Upper Mustang Trekking Overview
The Upper Mustang Trekking is the best way to see Nepal’s “Forbidden Kingdom” while enjoying high standards of comfort. This hidden region is famous for its desert-like mountains and ancient Tibetan culture. While standard treks involve long walks on dusty trails and staying in basic huts, this luxury version uses private jeeps and premium lodges. This takes you deep into the walled city of Lo-Manthang, offering a mix of wild landscapes and warm hospitality. As you fly into the mountains and travel through the Kali Gandaki gorge, the scenery changes from green forests to giant red cliffs and mysterious caves. In villages like Lo-Manthang and Tsarang, you will stay in boutique lodges with private bathrooms and heated rooms, amenities that are rare in such a remote area.
Major Highlights of Upper Mustang Trekking
- Explore the ancient walled capital of Lo-Manthang and its royal heritage.
- Travel in private 4×4 jeeps and mountain flights to avoid long, bumpy road trips.
- Discover thousands of ancient man-made sky caves built into high cliffs.
- Trek through a rain-shadow region that offers dry, clear weather even during the summer.
- Visit the sacred Muktinath temple and its famous 108 water spouts.
- Tour Ghar Gumba, one of the oldest active monasteries in the world.
- Meet the local Loba people to learn about their unique Tibetan traditions.
- Enjoy professional support and high-quality meals throughout the highlands.
Culture and Comfort in the High Desert
The local Loba people follow ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions. As you trek, you will see large prayer monuments and wheels that have been spun for centuries. Staying in luxury lodges lets you experience this culture during the day and return to a cozy, private room with a soft bed at night. This comfort makes the trip special by offering a warm place to relax after exploring the dry, windy desert.
A highlight is Dhakmar, famous for its bright red cliffs and 14th-century monasteries filled with gold statues. Since this is a luxury package, you will enjoy fresh meals in heated dining areas, giving you the energy to see these sites without feeling tired. In the villages, you will see farmers in barley fields and craftsmen at work, while your lodge offers a quiet spot to watch the sunset with warm tea.
The Journey to the Border and Chhoser
The trek leads toward the Tibetan border, where private jeeps let you visit the Chhoser caves and remote sites without extra walking. This open landscape looks like the high plains of Tibet and still feels mysterious today. You will explore incredible sky caves, some five stories high, with ancient paintings and prayer rooms. Choosing the luxury option saves your energy to climb into these cliffs and learn how people lived there thousands of years ago to stay safe.
Resting in premium hotels in Lo-Manthang helps your body adjust to the high altitude before you head back through the villages of Ghami and Tsusang. The return trip offers new views of the land, including the snow-covered Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. These massive white peaks look beautiful against the brown desert hills. Staying in comfortable lodges ensures you are well-rested and ready to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Ancient Secrets and Hidden Paths
Upper Mustang was once a powerful trade route where salt and wool were moved between India and Tibet. Today, you can still see the remains of old forts and palaces that protected this wealth. On a luxury trek, you travel along these same paths but with modern safety and comfort. You will stop at small tea shops in hidden valleys where the water is clear, and the air is silent.
One of the most important stops is the Lo Gekar monastery. It is a quiet place with beautiful carvings and a peaceful energy. Unlike the busy trails in other parts of Nepal, Mustang offers a sense of privacy. You can walk for hours without seeing many other tourists, making it feel like you have the whole kingdom to yourself.
Preparation and Training for Upper Mustang
To prepare for this trek, start a consistent exercise routine a few weeks before your trip. Focus on cardio activities like walking or cycling to help your heart and lungs handle the thin air, and build leg strength to make exploring caves and ancient villages easier. Be sure to break in your trekking boots early to avoid blisters on the trail.
Staying hydrated is essential in this arid climate, so practice drinking plenty of water daily to prevent altitude headaches. Along with physical fitness, a flexible and positive mindset is key. Since mountain weather and wind can be unpredictable, staying relaxed helps you enjoy the wild beauty of the landscape. Combining physical readiness with a calm attitude ensures a smooth and rewarding luxury adventure.
