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Jomsom, also known as Dzong-Sampa, is a key mountain town and the administrative center of the Mustang District in Gandaki Province, Nepal.
It is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,700 meters (8,860 feet) along the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. The town lies within the Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is considered the deepest river gorge in the world, flanked by the peaks of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) to the west and Mt. Nilgiri to the south.
Jomsom serves as the primary gateway to the Upper Mustang region and the revered Muktinath Temple, as well as a major stop on treks in the Annapurna region.
The area is characterized by its distinct semi-arid landscape, with dramatic cliffs, a wide riverbed, and sparse vegetation.
A notable feature of Jomsom is its consistently windy afternoons, caused by the pressure differential between the high Tibetan Plateau and the lower valleys.
The region is also known for its cultivated apple orchards, which produce fruits, cider, and brandy, adding to the local economy and cultural identity.
| Category | Details |
| Location | Mustang District, Gandaki Province, Nepal |
| Altitude | 2,700 meters (8,860 feet) |
| Coordinates | 28.78° N, 83.73° E |
| Geography | Situated in the Kali Gandaki Gorge (world's deepest), between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs. Desert-like, arid landscape. |
| Climate | Semi-arid, trans-Himalayan. Dry, sunny days; cold, windy afternoons and nights. In a rain-shadow area. |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring (March-May) and Autumn (Sept-Nov) |
| Getting There |
|
| Main Attractions | Muktinath Temple, Kagbeni Village, Marpha Village, Dhumba Lake, Thini Village |
| Trekking Routes | Jomsom-Muktinath Trek, End-point of Annapurna Circuit, Ghorepani-Poon Hill route. |
| Local Cultures | Predominantly Thakali community, known for hospitality and teahouses. Blend of Hindu & Buddhist traditions. |
| Key Festivals | Yartung (horse racing, post-monsoon), Lhosar (Tibetan New Year). |
| Cuisine | Thakali Khana (set meal with rice, dal, curry, pickles). Local apple products (cider, brandy). |
| Accommodation | Tea houses, guesthouses, and basic lodges. Hot showers and Wi-Fi often available (can be limited). |
| Required Permits | Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card. Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang (beyond Kagbeni). |
| Health and Safety | Risk of altitude sickness. Acclimatization is essential. Carry warm clothes, wind protection, and sun protection. |
Jomsom is one of Nepal's most visited towns outside of the major cities, renowned for several key reasons.
Firstly, it functions as a critical trekking hub for the Annapurna Circuit and the Mustang region. Many treks, including ours, utilize Jomsom as anc acclimatization stop, a resupply point, or the beginning/end of a trekking section.
Secondly, the Jomsom Airport is a significant feature. As one of Nepal's highest domestic airports, it provides a vital aerial link to Pokhara. The 20-25 minute flight is renowned for its scenic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Furthermore, the town is famous for its apple orchards. The unique microclimate of the Kali Gandaki Valley is ideal for apple cultivation, and local products like apple pie, cider, and brandy are popular among visitors.
Finally, Jomsom is valued for its cultural depth. It is predominantly inhabited by the Thakali community, known for their distinct traditions, architecture, and cuisine. This blend of accessibility, stunning geography, and rich culture solidifies Jomsom's status as a premier destination in Nepal.
Jomsom is located in the Mustang District of Gandaki Province, Nepal, at an altitude of approximately 2,700 meters (8,860 feet). Its coordinates are 28.78° North and 83.73° East.
The town lies within the Kali Gandaki River Valley, which forms the world's deepest gorge, situated between the massifs of Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m) to the east and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) to the west.
The topography of the Jomsom Valley is characterized by a desert-like terrain, featuring a wide, braided riverbed, rocky cliffs, and an open plateau. This places it within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).
A defining environmental feature is the strong wind that funnels through the gorge, typically beginning mid-morning and continuing through the afternoon, caused by the pressure difference between the high Tibetan Plateau and the lower valleys of Nepal.
Jomsom experiences a semi-arid, trans-Himalayan climate. Being in the rain-shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, it receives very little rainfall throughout the year.
