Upper Mustang Trek Overview:
The Upper Mustang Trek is a journey into one of Nepal's most remote and culturally rich regions. This trek takes you to the former Kingdom of Lo, located in the northern part of the Mustang district, near the border with Tibet. The area is known for its unique landscapes, ancient monasteries, and traditional Tibetan culture.
Starting from the town of Jomsom, the trek follows the Kali Gandaki River through a stark and stunning landscape of eroded cliffs, deep canyons, and barren desert-like terrain. The stark beauty of the Mustang region is unlike any other in Nepal, with its dramatic rock formations and colorful hills.
One of the highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek is the visit to Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the Kingdom of Lo. This medieval city, with its narrow alleyways, whitewashed houses, and impressive monasteries, offers a glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. The Royal Palace and the monasteries of Thubchen and Chode are must-visit sites in Lo Manthang.
Along the way, trekkers will encounter traditional Tibetan villages such as Kagbeni, Chele, and Tsarang. These villages are characterized by their flat-roofed houses, chortens (Buddhist shrines), and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The local people, with their Tibetan heritage, maintain a distinct culture, language, and religion.
The Upper Mustang region is also known for its ancient cave dwellings. Some of these caves, carved into the cliffs, date back thousands of years and were used as meditation retreats by monks. Exploring these caves adds an element of mystery and history to the trek.
The trek also offers spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks. On clear days, you can see mountains such as Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. The high desert landscape, combined with the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, creates a breathtaking visual experience.
The Upper Mustang Trek is usually done as a teahouse trek, with basic accommodations and meals provided by local teahouses. The trek typically takes about 15-17 days to complete, depending on your pace and itinerary. It is a perfect choice for those looking to explore a unique and culturally rich region of Nepal that is off the beaten path.
Upper Mustang Trek Highlights:
1. Ancient walled city of Lo Manthang (3700m)
2. Unique Tibetan culture and monasteries
3. Desert-like landscapes with red cliffs
4. Ancient caves and Buddhist artwork
5. Panoramic views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges
6. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Kathmandu Durbar Square
Important Note:
Best Time to Visit: March-May and September-November
Max Altitude: Lo Manthang (3,840 meters / 12,598 feet)
Permit Required: Special Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to relax or explore the nearby areas. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your guide and fellow trekkers. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
After breakfast, Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural and historical highlights of Kathmandu Valley. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Kathmandu Durbar Square. These sites offer a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural heritage. In the afternoon, there will be a trek briefing and preparation. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Kathmandu (1,300m) to Pokhara (860m) (7-8 hours drive)
Early morning departure from Kathmandu for a scenic drive to Pokhara, the city of lakes. Enjoy the picturesque countryside views along the Prithvi Highway. The journey takes us through picturesque landscapes, terraced fields, and small villages. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into the hotel and take some time to explore the vibrant lakeside area. Overnight at the hotel in Pokhara.
Day 4: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,700m) and trek to Kagbeni (2,858m) - 4 Hours
Take an early morning flight to Jomsom, a gateway to the Mustang region. The flight itself offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From Jomsom, we start our trek to Kagbeni, following the Kali Gandaki River. The trail offers stunning views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains. Kagbeni is a beautiful village with traditional Tibetan-style houses. Overnight at a teahouse in Kagbeni.
Day 5: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m) - 6 Hours
We begin our trek towards Chele, entering the restricted area of Upper Mustang. The trail takes us through several small villages, crossing the Kali Gandaki River multiple times. The landscape gradually changes to arid and desert-like terrain. Chele is a small village with beautiful views of the surrounding hills. Overnight at a teahouse in Chele.
Day 6: Trek from Chele to Syangboche (3,475m) - 7 Hours
Today's trek involves a steep climb to Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La Pass (3,735m), followed by a descent to Samar. The trail continues through juniper forests and rocky paths, crossing several ridges. Enjoy panoramic views of Mustang’s arid landscapes and reach Syangboche, a small settlement with a monastery overlooking the valley. We pass by Ramchung Cave before reaching Syangboche. Overnight at a teahouse in Syangboche.
