Getting There
After landing at Kathmandu, the best and fastest way to reach Jomsom is by flying or driving to Pokhara, which is 30 minutes by air and 5 hours by road and then continuing by a small aircraft or helicopter to Jomsom, which is a further 20 minutes by air. About 12-15 daily flights connect Pokhara with Kathmandu and 8-10 daily flights connect Jomsom with Pokhara. As all flights to Jomsom operates in the morning, there are very little chances of the mountains being covered by clouds, giving the passengers an exhilarating view of the Himalayas even before they reach Jomsom. As there are no motorable roads connecting Jomsom to Pokhara, the only other option for guests is trekking to Jomsom from Pokhara which takes about six days.
Introduction
Jomsom at an altitude of 2800m, it more correctly is known as Dzongsam or New Fort. It spreads over both the banks of the Kali Gandaki. The towering peaks of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri form an attractive backdrop. Being the district headquarters, it is primarily an administrative and commercial center with government officials and merchants rubbing shoulders with the local inhabitants of the region, known as Thakalis. A company of the Nepalese Army is stationed here. Nearby is an airfield, from where flights operate regularly. However, due to the strong winds that buffet the area in the afternoons, the airfield is functional only in the forenoon.
The views from Jomsom are enchanting as the Nilgiri (7,061 m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m) ranges reflect the golden rays of the rising and setting sun. The entire panorama is filled with a golden, glittering light, which forms a dramatic contrast. Life here is a balance of hard work, and ancient culture. Many visitors find their most lasting impression of Nepal comes not from the ancient temples in the urban valleys but from visits to places like Jomsom and its exhilarating spiritual environment. Jomsom area is not only the most popular trekking destination in Nepal but also the gateway to Upper Mustang - "Kingdom" within the Hindu Kingdom of Nepal. Jomsom is also the gateway to The Muktinath shrine that holds great religious significance to both Buddhists and Hindus.
The altitude in this area varies from 2012m near Ghasa to 8091 m (Mt. Annapurna) - vertical height difference of 6079 m over a distance of only 14 Km.
Jomsom is served by 8-15 flights a day. Regular visitors know that the flights are dependent on weather conditions. Though this is a remote area, private initiative in the form of many domestic airlines operate frequent flights to the area. Leave the concrete jungle behind with the hope that you will experience nature in its most primitive form. Be ready to let your mind and spirit free in wide-open spaces. Be prepared for harsh climatic conditions, glaring sun during the day, heavy winds, and cold nights.
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