Days are generally sunny, dry, and can be warm when the sun is out, while nights are often cold, with temperatures dropping sharply. The region is known for its strong daily valley winds.
The best time to visit Jomsom for trekking and clear skies is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally stable, and visibility of the mountain peaks is high.
Winter (December to February) is cold but offers peaceful trekking conditions, while the summer monsoon (June to August) has minimal impact on rainfall due to the rain-shadow effect, though road access can sometimes be affected by landslides downstream.
Trek Me Nepal operates regular treks to the region during these optimal spring and autumn seasons.
Travelers planning routes to Annapurna or Muktinath should prepare for significant temperature variations and the potential for windy conditions.
The flight from Pokhara to Jomsom is scenic and takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Jomsom Airport (IATA: JMO) is one of Nepal's highest domestic airports, situated at 2,736 meters.
These flights operate exclusively in the early morning to avoid the strong valley winds that typically develop after 10 a.m., which often lead to cancellations.
During the flight, passengers get views of the Himalayan peaks, including Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.
The airstrip at Jomsom is narrow and requires pilots to have specialized mountain flight experience due to the challenging wind patterns and surrounding topography
Travelers should be aware that this route has a higher likelihood of schedule changes compared to other domestic flights in Nepal.
The overland route from Pokhara to Jomsom covers a distance of approximately 155 kilometers. The journey follows the Pokhara–Beni–Tatopani–Ghasa–Marpha route before reaching Jomsom and typically takes between 6 to 8 hours by jeep or other 4WD vehicles.
The road travels north along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, offering views of the deep valley and surrounding cliffs. The conditions are generally rough and can be affected by landslides, particularly during the monsoon season.
This option provides a ground-level perspective of the changing landscape from the greener hills near Pokhara to the arid, high-desert terrain of Lower Mustang.
Jomsom is a major junction on the Annapurna Circuit and is accessible via several trekking routes. One of the primary trails connects from Ghorepani and Poon Hill.
This route allows trekkers to experience the diverse landscapes of the Annapurna region, from rhododendron forests to the high, arid valley of the Kali Gandaki.
This trail naturally links to the classic Jomsom to Muktinath trek and serves as a key stopover for trekkers exploring both the Mustang and Annapurna regions. The path involves significant changes in elevation and terrain, and it is typically incorporated into longer itineraries that traverse the circuit.
Dhumba Lake is a turquoise-colored lake located a short distance from Jomsom. It is set at the base of the Nilgiri Himal, whose peak is often reflected on the lake's surface. The lake holds religious significance for the local Buddhist community and is considered sacred.
It is accessible by a hike from Jomsom and offers a tranquil environment. The area is suitable for nature photography and provides a quiet spot away from the main trekking routes.
The combination of the serene water, the mountain backdrop, and the surrounding landscape makes it a notable sightseeing destination for visitors seeking a peaceful experience.
Thini Village is one of the oldest settlements in the Mustang region and is located within walking distance of Jomsom. The village features traditional stone houses, ancient Buddhist stupas, and monasteries that reflect its long history.
It provides an opportunity for cultural exploration into the local Thakali heritage. The village offers panoramic viewpoints of the surrounding mountains and the Kali Gandaki Valley.
Its well-preserved architecture and authentic atmosphere give visitors insight into the traditional lifestyle and historical depth of the area.
Kagbeni is an ancient village situated north of Jomsom and acts as the official gateway to the restricted area of Upper Mustang. The village has a distinctive Tibetan-style architecture, with narrow, winding lanes and a prominent, centuries-old monastery.
The route from Jomsom to Kagbeni follows the Kali Gandaki River bed and offers views of the arid Mustang landscape. Kagbeni is culturally rich, with a strong influence from Tibetan Buddhism, and its location makes it a critical stop for trekkers heading towards Muktinath or Upper Mustang.
The village provides a clear sense of entering a different cultural and geographical zone.
The Thakali are the primary ethnic group in the Jomsom area. Their traditional homeland is the Thak Khola region of the Kali Gandaki River valley. Their culture incorporates elements from both Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism, resulting in distinct religious and social practices.