Day 7: Trek from Syangboche to Ghaymi (3,520m) - 6 Hours
The trail today takes us to Yamda La Pass (3,850m), offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges. We descend to the village of Ghiling before continuing to Ghaymi. The landscape is characterized by red cliffs and vast expanses of barren land. Overnight at a teahouse in Ghaymi.
Day 8: Trek from Ghaymi to Charang (3,500m) - 5 Hours
Follow the trail that leads through the barley fields and cross Ghaymi Khola. Ascend to Nyi La Pass (3,950m) and descend to Charang, known for its whitewashed houses, a massive white dzong (fortress), and the 14th-century Charang Gompa.Explore the ancient monasteries and cultural sites. Overnight at a teahouse in Charang.
Day 9: Trek from Charang to Lo-Manthang (3,700m) - 6 Hours
Today, trek to Lo-Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang. Pass through Lo La Pass (3,950m) and enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas. Explore the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang, visit the King’s Palace, and monasteries such as Namgyal Gompa and Tingkhar. Overnight at a teahouse in Lo-Manthang.
Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Lo-Manthang (3,700m)
Take a rest day to acclimatize and explore Lo-Manthang further. You can visit nearby villages, monasteries, or participate in local cultural activities. This day helps prepare for the higher altitude trekking ahead. Visit the King’s Palace and enjoy the unique Mustangi culture. Overnight at a teahouse in Lo-Manthang.
Day 11: Trek from Lo-Manthang to Drakmar (3,810m) - 7 Hours
Begin your descent from Lo-Manthang, passing through scenic landscapes and unique rock formations. Pass through Ghar Gompa and reach Drakmar, a small village known for its red cliffs and unique landscapes. Cross Lo La Pass again and continue to Drakmar, a village known for its red cliffs and ancient monasteries. Overnight at a teahouse in Drakmar.
Day 12: Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling (3,806m) - 6 Hours
Continue descending through the arid landscape of Mustang, passing through picturesque villages and barley fields. Trek via Marang La Pass (4,230m) and descend to Ghiling, a traditional Mustangi village with a serene atmosphere. Explore the local village and interact with the friendly locals. Overnight at a teahouse in Ghiling .
Day 13: Trek from Ghiling to Chhuksang (3,050m) - 6 Hours
Trek back towards Kagbeni via the same route, passing through beautiful landscapes and traditional villages. Cross the Kali Gandaki River and reach Chhuksang, a small village with ancient cave dwellings and a monastery. Overnight at a teahouse in Chhuksang.
Day 14: Trek from Chhuksang to Jomsom (2,700m) - 7 Hours
The final trekking day leads back to Jomsom via Kagbeni. Enjoy the last views of the Mustang region, passing through apple orchards and traditional Tibetan-style houses. Celebrate the completion of your trek in Jomsom. Overnight at a teahouse in Jomsom.
Day 15: Fly back to Pokhara (860m)
Take an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Enjoy the scenic flight over the Himalayas and Pokhara Valley. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the day relaxing or exploring the lakeside area.Overnight at a Hotel in Pokhara.
Day 16: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,300m)
After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, offering more views of rural Nepal and countryside landscapes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel. Overnight at a Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 17: Final Departure
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight, concluding your memorable Upper Mustang Trek. Reflect on the unique landscapes, ancient culture, and hospitality experienced during your adventure in the Mustang region.
Inclusions
Airport transfers
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast
Teahouse accommodation during the trek
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
Domestic flights (Pokhara to Jomsom and Jomsom to Pokhara)
An experienced trekking guide and porter(s)
Permit fees (ACAP and Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang)
Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with a guide
3 cups of tea served daily
Fresh fruits served as desert
Exclusions
International airfare
Nepal visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, phone calls, internet)
Tips for guide(s) and porter(s)
Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara other than breakfast