Upper Mustang Trek
Destination
Nepal
Duration
17 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Max Altitude
3,810m
Accomodation
Lodge/Tea House
Best Season
Mar-Nov
Trip Start
Pokhara
Trip End
Pokhara
Overview of Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most fascinating adventures, often described as a journey into a “hidden world”. Once forbidden to outsiders, this remote Trans-Himalayan region was opened for trekking only in 1992, and it still feels like stepping into another era. Known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal, Upper Mustang offers a rare glimpse of a culture deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, ancient traditions, and breathtaking landscapes.
Trekking here means walking through a high-altitude desert with dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, eroded canyons, and windswept valleys – a stark contrast to the lush green hills of lower Nepal. Along the way, you’ll witness centuries-old monasteries, mysterious caves, royal palaces, and the unique lifestyle of the Mustangi people, who have preserved their customs for generations.
With Beauty Nepal Adventure, you will embark on a 17-day guided trek starting from Kathmandu to Pokhara, flying to Jomsom, and then following the Kali Gandaki River upstream to reach the walled city of Lo-Manthang, the cultural heart of Mustang. This trek is not only about nature,it’s about history, spirituality, and timeless traditions.
Upper Mustang was once part of the Tibetan kingdom of Lo, with Lo-Manthang as its capital. The people here, known as Lobas, still follow Tibetan Buddhism, and their traditions remain largely unchanged for centuries due to the region’s isolation.
The royal family of Mustang, headed by King Jigme Palbar Bista, was respected until Nepal became a republic in 2007. Even though the monarchy is no longer officially recognized, locals still treat him as their spiritual leader.
The region’s architecture – mud-brick houses, fortress-like palaces, and walled settlements – reflects its Tibetan roots.
The Tiji Festival, celebrated in May, symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is one of the most colorful festivals in the Himalayas.
Highlights
- Discover the ancient walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang and its royal place.
- Explore centuries-old monasteries like Jhampa, Thupchen, Chhoede, and Ghar Gompa.
- Witness the unique lifestyle of the Mustangi people with Tibetan Buddhist influence.
- Cross high passes with panoramic views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Walk through a high-altitude desert landscape with colorful cliffs, caves, and canyons.
- Experience the Tiji Festival (spring season), one of Mustang’s most important celebrations.
- Trek along the Kali Gandaki River, the deepest gorge in the world.
- Enjoy the rare practice of polyandry marriage system still found in Mustang.
- Visit mysterious caves used for meditation and hiding treasures centuries ago Cultural and Historical Significance
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu [1300m/4264 ft]
Upon our arrival in the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Beauty Nepal Adventure who will drop us off at our hotel. After checking in, we take a rest or visit Nepalese Markets. We may also stroll in the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu, for some souvenir shopping. Overnight Kathmandu.
Day 02: Fly to Pokhara (827m / 2,689ft) – 20-25 min flight
Flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara is a quick and efficient way to travel between the two cities in Nepal, taking approximately a short scenic flight of 20 -25 minutes.We take an early morning flight to Pokhara and enjoy amazing views of the Himalayas; opt to sit on the right side of the plane. On arrival in Pokhara, we are rewarded with magnificent views of the Himalayas including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, the five peaks of Annapurna and several others.
Several domestic airlines operate flights on this route, including Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Nepal Airlines. After reaching Pokhara, Special Permit and trek Preparation day (For applying for your ” Mustang Permits ”, Also some sightseeing in Pokahara.
Day 03: Fly to Jomsom (2,700m / 8,858ft) – 20 min flight, Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m / 9,216ft) – 4-5 hrs
Today we will take an early morning flight to Jomsom which is famous for its apples, strong winds and the landscape. We begin our trek on an open trail alongside a beautiful valley. We pass through Eakle Bhatti village before reaching Jomsom which is ideally located at the bank of two rivers. The village is beautiful with flat-roofed houses and also has ruins of an old fortress. Overnight in Kagbeni.
Day 04: Kagbeni to Chhusang / Chele (3,050m/10,004ft): 6 -7 hours ( Entry in restricted area )
We get our permits checked then begin our trek on a trail alongside the Kali Gandaki River. We walk on sand amidst strong winds before ascending on a hill. We reach the Tangbe Village and admire its narrow alleyways, white-washed houses, barley and buckwheat fields, and apple orchards. We continue our walk and pass another village and cross a river on our way. Next, we walk on a ridge before reaching Chele Village. Overnight in Chele.
