Demanding • Adventure

Riding to Jomsom from Pokhara

The valley opens out and the wind picks up through the middle of the day. Most riders plan the leg to arrive before the afternoon wind.

Kali Gandaki river valley at Jomsom on the road to Mustang

The route

From Pokhara the road runs west to Beni, then follows the Kali Gandaki river north through its deep gorge between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, before the valley opens out at Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang. Long stretches of the road are unsealed and rough.

What to expect

  • Rough, rocky and dusty sections above Beni.
  • Strong wind in the valley from late morning onwards.
  • Landslides can close the road, especially during the monsoon.
  • Cold mornings and evenings at Jomsom's altitude.

Permits

Jomsom lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. Check the current permit requirements before you leave Pokhara — ask us and we will point you to who to confirm with.

Which bike to take

An adventure bike with long-travel suspension, such as the Royal Enfield Scram 411 or KTM 250 Adventure, makes the rough sections far more comfortable.

Worth knowing

  • Wind builds through the afternoon in the valley.
  • Fuel and food stops are limited — plan ahead.

Road conditions change with landslides, roadworks and weather. Ask us at the shop for a current read on the route.

Bikes we'd suggest for Jomsom

Guides for this ride

Ready for Jomsom?

Book a bike, compare bike rental prices in Pokhara, or read our riding guides first.

Book a Bike
WhatsApp RideUp RentalsBook a Bike