| Day | Destination | Sleep altitude | Duration | Distance | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Kathamndu | 1345 M | 30 min | 7 km | Arrival, hotel transfer, briefing |
| 02 | Kathamndu | 1345 m | Full Day | Full day | Heritage tour (Durbar Square, Swayambhunath), trek briefing & preparation |
| 03 | Pokhara | 820 | 6-7 hrs | 200 Km | Travel to Pokhara, lakeside walk, mountain views |
| 04 | Kagben | 2830 m | 67 hrs | 170 Km | Drive to Kali Gandaki valley to Kagbeni |
| 05 | Tsarang | 3560 M | 5-6 hrs | 15 km | Jeep drives through Mustang landscapes via Chele, Samar, and passes |
| 06 | Lo-Manthang | 3700 m | 5-6 hrs | 30 km | Scenic drive via Lo La Pass, reach the walled city of Lo-Manthang |
| 07 | Lo-Manthang | 3700 m | Full Day | Full day | Explore monasteries, palaces, and local culture |
| 08 | Dhakmar | 3800 m | 5-6 hrs | 20 km | Trek via old trails, red cliffs, and traditional villages |
| 09 | Ghami | 3800 m | 5-6 hrs | 15 km | Trek via Mani walls, cross Ghami Khola, village exploration |
| 10 | Tsusang / Chusang | 2930 M | 5-6 hrs | 25 km | Drive via Syangboche, Samar, Chele, and descend to Chusang |
| 11 | Muktinath | 3750 m | 5-6 hrs | 15 km | Drive via Kagbeni & Jharkot, visit Muktinath temple (108 spouts) |
| 12 | Jomsom | 2715 m | 5-6 hrs | 15km | Scenic descent to the Kali Gandaki valley, drive to Jomsom |
| 13 | Pokhara | 820 m | 6-7 hrs | 180 Km | Drive to pokhar transfer to the hotel Near the Phewa Lake |
| 14 | Kathamndu | 1345 M | 6-7 hrs | 200 km | Drive back To kathamndu |
| 15 | Departure | Departure | 30 min | 7 Km | Departure |
Trip Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu 1,345 m and then transfer to respective Hotels
- Distance : 7 Km
- Duration : 30 Minutes transfer to hotel
- Max. Altitude :1345m.
On reaching Kathmandu via respective airlines well received by company guides and staff for a short drive in the hub of Kathmandu city where your hotels located.After checking into your lovely rooms getting refreshed join in at the hotel lobby for a group briefing regarding treks and other useful information to make your stay in Nepal enjoyable and pleasant. The evening includes a group welcome dinner in nice Nepalese restaurants with cultural programs as entertainment with the dinner.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include:
Day 02: Kathmandu with the sightseeing tour, trek briefing, and preparations.
- Distance : Explore Day
- Duration : Full day
- Max. Altitude :1345m.
The morning after hearty breakfast, as per the given time our city and tour guide will lead you in the heart of Kathmandu city, for an exciting historical and heritage tour of old Durbar (royal palace and courtyard) square, of historical importance includes Temple of Kumari (Living young virgin Goddess) Kastamandap Temple where Kathmandu name derived from, a temple built with the wood of a single tree, tour of the old palace during the reign of Malla and late Shah kings. Tour leads to the famous landmarks of Nepal at Swayambhunath Stupa of more than 2,500 years old a Buddhist Chaitya or Stupa with all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha, afternoon back to the hotel, after an interesting tour rest of the day free at leisure and preparation for Upper Mustang Experience.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive or fly to Pokhara (30 mins on air and 6 hrs overland journey)
- Distance : 200 km
- Duration : (30 mins on air and 6 hrs overland journey)
- Max. Altitude :820m.
Upper Mustang Experience begins with the overland drive to Nepal Mid West taking a comfortable coach or in Tourist Bus to reach at scenic Pokhara, a beautiful and leading touristic place in all Himalaya range, with warm sub-tropical temperatures and close views of Annapurna Himalaya with Mt. Manaslu. Pokhara beautiful and leading tourist spot in all Himalaya range, with warm sub-tropical temperatures and close views of Annapurna Himalaya with Mt. Machhapuchare ‘Fish Tail’.On reaching Pokhara transfer to respective hotels by the Phewa Lake with views of Annapurna and Machhapuchare peak, afternoon at leisure for short walks around the lakeside.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Day 04: Fly to Jomsom 2,715 m and trek to Kagbeni 2,830 m - 04 hrs.
- Distance : 161 km
- Duration : (25 mins on air and 3 hrs Walking
- Max. Altitude :2,830 m
After a lovely stop with overnight at Pokhara, an early morning short drive to Pokhara airport for scenic sweeping flight to Jomsom, overlooking views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range of peaks as our small aircraft land at Jomsom airport situated above Kali-Gandaki River. Jomsom, the headquarter and administrative town of Mustang district, at Jomsom with time to refreshed get organized, then starting our first day walks on Kali-Gandaki River valley within the windswept area for few hours of the pleasant walk with views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiris as our daily walk ends at Kagbeni village. Kagbeni a nice village of Tibetan influence located on the starting and ending point of the Upper Mustang area and beyond to Forbidden City of Lo Manthang, located on an old Himalayan Caravan trade route of Nepal and Tibet.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 05: Drive to Tsarang / Charming 3,560 m - 04 hrs.
- Distance : 12 Km
- Duration : 3 Hours
- Max. Altitude :3,560 m
As the mortar-able road has reached these areas making it possible for driving around Upper Mustang, where a jeep ride takes you to scenic Tsarang / Charang village for overnights stops within the Upper Mustang area. Where morning drive climbs into a canyon of the high red eroded cliff edge, following upper upstream of Kali Gandaki River, within unique landscapes of cliff walls, a nice ride with views brings past Chele, a moderate size village also spelled as Tsele. From Tsele or Chele, continue to drive with the climb to Gyakar village, and from here into dry and barren landscapes to reach at Samar village, one of the lovely looking villages of Mustang area. After Samar village with short stops drive leads to Bhena and then climb to a ridge top of Yamada La pass at 3,860 meters high, offering the grand vista of Mustang area with high mountains of Mt. Dhaulagiri. From here to Dhakmar village, after hours of pleasant ride reaching Tsarang village surrounded by large fields of crops buck kinds of wheat with overnight stop and time to visit Tsarang old monastery.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 06: Drive to Lo-Manthang 3,700 m - 02 hrs.
- Distance : 25 km
- Duration : 4 hours
- Max. Altitude : 3,700 m
Today drive leads to our main destination at Lo -Manthang of few hours ride on scenic and dusty tracks to reach the former walled Kingdom of Lo-Manthang surrounded by the high wall. At one time stood as a forbidden kingdom after monarchy rule ended in Nepal a few past decades, on the walk coming across several chortens and mani stones, between Tsarang and on Lo Manthang trail with grand views of arid landscapes in the shade of Nilgiri’s, Tilicho and Bhrikuti peaks. Drive leads over Lo La pass above 3,950 meters with views of Lo Manthang walled city and then descend reaching a nice trail to Lo Manthang for overnight stops.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 07: At Lo-Manthang for acclimatization and local hike.
- Distance : Explore day
- Duration : Explore day
- Max. Altitude :3700m.
Lo Manthang highest overnight stop of the journey, with time to explore this fascinating village with old Tibetan like houses enclosed within the great high wall, visit the historical and cultural center the main attraction of Lo-Manthang. The four main monasteries are Namgyal Gompa, Champa Lakhang (God House), Red Thubchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, and the great Entrance Hall.
Advance permission required to enter the king’s palace to visit the interior of the old palace and to grant the audience the former king or Raja of Mustang if possible.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 08: Walk to Dhakmar 3,810 m - 05 hrs.
- Distance : 11 Km
- Duration : 5 hrs
- Max. Altitude :3,810 m
After an interesting time in Lo-Manthang morning start the walk on the trail back to Marang village, and then towards west using an old path to Dhakmar village for the overnight stop.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 09: Trek to Ghami 3,806 m - 04 hrs.
- Distance : 9 km
- Duration : 4 hrs
- Max. Altitude :3,806 m
From Dhakmar village, morning walk leads towards long Mani (Prayer) Walls, and then cross a bridge over Ghami Khola to reach at Ghami village for overnight, time permitting visit its old interesting monastery.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10: Trek and drive to Tsusang-Chusang 2,980 m - 04 hrs.
- Distance : 25 km
- Duration : 5 hours
- Max. Altitude : 2,980 m
Slowly this fascinating journey comes to an end as our drive leads to Syangboche village and to YYamadaLa with grand views, then downhill to Bhena and Samar villages.D rive across the stream past Gyakar and Chele villages and finally ending the ride at Tsusang or Chusang village for the last overnight stops in Upper Mustang.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11: Drive to Muktinath 3,750 m - 03 hrs.
- Distance : 15 km
- Duration : 3 hrs
- Max. Altitude :3,750 m
Morning drive leads to a climb of an hour and then heading past several villages and then back at Kagbeni, and then towards the holy area at Muktinath, reaching the height of 3,750 meters, drive leads through the interesting village of Jharkot, from here the trail climbs gradually for a short hour to reach holy Muktinath. Muktinath, located in between the popular trek to Manang via the high pass of Thorang la and the trail also joins from upper Mustang region, in the auspicious time this place is flooded with pilgrims of both Hindu and Buddhist, a nice walk to the Temple of Muktinath and with its 108 water spout, which is also the source of Kaligandaki river. Superb views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche can be seen from the campsite and as well from Muktinath itself including the Tilicho and Nilgiris peaks to the left.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 12: Drive to Jomsom 2,715 - 02 hrs.
