Chandannath and Jumla
In Nepali: चन्दननाथ र जुम्ला · Also known as: Jumla Khalanga · Marshi rice · चन्दननाथ
Jumla Khalanga, at about 2,370 m in the Tila river valley, is the headquarters of Jumla and the gateway to Rara. The Chandannath temple, legendarily founded by a saint who came from Kashmir, and the Bhairabnath temple beside it are the heart of the town.
The valley grows red Marshi rice at over 2,000 m, apples, walnuts and beans. From here the old trails lead to Rara (3–4 days), to Sinja, and to the Patarasi and Guthichaur pastures.
What to see and do
Visit the Chandannath and Bhairabnath temples, walk the bazaar, and explore the Tila valley's rice terraces — the red Marshi rice grows higher than almost anywhere else. In autumn, apple orchards are heavy with fruit. Jumla is also the starting point for walks to Rara, Sinja and the Patarasi Himal area.
Good to know
Flights from Nepalgunj and Surkhet are weather-dependent; the road via the Karnali Highway is long but open most of the year. Hotels in Jumla are simple. Try Jumli apples, walnuts and bean dishes.
Quick answers
- Where is Chandannath and Jumla?
- Chandannath and Jumla is in Jumla district, Karnali Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Chandannath and Jumla?
- About 2,370 m (7,776 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Chandannath and Jumla?
- For a 4-day trip from Nepalgunj, about NPR 60,500 (≈ US$450) per person on a budget, or NPR 65,500 (≈ US$485) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 29,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Chandannath and Jumla?
- Plan 2 nights there; with travel from Nepalgunj and back, about 4 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Chandannath and Jumla?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Chandannath and Jumla?
- April–June; September–November; apples in September–October
- How do I get to Chandannath and Jumla?
- Flights from Nepalgunj/Surkhet; long drive on the Karnali Highway. It is about 147 km (straight line) from Nepalgunj, and usually reached by flight.
- What is Chandannath and Jumla called in Nepali?
- चन्दननाथ र जुम्ला
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