About Place
- "A hidden gem nestled in the Himalayas."
- "A pristine region with breathtaking landscapes and traditional charm."
- "Home to the rare Jumli Marshi rice and ancient Buddhist monasteries."
Reasons to Visit
- Stunning Landscapes : From lush valleys to snow-capped peaks, Jumla offers serene escapes with less crowded trekking routes such as the Rara Lake and Sinja Valley trek.
- Cultural Heritage : Home to the ancient Khas civilization, with historical sites and traditional festivals that provide a glimpse into the rich heritage. The Sinja Valley is the origin of the Nepali language and script.
- Unique Organic Produce : Renowned for its red rice called Jumli Marshi, the local cuisine offers a delectable taste of authentic Nepalese flavors, largely untouched by modern influences.
Visa
- US, UK, Canada, Australia, EU countries : Visa on arrival available for tourists. Fee varies by length of stay (15, 30, or 90 days).
- India : Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Nepal.
- Other countries : Check specific requirements as some nationalities may need to apply for a visa beforehand.
Travel Expenses
Travel to & from Destination
- Flight from Kathmandu to Jumla (round trip for 2 people) : $400
Hotel Cost
- Guesthouse in Jumla (4 nights) : $50 per night x 4 nights = $200
- Teahouse during Rara Lake trek (2 nights) : $30 per night x 2 nights = $60
Food Cost
- Meals in Jumla (4 lunches + 4 dinners for 2 people) : $10 per meal x 8 meals = $80
- Meals during trek (2 lunches + 2 dinners for 2 people) : $15 per meal x 4 meals = $60
Activity Cost
- Trekking guide for 5 days : $100
- Entry permits for Sinja Valley and Rara Lake : $50
Near Destination Travel Cost
- Rented vehicle for local transport in Jumla : $50 per day x 4 days = $200
Total Estimated Cost
- Travel to & from destination: $400
- Hotel cost: $260
- Food cost: $140
- Activity cost: $150
- Near destination travel cost: $200
- Total: $1,150
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Jumla
After arriving in Jumla via a domestic flight from Kathmandu, check into a cozy guesthouse in Khalanga Bazaar, the district headquarters. Spend the afternoon exploring the local market and getting a feel for the town's atmosphere. For lunch, try the traditional Nepalese Thali at a local restaurant like Hotel Jumla Palace. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Tila River and enjoy the serene surroundings. For dinner, savor the local specialty, Jumli Marshi rice with yak meat curry, at the hotel’s restaurant. Spend the night acclimatizing to the altitude and relaxing.
Day 2 : Exploration of Sinja Valley
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at the guesthouse. Embark on a trek to the Sinja Valley, which takes around 4-5 hours. This historical site is the origin of the Nepali language and script, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past. Visit the ancient temples and the ruins of the old palace. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning landscape. Return to Jumla town in the late afternoon. In the evening, explore more local delicacies like momo (dumplings) at a recommended eatery such as Annapurna Restaurant. End the day with a stroll under the starlit sky.
Day 3 : Rara Lake Trek
After an early breakfast, set out for the Rara Lake trek. Although reaching the lake involves a multi-day trek, you can start your journey and hike towards the first stop, which is typically around a 6-7 hour trek to a village like Bhulbule. Along the way, enjoy the lush forests and picturesque views. Have lunch at a teahouse en route, sampling local dishes. Upon reaching the village, relax and have dinner at the teahouse, experiencing the hospitality of the local people. Spend the night here before continuing the trek.
Day 4 : Continuing the Rara Lake Trek
Continue your trek towards Rara Lake after a nutritious breakfast. This part of the journey will take you through diverse landscapes and quaint villages. Take breaks to appreciate the stunning views and have lunch at another teahouse along the route. By late afternoon, you will reach Rara Lake, where the serene, crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountains create a magical setting. Enjoy a simple but delicious dinner at a lakeside teahouse, then spend the night in a basic but comfortable lodge.
