3rd Aug, 2026

How to Return from Muktinath After the Annapurna Circuit Trek

How to Return from Muktinath After the Annapurna Circuit Trek (Complete 2026 Guide)

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most spectacular trekking adventures, taking you across the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) before descending to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple (3,760 m). For many trekkers, reaching Muktinath marks the end of an unforgettable Himalayan journey.

However, one important question remains:

How do you return from Muktinath after completing the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Fortunately, there are several convenient ways to travel back to Pokhara or Kathmandu. Whether you prefer the fastest route by flight or a scenic road journey through the Kali Gandaki Valley, this guide explains every option, including travel times, costs, advantages, and recommendations.

If you're planning our 12-Day Short Annapurna Circuit Trek, this guide will help you organize your return journey with confidence.

Where Does the Annapurna Circuit Trek End?

Most modern Annapurna Circuit itineraries finish at Muktinath after crossing Thorong La Pass.

From Muktinath you can:

Return directly to Pokhara by jeep
Travel to Jomsom and fly to Pokhara
Continue by road to Kathmandu
Spend extra days exploring Lower Mustang

Because roads now connect much of the Annapurna region, trekkers no longer need to walk all the way to Nayapul as in the past.

Option 1: Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara (Most Popular)

This is the most common return option for trekkers.

Route

Muktinath → Kagbeni → Jomsom → Marpha → Ghasa → Tatopani → Beni → Pokhara

Travel Time

Approximately 8–10 hours, depending on road conditions.

Best For

Budget travelers
Groups
Trekkers wanting scenic mountain views
Flexible itineraries

Advantages

Available almost every day
Beautiful drive through the Kali Gandaki Gorge
Visit Marpha Apple Village
Stop at Tatopani Hot Springs
No weather-related flight cancellations

Things to Know

The section between Jomsom and Beni is rough and dusty in places, although road improvements continue. During the monsoon, landslides may cause delays.

Option 2: Jeep to Jomsom + Flight to Pokhara (Fastest)

If you want to save time, you can drive a short distance from Muktinath to Jomsom and take an early morning flight to Pokhara.

Route

Muktinath → Jomsom (30–45 minutes)

Jomsom → Pokhara (20–25-minute flight)

Total Travel Time

About half a day if flights operate on schedule.

Advantages

Saves many hours of driving
Incredible aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
Ideal if you have limited time

Disadvantages

Flights operate only in the morning.
Strong winds frequently delay or cancel flights.
You may need an extra day in case of weather disruptions.

Option 3: Return Directly to Kathmandu

Many trekkers prefer to go straight back to Kathmandu.

There are two ways:

Option A

Muktinath → Pokhara by Jeep

Pokhara → Kathmandu by Flight

Perfect if you're catching an international flight.

Option B

Muktinath → Pokhara by Jeep

Pokhara → Kathmandu by Tourist Bus or Private Vehicle

This is more economical but takes longer.

Option 4: Explore Lower Mustang Before Returning

If you have extra days, don't rush back.

Consider spending another one or two nights visiting:

Marpha
Kagbeni
Jomsom
Tatopani Hot Springs

These villages offer a wonderful mix of culture, mountain scenery, apple orchards, and traditional hospitality.

Many trekkers say these places become some of their favorite memories of the Annapurna region.

Which Return Option Is Best?

Option	Time	Comfort	Weather Risk	Best For
Jeep to Pokhara	8–10 hrs	Good	Very Low	Most trekkers
Flight from Jomsom	Half day	Excellent	High	Limited time
Jeep + Flight to Kathmandu	1 day	Excellent	Moderate	International travelers
Continue Exploring Mustang	Flexible	Excellent	Low	Photography & culture lovers

Can You Fly Directly from Muktinath?

No.

There is no airport at Muktinath.

The nearest airport is Jomsom Airport, approximately 20 km away.

You'll first travel by local jeep before boarding your flight.

Is the Road from Muktinath to Pokhara Safe?

Yes.

The road is open most of the year and is regularly used by:

Trekkers
Pilgrims
Local residents
Jeep services

Road conditions vary, especially between Jomsom and Beni, where the surface can be rough. During the monsoon season, occasional landslides may temporarily affect travel.

Best Time to Return

The best trekking seasons are:

Spring (March–May) – Stable weather and rhododendron blooms.
Autumn (September–November) – Clear skies and mountain views.

Winter travel is possible but may bring snow around Thorong La.

Monsoon (June–August) can involve muddy roads, landslides, and more frequent flight cancellations.

Suggested Itinerary After Muktinath

Day 10

Cross Thorong La Pass

Visit Muktinath Temple

Overnight in Muktinath

Day 11

Drive through Kagbeni, Jomsom, Marpha and Tatopani

Arrive Pokhara

Day 12

Fly or drive to Kathmandu

International departure or extra sightseeing

Why Many Trekkers Choose the Jeep

Although flights save time, experienced trekkers often prefer the jeep journey because it allows them to:

Experience the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge
Visit authentic Mustang villages
Stop for photos whenever they like
Avoid waiting for weather-dependent flights

For groups, a private jeep also offers flexibility and can be a practical alternative to multiple flight tickets.

Complete Your Adventure with Holiday Planner Treks

Our 12-Day Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is designed for trekkers who want to experience the highlights of the Annapurna Circuit in a shorter timeframe without missing the iconic Thorong La Pass and Muktinath Temple.

After your trek, we can arrange:

Private Jeep from Muktinath to Pokhara
Shared Jeep transportation
Jomsom flight bookings (subject to weather)
Pokhara hotel reservations
Private transfer to Kathmandu
Customized Mustang extensions

Our experienced local team ensures your return journey is smooth, safe, and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to drive from Muktinath to Pokhara?

The journey typically takes 8–10 hours, depending on road and weather conditions.

Can I fly directly from Muktinath?

No. You must first travel to Jomsom Airport.

Are Jomsom flights reliable?

Flights are scenic but often delayed or canceled due to strong morning winds and weather conditions. It's wise to include a buffer day in your itinerary.