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Upper Mustang Trek

from 25 reviews
Price starting from

$2,834 USD 1,968

per person

Duration

17 days

Max. Elevation

3810m

Group size

2+ Above

Level
MODERATE
Transportation
private vehicle and Flight mentioned as your itinerary
Best Season
March-may, September-November
Accomodation
Three-star hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara; and tea house lodges during the trip
Meals
Breakfast in Kathmandu, Pokhara; and three meals (Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner, and cup of tea) during the trip
Starts at
kathmandu
Ends at
Kathmandu
Trip Route
Kathmandu-Pokhara-Jomsom-Kagbeni Chele / Tsele-Syangboche-Ghaymi-Syangbochen-Charang-Lo Manthang-Ghiling-Chhuksang-Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu

Highlights

  • Scenic flight to and from Pokhara to Jomsom.
  • Exploring the Kali Gandaki River valley.
  • The Upper Mustang trekking is popular as Lo Manthang trekking.
  • Explore the ancient monasteries and Tibetan similar lifestyles.
  • Cave-like settlement and walled town.
  • The polyandry system still existed.
  • Visit the Muktinath temple, a pilgrimage place for both Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Forbidden kingdom of Mustang.
  • Picturesque views of the Himalayas.
  • Visiting the capital of Mustang  “The Lo Manthang"

Overview

Upper Mustang Trek, where the walk follows on ancient Trans Himalaya Salt Trade and Caravan Route of Nepal to Tibet border. A classic adventure to the old and former walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang, where you can experience the medieval time era period. The area around Upper Mustang is geographically an extension of a wide and vast plateau within the Ngari province of South West Tibet.

An exciting trek that leads you into a great wall canyon and eroded red hills within a dramatic landscape location. As the journey takes you around lovely farm villages festooned with prayer monuments of both Buddhism and old Bon religions. Upper Mustang is truly an outstanding trip, exploring the wild country of Nepal Far West remains a restricted region. For foreign travelers, where a special permit is necessary to enter this magical lance of Upper Mustang.  

Our 17 days trip to Upper Mustang Trek, begins from the capital city and commercial hub of Nepal in Kathmandu. On first arrival a tour of world heritage sites steeped with great historical and religious interest as an introduction to local culture. Then heading towards beautiful Pokhara, a city adorned with the natural beauty of the high Annapurna Himalayas and serene lakes.

From Pokhara, an exciting scenic flight to land at Jomsom, the headquarters and administrative town of Mustang district. Where our adventure starts following a wide plain of windy Kaligandaki River valley to reach Kagbeni.

The entrance village to Upper Mustang leads towards Nepal and Tibet border, which separates the frontier by Kora-La Pass. At 4, 660 m / 15, 290 feet high, the last end of Upper Mustang and the final limit for outside visitors. Walk from Kagbeni entering the pure wilderness, of a dry and windswept country, with few trees of Poplars, Willow, and juniper.

The only surviving tree lines around the village’s guards against the strong wind, usually from midday till late afternoon. The route leads across a few lesser passes overlooking the grand vista of surrounding magnificent country landscapes, heading through nice villages. Overnights in a village lodge and guest-house, of simple and clean rooms, as the trek progress past Chusang, Ghami, and Charang villages.

An interesting place with long rows of prayer wheels and impressive monasteries, then finally reach the destination at Lo-Manthang. Once a forbidden kingdom, where Mustang Raja / King ruled the province of Mustang till the last past decades. At Lo-Manthang, with time to explore the town like the village in earlier days considered a city.

Visit places of great interest as well as the famous monasteries, and the fortress-palace of the late former Raja of Mustang. After a most wonderful experience, head back to Jomsom for a scenic flight back to Pokhara, and then to Kathmandu. Where our ever-exciting adventure on Upper Mustang concludes by reaching hustle and bustle of the city life of Kathmandu. 

Tiji Festival:

The spring festival of Tiji (or Tenche) is a three-day event in Lo Manthang in which masked dancers recreate the battle between the Buddhist god Dorje Jono and his demon father to save the Mustang from a terrible drought. The monks burn the idol of the demon to rid the city of evil spirits, and a huge Tondrol (traditional Tibetan Buddhist painting) is hung from the palace walls.

