Upper Mustang Trek
Tour Details
Upper Mustang Trek is an exceptional experience for all those who love traveling to remote areas where the age-old traditions, monuments, and culture still thrive in their original forms. Locked by the mighty Himalayan ranges like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, the area of Upper Mustang was considered as a forbidden kingdom and has therefore preserved many of its traditional elements such as architecture and Tibetan Buddhism. Its landscapes comprise the huge desert valleys, colored rocks, gorges, and mountains.
The route takes you across some old monasteries, sacred caves, prayer walls, and chortens, giving insight into the spiritual aspect of this region. Every village provides unique opportunities for getting acquainted with local people and their traditions, festivals, and architecture that preserve the cultural heritage of the former Kingdom of Lo. In addition to the scenic landscapes and the unique architecture of the villages, this trek gives one amazing views of the Himalayan range including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and others.
Upper Mustang Trek is perfect for tourists who want to enjoy adventure and history as well as culture at the same time. Apart from the stunning views, this trek provides visitors with the unique chance of meeting friendly local people, visiting historic Buddhist temples, and visiting one of the last remaining kingdoms of the Himalayas. This unique combination of stunning mountains and centuries of living culture makes the trek an unforgettable adventure.
Itinerary
Welcome to Nepal! On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll receive a warm welcome and then will be transferred from there to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. While on the way to the hotel, you’ll be able to see some of the most famous places in Kathmandu like Pashupatinath Temple, Narayanhiti Palace Museum, and Garden of Dreams.
The hotel is based in the lively Thamel area of Kathmandu, the most popular tourist destination in Kathmandu known for its lively markets full of cafes, restaurants, craft shops, trekking stores, etc. You can spend time in the busy markets of Thamel after getting checked into the hotel.
Includes: Private transport and an overnight accommodation at a 4* hotel in Kathmandu.
This is the day when your Upper Mustang Trek will begin as you leave Kathmandu and head to Pokhara, which lies on a beautiful lakeside. Your drive will take you through narrow roads that lead through scenic river valleys, terraced hill slopes, and small towns. On your way towards Pokhara, you will be greeted by beautiful views of the snow-clad Himalayas such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, and others.
After arriving at Pokhara, you will be taken to your hotel to check in and rest. At night, you can visit the bustling area of Pokhara known as the Lakeside where you can shop and have a look at various cafes or you can even have a leisurely boat ride on the calm waters of Phewa Lake, enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
Breakfast, Private Transport, and an overnight accommodation at a 3* hotel in Pokhara.
The journey of your Upper Mustang Trek starts today with an early morning flight to Jomsom from Pokhara. Jomsom, located in the midst of awe-inspiring Himalayan landscapes, is famous for its apple plantations, strong afternoon winds, and scenic beauty. Once you have arrived in Jomsom, start trekking from here on through the vast valley formed by the river Kali Gandaki, taking pleasure in the unique high altitude desert environment of the region.
You will slowly be led along the way to the small village of Eklebhatti before heading on to the village of Kagbeni that stands at the confluence point of two rivers, Kali Gandaki and Jhong. Known for its narrow streets, unique flat roofed houses, historic monasteries, and fortresses, Kagbeni serves as a great cultural experience for you as a visitor to the Upper Mustang region.
Includes: Airfare, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Kagbeni.
After the completion of all the formalities related to the permit at the Upper Mustang border post, you will set out on the trek further into the region. The path takes you through a windy landscape with broad river beds and rock formations while following the course of Kali Gandaki River. Gradually rising above, you will get amazing views of the cliffs and hills surrounding the area which are the features of the beauty of Upper Mustang.
You will then reach the village of Tangbe which is famous for its white washed houses, narrow streets, old chortens, and cultivation of barley, buckwheat and apples. You will then cross a river and climb up to a ridge from where the road will take you to the village of Chele which is surrounded by steep canyons and colorful hills.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Chele.
Today’s walk can be considered one of the most challenging walks on the Upper Mustang Trek route due to the need to overcome two high passes, namely Taklam La (3,624 m) and Dajori La (3,735 m). But the constant ascending will bring great pleasure due to panoramic views of the mountains around: the peak of Tilicho, Yakawakang and Damodar Himal mountain range. On this part of the route, there will also be a chance to visit the ancient Ramchung Cave used for meditation.
The trek continues with descending down to the village of Samar and then walking on the ridge above the valley. Then, from there, you have a very steep descent to the mountain stream and after that a climb through picturesque highlands to the village of Syangboche. The village of Syangboche is located near impressive cliffs and wide valleys.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Syangboche.
