From Pokhara, the journey continues to Jomsom, usually by a short but spectacular flight through the Kali Gandaki Valley. From Jomsom, the trek starts northward to Kagbeni, a beautifully preserved medieval village with narrow alleys, prayer wheels, and strong Tibetan cultural influences. Kagbeni also marks the gateway to Upper Mustang and sits at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Jhong rivers.
Leaving Kagbeni, the trail ascends through an arid, wind-swept landscape toward Muktinath. The trek offers dramatic views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and the surrounding trans-Himalayan terrain. At around 3,800 meters (12,467 ft), Muktinath Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims visit the 108 holy water spouts and the eternal flame, symbolizing the unity of the natural elements.
After exploring Muktinath, the route descends to Marpha, one of the most charming villages in the region. Known for its whitewashed houses, stone-paved streets, and apple orchards, Marpha is famous for its apple brandy, cider, and other local products, offering a pleasant cultural and culinary stop.
From Marpha, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki River southward through Ghasa, where the landscape gradually transitions from dry alpine terrain to lush forests and deeper valleys. Ghasa sits near the heart of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, carved between the massive peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
Continuing onward, the trek reaches Tatopani, a well-loved resting point famous for its natural hot springs. Here, trekkers can relax and soak in the warm pools an ideal way to soothe tired muscles after days on the trail.
From Tatopani, the journey shifts from trekking to travel by road, driving back to Pokhara through terraced hillsides and river valleys. The adventure concludes with a flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, bringing the journey full circle after an immersive experience through the cultural and natural highlights of the Mustang and Annapurna regions.
Cultural & Religious Significance
Muktinath Temple (often called Mukti Kshetra, the land of liberation) holds deep spiritual importance. Hindus consider bathing under the 108 water spouts as a ritual purification of sins, and Buddhists revere the site for its links to spiritual liberation and local monastic traditions.
Along the route, you’ll meet communities such as Thakali, Gurung, and Tibetan-influenced peoples, each with their own customs, languages, and lifestyles. This offers trekkers a rich cultural immersion at every stage of the trail.
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for the Jomsom Muktinath Trek are generally:
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Spring (March–May)
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Autumn (September–November)
These periods are known for clear skies and stable weather, ideal for mountain views and trekking conditions.
Winter is possible but colder with potential snow, especially at higher passes, while the monsoon brings heavy rainfall to lower elevations, making paths muddy and less scenic.
Because much of the Jomsom and Lower Mustang area lies in a rain-shadow zone, the trail can be dry and dusty even during monsoon months, but visibility and comfort are still best in spring and autumn.
Difficulty & Logistics
The trail is typically considered moderate in difficulty, with daily walking hours of around 5–7 hours. Tea-house lodges provide basic accommodation along the route.
Most itineraries range from 7–12 days, depending on whether you include sections like Poon Hill or take flights to shorten the trek.
