05 Nights/ 06 Days
Description
Location: Kathmandu - Pokhara - Jamson - Muktinath - Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, offers a rich cultural experience with ancient temples and bustling streets. Pokhara, known for its serene beauty, is a gateway to the Annapurna region with stunning views of the Himalayas. Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site, is located in the Mustang region, offering both spiritual significance and breathtaking landscapes. The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara is scenic, passing through lush valleys and winding rivers. Pokhara serves as a relaxing stop before heading to the higher altitudes. Muktinath, with its sacred temple and natural beauty, is a transformative experience for both pilgrims and travelers alike.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01 - Kathmandu
Day 02 – Kathmandu / Pokhara
Day 03 – Pokhara / Jomsom
Day 04 – Jomsom / Pokhara
Day 05 – Pokhara / Kathmandu
Day 06 – Kathmandu / Airport
Day 01 - Kathmandu
Meeting at airport upon arrival by NTP Personnel. Transfer to hotel. Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and the Kathmandu Valley is the political and cultural heart of the Kingdom. The urban sprawl that makes up modern Kathmandu is in fact two cities, Patan and Kathmandu.
After short relaxation at the hotel, you will be taken for sightseeing to Pashupatinath.This is the place where holy saddhus pray and cremations on the Bagmati River are carried out. While you are not allowed into the temple if you are not a Hindu, the grounds surrounding the temple usually have a fascinating crowd of the faithful. Overnight at hotel.
Day 02 – Kathmandu / Pokhara
Fly to Pokhara. Pokhara is 30 mins by flight from Kathmandu. From Pokhara town (2,352 feet) in good weather there are splendid views right from the hotel. Assistance upon arrival by hotel coach in Pokhara and then transfer to Hotel.Evening free to stroll around the lakeside.Overnight at hotel.
Day 03 – Pokhara / Jomsom
After Breakfast, early morning fly to Jomsom. Upon arrival at Jomsom, walk over to the hotel which is 2 minutes from the airport.
Please do note that Jomsom is a small village in the Mountains. Only basic accommodation is available here. The clients will have to walk from the airport to the hotel which takes about 2 minutes.Porters are sent to the airport to carry the luggage by the hotel. 15 Kg luggage per adult and 7 kg per child is allowed by the airlines on this sector. The aircraft is a Twin Otter or Doniar - average 15 seats.
Darshan of Muktinath temple
To visit Muktinath, the clients will have to walk for about 15-20 minutes over the Kali Gandaki River. Here there is no means of transport as on the river there is a narrow bridge - vehicles cannot cross. After crossing the bridge take the Jeep on sharing basis for Muktinath. Originally the route from Jomson to Muktinath was a trekkers route only. Recently the route has been widened and 4x4 vehicles can only drive. The path is a Dirt road. The ride is Bumpy all the way. The drive takes about 1.5 hours one way. Upon arrival at Muktinath it is another 30 minutes walk from the base to the Temple.
Darshan on your own of Muktinath & following the same route return to Jomsom.
Day 04 – Jomsom / Pokhara
Fly back to Pokhara early morning and transfer to hotel.
This afternoon you will visit Bindebasini Temple. This is one of the oldest temples in Pokhara was a part of Kaski Kingdom, the main deity of the temple,Goddess Durga, was brought from India . Apart from the peace and tranquility that can be felt in this region, the premises of the temple offers a good view of the Himalaya on a clear day. The temple is in the area of the bazaar, hence,a journey of the old bazaar can be combined with a visit to the temple. Sightseeing to Devi’s fall, also known as Patale Chango is an awesome waterfall lying 2 km southwest of Pokhara. During summer and rainy season, the waterfall takes its real form, with gushing water splashing and making its way through the rocks. Just opposite of Devi’s fall, on the other side of the road, there is Gupteshwor Cave. This cave is popular for the different natural forms made from limestone deposits. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the cave. Overnight at hotel.
Day 05 – Pokhara / Kathmandu
Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel. Rest day at leisure. One can indulge in shopping or visit the casinos trying their lady luck. Overnight at hotel.