The main dancer (known as Tsovo) completes a three-month retreat before the festival, in which members of the Mustang royal family also join in the sacred dance.

The weather of the Upper Mustang Trek:

Like other parts of Nepal, Mustang has four different seasons throughout the year. At different times of the year, there are different weather conditions and temperatures. Mustang has a cool, semi-arid climate that is typical of the Trans-Himalayan region. During the day, the average annual temperature in this region is about 11.9 degrees Celsius.

Mustang falls in the shadow of the Annapurna region. The average annual rainfall is about 308 mm. This is one of the lowest rates in the country. As a result, trekking in the region is easy and convenient even in the heart of Nepal. The weather is perfect for apple orchards and rhododendron groves. Both of these can be found in abundance in this area.

Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek:

Upper Mustang's best time for a visit is from April to mid-June and from September to early November month. Springtime of April to May, is the best with longer sunshine during the day, colder in the shade, and from afternoon time till the next morning.

Next Autumn season is also a good time for the Upper Mustang trek from mid-September till the first week of November months.

Days are crystal clear for views and pleasant walks can be much cold during the morning and late afternoon till night-time. Upper Mustang can be visited during the monsoon wet months of June and August time as well. The area around 

Upper Mustang falls within rain shadow, where dark rain monsoon clouds are blocked by the great Himalayas range. Mustang gets less moisture and lights rains sometimes which is why the country is dry and arid.

Accommodation and Food  for upper Mustang Trekking:

Kathmandu and Pokhara provide Three-star hotels according to your schedule. Tea houses or basic lodges serve local and international cuisine and also provide basic accommodation. Most tea houses and lodges offer basic foods such as lentils, rice, and seasonal vegetables. If you like lentils, rice, and vegetables, you can add food that you can eat at the same price. Also, Western foods like pizza and other desserts are available on the menu.

Due to the increasing number of pedestrians, the arrangement of tea houses, guest houses, and accommodations has become comfortable. The cost of accommodation depends on the type of room you choose. A shared room costs less than a single, double or triple sharing room.

A permit is required for Upper Mustang Trekking:

Upper Mustang is considered a restricted area due to its proximity to the Tibetan border. This means the cost of permission to enter the area is as high as $ 500 per person for 10 days, then $ 50 per day.

This Restricted Area Permit (RAP) lasts from the time you leave Kagbeni (on this trek) until you re-enter Kagbeni. So in this magical Nepal Upper Mustang Trek, you only need 10 days RAP.

Restricted permission cost: $ 500 per person for 10 days.  $ 50 per day if trek longer than 10 days (suitable for upper Mustang area)

Additionally, each hiker must pay $ 30 for the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). This permit is valid for long journeys.

Note: Please note that you cannot do this trek alone. You need to have at least two trekkers traveling with an authorized trekking company and a necessary license holder trekking guide.

Equipment & Packing List for Upper Mustang Trek:

This list outlines the required things to bring during the Upper Mustang Trek The weight limit for your luggage is 15 kg. Remember that your luggage will be carried by our porter. However, you are required to carry a small day-pack with your valuables or anything important. We advise you to pack only what is necessary.

Important Items: Airline tickets; Valid passport; 2 extra passport size photos; Photocopy of your passport; Insurance paper; Dollars, Pounds, or Euros in cash for purchasing a Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying at restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks and to purchase your own drinks and gifts; Credit Card (Visa/ Master Card) for withdrawing cash from cash machines if needs.

For Head: Sun Hat; Bandana or head scarf; Headlamp with extra batteries; Sun Glasses with UV protection.

For Upper Body: Shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves); Lightweight thermal tops; Fleece Jacket or Wool Sweater; Wind Cheater jacket; Down Jacket

For Lower Body: 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms; 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers; 1 pair of waterproof shell pants and 1 pair of hiking trousers.

For Hands: 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves and 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.

For Feet: 2 pairs of thin inner socks; 2 pairs of poly or wool socks; 1 pair of Hiking boots (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support); 1 pair of running shoes and/or sandals.

