Resumption

1. Weather-Induced Hiatus

After a hiatus of nearly three months, the Jomsom-Pokhara flight service has resumed operations following the cessation caused by adverse weather conditions.

2. Impact of Winter

The suspension, initiated in November 2023, was a response to the harsh winter conditions, with temperatures plummeting to as low as -14 degrees Celsius. This cessation affected the convenience of travel for pilgrims heading to the revered Muktinath Temple and trekkers traversing the Greater Himalayas.

Service Providers and Convenience

1. Airline Providers

Summit, Sita, and Tara Airline are among the key service providers facilitating flights from Pokhara, the capital of Gandaki province, to Jomsom in Mustang.

2. Enhanced Accessibility

The resumption of flight services not only benefits local residents of Mustang but also offers convenience to pilgrims and tourists, especially during the ongoing up-gradation of the Beni-Jomsom road stretch in the Myagdi section.

Tourism Impact

1. Boost for Local Economy

The revival of flight services is expected to invigorate tourism in Mustang, subsequently contributing to the economic growth of the region.

2. Tourist Inflow

With the influx of tourists projected to rise, Mustang anticipates an increase in visitor footfall, supported by data from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), which reported 91,000 foreign tourists visiting Mustang in 2023.

Rising Temperatures and Road Traffic

1. Climate Trends

As temperatures gradually rise, the flow of vehicles traversing the Beni-Jomsom road towards Mustang has observed a steady increase in recent days.

A Promising Future for Mustang

The revival of the Jomsom-Pokhara flight service marks a significant milestone in enhancing accessibility and boosting tourism in Mustang. As the region prepares to welcome a surge in visitors, it sets the stage for economic prosperity and sustainable growth.