An Overlook of Marpha Village-Lower Mustang: an Introduction Pokhara to Jomsom Muktinath Highway

 Marpha is a wonderful town in the Himalayan terrain of the Mustang region in the Dhaulagiri Zone. This picturesque town is located at an altitude of 2680 meters above sea level. Marpha is an ancient town, which is synonymously known as an apple garden as it has got a wide range of apple farming around the village. With its unique settlement and cultural backbone, Marpha has established itself as an unavoidable town in Mustang during Pokhara to Jomsom Muktinath Jeep Tour.

 

Pokhara to Marpha is a 145 km distance, which is accessible by Jeep and Bus. The road is quite miserable due to its rocky chain, muddy landslides, and steep uphill countryside road.

Pokhara to Beni: 83 km- the road is almost black top section. However, sometimes they maintain the road or extend its width, so there will be some sort of disturbances. It's better to know beforehand before taking your low-floor vehicles like cars.

Beni to Marpha: 50 km- This is the main point of the Pokhara to Jomsom Muktinath Tour. Although it is just 50 km distance, the road is quite adventurous and includes various off-roading sections. It's better to take a 4WD Jeep or bus, which is great in case it gets stuck in the mud. But once you enter the Mustang district, the road is fine, and no problem for any vehicles.

Marpha to Jomsom: 13 km- The road is so fine and attractive. The road follows the bank of the Kali Gandaki River. Jomsom is the district center of Mustang.

Jomsom to Muktinath: 25 km- Driving from Jomsom to Muktinath also includes a fine road section. First 30 minutes, you need to drive through the Kaligandaki River bank till Kagbeni. From Kagbeni, the left road takes you to the Upper Mustang and the right side road to Muktinath. Kagbeni to Muktinath is quite steep and takes you through the stunning hilly highway.

Marpha is great to stay and explore the Tibetan Buddhist village. Due to the increasing altitude, while driving from Pokhara, you will get acclimatized if you stay at Marpha. Even if you stay one more day, you will get abundant activities to do and explore around Marpha. The Himalayan views of Mt. Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak, Dhaulagiri, and the surrounding snowy Himalayan peaks look excellent.