Larjung to Ghasa (1970m) A dramatic change of vegetation from dry arid desert to pine and Confer forest can be found while palling between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna region. Passing through Kalopani, magnificent views of Annapurna range can be seen; overnight rest at Ghasa (5/6hrs.walk ).
Day 08. Ghasa to Tatopani (1189m): Gradually going down to Tatopani, treks enter valleys and fields; the beautiful Rupse chhahara (waterfall) leaves behind while reaching Dana village for lunch. Then 3 hrs. easy walk to Tatopani through the bank of Kaligandaki river for overnight rest.(5/6 hrs. walk).
Day 09. Tatopani to Ghorepani (2855m.): Steadily climbs all day up to Ghorepani. After lunch at Sikha village, the trail passes through thick forest of Rhododendron and reaches to Ghorepani. The best view of sun set over Mt. Dhaulagiri and Annapurna can be seen from here. (6/7 hrs.walk).
Day 10. Ghorepani to Tirkhedhunga (1577m.): Descending to Tirkhedhunga, Mules loaded with goods can be seen enroute (5/6-hrs. walk).
Day 11. Tirkhedhunga to Pokhara (915m.): Walk up to Nayapul ( New Bridge ) and drive to Pokhara for 5 hrs.
Day 12. Pokhara to Kathmandu (1350m): Drive or fly back to Kathmandu from Pokhara
Day 13: Final Departure:- Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! We will drop International airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. Your own way to home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Start Date | End Date | Price In US Dollar($) | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
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Cost Is Included
• 2 Night accommodation in Kathmandu with B/B basie plan
• Kathmandu to Pokhara transfer by bus or Car
• 1 Night accommodation in Pokhra with B/B basic plan
• All airport and hotel transfers
• National permit & TIMS permit ( Trekking Information Management System)
• Accommodation, food and Tea/coffee during the trek
• Guide:- including salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
• Porter:- including salary, insurance, equipment, food and lodging
• For guest:-Down jacket, Good sleeping bag (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
Cost Is Not Included
Air ticket from KTM-PKR-JUM-PKR-KTM
.Food in Kathmandu (Lunch & Dinner)
• Food in Pokhara (Lunch & Dinner)
• Bakery item during the trek. When you eat in the bakery, you need to pay by yourself
• Nepal Visa fee
• International airfare from your country to Kathmandu and from Kathmandu
• Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu
• Travel and rescue insurance if guests get mountain sickness and need to rescue helicopter.
• Personal expenses example (phone calls, laundry service , bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
• Tips for guide and porters
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