The short version: three of the most asked questions, answered in a line each. The rest of the page goes into detail.
- What if my Jomsom flight is cancelled? Cloud, wind and visibility can delay or cancel flights, especially in monsoon and winter.
- Which permits do I need for the standard route? No restricted-area permit is needed for the standard Lower Mustang route.
- What food should I expect in the lodges? Expect Thakali-style dal bhat with several side dishes, buckwheat pancakes and dishes with local grains.
How do I get from Pokhara to Jomsom?
Most people fly. The flight takes about 20 minutes in a small propeller aircraft and gives views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Flights run in the morning, because the valley wind makes later landings difficult. A long, rough road also connects Jomsom with Beni and Pokhara.
What if my Jomsom flight is cancelled?
Cloud, wind and visibility can delay or cancel flights, especially in monsoon and winter. Build at least one spare day into your plan, avoid a tight international connection right after a Jomsom flight, and ask your operator about the jeep fallback.
Which permits do I need for the standard route?
No restricted-area permit is needed for the standard Lower Mustang route. You will usually still need the Annapurna conservation permit and a TIMS card, but confirm this with your operator for your dates. Upper Mustang beyond Kagbeni is different and has its own rules.
Are lodges open in winter?
Some close. Winter is cold, dry and quiet, and a few lodges shut, while others stay open for the few trekkers who come. Ask your operator which ones will be open on your dates, and book ahead rather than relying on finding a bed.
What food should I expect in the lodges?
Expect Thakali-style dal bhat with several side dishes, buckwheat pancakes and dishes with local grains. In Marpha, apple pie, apple crumble, cider and dried apples appear on menus. Drink apple brandy in moderation, and avoid alcohol at higher altitude.
How do I get from Muktinath down to Jomsom?
Take a jeep or walk down. Trekkers arriving from Muktinath can take a jeep to Jomsom or walk down via Kagbeni. Jeep roads reach close to the temple complex, which makes the ride easy. Walking down is gentler than climbing up.
How should I pack for a small plane?
Use a soft duffel bag, keep the weight modest and put valuables and warm layers in your daypack. Small planes have strict luggage limits, so check the allowance with your operator or airline. Leave unneeded gear in Pokhara and carry a windproof jacket.
