Kaligandaki Valley – Lower Mustang Trek
Destination
Nepal
Duration
14 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Max Altitude
3,760 m / 12,335 ft
Accomodation
Lodge/Tea House
Best Season
Mar-Nov
Trip Start
Pokhara
Trip End
Pokhara
Overview of Lower Mustang Trek
The Kaligandaki Valley Trek is one of the most remarkable journeys in Nepal, offering travelers a perfect blend of majestic Himalayan scenery, rich cultural encounters, and spiritual experiences. Nestled in the northern region of Pokhara, this trek rewards adventurers with some of the most diverse landscapes in the world from lush green hills to barren trans-Himalayan valleys along with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs.
The trek takes you through the world’s deepest gorge carved by the mighty Kali Gandaki River, sacred pilgrimage sites like Muktinath (3,760m/12,335ft), and traditional Thakali villages known for their hospitality and apple orchards. On this journey with Beauty Nepal Adventure, every day is filled with wonder whether it’s witnessing the sunrise at Poon Hill, soaking in natural hot springs at Tatopani, or walking ancient trails once used by Tibetan traders.
Highlights
- Unparalleled Himalayan Views: Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m), Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Tilicho Peak, and more.
- Cultural Encounters: Explore Gurung, Magar, and Thakali villages; taste apple products in Marpha; witness Buddhist monasteries and Hindu shrines.
- Sacred Pilgrimage: Visit the holy site of Muktinath Temple, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- World’s Deepest Gorge: Trek through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.
- Relaxing Hot Springs: Bathe in Tatopani’s natural hot pools (1,190m), believed to heal rheumatism, arthritis, skin disease, and more.
- Flexible Journey: Can be tailored for groups, families, or solo travelers with private or group departures.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
Your adventure begins as soon as you land at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. A friendly representative from Beauty Nepal Adventure will be waiting at the arrival gate, holding a placard with your name. After a warm welcome with a traditional Nepali gesture, you will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle.
In the evening, your trekking guide will brief you about the Kaligandaki Valley – Lower Mustang Trek, covering details of the route, mountain safety tips, and local culture. If you have time, you can take a short walk around Thamel, Kathmandu’s lively tourist hub, famous for its narrow streets, trekking gear shops, cafes, and cultural souvenirs. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft)
After breakfast, we set off for Pokhara, Nepal’s second-largest and most beautiful city. Guests can choose a 20–25 minute scenic flight, offering aerial views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Manaslu, and Annapurna ranges, or take a 7–8 hour overland drive through winding hillsides, river valleys, and terraced farms.
On arrival in Pokhara, you will immediately feel the calm and charm of this lake city. The reflection of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,997m) on Phewa Lake is a sight to behold. Pokhara is also the main gateway for Annapurna treks, and you can enjoy an easy evening stroll by the lakeside. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara, arranged by Beauty Nepal Adventure.
Day 03: : Pokhara – Drive to Naya Pul – Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,525m / 5,003ft, 5–6 hrs)
We drive for about an hour to Naya Pul (1,070m), where our trek officially begins. The trail first passes through Birethanti (1,025m), a charming riverside village with tea houses and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) check-post.
Walking along the Modi Khola and Burungdi Khola riverbanks, we gradually ascend through subtropical forests, terraced fields, and small hamlets. The trail takes us past Hile (1,495m) before reaching Tikhedhunga, a small Gurung settlement with traditional stone houses and friendly locals. Overnight at a mountain lodge managed by locals.
Day 04: Tikhedhunga – Ghorepani (2,800m / 9,186ft, 7-8 hrs)
This is one of the tougher but rewarding trekking days. We begin with a steep stone stairway climb to Ulleri (2,070m) famous for its 3,000+ steps! The path winds through rhododendron forests (especially beautiful in spring with blossoms), oaks, and bamboo groves.
Passing small Magar villages like Banthanti, the landscape opens to reveal panoramic views of Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli (6,441m), Annapurna South (7,219m) and surrounding peaks. Finally, we reach Ghorepani (2,800m), a famous stopover point. This vibrant village sits on a ridge and is home to the Magar community. Overnight stay at a lodge with mountain views.
