Upper Mustang Trek

Transportation
Public Bus/Private vehicle
Accomodation
Hotel/Tea Houses
Maximum Altitude
4,250 m
Best season
Autumn and Spring

Overview

The Upper Mustang journey offers plenty of Tibetan cultural experiences in addition to stunning natural surroundings. Tibetan Buddhist traditions have defined Upper Mustang’s culture. Because of the pristine Tibetan Buddhist culture, which includes historic monasteries and traditional villages, the region is also known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom”.

Upper Mustang Trek is a thrilling and challenging 17-day adventure in which one feels as if they are in their world, free of the rat race of civilization. You will travel to Lo Manthang, one of the oldest kingdoms in history, in the kingdom of Mustang.

Even though it only opened in 1992, this kingdom was previously closed to most tourists, but this did not detract from its spectacular look. Some locations will impress you with their scenery, faces, and familiarity with the mysterious Tibet. It is a Trans Himalayan region that is typically believed to be an old seabed. Upper Mustang is notable for its rain shadow, which keeps it dry all year.

The desert-like dark landscapes of the regions are strikingly comparable to the Ngari region of Tibet. The majority ethnic groups in Mustang are Thakalis, Gurungs, and Tibetans. Aside from that, you’ll find Bhotiya, Tamang, Limbu, and other ethnicities.

Upper Mustang features old caves, holy fossil rocks, arid plains, and cliffs. Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang’s ancient capital, is a small hamlet with approximately 150 dwellings, a palace, and a 200-year-old monastery known as Lhakhang.

As you journey to Upper Mustang, you can see spectacular views of the mountain ranges, including Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m ), and Manaslu (8,163).

Highlights

Exploring Lo-Manthang, the forbidden kingdom's historic capital, also known as the walled city.
Attractive landscapes of the Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other ranges of mountains.
Engage with the residents of Jomsom to learn about their distinct way of life and historic traditions.
Visit Muktinath Temple, a sacred location for both Buddhists and Hindus.
Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Chhungsi Cave, 1200-year-old Ghar Gompa, and Khanpa Caves in Chhoser Valley.
Relaxing in the rain shadow is a perfect trek to avoid the summer rains.

Day 1 :

Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.

When you land at the International Airport in Kathmandu, one of our staff members will meet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is yours to relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead. You can enjoy strolling through Thamel's streets and corners in the evening, as it is a well-liked tourist destination. You might also go shopping to get mementos and supplies for your trip. There are vibrant temples, bustling streets, and vibrant marketplaces everywhere.

Day 2 :

Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour and trek preparation

You'll take a sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley on the second day of your trip. Pashupatinath and Boudhanath are two of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley. Swayambhunath, situated on a small mountaintop within the valley, is yet another significant Buddhist temple. Along with a quick overview of Nepali history, you will appreciate the magnificent palace, sculptures, and paintings. This is your chance to purchase or rent gear and apparel if you don't yet have your trekking stuff.

Day 3 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m/2690.3ft), 6-7 Hours

Following breakfast in the morning, you take a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Although the route is lengthy, it is very attractive and scenic. It takes roughly seven or eight hours. On a picturesque trip, you will pass by the Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers. You will go through gorgeous landscapes, trails through forests, and grassy slopes. Once you arrive in Pokhara, you will spend your free time exploring the stunning Lakeside neighborhood. You can take a boat ride if you have time.

Day 4 :

Fly to Jomsom (2720m/8923.9ft) & Trek to Kagbeni (2810m/9219ft), 3 Hours

You fly to Jomsom early in the morning for a quick and picturesque journey. The flight will last only twenty-five minutes. Mustang, which connects Nepal and Tibet, has its district headquarters in Jomsom. Then you set off on your journey to reach Kagbeni. You will proceed by crossing Ekley Bhatti Village and the Kaligandaki River. With sharp rocks and sandy areas, the trail is mostly plain and appears deserted. Kagbeni is a typical Nepalese village, complete with an old monastery and streets overrun with animals. After arriving, you can visit Kagbeni, a little yet distinctive village with walled pathways.

