Jomsom & Muktinath Trek

Overview
Itinerary
Map
What's included
Reviews
Do's & Don'ts

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14 days
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
people

The Jomsom & Muktinath Trek – 14 Days is one of Nepal’s most scenic and culturally rewarding Himalayan journeys, combining breathtaking mountain landscapes, traditional villages, and sacred pilgrimage sites. This classic trek follows the legendary Kali Gandaki Valley toward the ancient pilgrimage destination of Muktinath Temple, located on the edge of the mystical Mustang region, often referred to as the “Himalayan Shangri-La.”

The adventure begins in Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most beautiful lakeside cities. After a short drive to Nayapul, the trekking trail gradually ascends through terraced farmlands, lush forests, and charming mountain settlements. Along the route, trekkers pass through picturesque Gurung, Magar, and Thakali villages, where traditional culture, warm hospitality, and authentic Himalayan lifestyles remain beautifully preserved.

One of the highlights of the trek is crossing the famous Ghorepani region and hiking to Poon Hill, one of Nepal’s most iconic sunrise viewpoints. At dawn, the golden rays of the sun illuminate the snow-covered peaks of Mount Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range, creating an unforgettable Himalayan panorama.

The trek continues along the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley, known as the deepest gorge in the world, carved between the massive peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. As the trail progresses northward, the landscape gradually transforms from green hills and forests into the dry, wind-swept terrain of the trans-Himalayan region.

Arriving in Jomsom is a unique experience. Situated in the heart of Mustang, Jomsom is famous for its stunning mountain scenery, strong Himalayan winds, and rich Thakali culture. The town serves as the gateway to Upper Mustang and the sacred Muktinath region.

A major spiritual highlight of the journey is visiting Muktinath Temple at an altitude of 3,710 meters. Revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, Muktinath is believed to be a place of liberation and spiritual purification. Pilgrims from Nepal, India, and around the world visit this sacred temple to bathe under its 108 holy water spouts and seek blessings.

Beyond its spiritual significance, the region around Muktinath and Jomsom offers spectacular views of snow-covered mountains, barren cliffs, ancient monasteries, and traditional Himalayan settlements. Trekkers can also explore nearby villages and experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the Mustang region.

The Jomsom & Muktinath Trek is considered a relatively easy to moderate trek, making it suitable for trekkers of various fitness levels. The route combines cultural exploration with stunning mountain scenery while avoiding extremely high altitudes and technical trails.

The best time for this trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when weather conditions are clear and mountain views are exceptional. Since the region lies in the Himalayan rain shadow area, it can also be trekked in parts of the monsoon season, although July and August are generally avoided due to heavy rainfall in lower regions.

The Jomsom & Muktinath Trek – 14 Days is a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and Himalayan beauty. From sunrise over Poon Hill to the sacred atmosphere of Muktinath and the dramatic landscapes of Mustang, every step of this journey creates memories that last a lifetime.

Minimum 02 pax sharing: Cost US$ 1220 per person.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Kathmandu – The Gateway to the Himalayas

Meals: None

Your adventure begins with a panoramic thrill as you fly into Kathmandu. On a clear day, the views of snow-capped peaks sprawling beneath the aircraft are ecstatic. Upon arrival, a representative and driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. After checking in, you will receive a comprehensive briefing on your trekking itinerary and daily activities.

Overnight at Hotel.
Day 2

Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing – A Cultural Immersion

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Explore the "City of Temples," featuring the ancient palace of the former Nepali Royals and Kasthamandap, the wooden marvel that gave the city its name.

Swayambhunath Stupa (The Monkey Temple): Perched atop a hill, this 2,000-year-old Buddhist stupa offers a mosaic of shrines and a stunning scenic view of the entire Kathmandu valley.

Patan Durbar Square: Known as the city of fine arts, Patan is famous for its intricate wood and stone carvings, metal statues, and over 1,200 historic monuments.

