Muktinath and Kagbeni Valley Trek cover half of Annapurna Circuit Trails and take you towards the ancient site of the Muktinath village. Perched on the high plateau on the Northern side of Pokhara. Muktinath is one of the oldest settlements in the country. Nestled on the laps of Giant peaks of Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Dhaulagiri. This trek offers a perfect package to witness various landscapes and microclimates of the country. Starting from the lush woodlands of central Nepal. From sub-tropical forests, chasing river networks, ridges, and crossing high Georges. Eventually, the trek leads to the high mountain valley snuggled between the Border Himalaya and Greater Himalaya. The Muktinath and Kagbeni Valley Trek is a perfect opportunity to explore the hidden culture and nature of the Annapurna region.
Overview:
Muktinath and Kagbeni Trek is a mixture of culture and traditions at its finest. Getting you an insight into the lives of various ethnic groups along the trail. Exploring ancient settlements perched on lush hills and mountain tops, visiting monasteries and temples, and soaking in the vibrant energy of the region.
Kathmandu to Pokhara
The Muktinath and Kagbeni Trek start with a long drive from Kathmandu towards Pokhara. Following the rapids of the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. From Pokhara head towards Nayapul, the starting point of the various trek in the Annapurna Region. Traversing across lush woodlands reach the village of Thikhedhunga. From Thikhedhunga traversing along the deep wilderness of magnificent oak and rhododendron forests, crossing river networks, pasture lands, and lush agriculture farmlands, sparkling clear streams reach the tiny village of Ghorepani.
Pokhara to Poon Hill
The next day head to Poon Hill, one of the best vantage points in the Annapurna region. Ascending on a well-maintained series of stairs, reach Poon Hill. From the vantage point witness Mountain peaks from Dhaulagiri to Annapurna to Machhapuchhre: Dhaulagiri I ( 8167m), Tukuche (6920m), Nilgiri (6940m), Annapurna South, Annapurna I (8091m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m) and Tarke Kang (7193m). All standing at its grandeur basking in the morning rays of the sun and changing their colors. Next, head further down towards Tatopani. Tatopani is a village located on the Kali Gandaki corridor. Here soak in the healing waters of the Himalayan hot spring. Furthermore, head towards Ghasa traversing across high cliffs on rocky landscapes.
Poon Hill to Ghasa
At Ghasa head out for bird watching. All six species of Himalayan pheasants are found in only a few places in the country. Furthermore, the trek follows the east trail of the Kali Gandaki on forested trails of brown oaks, blue pines, and dozens of species of rhododendron. Reach the settlement of Tukuche. At Tukuche head out to explore the deepest The Kali Gandaki George the deepest gorge on the planet.
Head towards kali Gandaki
Continuing along the Kali Gandaki River Gorge, with marvelous views of Annapurna-I and Dhaulagiri further head to Jomsom. An ancient village perched on the banks of the mighty Kali Gandaki river. You can admire Himalayan peaks at such a close range and yet from a safe altitude of only 8800 feet. The region is not only the most popular trekking destination in Nepal but also the gateway to Upper Mustang. The forbidden Kingdom of Lo Manthang.
Next, continue on the sandy footway on the western side of the Kali Gandaki riverbed. Following through a gap in the Himalayan barrier at the bottom of the deepest river canyon in the world. Along this section witness grandeur views of Tukuche, Nilgiri, and Annapurna massif along with some splendid landscapes and reach the village of Kagbeni. A picturesque village clinging over a cliff, facing the confluence of the Kali Gandaki River. Following the Kali Gandaki upstream on a desert landscape with views of dry hills and snowcapped mountains reach the settlement of Muktinath.
Kali Gandaki to Muktinath
Muktinath means the place of Nirvana and is home to the Muktinath temple as well as several ancient religious shrines. A sacred pilgrimage site to both Hindus and Buddhists. Nestled at the foothills of the might Himalayan pass of Thorong La. Explore the temple complex and bathe in the freezing waters. Furthermore, witness the spectacular landscape of the region. After exploring Muktinath retrace your steps back to Jomsom. The following day catches a morning flight to Pokhara. At Pokhara explore the wonders of the city and the next day head towards Kathmandu.
The diverse landscapes and cultures to be found along the trek route give a marvelous insight into the way of life of rural Nepalese people. Join us at the Alpine Club Himalaya for this unique and spectacular experience of the Annapurna region.
Entry and Permits:
The following permits are required for trekking to Muktinath and Kagbeni Trek:
- ACAP entry permit fee for foreigners: 3,000 NPR (Approx. US $30)
- ACAP entry permit fee for SAARC nationals: 200 NPR
- NRP 1,000 per person for organized treks through an agency
- NRP 2,000 per person for independent trekkers (going without a guide or porter)
Note: All the trekking permits are handled by the Alpine Club of Himalaya.
Meals and drinking water:
Along the Annapurna Region Trek, you will be provided with various Nepali, and Tibetan ethnic cuisines, and varieties of continental as well as western meals. The region has several tea-house along the trail and is run by local inhabitants providing basic and minimal facilities to luxury ones, where you will have an opportunity to taste various cuisines which you will miss it most of the trekking trails of Nepal.
Annapurna Region is a plastic-free zone and has banned the use of bottled Mineral Water. However, accessible drinking water taps with untreated natural water are available along the trekking trail. Direct use is not recommended. You can refill boiled or cold filtered water at teahouses instead.
If you buy a water purification tablet, chlorine drops, utilize SODIS filtration procedures for further assurance and reducing plastic pollution.
Accommodation:
Tourist-friendly hotels, lodges, and local accommodations are available on trekking trails and, providing with basic accommodation to luxury and grandeur ones. Luxury hotels and teahouse are situated along the trail that suits your budgets providing comfortable beds with electric blankets, hot and cold shower, free WIFI, and many more.
Teahouse along Annapurna region provides you with hot shower, western attached bathrooms and the rooms mostly include twin sharing beds as well as a single bed, with hygienic and clean atmosphere, good mattresses, a pillow, and blankets.
Campsites are also available along the trail providing a special opportunity for campers to sleep under the stars.
Best Time to Visit?
The best season for trekking in Annapurna Region is during autumn and spring.
The months of September, October, November, March, April, and May are the best time to visit. These months are better in terms of visibility and climate conditions.
During the autumn season, the months of September, October, and November are one of the best times for trekking in this region. Weather is clear bringing great visibility of the endless mountain ranges and lush green forest with warm temperatures, the nights are clear and is a perfect opportunity for stargazing.
The spring season of March, April, and May is also the best time to visit the Annapurna Region. The end of the winter season brings a change in the region, varieties of colorful blooming trees of the sub-alpine forest, high green pasture lands covered with wildflowers, mild temperatures, and clear weather. In this season you will witness herds of sheep and yaks grazing in the green high lands.
Monsoon season is not favorable as the weather gets harsh and it’s hard to get around the country. So, monsoon season is mostly avoided by trekkers.
In the winter season, it is impossible to visit Annapurna Region due to high snowfall covering most of the trails.
Travel Insurance:
All clients participating in any activity must have travel insurance. Personal injury, death, hospital expenditures, repatriation fees, helicopter rescue, and any other disease covered by the insurance plan will be given. We highly advise you to acquire a comprehensive insurance plan from a trustworthy insurance company.
Passport and Visa:
Every client must have a valid passport from the return date with a 6 months. Nepalese consulate in your country or immigration office at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu will prior validity.