Day 5 :

Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3050m/10,006ft), 5-6 hrs

Following the official review of your permits, you resume the trek. The Kali Gandaki Bank allows you to enter the Upper Mustang region. You will arrive in Tangbe village, home of the Kang Monastery and numerous caverns, after several hours of trekking. In addition to red sandstones, you can make out apple orchards, and fields of barley and buckwheat. You will reach the charming Chhusang Village by following the narrow lanes that wind between the homes and farms. There will be ups and downs on winding, sandy trails for you to stroll. You will arrive at Chele Village's little ridges by strolling.

Day 6 :

Trek from Chele to Geling/Ghiling (3570m/11713ft), 5-6 hrs

You will set off early in the morning on your trip from Chele to Gelling. You have three passes to traverse today, each measuring roughly 4,000 metres, so it will be difficult. You'll ascend to the settlement of Gyakar. After that, the trail descends steadily and long to Samar village. You will keep heading in the direction of Bhena from Samar village. You will go to a hill above Samar and then descend into an immense valley. After descending Yamada La Pass, you will arrive at Syangboche. From here, you make a gradual ascent to a pass before dropping into Geling Village. Across the village, a massive red monastery clings to the cliffside.

Day 7 :

Trek from Geling to Charang (3560m/11,680ft), 7-8 hrs

You go up a difficult uphill trail from Geling until you reach a pass. The Annapurna range can be seen beautifully from the pass. Then you drop below the visually arresting cliffs that are red, grey, and blue. After passing across a bridge, you reach Mustang's longest Mani wall. To get to Charnag, you use the path that runs alongside the Mani Wall and ascends another pass of Charang La.

Day 8 :

Trek from Charang to Lo-Manthang (3810m/12500ft), 4-5 hours

You start the day by seeing the enormous monastery and the charming village of Charang. The journey will be moderate in pace and quite short. After crossing the Charang-Chu, you'll ascend through a rocky trail and see views of Bhrikiuti Peak, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Tilicho. When you reach the top of Lo La Pass, you catch your first view of Lo Manthang. The trail to Lo-Manthang is mostly flat, with a small amount of rising. There are several ethnic Lo communities within this walled village. The vibrant atmosphere of the place is enhanced by the neighboring mountains, which include Bhrikuti Peak, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Tilicho.

Day 9 :

Exploration of Namgyal Gompa and Tingkhar and return, 4 - 6 hrs

You will tour Lo-Manthang and get used to the altitude on this day. Among its most prominent and attractive characteristics is the 6-meter wall. The walled city of Lo-Manthang is dotted with exquisite towers. Namgyal Gompa is your first stop, and the climb there will take you around two hours. Perched on top of a hill, Namgyal Gompa functions as a significant monastery for the nearby people. The trek continues to Tingkhar after visiting Namgyal Gompa. With about 40 houses, this is the final settlement northwest of Lomanthang. A few more significant sites are the Thangka painting places, the Thubchen Monastery, the King's Palace, the museum, and the Jampa Monastery.

Day 10 :

Trek from Lo-Manthang to Dhakmar (3820m/12530ft), 6-7 hrs

You turn back from Lo-Manthang and head towards Drakmar. Along the breathtaking mountain pass that crosses the region, you will have an incredible journey. You go through Gyakar, passing by Ghar Gompa, where the main figure is Guru Rinpoche. The rock paintings of Gyokar Gompa are well-known and are thought to date back more than 1200 years. You ascend the hill, across a valley and alpine meadows, then descend a precipitous, rugged trail to reach Drakmar.

Day 11 :

Trek from Dhakmar to Shyangmochen (3800m/12465ft), 5 - 6 hrs

The day walk starts, as usual, from Dhamkar with a hearty breakfast. Before reaching Nya La Pass, you will ascend by earlier paths. Before rising to a ridge, the route drops past the stone walls and farms of Drakmar. You will have lunch in Jhaite and then go to Syangboche after arrival. The route descends further to Chhung-Kah. You will reach Syangboche after climbing for several hours, passing through Tama Gaon.