Day 5 : Return to Jumla
Spend the morning exploring the beauty of Rara Lake, perhaps taking a boat ride or a short hike around the lake. Have breakfast at the teahouse and then begin your trek back to Jumla. Break for lunch at a teahouse along the way. The return trek will take the entire day, and you'll arrive back in Jumla in the late afternoon. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant such as Chandan Nath Guest House, relishing the local cuisine one last time before resting for the night.
Safety Tips
- Stay hydrated and acclimatize properly to the altitude.
- Hire a local guide for treks and follow their advice.
- Carry a basic first aid kit and necessary medications.
- Keep a copy of important documents and emergency contacts.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Be cautious of food and water hygiene.
- Dress appropriately for varying weather conditions.
- Stay connected with family or friends and inform them of your plans.
- Avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
- Carry sufficient cash as ATMs may be scarce.
Flights
- Airlines : Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines
- Flight Duration : Approximately 1.5 hours from Kathmandu to Jumla
- Estimated Cost : $200 per person (one-way)
Hotels
- Hotel Jumla Palace: Cozy and centrally located.
- Annapurna Hotel: Known for its local cuisine.
- Chandan Nath Guest House: Traditional style with modern amenities.
- Sinja Valley Lodge: Close to historical sites.
- Rara Lake Teahouses: Basic but comfortable stays along the trek route.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Kathmandu : +977-1-4410900
- Police : 100
- Ambulance : 102
- Firefighters : 101
Country
Closet Airport
- Jumla Airport (JUH)
Nearest City
- Kathmandu
Heritage Sites
- Sinja Valley (UNESCO tentative list)
Airlines
- Buddha Air
- Yeti Airlines
Currency
- Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Languages Spoken
- Nepali
Real Story
The Sinja Valley in Jumla, Nepal, holds a significant place in the history of the country as the cradle of the Khas Kingdom and the origin of the Nepali language and script. This ancient civilization flourished between the 11th and 14th centuries and left an indelible mark on Nepal's cultural and linguistic heritage.
The Rise of the Khas Kingdom
The Khas people, believed to have migrated from the Karnali region, established their kingdom in the fertile Sinja Valley. The Khas Kingdom, also known as the Khasa Malla Kingdom, became a powerful entity that controlled much of western Nepal. The valley's strategic location along ancient trade routes facilitated cultural exchanges and economic prosperity, leading to the kingdom's growth.
Cultural and Linguistic Contributions
The Khas rulers were instrumental in promoting the Nepali language, then known as the Khas language. They adopted the Devanagari script for writing, which laid the foundation for the modern Nepali language. This period saw the creation of numerous manuscripts, inscriptions, and documents, many of which have been preserved and provide valuable insights into the region's history.
One of the most significant sites in Sinja Valley is the Dullu Durbar, an ancient palace complex that served as the administrative and cultural hub of the Khas Kingdom. Inscriptions found at this site contain early examples of written Nepali, highlighting the kingdom's role in the development of the language.
Architectural and Archaeological Heritage
The Khas Kingdom left behind an impressive array of architectural and archaeological sites. The ruins of palaces, forts, and temples scattered across the Sinja Valley offer a glimpse into the kingdom's grandeur. Notable sites include the Kanaka Sundari Temple, dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, and the Chandan Nath Temple, which is an important pilgrimage site.
Archaeological excavations have unearthed artifacts such as coins, pottery, and tools, providing further evidence of the Khas civilization's advanced culture and craftsmanship. These discoveries have helped historians piece together the kingdom's history and its impact on the region.
Decline and Legacy
The decline of the Khas Kingdom began in the late 14th century due to internal strife and external pressures from neighboring kingdoms. Despite its fall, the cultural and linguistic contributions of the Khas rulers continued to influence the region. The Nepali language, shaped and nurtured in the Sinja Valley, eventually became the national language of Nepal.
Today, the Sinja Valley is recognized as a UNESCO tentative site, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance. Efforts are being made to preserve and promote the valley's heritage, ensuring that the legacy of the Khas Kingdom and the origins of the Nepali language are remembered and celebrated.
Cuisine
Jumla's cuisine is a delightful representation of the region's agricultural heritage and cultural traditions. The food is simple, wholesome, and deeply rooted in the local produce and livestock. Here are some key highlights:
Jumli Marshi Rice
- Description: Jumla is renowned for its unique variety of red rice called Jumli Marshi. Grown at high altitudes, this rice is rich in flavor and nutrients, and it has a slightly nutty taste and chewy texture.