The Thakali are known for their management of teahouses and lodges along trekking routes. This has made hospitality a central aspect of their economic and cultural identity.
Their cuisine, known as Thakali Khana, is a set meal that typically includes rice, lentil soup (dal), vegetable curries, meat or vegetable stews, and a variety of pickles. Local apple-based products, such as cider, wine, and brandy, are also common.
Their traditional dress is functional and adapted to the high-altitude environment. Social structures are historically organized around clans. The Thakali language, part of the Tamangic branch of Sino-Tibetan languages, is widely spoken, though Nepali is also common.
The primary festival in the Jomsom region is Yartung, a harvest festival held at the end of the monsoon season. Its main event is horse racing, which takes place in an open field.
The festival also includes traditional dance and music performances. It functions as a major community gathering for the Mustang region.
Lhosar, the Tibetan New Year, is another significant celebration. Observed by the Buddhist communities, it involves religious ceremonies in monasteries, family visits, and the preparation of special foods. The date is determined by the Tibetan lunar calendar, usually falling in February.
These festivals are community events that reflect the local blend of animist, Buddhist, and Hindu traditions. They offer a practical demonstration of the region's cultural continuity and social cohesion.
The Jomsom to Muktinath trek is a classic route in the Mustang region. The distance from Jomsom to Muktinath is approximately 20 kilometers. The trek typically passes through the villages of Marpha, Kagbeni, and Jharkot.
Learn more about the Muktinath Temple here.
This route combines adventure and spirituality, culminating at the Muktinath Temple, a pilgrimage site sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists at an altitude of 3,800 meters.
The trail offers views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountain peaks and passes through the arid, desert-like landscape of the Kali Gandaki Valley. This route is included in Trek Me Nepal's Annapurna region trekking packages.
Jomsom frequently is the exit point for trekkers completing the Annapurna Circuit. This is primarily due to the availability of flights from Jomsom Airport back to Pokhara, a quicker alternative to several days of additional walking.
The section of the circuit leading to Jomsom descends into the Kali Gandaki Valley from the Thorong La pass. The scenic parts of this segment include the transition into the high, arid landscape of the Lower Mustang region.
Upon reaching Jomsom, trekkers find improved accommodation and food services, offering a comfortable stop after the long-distance trek.
Several shorter hikes and day treks are accessible directly from Jomsom, suitable for acclimatization or for visitors with limited time.
These routes vary in distance and can typically be completed within a few hours. They are generally of easy to moderate difficulty and provide a practical way to experience the Himalayan landscape and local culture without a multi-day commitment.
The primary culinary offering in Jomsom is authentic Thakali cuisine. This is traditionally served as a set meal known as Thakali Khana. The meal typically consists of steamed rice, lentil soup (dal), a seasonal vegetable curry, a choice of meat or vegetable curry, and a variety of pickles.
The region is also known for its apple orchards. Local products derived from apples include apple cider, apple wine, and apple brandy. These products are a direct result of the specific microclimate of the Kali Gandaki Valley, which is suitable for apple cultivation.
Jomsom offers a range of accommodation types, including family-run lodges, guesthouses, and teahouses that cater primarily to trekkers.
The facilities available in these establishments typically include basic private rooms, shared bathroom facilities, and common dining areas.
Many offer amenities such as hot showers (sometimes for an additional fee), Wi-Fi access (which can be variable), and charging points for electronic devices. The comfort level is generally basic but adequate for trekkers, with price ranges reflecting the standard of services provided.
Luxury accommodation options are limited.
Two main permits are required for trekking in the Jomsom region:
These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara from the respective official tourism offices.
For trekkers planning to travel beyond Kagbeni into Upper Mustang, a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is additionally required. This permit is more expensive and must be arranged through a registered trekking agency.
Read more on Complete Guide to Trekking Permits Costs, Requirements for Annapurna Region and Where to Get Them, here.