Day 12 :

Trek from Shyangbochen to Chhusang (2980m/9775ft), 6 Hours

You are heading from Syangboche to Chusang on your trek today. The famous Ranching Chungs Cave is one of the important landmarks in the area that you will pass by. This cave is considered a national treasure by Buddhist pilgrims. After crossing Taklam La and Djong La Pass, you will follow the trail down to the river before beginning your ascent back uphill. You'll be happy with the breathtaking scenery, which will be striking. You will gradually descend to Chhusang. Tetang is the upper settlement located in Chusang. You may take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and the terraced field here.

Day 13 :

Trek from Chusang to Muktinath (3760m/12336ft), 7 hrs

You proceed through the village on this day, past the picturesque Mani walls. After continuing your ascent, you will come to a tiny pass where Muktinath and the Buddhist monasteries with their red paint are visible. You go through the villages to reach Muktinath after climbing for a time. This path is highly chosen for the "Saligrams" fossil stones. Additionally, there are 108 engraved taps, where taking a bath is meant to wash away all of one's lifetime sins.

Day 14 :

Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2720m/8923ft), 6 hrs

You will visit Muktinath Temple early in the morning. It's an interesting day trip from Muktinath to Jomsom, passing via a beautiful village. The journey offers incredibly breathtaking views of Kagbeni village and the Kali Gandaki Valley. This road offers breathtaking views of several mountains, such as Mount Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and others, and a distinct landscape. Once you arrive in Jomsom, you have options for resting, unwinding, or exploring the city, museums, apple orchards, and engaging with the locals.

Day 15 :

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara, 20-25 min

Today you have an early flight to Pokhara, so you wake up early. It takes about 25 minutes to reach Pokhara through the picturesque mountain flight. You are free to explore the city and go shopping at Lakeside once you have checked into your Pokhara hotel. You take a sightseeing tour of the Pokhara Valley, stopping at the museum, Fewa Lake, Davis Waterfall, and other attractions. It's also possible to stroll along the stunning lakeside and unwind in the pleasant surroundings.

Day 16 :

Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu, 6-7 Hours

Bidding Fishtail and the Annapurnas farewell, you return to Kathmandu. The trip, which lasts about 6-7 hours, travels through breathtakingly beautiful scenery. You'll follow the same route you took before once more. Once more, you will travel by tiny villages beside the Trishuli River. As soon as you arrive in Kathmandu, you will proceed to the hotel. You might take a stroll through Thamel, go shopping once more, have a massage, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the numerous cafes in the area.

Day 17 :

Final departure

Your Upper Mustang adventure comes to an end today. You're going to say goodbye to a country that gave you the amazing opportunity to trek Upper Mustang. When your final departure time is scheduled, you will be taken to the international airport. You have three hours before the flight to get to the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Expand all

Is it possible to trek the Upper Mustang alone?

No, the solo trek is not the best option because it goes through a prohibited region. You must trek with a minimum of two other people and an experienced guide. To trek in this area, you have to comply with certain laws.

Are there hot showers and the Internet available?

Indeed, you will have access to hot baths and internet during your trekking. For these services, there is an additional cost. You are not required to pay for internet service until Chhomrong.

How challenging is the Upper Mustang Trek?

The Upper Mustang Trek is a somewhat demanding adventure. But, to complete the expedition, you must be in good enough physical health and be able to walk for five to six hours a day.

How likely is it that trekkers may have altitude sickness?

Since this high-altitude travel extends 4000 metres above sea level, altitude sickness is common in the area. Acute mountain sickness results from decreased oxygen levels and reduced air pressure.

Is travel insurance required for the Upper Mustang Trek?

Travel insurance is required for trekking routes in any part of Nepal. You must have travel insurance that covers accidents, medical costs, and helicopter emergency rescue to ensure your safety.

During the Upper Mustang Trek, are there any hospitals or medical facilities?

While there is a hospital at Upper Mustang, there are other health posts along the path with minimal medical services. If you take any regular medications, it is best to carry them with you.

What lodging options are available along the trail?

There are lodges, tea houses, and guesthouses among the lodging options. These rooms will contain twin beds, mattresses, pillows, sheets, and warm blankets. You will pay extra for hot showers in these accommodations.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Destination

Activities

Resources

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Related Trips

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake