Private Vehicle & Driver
For this itinerary, you have your own private vehicle and driver from your arrival until your final drop-off.
Based on your group size, we arrange a car, a jeep, or a van. Our vehicles are regularly serviced, and our licensed local drivers are familiar with the Kathmandu–Pokhara–Jomsom–Muktinath route in all seasons.
Road: Kathmandu to Pokhara
The route between Kathmandu and Pokhara is an asphalt road used as the main highway. It goes through hills, small towns, and roadside villages.
Because there are many curves and different types of vehicles on the road, the drive can feel slow at times, primarily through busy market areas and junctions.
Road: Pokhara to Jomsom & Muktinath
After Pokhara, the road towards Jomsom and Muktinath feels more like a mountain track. Some parts are blacktopped, while other sections are still rough or gravel.
The road is narrower here, and it can be dusty in dry weather or muddy in the monsoon, so drivers usually keep a moderate speed for safety and comfort.
Approximate Driving Times
In usual conditions, the Kathmandu–Pokhara journey takes about six to seven hours by private vehicle.
The drive from Pokhara to Jomsom is better thought of as almost a full day on the road, including short pauses for tea, meals, and photos.
From Jomsom up to Muktinath (Ranipauwa), travellers generally continue in local jeeps or similar vehicles. This last section is often completed within a few hours, but the exact timing depends on the season, road maintenance, and weather.
Altitude & Health
Both Jomsom and Muktinath lie at a higher elevation than Kathmandu and Pokhara. Most visitors feel more comfortable when they walk at a leisurely pace, drink water regularly, and keep an extra warm layer ready for the cooler evenings.
Travellers with severe heart conditions or long-term medical conditions should seek medical advice before planning a journey to these higher-altitude areas.
Hotels & Meals
This program is designed as a car-with-driver service. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, guests usually choose their own hotels and pay for meals directly at the property or restaurant.
Around Jomsom and the Kali Gandaki Valley, you usually stay in simple lodges or teahouses that offer basic rooms and home-style food.
Best Time to Travel
For clearer mountain views and generally more stable conditions, many guests prefer to travel from March to May or September to November.
Trips are still possible at other times of the year, but heavy rain, fog, or snow can sometimes slow traffic or cause delays on the mountain sections.
Temples & Monasteries: Dress & Manners
On this route, you may visit several temples and monasteries. Please dress modestly, keeping shoulders and knees covered, and remove shoes (and hats where requested) before entering inner shrine areas.
If you wish to take close-up photos of monks, priests, or local worshippers, it is always polite to ask for permission first.
Luggage & Packing
To keep the vehicle easy to load and comfortable inside, a simple rule works well: one medium suitcase or duffel bag per person, plus a small daypack for water, documents, camera, and a light jacket.
If your group is large or you expect very bulky luggage, let us know at the time of booking so we can arrange a bigger vehicle with extra space.