- Distance : 02 hrs.
- Duration : 16 km
- Max. Altitude : 2,715m.
From Muktinath, the rest of the journey is much easy on downhill hills where our walk stops of the great adventure for a short motorable drive, taking a drive with a big drop of 1,200m to Kaligandaki river valley, within vast Kaligandaki river valley to reach Jomsom
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 13: Fly to Pokhara 860 m and transfer to the hotel by Phewa Lake.
- Distance : 161 Km
- Duration : 25 Minuets
- Max. Altitude : 860 m.
Early morning as per the flight time for Pokhara transfer to Jomsom airport and then board in a small aircraft and then on air the for 20 minutes or more to land at beautiful and scenic Pokhara, during flight exceptional views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalaya range. Our adventure finally ends with a short drive to Pokhara by the Phewa Lakeside after completing a grand adventure around Upper Mustang.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Day 14: Drive or fly to Kathmandu and then transfer to your hotels.
- Distance : 200 KM
- Duration : 8 Hrs
- Max. Altitude :1345m.
After a wonderful time in the high mountains and hills, taking a morning driving journey back to Kathmandu, on reaching Kathmandu after 5-6 hours of nice interesting drive, transfer to respective hotels with the afternoon free at leisure or last day shopping souvenirs and handicrafts. (Options by air 30 minutes flight back to Kathmandu with great views)
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Day 15: International Departure for Homeward bound.
- Distance : 7 km
- Duration : 30 Minutes drive to airport
- Max. Altitude :1345m.
Last day in Nepal in the country of high Himalayan mountains with fascinating culture, after a memorable adventure on Upper Mustang Experience with marvelous time, as per your international flight time our staff transfers you to the airport for the flight homeward bound or to your next port of call and respective countries.
- Accommodation:
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Cost Details
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICES
- Airports pick up and drop off, upon arrival and departure in Kathmandu.
- Pre-meeting before the trek.
- 3-night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (3 Star Hotel)
- 2-night hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast (3 Star Hotel )
- Helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, well-spoken, government-licensed guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodations, and insurance
- Meals on full board ( Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner ) with 3 times of tea/coffee during the trek
- Seasonal fresh fruits are available
- Guesthouse accommodation during the trek.
- Domestic flights (Pokhara – Jomsom – Pokhara) are inclusive of airport tax
- Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu tourist Bus
- Jomsom to Jomsom private jeep
- 1 Well-Plan Trekking T-shirt
- Upper Mustang special trekking permit fee
- Annapurna Conservation Area entrance permit fee.
- Annapurna Trekking Map
- Duffel bag
- Well, Plan Trekking down jacket and sleeping bag if required ( After trek Return )
- Worst case, help with all rescue and evacuation arrangements.
- First aid medical kit and oximeter to check pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation at higher altitudes.
- All applicable taxes are per government rules and regulations.
- Well Plan Trekking trek achievement certificate after the successful trek
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a cultural restaurant
THE PACKAGE EXCLUDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICES
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport – Kathmandu).
- Travel insurance, which has to cover emergency high-altitude helicopter rescue and evacuation in addition to medical expenses (compulsory)
- A strong, Helpful porter with proper equipment ( one porter for two people – the porter will carry a maximum of 25 kilos ), one porter costs USD 220 for the whole trip.
- Your expenses. (Phone call, Wifi, Laundry service, bar bills, battery recharge, a bottle of water or hot water, Mineral water, Hot shower, etc.)
- All the alcoholic drinks and bar bills.
- Extra Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival or late departure. early arrival from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled Itinerary.
- Services not mentioned in the ‘Services Includes’ section ( Please ask us if you are confused about any services )
- Kathmandu lunch and Dinner
- Tips for the guide and porter.
Equipment’s
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT LIST
This list is a guide to help you pack for your trip. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list; rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel necessary for your comfort and convenience .we also suggest that you pack only what is necessary.