The trekking for today takes place within the amazing terrains of Upper Mustang region as you continue hiking uphill to reach the pass of Yamada La (3,850 m). On your journey, you will get to see the beautiful villages of the area, chortens, colorful prayer flags and teahouses. The terrain around you becomes increasingly breathtaking with the presence of cliffs, as well as huge valley expanses all around.
From Yamada La, the trail runs through the beautiful poplar trees and cultivated barley fields up to the pass of Nyi La (4,010 m), which is among the highest points in this trekking part. Enjoying the beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and valleys, you continue walking downhill to the attractive village of Ghami, which is one of the biggest villages in the Upper Mustang region.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Ghami.
Today’s trek starts with a downward walk on a mountain trail followed by a walk across a suspension bridge spanning the Ghami Khola. The walk will go upward from here to the spectacular regions of Upper Mustang passing one of the longest and grandest Mani walls embellished with beautiful carvings of prayers stones that indicate the Buddhist influence in this region.
Walking further upward, you will reach the pass called Tsarang La (3,870m). Descending down from there, you will reach the ancient village of Tsarang situated near the spectacular Charang Chu Canyon. This village has an outstanding ancient fortress and a red monastery reminding us of the rich cultural and royal past of Upper Mustang. After enjoying the surrounding places for some time, you will camp for the day and start your way to the mysterious walled city of Lo Manthang.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Tsarang.
The highlight of today will be the Upper Mustang Trek as you head to the walled city of Lo Manthang. The trek starts with a descent to a narrow gorge and then a river crossing before the gradual ascent up to Lo La Pass (3,950 m). Once atop Lo La Pass, you will get your first stunning view of Lo Manthang, which lies amid the backdrop of the Himalayan mountains.
Once done with the stunning sights, the trail descends gently down to the capital city of the former Kingdom of Lo. Lo Manthang is famous for its royal palace, ancient monasteries, and Tibetan architecture. If it is a clear day, spectacular views of Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak, Annapurna I, Bhrikuti Peak, and Damodar Himal can only add to the thrill.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Lo-Manthang.
This is a special day reserved for visiting Lo Manthang, the cultural and spiritual center of the Upper Mustang area. The day will be filled with discovery of ancient streets, old houses, royal palace, and ancient monasteries, which have been the keepers of the culture and traditions of the area. Key points of interest for the day are the ancient monasteries – Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chhoede Monasteries, known for their amazing murals and artworks.
Depending on how much time you have during the day and how much energy you still have left after your tour, you may visit the small village of Tingkhar, situated northwest of Lo Manthang. Tingkhar is famous for its incredible mountain views and offers an additional insight into the traditional life of the local population.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Lo Manthang.
After leaving Lo Manthang, you will take an alternative route that will show you a different aspect of the Upper Mustang region. You will go through the traditional village of Gyakar, where you will get a chance to explore the ancient Ghar Gompa. It is one of the oldest monasteries in Mustang and renowned for its ancient murals and spirituality. People believe that it grants wishes of all people who make visits here with good intentions.
After getting some rest at this sacred place, you will continue your journey towards the red cliffs and desert areas of the region, towards Drakmar village. This quiet village, surrounded by impressive rock formations and the majestic scenery of the Himalayas, offers a great opportunity for relaxation after another day spent in the kingdom of Upper Mustang.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Drakmar.
The hike starts early in the morning so that we can capitalize on the more favorable conditions before the strong Mustang winds start blowing. Our path gently descends through the unique landscape of the high-altitude desert in this area, which includes vast open areas, farmlands, and villages encircled by majestic cliffs and rocky hills. There is a unique landscape of the Upper Mustang that is very different from green valleys of other parts of Nepal.
Further on our way, we will reach Ghiling, an old settlement famous for its white-washed houses and monastery, as well as Tibetan culture. This dry village provides wonderful views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountain ranges. Once we settle down in our teahouse, we will have plenty of time to explore the village, talk with the hospitable residents, and enjoy the calm atmosphere of the remote Himalayan village.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Ghiling.
Following breakfast, the trek will start for the return trip as you follow the familiar trail all the way back to Chhuksang. On your way back to Chhuksang, you will once again have the chance to witness the beautiful views of the surrounding peaks, colorful cliffs, and the valley formed by the rivers flowing in the region. During this trekking journey, you will pass through many traditional villages in the region, which will provide you with yet another glimpse of the unique culture and architecture of the Upper Mustang region.
By the afternoon time, you will reach the village of Chhuksang, giving you the chance to rest after the fantastic few days that you spent in the region.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Chhuksang.
This is the last day of your Upper Mustang Trek. Post-breakfast, you will start with the last leg of your journey, slowly but surely moving away from the distant regions of Upper Mustang. As you continue descending, you will come to the point where your trek on the Upper Mustang Trail meets up with the famous Annapurna Circuit.