Day 06 – Kathmandu / Airport
This morning your tour will take you for a visit to Patan. Also known as Lalitpur, the city of beauty is separated from Kathmandu only by the Bagmati River and is the second largest town in the valley. Lalitpur is fragmented from other cities due to its substantive architectural ancient masterpieces. Patan's central Durbar Square is absolutely packed with temples: Its an architectural center point with a far greater concentration of temples per sq. meter than in Kathamandu or Bhaktapur. Within the city also lies the Tibetan refugee center, home to most of the valley's Tibetan population. While technically refugees, the Tibetans are some of the wealthiest people in the valley because of the carpet industry they operate. For those looking to bring home a fine Tibetan carpet, this is the place to shop. You will then go to Swayambhunath the golden spire of the 5th-century Swayambhu stupa is adorned with a colorful fluttering of prayer flags; it crowns a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley and offers fantastic views over the city of Kathmandu. Swayambhunath is one of the most recognizable symbols in Nepal and the painted eyes of Buddha watch all who ascend the worn stone steps.
Later, you will be transferred to the airport in time to board your flight for onward journey.
How do I get from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
You can travel by bus, private vehicle, or flight. The road journey takes around 6-7 hours, while a flight takes about 25 minutes.
What is the best way to get to Muktinath from Pokhara?
Most travelers take a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, followed by a jeep ride to Muktinath. Alternatively, you can trek for 5-7 days, depending on your route.
Do I need a permit for Muktinath?
Yes, you will need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and a restricted area permit to visit Muktinath. These can be arranged in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Is Muktinath accessible year-round?
While Muktinath is open throughout the year, the best time to visit is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons when the weather is clear and the views are at their best.
What is the significance of Muktinath?
Muktinath is a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the 108 water spouts believed to wash away sins. It’s a major pilgrimage destination.
How can I reach Pokhara from Kathmandu if I’m short on time?
Flying is the fastest option if you want to save time. It’s a quick 25-minute flight, offering amazing aerial views of the Himalayas.
Package Inclusions:-
# 02 nights accomodation in Kathmandu with Breakfast.
# 02 nightsaccomodation in Pokhara with Breakfast.
# 01 night accommodation in Jomsom with Breakfast – extremely basic accommodation only available with non A/c rooms
# 02 international airport transfers by a non A/c vehicle exclusively
# 02 domestic airport transfers in Kathmandu by a non A/c vehicle exckusively
# 04 domestic airport transfers in Pokhara by a non A/c hotel coach on SIC basis.
# Sightseeing as per the itinerary in Kathmandu and Pokhara by a non a/c vehicle exclusively
# Transportation Jomsom – Muktinath – Jomsom by a non A/c Jeep on SIC basis.
# Airfare Kathmandu / Pokhara / Kathmandu
# Airfare Pokhara / Jomsom / Pokhara
# ACAP fee for Jomsom included ( Permit required to visit Jomsom for which 2 passport size photograph and passport photocopy is required )
# Presently applicable 24.3% Hotel Taxes (13% VAT and 10% Service charge).
Travel tips
1. Entitled to carry only 15 kgs per person on flight.
2. Take precaution for altitude sickness by taking Diamox tablet or Aspirin
3. Carry own medicine for any health problem
4. Drink plenty of water while trekking
5. Sports shoes or trekking shoes
6. Carry light luggage
7. Walking stick
8. Jacket
9. Chap stick / Vaseline cream
10. Cap
11. Sun glasses
12. Warm Clothing
13. Sunscreen Lotion
14. Moisturizer Lotion
15. Thick socks and gloves
Days are relatively warm; especially when there is no wind in the late morning. The appropriate clothing as per the travel period (temperature) and a good walking shoes for rocky and uneven paths are highly recommended. Walking stick would help for those who need support.
Caution : Jomsom is a weather prone area. Frequent flight cancellations are obvious & any expenses that arise due to such cancellations will have to be borne by the clients on their own.
Please do note the following about Jomsom properties:
Jomsom is small village in the Mountains. No luxury options are available here. Hotel Om’s Home & Hotel Majesty are the two properties we use in Jomsom.
The properties are budget properties with basic facilities only. The clients should be aware about the place in advance so that they do not face any problem after they reach there. Jomsom is famous for its natural beauty, its surrounding, trekking and Muktinath.