Head
- A warm hat that covers your ears
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Upper body
- T-shirts
- Fleece jacket or sweater
- Fleece wind –stopper jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket
- Down vest and /or jacket (optional)Hands
- Lightweight gloves (water /windproof)
- Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower body
- Underwear
- Hiking trousers
- Fleece or woolen trousers
- Lightweight thermal bottoms
- Lightweight cotton pants
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric )shell pants Feet
- Thin lightweight inner socks
- Heavy poly or wool socks
- Hiking boots with spare laces
- Camp shoes (sneakers and sandals)
Sleeping
- Sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C de 14 degrees F)
- Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)Toiletries
- Toothbrush /paste
- Multi-purpose soap
- Nail clippers
- Deodorants
- Medium-sized quick-drying towel
- Face and body moisturizer
- Small mirror
- Female hygiene products
Personal hygiene
- Wet wipes (baby wipes)
- Tissue/toilet roll
- Antibacterial hand wash
Medical
- Small, personal first-aid kit (simple and light)
- A cough and /or cold medicine
- Anti –altitude sickness pills; Diamox or acetazolamide
- Stomach antibiotic
Extras /luxuries
- Reading book
- Trail map /guidebook
- Journal and pen
- Travel game(chess, backgammon, playing cards etc)
- Modest swimsuit
- Binoculars
- Camera
Trip Map
FAQ
Upper Mustang Trekking is located in the north-central part of Nepal, in the Mustang District of Gandaki Province. It lies near the border with Tibet and is part of the rain-shadow area of the Himalayas, meaning it receives very little rainfall. The region is known for its dry, desert-like landscape and unique Tibetan-influenced culture.
The Upper Mustang trek ranges in altitude from about 2,800 meters at the starting point, usually around Jomsom, to around 3,800 to 4,200 meters in places like Lo Manthang. The highest points on the trek can reach just over 4,200 meters. Overall, it stays at a relatively moderate high altitude compared to other Himalayan treks, but still requires proper acclimatization.
The red cliffs and caves of Mustang are popular because they create a unique, almost desert-like landscape unlike other parts of Nepal. These cliffs are filled with ancient cave systems, some of which were used as homes, monasteries, and burial sites thousands of years ago.
The best time to trek in Upper Mustang is from May to October. Unlike other regions of Nepal, it lies in a rain-shadow area, so it receives very little rainfall even during the monsoon. This makes summer a great time to visit, with clear skies and accessible trails. Spring and early autumn are also good, offering pleasant temperatures and good visibility, making the trek comfortable and scenic.
Upper Mustang is mainly inhabited by the Loba people, an ethnic group with strong cultural and linguistic ties to Tibet. They follow Tibetan Buddhism and maintain traditional lifestyles, customs, and architecture that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
The culture of Lo Manthang is special because it has remained largely preserved for centuries, with strong Tibetan Buddhist traditions. As a former walled kingdom, it still reflects royal heritage, ancient monasteries, and unique rituals. Festivals like Tiji are important cultural events, featuring traditional dances and religious ceremonies. The people maintain old customs, dress, and way of life, giving visitors a rare glimpse into Himalayan culture.
To trek in Upper Mustang, you need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), as it is a controlled and protected region. Along with this, you also need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) since the trek falls within the Annapurna region. These permits are mandatory and are arranged by us, as solo trekking is not allowed.
Acclimatization is important in the Upper Mustang because the trek takes place at high altitudes, often above 3,000 meters, where oxygen levels are lower. Without proper adjustment, trekkers may experience altitude sickness, including headaches, dizziness, or fatigue.
During the Upper Mustang trek, accommodation is mainly in simple teahouses and local guesthouses along the route. Rooms are basic, usually with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Facilities become more limited in remote villages, but they are still comfortable enough for resting after a day of trekking.
Yes, internet access is available in Upper Mustang, but it is limited and not very reliable. Some teahouses in larger villages like Lo Manthang offer Wi-Fi, often through paid services like Everest Link. Mobile networks may also work in certain areas, but the signal can be weak or inconsistent due to the remote terrain.
You can prepare for limited internet in Upper Mustang by downloading important maps, guides, and offline apps before starting the trek. It’s also useful to inform family or friends in advance that communication will be irregular. Carrying a local SIM card can help in some areas, but it shouldn’t be fully relied on. Many trekkers also enjoy using the trek as a digital break, so preparing for offline time makes the experience smoother and less stressful.
Safe drinking water is available in Upper Mustang, but it is not always ready to drink directly. You can find water from taps, springs, and teahouses along the route, but it should be purified before use. Most trekkers use tablets, filters, or boiled water provided by lodges. Bottled water is also available in some villages, but it becomes expensive and less common in remote areas.
