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Annapurna Kali Gandaki Trek via Jomsom

Trip code
Package name Annapurna Kali Gandaki Trek via Jomsom
Duration 13
Max. elevation 4000 m
Level MODERATE
Transportation

Tourist bus/ Private car/ Flight

Accomodation

Teahouse / lodge during the trek

Starts at Kathmandu
Ends at Kathmandu
Trip route Kathmandu, Pokhara, Jomsom, Muktinath, Jomsom and Pokhara
Cost USD 0 per person

Highlights

Overview

Annapurna Kali Gandaki trek via Jomsom

The Annapurna Kali Gandaki trek also known as the Jomsom trek, is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through the Kali Gandaki valley, which is situated between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It follows the Kali Gandaki River valley, which is considered the deepest George in the world. This trek offers a diverse and breathtaking landscape, mesmerizing views of snow- capped peaks, and cultural diversity.

Jomsom is a small town situated at an altitude of around 2700 m in the Mustang district of Nepal. It is located in the Kali Gandaki River valley, surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks, including Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. It is a popular trekking destination and a gateway to Upper mustang region.

The major highlight of Jomsom trek is the sacred Muktinath temple- a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year. It is believed that visiting the temple brings salvation or liberation from the cycle of birth and death and the temple complex includes natural spring and 108 water spouts. 

The Kali Gandaki River known as the Gandaki River or Narayani River is one of the major rivers in Nepal which plays a significant role in both the cultural and geographical aspects. The river originates from the high Himalayas and flows through the Kali Gandaki George, which is one of the deepest Georges in the world. The George is a spectacular natural formation with towering cliffs and unique landscapes. The Kali Gandaki River also has significant hydroelectric potential as well as offers thrilling opportunities for rafting and Kayaking.

Moreover, it is considered a holy river and many Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims often visit the river to perform various religious rites and take holy dips. Similarly, the river is also known for its fossil deposits. In the past, various fossilized remains of marine creatures including ancient sea shells and ammonites, have been found along its course which provide evidence of the region’s geological history.   

Overall, the trek follows a well- established trail that passes through several picturesque mix terraced fields, suspension bridges, rhododendron forests, and traditional villages, providing an authentic cultural and natural experiences. Throughout the trek, you will encounter various ethnic communities including Gurungs, Thakalis, and Tibetans. You can immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with villagers, and experience their traditional lifestyle, cuisine, and customs. Similarly, after days of trekking, the trail pass through Tatopani known for its natural hot springs where you can relax and rejuvenate in hot water springs which are believed to have therapeutic properties. 

Best seasons for trekking

The best season for Annapurna Kali Gandaki trek via Jomsom is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months provide more stable weather conditions and clear views. It’s important to note that Annapurna Kali Gandaki trek via Jomson can be trek during other times of the year as well. However, the weather condition may be more challenging and the risks associated with trekking. Winter treks require additional safety and experience.

Spring season is considered one of the best times to trek Annapurna Kali Gandaki trek via Jomsom. The weather is generally stable, with clear skies and mild temperatures. The visibility is amazing, providing panoramic views of the surrounding stunning mountains. The trails are also relatively dry and less prone to snowfall, making it easier for trekkers.

Autumn season is another favorable time for this trek. After the monsoon, the weather becomes stable, with excellent visibility and cool temperatures. This season is particularly preferred by many trekkers due to its suitable weather, beautiful views, and breathtaking autumn landscapes.   

Permits

To undertake Annapurna Kali Gandaki trek via Jomsom, you will require two different permits:

1) Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

2) Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card

Foods and Accommodation

You will stay in tea houses or lodges along the trekking route. The tea houses offer basic accommodation facilities such as a bed, blanket, and shared bathroom facilities. It’s advisable to carry a sleeping bag suitable for cold weather condition, especially at higher altitudes. The level of comfort and amenities may vary as you ascend to higher altitudes.

Most of the tea houses along the route provide a variety of meals to cater to trekkers’ dietary needs. All the food will be cooked by the local cook by using local vegetables so the taste would be very local. They offer a menu with a range of options including Nepali, Tibetan, Indian and International dishes. The common meals consist of rice, lentils, vegetables, soups, and noodles. 

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is common in mountains above the altitude of 3000 m. When it comes to illness such as nausea, headache, difficulty in breathing, increased heart rate, and uneasiness, one should be pro- active and notify the guide to minimize the possible risk.

To minimize the risk of altitude sickness here are some guidelines:

Stop and rest where you are

 Do not go any higher for at least 24 to 48 hours

 Make sure you are drinking enough water

 Do not smoke, drink alcohol, or exercise

Guide and porter

It’s always helpful to trek with a knowledgeable, experience licensed guide and join a trekking agency to ensure safety and utilize your valuable time in a best way.

It’s important to note that according to Nepal tourism board, all the trekkers are required to obtain services of licensed trekking guide and to obtain TIMS card through authorized trekking agencies registered with the government of Nepal.

Therefore, Nepal holiday treks and tours Pvt. Ltd. is always here to offer you a highly experienced, friendly, English speaking, and licensed trekking guide and porter with their insurance. Moreover, they can provide you valuable insights into the local culture, traditions, and history of the region. They can also explain the significance of monasteries, festivals, and other cultural aspects you encounter along the way.  Similarly a porter carries your heavy backpack, and allowing you to trek with a lighter load.

