Upper Mustang Trek

Trip Duration
16 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Transportation
Taxi or Jeep, Bus
Max. Altitude
3800 m
Destination
Special Trek
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accomodation
Tea-house/Camping
Season
Sep- Nov and Mar – May

Trip overview

Upper Mustang hiking is the ideal way to visit the Annapurna area while experiencing Tibetan culture. Upper Mustang is located in the Himalayan rain shadow zone and is decorated more beautifully during the monsoon season. The Upper Mustang Trek Package is around 124 kilometers long and may be completed in 14 to 18 days with 5 to 6 hours of walking every day. If you want to undertake Upper Mustang hiking, you must first receive authorization to enter a restricted region. Visitors are not allowed to enter and do an Independent exploration of the upper Mustang. Therefore, to enter inside the valley you must have a professional guide and a permit from a reputable travel operator in Nepal.

Upper Mustang is best visited between April and November. The upper mustang height starts at 2810 meters at Kagbeni. The elevation of the final destination, Lo Manthang, is 3840 meters above sea level.

The upper mustang trek is a 124-kilometer (77-mile) round-trip hike from Jomsom to Lo Manthang. Let us travel to appreciate nature and its beauty while staying close to it on our Upper Mustang trip to Nepal. Mustang is one of the top tourist destinations in Nepal and it is also commonly used to refer to the dry Tibet-like region at the northern end of the Kali Gandaki (known to its inhabitants as Lo). Mustang has a long, rich, and complex history, which makes it one of Nepal’s most fascinating destinations. Lo’s early history is steeped in tradition, myth, and mystery, however, there are records of events in Lo going back to the 8th century. It is a favorite of both international and domestic tourists. This hike begins with a picturesque flight from Pokhara to Jomsom.

Upper Mustang provides a challenge, true interaction with nature, and the freshness of the surroundings. It entices individuals to discover new ways to enjoy the natural world in its most natural state. If you want to learn more about the ancient kingdom unearthed in Nepal, head to Upper Mustang, Nepal.

Highlights

  • Nepal’s last forbidden kingdom
  • Beautiful mountain villages and deep ravines Learn about the Upper Mustang’s flourishing cultural heritage, tales, and mythology.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (Nepal)

At the time of arrival, an agent from our travel company will be there to receive you. He/She will transfer you to the hotel with all your luggage safely. 

Day 02: Cultural Tours inside Kathmandu valley and local market

On the second day, you will visit Nepal's historically and artistically significant places (Kathmandu Valley). The valley visit includes locations such as Boudhnath Stupa and Pashupatinath. 

Day 3: Short Flight to Jomsom and start hike to Kagbeni (9,219 ft).

The 20-minute flight to the windy valley of Jomsom is incredible. A spectacular view with dozens of Himalayan giants protruding into the sky. Consider the Kali Gandaki River, which has been flowing from the Tibetan Plateau for 80 million years. After morning tea, take a walk along the ancient salt trade trail to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. An easy walk, lunch in Kagbeni, and an after-lunch excursion around the antique village of Kagbeni should not be missed.

Day 4: Trekking to Chele (restricted region Mustang)

After completing the permit formalities, we entered Mustang's restricted area today. As the valley widens with barren and arid surroundings and green villages in the middle, it appears more like a simply incredible mirage. 
The extended trail, with Kagbeni and Nilgiri mountains in the background, is breathtaking. Witness the various parts of the world, including the land of Ammonites (prehistoric stone), with breathtaking views. The Kali Gandaki river bed tells you about the river's ancient history. The landscape's dramatic setting, with canyons and wind-eroded hills, is breathtaking. Lunch will be served in Tangbe or Chhusang, another ancient village. Chele is a small, beautiful settlement with a picturesque setting from which to overlook the valley. 

Day 5: Hiking to Syangboche

Today's walk consists of undulating trails with a few steep climbs and descents. Despite the 6-hour hike, the magnificent canyons with their unusual colors that open up are breathtaking. The farming fields, with rich red buckwheat and brilliant green, as well as the south view offering a panorama of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Tilicho Peak, and YakawaKang, add to the bizarre's magnificence. The first steep walk through the hill-cut trail in one of these magnificent canyons is breathtaking. You will see sky caves that have been used as human settlements, burial chambers, and now lama hermit retreats for over 3,000 years. 
Lunch at Bhena, a small settlement that is now a jeep station but has spectacular scenery. 
The ascent to the pass before descending to Syangboche is notable for its unexpected views. 
Syangboche is a small village deep in the valley with a dramatic setting. 

Day 6:Trek to Ghami (3,520 m)

We climb gently from Syangboche to a small pass of 3,800 m/12,467 ft with spectacular views of mountains and deep valleys into wind-eroded canyons. Today's walk is easy, with only a few short climbs in between, but the beautiful scenery along the way makes it difficult to notice the passage of time and arrive at Ghami for lunch. 
Endless colorful gullies to the north, east, and west are spectacular. The soaring peaks of Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Annapurna continue to dominate the south. After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring Ghami, an ancient village complete with a time-honored monastery, chortens, and mani (prayer) walls. 

Day 7: Began Trekking to Tsarnag (3,560 m)

The founder of Tibetan Buddhism, Padmasambhava (750–810 AD), the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, created a fusion of Buddhism with the original Tibetan Shamanistic religion called Bon—whose influence on Indian Buddhism makes Tibetan Buddhism so fascinating. 
A half-hour walk from Ghami brings us to Mustang's longest ancient Mani wall. The soaring red cliffs to the west, which tell of Padmasambhava's legends, are captivating. A four-hour walk brings you to the fascinating big village of Tsarang, which appears dramatic. After lunch, they will visit the ancient monastery and the white palace of Tsarang, both of which are part of their heritage. It is worthwhile to explore the maze-like Tsarang on your own. 

