11 DAYS JOMSOM TO POKHARA TREK

TREK # 09
11 DAYS JOMSOM TO POKHARA TREK

DAY 01 :
We take an early flight from Pokhara (915m) to Jomsom (2713m). We begin trekking by following the right bank of the Kali Gandaki river and lunch. After lunch, leave the main road to Mustang and follow the right hand side route. This route starts with a gradual climb to Ja Dzong (2807m) and overnight halt.

DAY 02:
It is about 2 hours' gradual climb to Muktinath, an important pilgrimage spot for both the Hindus and Buddhist - with a Buddhist Gompa and pagoda style temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The most interesting aspect of the area however is the spot where natural burning gas issued from a rock situated at the same place as a small spring. Earth, fire and water - an important religious combination.

DAY 03:
The trail descends very quickly to the valley floor over 5,000 ft below and we overnighthalt at Jomosom.

DAY 04:
We pass through Marpha and Tukche, beautiful Thakali villages and overnighthalt at Larjung. The Thakalis are the dominant tribe of the valley, related to the Gurung and Magars of the Southern slopes.

DAY 05:
As we pass between the Dhauligiri and Annapurna, a dramatic change in the vegetation occurs today - from dry desert to pine and conifer forests. Passing through Kalapani and here, the views of the Annapurnas are breathtaking. We have overnighthalt near a spectacular waterfall at Rukse.

DAY 06:
The trail descends steadily to Tatopani (4003 ft) where we stop for lunch. Tatopani means "Hot water" and it is possible to bathe in the springs. We then cross the Kali Gandaki and then climb to the Magar village of Sikha for overnighthalt.

DAY 07:
As we climb steadily all day, we leave behind the terraced fields and enter into thick rhododendron forest and village of Ghorepani. We have overnighthalt at the Pass where we can get the best views of sunset and dawn of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.

DAY 08:
Rest and exploring around Ghorepani. It is advisable to climb nearby POON HILL for spectacular view of Whole Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu rages from the top of the Hill which is just about an hour's climb.

DAY 09:
Today's descend is almost as tiring as the day from Muktinath. However, mule trains laden with goods keep us entertained. We spend overnight on the bank of the Modi river.

DAY 10:
We trek to Chandrakot (5125 ft) and enjoy a cup of tea here. We then continue along the ridge of Naudanda for overnighthalt in full view of the southern slopes of the whole Annapurna range.

DAY 11:
We continue along the ridge loosing sight of the peaks temporarily to Kaski and then continue on to Phewa lake for lunch. Drive or lake late afternoon flight to Kathmandu.