 Travel insurance

Obtaining travel insurance is highly recommended for any trekking activities including Annapurna Kali Gandaki Trek via Jomsom. The trek includes high altitude trekking which may be physically challenging and dangerous. Travel insurance can cover you financially in the event of an accident, a medical emergency, a flight cancellation or delay, or lost or stolen luggage and other potential risks associated with high- altitude trekking.

When buying travel insurance for this trek, ensure that it covers the activities like mountaineering, high- altitude trekking, and emergency helicopter evacuation, as these can be expansive without insurance. 

Importantly, Nepal Holiday treks and tours Pvt. Ltd. strongly recommend you for travel insurance for this trek because it can offer you with peace of mind and financial protection in the event of an unforeseen accident. Before you buy it carefully read and understands the policy details including coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions, and any specific conditions or requirements. It’s essential to be aware of the coverage scope and any necessary steps or documentation required for making a claim.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (Tribhuwan International Airport)

On the very first Day of your arrival in Kathmandu; our representatives will be before you to for pickup and drop to your desired hotel as per the inquiry made by you. This day will be for your recreation and if the mood permits we will be providing you a guided tour to the local markets to make you familiar with Nepalese culture and environment. Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Drive to pokhara.

You can either take a 30 minutes flight to Pokhara or prefer a bus trip of 7 hours. We will prefer you to take a bus if you wish to observe the culture and nature from more close. If you go by flight; you can get involved in a half day sightseeing tour of Pokhara and enjoy the activities like boating too. Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara. 

Day 3 : Drive to Nayapul and trek to Hile

The early morning we will be taking a bus from the bus station near Pokhara airport to reach Nayapul; the starting point of most of trekking in Annapurna region as well as ours. We will then trek to Hile through Birethanti (1015 meters) along Modi khola (river) and it will take us about 3 hours to reach there at an altitude of 1400 meters. Overnight: Guest House in Hile. 

Day 4 : Trek from Hile to Ghorepani

We will walk through the rhododendron trail along the oak trees to complete today’s magnificent trek. We will enjoy the chirping of birds as well as the colorful butterflies. It will take about 7 hours to reach Ghorepani from Hile. We will stay overnight at the guesthouse in Ghorepani at an altitude of 2855 meters.

Day 5 : Trek from Ghorepani to Tatopani via Poon Hill

The early morning we will be trekking for an hour to reach Poon Hill for watching the spectacular sunrise over the mountain range of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri Peak and a lot more. We will then return back to Ghorepani and after lunch we will move to Tatopani to enjoy natural hot spring bath. It will take about 7 and half hours to reach the guest house at Tatopani to stay overnight.

Day 6 : Trek from Tatopani to Ghasa

Today we will trek along the Kali Gandaki Gorge which is also known as the deepest gorge in the world towards the Dana village. You can also enjoy the waterfall on the trail at a place named Rupse. Today’s trek is one of the most exciting one which lets you enjoy all the variety of geography from deepest gorge to steepest and narrow section of gorge. After the five hours of walk; we will be at Ghasa at 2013 meters for overnight stay.

Day 7 : Trek from Ghasa to Marpha

We will trek today to reach Marpha a beautiful village famous for apple at an altitude of 2667 meters. We will have to hike for about 6 to 7 hours crossing the Kali Gandaki valley to reach the beautiful Marpha village. We will enjoy the rhododendron trail along different ethnic villages of Gurung, Thakali as well as Tibetan people. We will stay for overnight at Marpha village and of course you can enjoy delicious Apple if you remain lucky and the season in on.

Day 8 : Trek from Marpha to Kagbeni (2897m.) via Jomsom (2713m.) and it takes about five hours.

We will be hiking through the valley of Kali Gandaki and on the way there is Tukuche village the marvelous gift of nature and houses built in a beautiful ways. There is a famous song about wind blowing hard in Jomsom at 12 pm in the day and as the song; the wind blows really hard at the mid day. We will reach Kagbeni in about 5 hours of walk where we will stay overnight.

Day 9 : Trek from Kagbeni to Muktinath

The following day we will move through the deserted landscapes, apple fields and companied by old Tibetan styled villages as well as the sheep and yak herds along the way to reach Muktinath at 3795 meters after a four hours walk. You can enjoy the view of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and such mountains on the way to Muktinath temple where there is 108 taps and it is believed to get nirvana after bathing there. We will stay overnight at a guest house in Muktinath.

Day 10 : Trek from Muktinath to jomsom

After the visit to the holy Muktinath; we will make our way back to Jomsom (2713 meters) descending through the Kalgandaki valley. It will take us approximately 3 hours to reach Jomsom taking the photographs on the trails of magnificent scenarios provided by nature. We will stay overnight at a guesthouse in Jomsom.

Day 11 : Fly back to Pokhara from Jomsom

This day we will be taking a flight back to Pokhara from Jomsom and if possible we will be involved in a half day sightseeing tour at the beautiful Pokhara city and enjoy boating too. We will be staying overnight at the hotel in Pokhara.

Day 12 : drive back to Kathmandu

You can either take a 30 minutes flight or a 6 hours bus to reach Kathmandu.

Day 13 : Departure from Kathmandu

This day we will accompany you to the airport for your farewell to your homeland and the end of the trip.

Inclusions

What is included?

What isn't included?

Complimentary

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