The Jomsom Muktinath Trek has distinguished the world-renowned ancient pilgrimage destination Muktinath for both Hindu and Buddhist devotees. Muktinath is the temple of such deities who help absolve the sins of people. Depending on beliefs within each religion, different rewards are given to those who make the pilgrimage. Along the way, we may see sadhus carrying a trident, paying homage to Hindu gods with little more than the clothes on their backs.
It is not just the enchanting spiritual aspects that make the Jomsom Muktinath Trek so wonderful. Behold, we are continuously surrounded by jaw-dropping Annapurna Himalayan sceneries, picturesque windswept valleys, and traditional villages of ethnic groups indigenous to the area. From thick forests and cascading waterfalls to the desolate, rugged highlands and snow-capped peaks, there is never a dull moment on this trek. There is a constant sense of awe at the wonders of the Annapurna region.
The route lies north of Pokhara and starts after an hour of driving to the gateway at Nayapul. We pass through various settlements, including Gurung villages Landruk and Ghandruk. Continuing further, we reach the famous Poon Hill (3210m) viewpoint. Our hearts and minds are full, taking in one of the best panorama mountain views in the region. Within two days, we find ourselves in a completely different environment. The trees become less and less and we find ourselves completely exposed to the Himalayas.
Following the windswept trail of the Kali Gandaki Valley, the world’s deepest gorge, we reach Muktinath (3800m). The gorge was formed between Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Annapurna I (8090m). For centuries, this valley was a major trade route between India and Tibet. We’ll then visit the Muktinath Temple of Lord Visnu and can stop at the Buddhist monastery in the area as well. Some Hindus believe that Muktinath is “Muktikhsetra,” or the place of liberation/salvation. The following day we reach Jomsom, the district center of the Mustang region. It is situated on a high, dry plateau that resembles the landscape in Tibet. Jomsom is populated by indigenous groups such as Thakali, Gurung, and Tibetans. Their cultural heritage is unique and fascinating to explore. We may see people selling fossils, a black stone that holds inside of it the remains of prehistoric ammonites that lived more than 140 million years ago. From Jomsom, we take a plane back to Pokhara and head back to Kathmandu. The Jomsom Muktinath Trek is a perfect mix of the natural, cultural, and spiritual allures of the Annapurna region, leaving trekkers in constant amazement.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Project has worked to preserve the biological diversity of the Annapurna region. On the trail, we will see the varieties of flora and fauna. Trekking is possible throughout the year, but Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) provide the best weather. During the Spring, there is a bit more color and the rhododendrons are blooming, and in the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer. The Jomsom Muktinath Trek requires moderate fitness and acclimatization to avoid acute mountain sickness. Breeze Adventure arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.