Day 05: Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210m) – Trek to Tatopani (1,190m, 6–7 hrs)
We wake up before dawn for the short hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10,532ft), one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. From the top, watch the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, as more than 20 Himalayan peaks glow golden in the early light. It’s an unforgettable highlight of this trek.
After descending to Ghorepani for breakfast, we trek downhill through rhododendron forests, crossing small villages, and finally descend to Tatopani (1,190m). Tatopani, meaning “hot water,” is known for its natural hot springs. Bathing here is believed to cure arthritis, skin diseases, back pain, and rheumatism due to the water’s mineral content. Evening relaxation in the hot pools is a perfect way to end the day. Overnight in a local lodge.
DISEASES CURED BY BATHING AT THE HOT SPRING –
The temperature at the hot spring ranges from 45*C to 48*C and is 54*C to 57*C at the foundation. The water in this hot spring consists of a great amount of black salt and phosphorus which itself is a natural antibiotic. Due to this reason, the diseases are not transferable from one another while sharing the bath at the hot spring. By taking continuous baths in this hot spring, diseases like gastric, rheumatism, uric acid, back ache, skin disease, swelling, goiter and arthritis have been found to be cured. Depending on the nature and condition of the disease, people take bath in the hot spring for a period of a couple of days to even weeks. The hot spring can occupy up to approximately 20 people at a time.
Day 06: Tatopani – Kalopani (2,530m / 8,300ft, 7-8 hrs)
Today’s walk follows the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge, located between Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m). The dramatic landscapes here are breathtaking.
We pass Rupse Waterfall, a stunning cascade tumbling down the cliffs, and walk along suspension bridges over the Kali Gandaki River. The trail leads through villages like Ghasa, before reaching Kalopani (2,530m). This village offers spectacular views of Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri. Overnight at a lodge.
Day 07: Kalopani – Marpha (2,670m / 8,760ft, 6-7 hrs)
After breakfast, we follow the windy Kali Gandaki valley. Today’s trail is surrounded by apple orchards. We finally reach Marpha, known as the “Apple Capital of Nepal”. Here, you can taste locally made apple pie, apple brandy, and cider.
Marpha is a beautifully preserved Thakali village with whitewashed stone houses, narrow alleys, prayer flags, and monasteries. It’s also an important stop for understanding Thakali culture and traditions. Overnight in Marpha.
Day 08: Marpha – Kagbeni (2,800m / 9,186ft, 6-7 hrs)
From Marpha, we pass through Jomsom (2,720m), the administrative center of Mustang, with its airport, lodges, and shops. The landscape now begins to resemble the Tibetan Plateau, dry and windswept.
We follow the Kali Gandaki northwards to reach Kagbeni, a medieval village that looks like an open-air museum. Its mud-brick houses, narrow tunnels, chortens, and monasteries give a glimpse of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Fossil stones called Shaligrams, sacred to Hindus, can also be found along the riverbanks here. Overnight at a lodge.
Day 09: Kagbeni – Muktinath (3,760m / 12,335ft, 4–5 hrs)
The trail ascends gradually to Muktinath, one of Nepal’s holiest pilgrimage sites. Along the way, we pass through Jharkot, a picturesque village with fort ruins and monasteries.
At Muktinath Temple, you will witness pilgrims from India, Tibet, and Nepal performing rituals. The site is sacred to both Hindus (as the home of Lord Vishnu) and Buddhists (as the abode of Guru Padmasambhava). The temple complex features 108 water spouts, an eternal flame fueled by natural gas, and monasteries. This day combines spirituality with the majesty of Himalayan landscapes. Overnight near Muktinath.
