Jala is a town in the Mexican state of Nayarit. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque mountain scenery of the Sierra Madre Occidental, this area has a unique landscape of a combination of mountainous terrain, fertile valleys, and diverse flora and fauna.

Nestled in the southern region of the state of Nayarit (between Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara), the small town of Jala sits at the foot of the majestic Ceboruco Volcano, offering stunning views of its rugged slopes and ancient lava fields.

The volcanic soil supports lush agriculture and contributes to the area’s ecological richness.

This area is characterized by a rich natural environment that includes fertile valleys, pine-oak forests, and diverse wildlife. The nearby highlands, crisscrossed by rivers and seasonal streams, create a dynamic landscape that shifts dramatically with the seasons.

Jala is surrounded by hills and cliffs that give a magical feeling, especially during the rainy season when the entire landscape turns green. Stroll the cozy small town’s cobbled streets and feel the tranquility that Jala conveys.

The federal government of Mexico designated Jala as a “magical town” in November 2012. Jala was the first “magic town” of Nayarit, known for the beauty of its historical buildings and picturesque neighborhood houses.

The municipality of Jala has a temperate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The average annual temperature in this region ranges from 18°C to 25°C, providing comfortable conditions for visitors throughout the year.

The rainy season lasts from June to October, bringing lush vegetation and occasional thunderstorms. The dry season, from November to May, offers moderate temperatures and clear skies, which are ideal for outdoor activities.

Best time to visit Jala

The best time to visit Jala is during the dry season, from November to May. This period offers ample opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and cultural experiences such as attending local festivals and exploring historical sites.

The name Jala comes from the Nahuatl language (the language of the Aztecs and other central Mexican cultures). It is derived from the word “Xali”, which means “sand”, and the suffix “-tla”, which implies “place with” or “abundance of.”

So, the word Jala means “a place where there is a lot of sand”.

This name likely refers to the area’s volcanic and alluvial soil, which includes sandy textures, especially in riverbeds and cultivated lands around the town. The fertile, sand-rich land also contributes to the region’s strong agricultural character.

Around 700 BCE, the region around Jala was inhabited by indigenous groups, likely the Cora or Tepehuán. Archaeological remains, such as temples and burial grounds, suggest the presence of a significant ceremonial center.

The area’s location near fertile valleys and volcanic slopes made it ideal for early agriculture and settlement.

In the 16th century, Spanish explorers and missionaries arrived in this region, bringing Catholicism and new governance structures. Indigenous populations were gradually converted, and colonial towns were established.

In 1870–1872, the Ceboruco volcano near Jala experienced its last major eruption. Its eruptions shaped the landscape and impacted local settlement patterns. During this period, Jala remained a small, rural town but grew in regional importance due to its agricultural output.

In the 20th century, the development of infrastructure and roads improved access to Jala and surrounding communities. Jala preserved much of its traditional architecture, which became a defining feature of the town.

In 2012, Jala was officially designated a “Pueblo Mágico” (Magic Town) by the Mexican government – the first town in Nayarit to receive this distinction. This recognition celebrates its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance.

The main site of tourist interest is the volcano of Ceboruco. The Ceboruco volcano can be reached via an 18-kilometer rock-covered road from the main highway. The crater is located 3 km up the trail from the end of the road.

Nearby is the archaeological site of a temple and burial grounds dating back to 700.

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption is in Roman and Gothic architectural styles.

Explore the plateau villages. The municipality of Jala has beautiful villages with a cold climate that you can enjoy by visiting their cabins. Communities like Juanacatlán, Jalpa Grande, and Los Aguajes are excellent options.

In August, Jala celebrates the Elote Fair with a series of artistic and cultural events.

From Guadalajara through Tepic:

  • Car travel takes about 1:27 minutes.
  • A direct taxi from Guadalajara takes about the same time.

From Tepic (≈ 65 km away):

  • Buses from Tepic to Jala run regularly (~3/day), taking ~2:10 min.
  • Driving from Tepic takes less than an hour.

From Puerto Vallarta:

  • Direct bus to Tepic (~2 h), then transfer to Jala via bus or taxi
  • Driving takes around 5 hours