Traveling further along the Kali Gandaki Valley, you will halt at Kagbeni for lunch, and thereafter travel on the popular path to Jomsom. On reaching Jomsom, you will have some time to rest and rejoice in having accomplished the Upper Mustang Trek.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Jomsom.
Later today, you will take a short but scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. In the flight, you will get beautiful views of the snowcapped peaks, the valleys, and the rugged landscape as the plane flies above the Kali Gandaki Gorge in between the Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri mountains.
Upon arriving in Pokhara, you will be taken to the hotel. In the afternoon, you have the rest of the day free. You can choose to relax by the serene Phewa Lake, walk around the bustling Lakeside area, visit some temples or cultural sites, or simply hang out at one of the cafes and admire the beautiful mountain scenery.
Includes: Airfare, Breakfast, Private Transport, and an overnight accommodation at a 3* hotel in Pokhara.
Today, you’ll get to have another amazing flight ride from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Typically, flights can be taken between 6:30 AM and 8:00 PM, but there can be variations in the timings, depending on the weather conditions. Get ready for the last flight experience while taking a bird’s eye view of the magnificent Himalayas of Nepal.
Our representative will wait for you at the arrival point in Kathmandu and transport you to the hotel. After that, you’re all set for the rest of the day and free for doing anything of your choice.
Includes: Airfare, Private Transport, Breakfast, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites & Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Your unforgettable journey in Nepal comes to an end today. After breakfast, you will be transferred by private vehicle to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, arriving approximately three hours before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time to complete check-in and other airport formalities before your flight.
As you depart, take with you the incredible memories of the Himalayas, the warmth of the Sherpa communities, and the achievement of reaching Upper Mustang. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey home and hope to welcome you back to Nepal for another adventure in the future.
Includes: Breakfast and private Transport.
Price Include/Exclude
Price Includes
All private ground transportation, including airport transfers, is provided to ensure smooth and hassle-free travel throughout your journey.
Room Arrangement:
Rooms are typically shared by two people (twin sharing). If you prefer a private room, please let us know during the booking process. Private rooms are subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.
Kathmandu:
2 nights of accommodation at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis.
Pokhara:
2 nights of accommodation at a 3-star hotel in Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis.
Mountain Lodges / Tea Houses:
11 nights of comfortable accommodation in the best available mountain lodges and tea houses along the trekking route.
- Expert Local Guide: Friendly, experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide trained in first aid.
- Assistant Guide: An additional assistant guide will accompany the group if there are more than seven participants.
- Guide Support: Includes guides’ wages, meals, accommodation, insurance, and all necessary trekking equipment.
Porter services (can carry 18 kilos of luggage and share between two clients; both clients are suggested to bring 9 kilos of luggage each).
- Trek Meals: Three freshly prepared meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek, with a selection of local and international dishes.
- Safe Drinking Water: Water purification tablets or drops are provided to ensure safe drinking water throughout the trek.
- Seasonal Fruits: Fresh seasonal fruits served each evening during the trek.
- Required Permit: Annapurna Conservation Area permit and Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang.
- TIMS Card: Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
- Government Fees: All applicable local government taxes, permit fees, and official charges.
- Trekking Gear (If Required): Complimentary use of a warm down jacket and sleeping bag for the duration of the trek. These items must be returned at the end of the trip.
- Trekking Map: A detailed trekking route map is provided as a complimentary souvenir.
Luggage Storage: Complimentary and secure storage for any non-essential luggage or trekking gear at our office or your hotel in Kathmandu during the trek.
- A first aid kit, including an Oximeter to measure pulse and oxygen levels daily in the mountains
- Help in arranging a rescue operation in the complicated health situation (funded by your travel insurance).
Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara and Pokhara-Kathmandu flights, including all domestic surcharges.
- Certificate of Appreciation at the end after the trek.
- A farewell dinner with cultural shows in Kathmandu.
Price Excludes
Visa fees are not included. You can easily obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Current fees are USD 30 for a 15-day visa, USD 50 for a 30-day visa, and USD 125 for a 90-day visa.
All drinks, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as hot drinks (tea, coffee, hot chocolate) and cold drinks, are not included throughout the trip. Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara are also not included.
Tipping (Tips for guides, drivers and support staff).
International airfare to and from Nepal is not included.
Hotel upgrades, donations at temples, schools, monasteries, and other sites, personal hiking gear and equipment, and any additional costs arising from illness, injury, emergency evacuation or rescue, natural disasters, flight delays or cancellations, itinerary changes, or other unforeseen circumstances are not included. Any items or services not specifically mentioned in the “Includes” section are also excluded.