Upper Mustang

Overview Itinerary Inclusion Exclusion

Trip Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most extraordinary cultural and Himalayan adventures, offering a rare journey into the ancient Kingdom of Lo hidden behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Located in the rain-shadow region near the Tibetan border, Upper Mustang features dramatic desert landscapes, deep canyons, ancient monasteries, and a preserved Tibetan Buddhist culture untouched by modern development.

The journey begins from Pokhara with flights to Jomsom before trekking through the Kali Gandaki Valley toward the remote region of Upper Mustang. Along the trail, trekkers pass through traditional villages, colorful prayer walls, chortens, and centuries-old monasteries that reflect the region’s deep spiritual and cultural heritage.

One of the major highlights of the trek is exploring Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Upper Mustang, famous for its royal palaces, monasteries, and unique Himalayan architecture. The trail also offers breathtaking views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and surrounding trans-Himalayan landscapes unlike anywhere else in Nepal.

The Upper Mustang Trek is perfect for travelers seeking a combination of cultural immersion, historical exploration, remote trekking, and dramatic Himalayan scenery within one of Nepal’s most restricted and fascinating regions.

Best Seasons to Travel

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best seasons for the Upper Mustang Trek. Due to its location in the rain-shadow region, the trek is also suitable during the summer monsoon months.

Notes to Travelers

Upper Mustang is a restricted area and requires special trekking permits along with a licensed guide. This trek is moderately challenging and suitable for trekkers with good physical fitness and interest in cultural exploration.

Accommodation during the trek is mainly in teahouses and local lodges with basic but comfortable facilities. The region is dry, windy, and exposed in many sections, so proper clothing and preparation are important.

The Upper Mustang Trek offers a truly unique Himalayan experience filled with ancient culture, dramatic landscapes, spiritual heritage, and the timeless beauty of Nepal’s hidden desert kingdom.

Highlights

● Explore the ancient walled kingdom of Upper Mustang
● Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture and Himalayan traditions
● Visit centuries-old monasteries, caves, and traditional villages
● Spectacular desert landscapes and unique trans-Himalayan scenery
● Explore the historic capital city of Lo Manthang
● Stunning views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and surrounding peaks
● Trek through remote valleys, canyons, and high mountain passes
● One of Nepal’s most culturally preserved and restricted trekking regions

Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

    Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our team will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel. The remaining day is free for rest and trek preparation.

  • Day 2 : Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (900m)

    Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara with beautiful views of the Himalayan ranges. After arrival, enjoy free time around the lakeside city.

  • Day 3 : Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,700m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m – 3 Hours)

    Take an early mountain flight to Jomsom before beginning the trek through the Kali Gandaki Valley toward the traditional village of Kagbeni.

  • Day 4 : Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,100m – 6 Hours)

    The trail enters the restricted Upper Mustang region, passing through Tangbe village, dramatic cliffs, caves, and desert landscapes before reaching Chele.

  • Day 5 : Trek from Chele to Samar (3,620m – 4 Hours)

    Cross Taklam La Pass and Dajong La Pass while trekking through dry valleys, colorful rock formations, and scenic mountain terrain toward Samar village.

  • Day 6 : Trek from Samar to Chhungar (3,700m – 6 Hours)

    Continue through alpine landscapes crossing Bhena La Pass and Beg La Pass with magnificent views of Nilgiri, Mustang valleys, and surrounding mountains.

  • Day 7 : Trek from Chhungar to Dhakmar (3,800m – 5 Hours)

    Cross Nyi La Pass and Ghami La Pass while trekking through remote Tibetan-style villages, prayer walls, and dramatic red cliff landscapes before reaching Dhakmar.

  • Day 8 : Trek from Dhakmar to Lo Manthang (3,860m – 6 Hours)

    Pass through Muila Bhanjyang, Ghar Gumba Monastery, and Marang Chogo La Pass before arriving at the ancient walled kingdom of Lo Manthang.

  • Day 9 : Exploration Day in Lo Manthang

    Spend the day exploring Lo Manthang and surrounding valleys including Namgyal, Thinggar, Kimaling, and Garphu villages while experiencing authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture and ancient monasteries.

  • Day 10 : Trek from Lo Manthang to Yara Gaon (3,700m – 6 Hours)

    Descend through remote Mustang landscapes and traditional settlements toward the peaceful village of Yara Gaon.

  • Day 11 : Trek from Yara Gaon to Tangge (3,300m – 7 Hours)

    Trek through isolated valleys, canyons, and barren Himalayan terrain before reaching the traditional village of Tangge.

  • Day 12 : Trek from Tangge to Tetang (3,100m – 9 Hours)

    Cross the challenging Cho Cha La Pass while enjoying spectacular mountain scenery and remote Mustang landscapes before descending toward Tetang.

  • Day 13 : Trek from Tetang to Muktinath (3,600m – 6 Hours)

    Cross Gyu La Pass and continue trekking toward the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

  • Day 14 : Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700m – 6 Hours)

    Descend through the Kali Gandaki Valley with beautiful views of Mustang landscapes before reaching Jomsom.

  • Day 15 : Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara and Kathmandu

    Take scenic mountain flights from Jomsom to Pokhara and continue onward to Kathmandu. After arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy free time.

  • Day 16 : Final Departure

    Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward international flight carrying unforgettable memories of the Upper Mustang Trek.

Cost Inclusion

  • Airport pickup and drop by car / van / bus transfer to Hotel
  • Kathmandu Sightseeing tour with English speaking guide
  • All domestic airfare Kathmandu - Pokhara & Pokhara - Jomsom go and back by flight
  • Accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu 3 night hotel
  • All accommodation during your trek 13 night Lodge
  • Highly experience, helpful and friendly English speaking guide and strong porter
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with tea and coffee during your trek
  • Mustang Trekking entry permit
  • Staff salary and insurence
  • TIMS card charge (Trekkers Information Management System)
  • All government taxes

Cost Exclusion

  • Flight from your country and back to your country
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Additional Lunch & Dinner during the trek
  • Travel insurance and helicopter charter in any cases but if you want us to arrange
  • Airport tax at Tribhuban International Airport Nepal
  • personal Expenses
  • Any kinds of alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, phone call, internet, laundry etc.
  • Tips for your crews ( Guide, porter and sherpa )