Jomsom is located at an altitude of 2,700 meters (8,860 feet), and the trek to Muktinath reaches 3,800 meters. At these elevations, there is a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Key health precautions include:
Basic medical facilities and health posts are available in Jomsom. The climate involves cold nights and strong winds, so carrying warm clothing, wind protection, and sun protection is essential for safety and comfort.
Jomsom is located within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), a region defined by a dry, high-altitude desert environment with minimal natural vegetation. The area is susceptible to soil erosion and is shaped by strong winds.
Sustainable tourism practices are encouraged to minimize environmental impact. These practices include proper waste management, whereby trekkers are advised to carry out non-biodegradable trash.
Using refillable water bottles instead of single-use plastic bottles is recommended to reduce waste.
Furthermore, visitors are encouraged to respect local cultural norms, such as asking for permission before photographing people or religious sites like monasteries.
Tourism plays a significant role in the local economy of Jomsom and the surrounding Mustang region. Several initiatives focus on linking tourism with community and environmental benefits.
Reforestation projects are active in the area to combat soil erosion and improve the local environment. As a leading trekking company of Nepal, Trek Me Nepal participates in community support programs.
Trek Me Nepal's 'One Guest One Tree' initiative is an example, where a tree is planted for every guest. These actions are designed to promote environmental sustainability and provide tangible benefits to the local communities in the Mustang region.
Read more about it here.
This sample itinerary provides a framework for a trip focusing on the Jomsom and Muktinath area, based on common routing in Trek Me Nepal packages.
Day 1: Arrive in Pokhara. Prepare for the flight and acquire necessary trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS card).
Day 2: Take an early morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (20-25 minutes). Acclimatize in Jomsom. In the afternoon, take a short hike to Thini Village or Dhumba Lake.
Day 3: Trek from Jomsom to Kagbeni. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki riverbed and takes approximately 3 hours. Explore the ancient village, a gateway to Upper Mustang.
Day 4: Trek from Kagbeni to Muktinath (3,800 m). The journey takes about 4-5 hours. Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple complex, significant to both Hindus and Buddhists.
Day 5: Explore Muktinath. Optionally, visit the nearby Jharkot Monastery. In the afternoon, trek or take a jeep back to Jomsom.
Day 6: Take a morning flight from Jomsom back to Pokhara.
Day 7: Depart from Pokhara.
This itinerary can be adjusted, with an extra day added for further acclimatization or a more in-depth exploration of the Marpha area, known for its apple orchards.
The optimal trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when skies are generally clear and the weather is stable. Trek Me Nepal operates regular treks during these periods.
Yes. Jomsom is at 2,700 meters, and trips to Muktinath reach 3,800 meters. Proper acclimatization, a gradual ascent, and staying hydrated are crucial to mitigating risk. All Trek Me Nepal guides are first-aid trained to assist with altitude-related issues.
You can take a 20-25 minute flight from Pokhara or travel by road via jeep (a 6-8 hour journey from Pokhara via Beni). Many Trek Me Nepal itineraries, like the Upper Mustang treks, use the flight option for efficiency.
Jomsom is a key hub on several routes. It serves as the exit point for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the starting point for the Jomsom to Muktinath Trek, and a central stop for the Upper Mustang Trek. The specific itinerary depends on the chosen package.
Jomsom functions as a strategic crossroads between the Annapurna and Mustang regions, combining accessibility with a unique Himalayan landscape, cultural depth, and significant pilgrimage sites, making it a key destination for trekkers and cultural explorers.
Book your trek to Annapurna Region, which includes Jomsom Village, through Trek Me Nepal. We have some curated package options, including 15 Days Upper Mustang Trek with Drive Back, 18 Days Upper Mustang Trek with Yara and 16 Days Annapurna Complete Circuit Trek.
We can also customise the treks according to your requirements. All bookings include guide services, permits, accommodation, and meals as specified in the chosen itinerary.
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Bipin Thapa
Operation Manager | Official Trekking Guide
Anyone who has trekked before knows trekking requires planning, and a deep understanding of the land. That is where Bipin Thapa Magar comes in. As the Operations Manager at Trek Me Nepal, he is the ba... Read More