Day 05: Chhusang / Chele to Syanbochen (3,475m/11,398ft): 7 -8hours
Our trek from today will be a little hard compared to what we experienced before. Our walk today involves crossing two passes, Taklam La pass (3,624m) and Dajori La pass (3,735). On our way, we enjoy great views of Tilicho, Yakawa Kang and Damodar Danda and pass by Ramchung Cave. We descend further and reach Samar Village. From here we walk on a trail above the village and reach a ridge. Next, we descend on a steep trail to a stream and continue our trek to Syanboche. Overnight in Syanboche.
Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner.
Day 06: Syanbochen to Ghami (3,520m/11,546ft): 6 -7 hours
We ascend to the Yamda La pass at 3,850m. On the way, we pass by a few teahouses, chortens and beautiful villages. We trek through poplar forests and barley fields and reach Nyi Pass at 4,010m. From here, we descend to Ghami which is one of the biggest villages in the Lo region. The village is beautiful with fields surrounding the entire village. Overnight in Ghami.
Day 07: Ghami to Tsarang (3,620m/11,873ft): 6 -7 hours
Our trek today begins with a descent through a rough and often slippery trail. We then cross a suspension bridge over the Ghami Khola and begin ascending. The pathway is beautiful with mani walls along the trail. Next, we cross the Tsarang La Pass at 3870m and reach Tsarang village. The village lies atop the Charang Chu canyon with a huge fortress and a red gompa towards its east. Overnight in Tsarang.
Day 08: Tsarang to Lo-Manthang (3,730m/12,234ft): 4 -5 hours
We begin our trek by descending to a canyon and cross a river before beginning our uphill trek to Lo La pass which at 3950m. From the top of the pass we can admire the beautiful Lo Manthang village. From the pass we descend to Lo Manthang which is a beautiful walled village. From here the views of the Himalayas including Nilgiri, Tilicho and Annapurna I, Bhrikuti Peak as well as Damodar Kunda (pond) is quite good. Overnight in Lo-Manthang.
Day 09: Explore Lo Manthang/ Acclimatization
Lo Manthang is a walled town of the remote Upper Mustang region of Nepal. We spend the day touring three major gompas of the town namely Jhampa, Thupchen and Chhoeda. All of these gompas have undergone expert restoration over the last two decades. We can also trek to Tingkhar which is a beautiful village located north-west of Lo-Manthang. Overnight in Lo Manthang.
Day 10: Lo-Manthang to Drakmar (3810 m/12,500ft): 7- 8 hours
We trek on a different route when returning from Lo-Manthang. Our trail passes through Gyakar village which houses a century old Ghar Gompa with beautiful rock paintings. According to a local legend, anyone who makes a wish at the Gompa will have it fulfilled. We explore the Gompa and continue our trek to Drakmar for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Drakmar to Ghiling (3,806m/12,484ft): 6 -7hours
We start our trek early to avoid strong winds and descend for the most part of the trek. Our trail passes through a dry plateau and fields before reaching Ghiling. The walk can be relatively difficult as we are most likely to experience strong winds on our face. Ghiling is mostly dry, but we still get good views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountains. We can tour the village around the evening. Overnight in Ghiling.
Day 12: Ghiling to Chhuksang (3050m/10,004ft): 6 -7 hours
We begin our trek after breakfast. We walk on the same trail as before going up to Lo Manthang. On the way to Chhuksang we can enjoy great views of the Himalayas and small villages we pass en route. Overnight in Chhuksang.
Day 13: Chhuksang to Jomsom (2,700/8,856ft): 7 -8 hours ( Exit from restricted area )
Today is the last day of our trek and it is a long one. After trekking for a while, we come to an end of our Mustang trails and join the trails of the Annapurna circuit. We stop for lunch at Kagbeni. After lunch, we continue our trek to Jomsom for an overnight stay.
Day 14: Fly back to Pokhara 20 Minutes
We take an early morning flight to Pokhara. The airplane passes through a gorge between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains making the flight itself an amazing experience. After arriving in Pokhara, we can spend the rest of the day in leisure. Overnight in Pokhara.To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 15: 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 16: Fly or Drive Back to Kathmandu
After breakfast, we return to Kathmandu either by scenic flight or by road. Once in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy your last evening in Nepal with time for final shopping or simply relaxing.
Day 17: 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.
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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