Overnight at Hotel.
Day 3

Scenic Drive to Pokhara (210km / 6-7 hrs)

Meals: Breakfast

Travel by road to Pokhara, a city of remarkable natural beauty. Lower in elevation than Kathmandu, Pokhara has a lush, tropical feel decorated with diverse flowers. Surrounded by thick forests, emerald lakes, and the towering Annapurna range, the city offers an ambiance of peace and magic.

Evening: Boat Ride on Phewa Lake: Cruise leisurely over the emerald-hued waters on a brightly painted doonga (boat). Enjoy the breathtaking reflections of Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Dhaulagiri range on the water's surface.

Overnight at Hotel.
Day 4

Drive to Birethanti & Trek to Ulleri (1,960m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

A short drive brings you to the trailhead at Birethanti. The trek begins with a gradual ascent along the banks of the Bhurungdi Khola, passing through the terraced fields of Hille and Tikedungha. The day concludes with a challenge: a steep stone staircase leading to the village of Ulleri, which offers spectacular views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

Overnight at Lodge.
Day 5

Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today’s trail winds through magnificent forests of oak and rhododendron. After crossing crystal-clear mountain streams, you reach Ghorepani (meaning "horse water"). Historically a watering spot for mule trains plying the trade route to Jomsom, this village is now a premier destination for trekkers.

Overnight at Lodge.
Day 6

Poon Hill Sunrise & Trek to Tatopani (1,200m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Wake early for the hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) to catch a world-famous sunrise over the Himalayas. After breakfast, descend through rhododendron forests to the Magar village of Sikha. Cross the Kali Gandaki via a suspension bridge to reach Tatopani, famous for its natural riverside hot springs—the perfect place to soothe your muscles.

Overnight at Lodge.
Day 7

Trek to Ghasa (2,120m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Follow the trail as it ascends the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest in the world. Pass through the orange groves of Dana and witness the thundering Rupse Waterfall. As the gorge narrows, you will navigate a well-constructed stone path cut into the rock cliff before reaching Ghasa, a quaint Thakali village with traditional flat-roofed houses.

Overnight at Lodge.
Day 8

Trek to Larjung (2,550m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Trek through forests of fir, cypress, and juniper along the riverbanks. Upon arriving in Larjung, you will be mesmerized by the town’s architectural grandeur, featuring narrow alleyways and tunnels built in a traditional style to protect against the valley winds.

Overnight at Lodge.
Day 9

Trek to Jomsom via Marpha (2,750m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trail follows the wide valley floor of the Kali Gandaki. You will pass through the stone-walled orchards of Marpha, a village renowned for its white-walled houses and local apple brandy. As you continue toward Jomsom, the landscape shifts dramatically, becoming arid and desert-like with shades of brown, yellow, and grey.

Stay: Lodge
Day 10

Trek to the Sacred Muktinath (3,760m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Trek across the vast gravel riverbed toward the holy site of Muktinath. As you ascend, the peaks of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri dominate the horizon. Pass through the ancient villages of Jharkot and Khingar to reach Ranipauwa and finally Muktinath. This is a vital pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, home to the pagoda-style temple of Lord Vishnu and 108 sacred water sprouts.

Overnight at Lodge.
Day 11

Return Trek to Jomsom

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Retrace your steps back to Jomsom, enjoying a new perspective of the Nilgiri massif. In the evening, celebrate the successful completion of your trek with your crew and guides, sharing memories of the journey across the mountains.

Overnight at Lodge.
Day 12

Flight to Pokhara – A Scenic Descent

Meals: Breakfast

Board a 20-minute morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. This flight offers a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is yours to relax by the lake or explore the city’s vibrant shops and cafes.

Overnight at Hotel.
Day 13

Drive Back to Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, begin the 6-7 hour drive back to Kathmandu along the winding highway. Once back in the capital, enjoy a final evening of shopping or sightseeing at your own pace.

Overnight at Hotel.
Day 14

Final Departure

Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport. You leave Kathmandu with cherished memories and the experience of a lifetime, having touched the heart of the Himalayas.