Day 10: Muktinath – Jomsom (2,720m / 8,923ft, 4 -5 hrs)
After breakfast, we retrace our steps back down to Jomsom, passing windy valleys and villages. On the way, trekkers can interact with local Thakali families, explore apple orchards, and learn about their role as traditional traders. The Kali Gandaki riverbed is famous for fossils (Shaligrams), believed to be sacred representations of Lord Vishnu. Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 11: Jomsom – Pokhara (820m) by Morning Flight
We take an early morning 20–25 minute mountain flight to Pokhara. On clear days, the aerial view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges is breathtaking. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is free to relax. You may walk around the Phewa Lake, visit cafes, or enjoy live music at lakeside restaurants. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 12: Free Day in Pokhara – Optional Activities
Take a well-deserved rest day in Pokhara. You can spend the day relaxing by Phewa Lake, boating, getting a massage, shopping for souvenirs, or optionally visiting places like the Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, or the International Mountain Museum and an early morning hike to Sarangkot viewpoint for sunrise.
Day 13: Pokhara – Kathmandu – Final Departure
After breakfast, return to Kathmandu by scenic flight (25 mins) or road drive (7 hrs). Upon arrival, our team will transfer you to your hotel or directly to the international airport depending on your schedule.
As you bid farewell, Beauty Nepal Adventure hopes this journey has filled your soul with unforgettable mountain memories, spiritual experiences, and cultural treasures.
“Thank you for trekking with Beauty Nepal Adventure – until we meet again in the Himalayas!”
Day 14: Final Departure – Until We Meet Again
Today, a representative from Beauty Nepal Adventure will transfer you to the international airport for your onward flight. We hope your journey in Nepal has been filled with joy, wonder, and unforgettable memories.
Thank you for trekking with Beauty Nepal Adventure – we hope to welcome you again !
Note :- This Itinerary is meant only as a guideline and is subject to change to suit the local conditions. Walking hours are based on an average walking pace and may change as per individual pace.
What's include
- Kathmandu Airport pickup and drop.
- As per itinerary accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- All accommodation and meals during the trek.
- Meal three times a day during the trek.
- Breakfast, Lunch & dinner, Tea/Coffee.
- Land Transport for both way trek starting and trek ending Point.
- An experienced English-speaking Professional / Competent / Flexible trekking Guide.
- Porters service ( One strong porter service between two clients).
- Including their salary, equipment, transport, food ,lodging ,insurance etc.
- A comprehensive medical kit for Nepali staff.
- All necessary paperwork and permits.
- Special Upper Mustang trek permit.
- ( ACAP ) Annapurna Conservation Area Park Permit.
- ( TIMS Card ) Trekking Information Management System Card.
- Farewell dinner in the evening at Pokhara tricycle Nepali restaurant.
- Government Tax,Vat etc.
What‘s excluded
- KTM / Pokhara /KTM flight tickets.
- KTM / Pokhara /KTM Bus tickets.
- Personal & medical insurance during the trip.
- Lunch, dinner and Accommodation in Pokhara and Kathmandu.
- Bar bills & beverages (like mineral water, coke, fanta , rum ,beer etc.
- Tips for Guide and Porter.
- Personal expenses.
Essential Info
Suggested Equipment List
- Duffel/Rucksack bag
- Walking Pole
- Day pack.
- Trekking shoes.
- Sports shoes or sandals.
- Sun Hat/cap
- Warm woolen cap.
- Warm fleece jacket or puffy jacket
- Waterproof Gore-Tex layer
- Pullover or warm sweeter
- Raincoat
- 4/5 pairs of good quality socks
- Hand gloves.
- 2/3 pairs of trekking trousers.
- 3/4 pairs of trekking shirts.
- 3/4 pairs of underwear (non cotton preferred).
- Sun glasses
- Water bottle
- 4 season sleeping bag
- Flash or Torch light
- Camera and batteries
We at Beauty Nepal Adventure understand that every traveler has different dreams, schedules, and expectations when it comes to trekking and exploring Nepal.
That’s why each of our trekking itineraries is flexible and customizable. Whether it’s the duration of the trek, the destination, or the type of experience you’re looking for, we’re more than happy to tailor the journey according to your interests, time availability, and travel preferences.
If you have any specific wishes or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to share them with us. We are always open, friendly and generous when it comes to adjusting our programs to better suit your needs. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Feel free to express your ideas without any hesitation. We genuinely welcome your input.
Thank you for trusting Beauty Nepal Adventure. We look forward to creating a beautiful journey together !
Namaste !
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