Getting There and Away

Stunning view of Jomsom's mountainous terrain during sunset, showcasing the natural beauty of Nepal's landscape.
dnes, Pexels

Jomsom, a key administrative and commercial hub in Nepal's Mustang district, is accessible via its domestic airport (Jomsom Airport, JMO) and by road. The airport is situated near the Kali Gandaki River, close to Jomsom Bazaar, and serves as a gateway for trekkers and pilgrims heading to destinations like Muktinath Temple. For overland travel, public and private bus and jeep services are available.

By Air (Flights):

  • From Pokhara: Direct flights to Jomsom Airport (JMO) are available, typically taking 20-25 minutes. Flights generally operate in the mornings (from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM) due to high winds developing later in the day, and they are highly weather-dependent. Major airlines include Tara Air, Summit Air, and Yeti Airlines. A one-way flight for foreigners from Pokhara to Jomsom is approximately USD 160-165.
  • From Kathmandu: There are no direct flights to Jomsom; travelers must first fly to Pokhara and then take a connecting flight or ground transport to Jomsom.

By Road (Buses):

  • From Kathmandu: Direct overnight bus services depart daily from Gongabu Bus Park around 2:30 PM, arriving in Jomsom between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM the following morning. The journey covers approximately 375 kilometers and costs around NPR 2500 (approximately USD 20).
  • From Pokhara: Buses depart daily from Zero KM and Prithvi Chowk in Pokhara between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, with the journey taking about 7-9 hours to reach Jomsom. A one-way bus ticket costs around NPR 1200 (approximately USD 9-10).
  • Road conditions, especially on the Beni-Jomsom stretch, can be challenging and prone to landslides during the monsoon season, although road improvements are ongoing.

By Road (Jeeps):

  • From Pokhara: Shared and private jeeps offer an alternative to buses, with travel times ranging from 6 to 8 hours. Shared jeeps typically depart from Zero KM and Prithvi Chowk between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. A shared jeep ticket costs around NPR 1800 (approximately USD 13). Hiring a private jeep from Pokhara for a one-way trip, inclusive of driver and fuel, can range from USD 375-400, while a multi-day package (e.g., 4 days) can cost upwards of USD 820. A 4WD jeep is highly recommended for the route.