Map

What's Included

Help from our representative while boarding and leaving the airport.
Required airport transfer as per the itinerary.
03 Nights' stay in 3-star Hotel in Kathmandu on BB basis.
02 Nights' stay in 3-star Hotel in Pokhara on BB basis.
09 days trekking in local lodges on AP basis (Lunch, Dinner & Breakfast).
Trek Leader and required porters as per the itinerary.
Wages of Trek Leader and porters, and their insurance.
Annapurna Conservation Area Project fee.
Required trek transfer as per the itinerary.
Sightseeing tour and transfer as per the itinerary in A/C vehicle.
Entrance fees to monuments as per the itinerary.
English speaking local guide for sightseeing tour as per the itinerary.
Surface transport Kathmandu/Pokhara and Pokhara/Kathmandu by private vehicle.
Bottled water in the vehicle during the entire trip.
All applicable taxes.

Not Included

International flights.
All drinks Soft drinks, Alcoholic drinks, etc., unless otherwise stated. The reason behind this is that it would be less costly for us to bill you for all drinks depending on your usage.
Meals besides meals during the Trek.
Other personal expenses - Laundry, phone calls, etc.
The prices exclude: unreasonable increases in fuel costs, additional taxes imposed by hotels and transportation and any increase in entrance fees. All substantial increases in taxes and any new taxes would have to be paid separately.
Other miscellaneous charges not listed above under the Inclusion of Cost.
Personal Insurance.
Tips.

Reviews

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Do's & Don'ts

NHV next heartily welcomes all of our valued guests. Either you are trekking in the mountains or touring the Kathmandu valley we suggest you that you treat the land and its people with care and respect. Below are some tips on how you can keep the environment clean and show appreciation for age-old culture and traditional religious beliefs. Nepal's Culture might be astonishing and surprising for newcomers therefore these tips are sometimes necessary.

To show gratitude and respect, use both of your hands rather than one when giving or receiving something, even money. It’s seen as a gesture of respect.
Remember not to point with a single finger but use a flat extended hand especially to indicate a sacred object or place.
Among Hindus, avoid touching women and holy men. In Nepal, people especially women, do not normally shake hands when they greet one another, but instead press palms together in a prayer-like gesture known as "Namaste" greeting is preferable.
Do not eat with your left hand.
Never eat beef in front of Hindus and Buddhist because beef is strictly prohibited among both Hindus and Buddhists. Cows are sacred in Nepal.
Try not to step over or point your feet at another person, a sacred place or a heart.
Remove your shoes when entering a home, temple or monastery and leather items in Hindu temples and avoid smoking and wearing scant dress in religious settings.
Remember, some of the temples entrance may be prohibited for non-Hindus.
It is better not to touch offerings or persons when they are on way to shrines, especially if you are non-Hindu.
Do not offer food to a Nepalese after tasting it, nor eat from a common pot, and avoid touching your lips to a shared drinking vessel.
The sight of men holding hands is common, but men and women holding hands, and general acts of affection, are frowned upon. Do not do something that is totally alien to Nepalese culture.
Do walk around Stupas clockwise, so that the outer walls are always on your right. If you encounter a stone wall covered with Tibetan inscriptions, do the same: Walk past with the wall on your right (and don't take any of the stones).
Do not lose your cool. Raising your voice or shouting is seen as extremely bad manners in Nepal too and will only make any problem worse.
Do get a receipt of in authenticity when purchasing an antique replica. Otherwise, you will not be allowed to take it out of the country. And do not buy ivory or fur from endangered species. Your purchases encourage the trade in such illegal goods, and you would not be allowed to bring them back home anyway.
Do not give in to children who ask for just one rupee. Although a rupee is a small amount that anyone can spare, successful begging leads young children to drop out of school and take up panhandling as their trade. If you want to help, give to a trustworthy charity or a school.
Do not take photographs of locals, holy shrines and temples unless they have clearly given their consent.