Jomsom and Marpha
In Nepali: जोमसोम र मार्फा
Jomsom lies on the gravel flats of the Kali Gandaki, where a strong wind blows up the valley every afternoon. It has an airstrip linking to Pokhara, a museum of Mustang culture and views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri.
An hour's walk south, Marpha is one of the most beautiful villages in Nepal: narrow flagstone lanes, whitewashed Thakali houses with firewood stacked on the roofs, a monastery above, and orchards producing apples, apricots and local brandy. The Thakali are also known for their dal-bhat, now served across Nepal.
What to see and do
In Jomsom, visit the Mustang Eco Museum and walk up to viewpoints for Nilgiri. In Marpha, stroll the whitewashed lanes, climb to the Paldhar Nyingmapa gompa above the village, visit the horticulture farm and try apple pie, apple juice and local brandy. Nearby Syang and Chhairo have old monasteries and a Tibetan settlement.
Good to know
Jomsom flights leave Pokhara only in the early morning because of the strong afternoon wind. The road from Beni is rough but open most of the year. Marpha's guesthouses are some of the most charming on the Annapurna Circuit.
Quick answers
- Where is Jomsom and Marpha?
- Jomsom and Marpha is in Mustang district, Gandaki Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Jomsom and Marpha?
- About 2,670 m (8,760 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Jomsom and Marpha?
- For a 4-day trip from Pokhara, about NPR 64,000 (≈ US$475) per person on a budget, or NPR 69,000 (≈ US$510) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees. 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 Jomsom and Marpha?
- Plan 2 nights there; with travel from Pokhara and back, about 4 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Jomsom and Marpha?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- When is the best time to visit Jomsom and Marpha?
- March–May; September–November; apples in September
- How do I get to Jomsom and Marpha?
- 20-minute flight from Pokhara or 8–10 hours by road via Beni. It is about 67 km (straight line) from Pokhara, and usually reached by flight.
- What is Jomsom and Marpha called in Nepali?
- जोमसोम र मार्फा
Photo gallery
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