Jomsom Muktinath Trekking

Jomsom (2800m) to Muktinath (3710m) is the perfect balance between rugged alpine wilds and austere beauty, in a class truly of its own. Situated north of Phokara, the trail is constantly climbing and descending with a climate ranging from sub tropical heat to cool, dry, alpine plains. Great mystical valleys creep down from the giant Annapurna Himal encompassing a very diverse group of people, traditions, culture and wildlife. Locals mostly live in harmony with each other and nature, always very warm and welcoming to foreign trekkers who happen upon their doorstep.

This is perhaps one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal, for it has an impeccable allure that seems to attract thousands every year. The captivating mountain views grip people by some unseen and awesome power, raging glacial rivers tear though the archaic rock formations, chanting monks echo across vast empty space and those trekkers with the blessing of traversing this land have the opportunity of falling into harmony with this slow paced and conscious way of life.

Many plants and animals call Annapurna conservation area home including a number of rare and endangered species like the Tibetan Wolf, Lynx, Musk Deer, and Snow Leopard. There are 22 different forest types with at least 1,226 known plant species; in short the ACA is thriving with a great magnitude of diverse wildlife which makes trekking here amazing.

The Kali Gandaki River forms the largest gorge in the world and if you walk upon the riverbanks innumerable fossils and some rare stones can be found (Hindus traditionally pray to the Ancient fossils). The highest point of the whole trek is at Muktinath which is 3800m high at the foot of Thorong La pass and is full of many temples as the area is considered holy land by both the Hindus and Buddhists alike.

For more info see Annapurna Region