The Chandannath Temple stands at the centre of old Jumla, and the town's municipality takes its name from it. Local tradition holds that the deity was brought from Kashmir by a holy man in the medieval period, and the temple has been the focus of the valley's religious life ever since. The nearby Bhairabnath shrine is linked to it in festivals and processions.
From the temple we walk through the bazaar, where wooden-fronted shops sell red rice, beans, apples, walnuts, woollen blankets and Chinese goods brought down from Humla. Traders from Mugu and Humla pass through, and in autumn trucks load apples for the long drive south.
The walk ends at the Tila river, with views over the terraced fields towards the ridges you cross on the first day of the Rara trek. It is level, easy and best done early, when farmers bring produce to market and the light is soft.
Good for
- First-timers
- Photographers
- Families
- Seniors
Questions travellers ask
What is special about Chandannath Temple in Jumla?
It is the main temple of the Karnali region, dedicated to Chandannath, a form of Vishnu that local tradition says was brought from Kashmir. The town's municipality is named after it. Major festivals, including Dashain, draw villagers from across the district, and it is the natural first stop before walking to Rara.
Can tourists enter Chandannath Temple?
Visitors can walk around the temple area and watch the rituals; entry to the inner sanctum is usually limited to Hindus. Remove shoes and leather items, dress modestly and ask before photographing priests or worshippers. Mornings are the best time, when the temple is active but not crowded.
What can I buy in Jumla bazaar?
Jumli Marshi red rice, local beans, walnuts, dried apple chips, apple juice, honey and handmade woollen blankets are the classic buys. Shops also sell trekking basics such as gas canisters, snacks and torches, but quality and stock vary, so bring important gear from Kathmandu or Nepalgunj.