Day 8: Trek to Lo Manthang (3,800 m)

Finally, we arrive at the plateau of Lo Monthang, Mustang's "Capital City and Plain of Aspiration." The fabled walled city of Lo, the kingdom with only one entrance, is a sight to behold! The king, "Lo Gyelbu," Jigme Palbar Bista, still lives in his four-story palace within the walls of Lo Manthang. 
After an hour and a half walk from Tsarang, there is a fascinating solitary ancient chorten in the middle of the road. 
The breathtaking view of Lo Manthang, the valley of Thinkar, and Chhosar from the 4000 m Lo-La pass. 
One of the highlights is the view of various historical ruined forts on the high hills. After lunch, visit the legendary walled city of Lo. Your group leader will plan a variety of exciting side trips. 

Day 9: Explore day at Lo Manthang.

Lo Manthang, the capital city of Mustang, has about 150 houses and some of Nepal's largest and finest Tibetan Buddhist gompas. The city itself is a fascinating place, with four major ancient monasteries and a massive 14th-century palace imposing a 4-story building in the city center.
Your guide will organize a jeep for the Chhosar excursion after breakfast.

Day 10: Start hike to Dhakmar (3,800 m/ 12,467 ft)

Today we will walk through different western terrain that will provide you with the most beautiful views despite a few steep downhill trials. We go to Ghar Gompa, the world's oldest Tibetan monastery, which was built in the 7th century by the incarnated monk Padmasambhava. 

Day 11: Descend to Syanboche.

We return to the village of Syanboche, where there is ample opportunity to look back at the missed-out views. 

Day 12: Hiking to Chusang (3,040 m/ 9,973 ft)

We retrace our steps back to the south. We start early today to visit the Chungsi Cave Monastery, one of the most beautiful of Mustang's cave monasteries, where Saint Padmasamvaba meditated in the 7th century. However, be prepared for the entire steep ascent. 

Day 13: Walk to Jomsom

We return to Chuhusang, where the stunning Nilgiri peak rises from the Kali Gandaki, the world's deepest gorge. We leave Mustang's restricted area and spend the night in Jomsom via Kagbeni. 

Day 14: Fly to Pokhara and stay at a hotel

We fly from Jomsom to Pokhara early in the morning—a fantastic way to end the trek, flying right along the Kali Gandaki Gorge between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Take another flight to Kathmandu. Spend the night at the hotel. 

Day 15: Drive back to Kathmandu

Today we take the scenic drive back to Kathmandu, which will take approximately 6 hours. A flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara is available at an additional cost if necessary. 

Day 16: Departure Day

On the last day of the trip, our team drops you off at the airport with all your belongings. and wish you a safe journey.

Included

  • Customized flight tickets for domestic and international flights. Standard accommodation in Pokhara and inside Kathmandu valley with fine breakfast and share beds.
  • A welcome dinner and ethnocultural program as outlined in the schedule; • A half-day guided city tour with admission costs as outlined in the itinerary; • Private transportation to and from the trek's beginning and ending sites.
  • Domestic flights from Jomsom to Pokhara and airport fees, as specified in the itinerary.
  • Three meals provided while on a trip as per our selected package
  • While walking, lodging in a local teahouse in twin beds.
  • Mustang special trekking permit for restricted areas
  • Free use of high-quality hiking equipment for the Mustang trek, including a sleeping bag, fleece liner, and down jacket.
  • Trained professional local hiking group leader with full first aid equipment in the wilderness.
  • Trekking guides and other support personnel with the necessary equipment and insurance
  • Complimentary T-shirts from our company, a Trek duffel bag, and a route map

Not Included

  • Visa fees for Nepal.
  • International air travel.
  • Any travel insurance you may have while on a Mustang trip.
  • City drinks and main meals
  • Horseback riding and jeep driving as needed • Tips and personal items such as postage, laundry, a hot shower, and internet

Useful Info

  • All foreign travelers must share their personal (visas and passport) details while booking and arriving.
  • Expect all trekkers not to bring any non-biodegradable products. Intoxicating substances and alcohol usage are strictly prohibited when trekking.
  • It is recommended to have a buffer day to deal with an unexpected incident.
  • It is also recommended to carry cash because ATMs are not available in the upper region
  • All the visitors are mandatory to keep their passport or visa with the traveling agencies
  • Chances of dehydration at high altitudes so, make sure to consume water in a regular manner and bring extra bottles with you.
  • Layering clothes is the best way to control your body temperature at a higher altitude while hiking so zippers wears are the best option.
  • The mobiles and camera batteries have high chances of getting dead or losing charges quickly therefore the portable charger is a must for your electronic

Trip Map

×

FAQs

  • What is the upper Mustang renowned for?

    Mustang is well-known for its high-quality apple cultivation, tourism, pilgrimage, and distinctive terrain.

  • What is the age of old Mustang caves? How ancient are Nepal's sky caves?

    According to some study, the mustang sky caverns are between 2,000 and 3,000 years old.

  • Which fruit is well-known in Mustang?

    : Organic Apple of Mustang, which is well-known across Nepal.

  • Why is Mustang a popular tourist destination in Nepal?

    Mustang is a popular tourist destination due to its unique natural beauty, cultural legacy, and religious significance. It is a part of the world-famous Annapurna circuit trip, Upper Mustang trek, Muktinath pilgrimage tour, and other tours that attract travelers from all over the world.

Similar Trips

Take a peek at some of our comparable packages.

  • Duration 17 days
  • Destination Everest Region
  • Duration
  • Destination Everest Region
  • Duration 19 days
  • Destination Tibet