The Jomsom Muktinath trek is a popular trek which encompasses very interesting Gurung and Thakali villages, apple orchards, rhododendron forests, the world’s deepest gorge, and the windswept Tibetan plateau. It also takes in both monasteries and Hindu temples for cultural flavor. With the highest point being Muktinath (3,710m) this is a relatively low altitude trek suitable for almost everyone. And it is one of the most effective ways to get near to the Himalayas; with marvelous views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri being the main highlight of the trip.
Although suitable for all, and a great family trek, there are a couple of challenges, starting very early on with climbing up thousands of stone steps at Ulleri Hill. But this just adds to the adventure and can be completed at a pace suitable to all levels of fitness. Marpha is just one of the interesting villages on the route. It is the heart of apple growing in Nepal and the village retains its original whitewashed buildings and narrow cobbled streets. There is a Buddhist monetary that can be visited in Marpha. Another fascinating place is the village of Kagbeni which is the gateway to Upper Mustang. Although this trek does not enter this forbidden Kingdom of Lo, visitors can look up the windswept valley and imaging the Trans-Himalayan salt trading route that used to run (and still does to some extent) through this village. Muktinath is the highest point of the trail, with its interesting Hindu Temple, 108 stone water spouts and eternal flame.
For those with less time but a desire to see the Himalayas at very close range, this is the perfect trip, combining mountains with culture.
| Days | Itinerary | Altitude | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Kathmandu to Pokhara (Drive) | 830 m | 6 - 7 hr |
| Day 2 | Pokhara to Beni (Drive) | 899 m | 4 - 5 hr |
| Day 3 | Beni to Tatopani | 1190 m | 4 - 5 hr |
| Day 4 | Tatopani to Ghasa | 2110 m | 4 - 5 hr |
| Day 5 | Ghasa to Marpha | 2680 m | 4 - 5 hr |
| Day 6 | Marpha to Kagbeni | 2810 m | 4 - 5 hr |
| Day 7 | Kagbeni to Muktinath | 3710 m | 5 - 6 hr |
| Day 8 | Muktinath to Jomsom | 2715 m | 6 - 7 hr |
| Day 9 | Jomsom to Pokhara (Flight) | 830 m | 15 min |
| Day 10 | Pokhara to Kathmandu (Drive) | 1380 m | 6 - 7 hr |
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