- Usage: It is often served with lentils (dal), vegetables, and meat, forming the staple diet of the region.
Yak Meat Dishes
- Description: Yak meat is a common ingredient in Jumla, offering a rich and slightly gamey flavor. It's typically slow-cooked to tenderize and is used in stews, curries, and dried forms.
- Popular Dishes: Yak curry, yak momo (dumplings), and sukuti (dried yak meat).
Local Vegetables and Greens
- Description: The region’s fertile valleys produce a variety of vegetables, including potatoes, spinach, and radish. Fermented greens like gundruk are also a staple.
- Usage: Fresh and fermented vegetables are used in soups, stir-fries, and as accompaniments to main dishes.
Homemade Dairy Products
- Description: Dairy products such as ghee, butter, and various cheeses are integral to the diet.
- Popular Items: Chhurpi (hardened cheese made from yak milk) is a popular snack.
Traditional Bread
- Description: Various types of bread, such as roti (unleavened flatbread) and sel roti (a ring-shaped rice bread), are commonly eaten.
- Usage: Bread is often paired with curries, lentils, or simply enjoyed with ghee and honey.
Beverages
- Description: Traditional drinks include butter tea (salty tea made with butter and milk) and local brews made from millet and other grains.
- Popular Drinks: Raksi (a local alcoholic beverage) and chhyang (a traditional beer-like drink).
Culture and History
Jumla, a remote district in the mid-western region of Nepal, is a cultural treasure trove, preserving many age-old traditions and practices. The cultural heritage of Jumla is deeply rooted in the customs of the Khas people, the predominant ethnic group in the region. The Khas civilization, which flourished in the Sinja Valley, significantly influenced the cultural landscape of Jumla.
Festivals play a crucial role in the cultural life of Jumla. Some of the notable festivals celebrated here include:
- Chhewar Ceremony: This is a traditional rite of passage for boys, marking their transition into adulthood. It involves shaving the head of the boy and performing various rituals, which are accompanied by feasting and celebrations.
- Dashain: The biggest festival in Nepal, celebrated with much enthusiasm in Jumla. It involves the worship of the goddess Durga, animal sacrifices, family gatherings, and the exchange of blessings and gifts.
- Tihar: Also known as the festival of lights, Tihar is celebrated with the decoration of homes with oil lamps and the worship of different animals, including crows, dogs, cows, and oxen, symbolizing their significance in daily life.
- Lhosar: Celebrated by the Buddhist community, particularly by the Thakali and Tibetan inhabitants, Lhosar marks the Tibetan New Year with traditional dances, feasts, and prayers.
Music and Dance
Traditional music and dance are integral to Jumla’s cultural expression. Folk songs, known as "Deuda," are popular and are usually sung during festivals and special occasions. These songs often tell stories of local heroes, myths, and legends, and are accompanied by traditional instruments like the madal (a type of drum) and the sarangi (a string instrument).
Traditional Attire
The traditional attire of Jumla’s people is also a reflection of their cultural identity. Men typically wear "Daura Suruwal," a traditional Nepali outfit, along with a "Dhaka Topi" (Nepali cap). Women wear "Gunyu Cholo," a traditional dress, often accompanied by a "Patuka" (waistband) and "Haku Patasi" (a type of saree).
Agricultural Practices
Agriculture is the mainstay of Jumla’s economy, and the agricultural practices are deeply intertwined with cultural traditions. The region is known for its unique variety of red rice, "Jumli Marshi," which is cultivated in the high-altitude fields. Farming in Jumla is labor-intensive, with the entire community often coming together for planting and harvesting seasons, fostering a strong sense of cooperation and communal harmony.
The Khas Kingdom
The Sinja Valley in Jumla is historically significant as the heartland of the Khas Kingdom, which existed between the 11th and 14th centuries. The Khas people, who were the ruling elite, played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and linguistic heritage of Nepal. The Sinja Valley is recognized as the birthplace of the modern Nepali language and script.