Other Useful Items: 1 sleeping bag (good to -20 degrees C or 28 degrees F); Rucksack and Travel Bags; 1 large duffel bag, A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables; Small padlocks for duffel- bags; 2 large waterproof rucksacks covers (optional).

Medical: Your daily taking medicine if any; small personal first aid kit; Aspirin, plasters (band-aids); Sunscreen; lip balms; Anti-diarrhea pills; Anti-headache pills; A cough and/or cold medicine; Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide; Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin.

Digital camera; 2 water bottles (1 liter each); disposable rubbish sacks; Toiletries: 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel; Toothbrush/paste; Multi-purpose soap; Deodorants; Nail clippers; Face and body moisturizer; Tissue /toilet roll; hiking poles, snack food (chocolate/ biscuits); umbrella; reading book or pack of cards (for leisure time during trekking).

Note: If any items are not available in your hometown you can buy them in Trekking Store in Kathmandu before you on trekking

Important Note

  • The above itinerary is basically a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us.
  • The cost will be valued by Your standard of hotels, service, group size, and other extra activities. Please kindly let us know.
  • if you are unable to walk you can also visit by vehicle, on this trail.

Trip Itinerary

Day

1

You will be picked up from the Tribhuvan International Airport. After a warm welcome, you will be transferred to your respective hotel in Kathmandu. You can have authentic Nepali meals and drinks on that day.

Meals: Breakfast, Accommodation: Three-star category Hotel in Kathmandu, Distance: 5 kilometers From Airport to Thamel

Day

2

This day has been set aside for preparation and sightseeing around Kathmandu valley. After breakfast, you will be briefed about the trek for the coming days by your guide. After which you will head on a sightseeing tour.

You can visit various cultural heritage sites like Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath. If you like ancient arts and crafts, then you can visit the courtyards of Kathmandu Bhaktapur and Patan or can even visit the Narayanhiti Museum.

Meals: Breakfast, Accommodation: Three-star category Hotel in Kathmandu

Day

3

This is the day when you will head to Pokhara. You will take a tourist bus to Pokhara which will take around 6 to 7 hours. The drive is exhilarating since you will get views of mountains, green hills, and waterfalls.

After reaching Pokhara, you will be transferred to your respective hotel. You can enjoy Fewa lake and try local meals and drinks at the hotels near Lakeside.

Meals: Breakfast in Kathmandu Hotel, Accommodation: Three-star category Hotel in Pokhara, Distance: 200 kilometers from Kathmandu to Pokhara, flight 25 min

Day

4

On this day, you will get closer to Mustang. You will board a domestic flight towards Jomsom. The flight is extremely enticing with the views of the Nilgiri and Annapurna Ranges. The landscape changes drastically as the air gets drier and arid. You will begin the trek hereon and head towards Kagbeni.

Kagbeni is an old settlement that can be seen from high above the road. The village is ancient with tin roofs and mud houses. Kagbeni is perhaps one of the highlights of the Upper Mustang trek and the Mustang region as a whole.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in Kagbeni, Distance: 161 kilometers (Drive), Flight: 25 min

Day

5

On this day, you will head to Chele which is a long trek day. You will be taking the trail alongside the Kali Gandaki River. The Kali Gandaki river flowing swiftly will give you a sense of self as you pass the narrow alleys of Tange village adventure will come to life, and as you head to the paddy and buckwheat field, you will come back to reality.

The lifestyle of the settlement in Chele will bring you closer to this region.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in Chele / Tsele, Distance: 14.5 kilometers

Day

6

After breakfast, you will take a hike uphill, and then cross the Taklam La Pass at an elevation of 3624m. This is a relatively challenging day due to the two passes that you will have to traverse along the way.

Since these passes sit at an elevation above 3500 m, you need to take extra precautions not to fall victim to altitude sickness. After taking a quick descent, you can head to Samar Village and then take a steep path to Syangboche. Stay overnight at a lodge in Syangboche.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in  Syangbochen, Distance: 12.8 kilometers

Day

7

On this day, after breakfast, you will head to Syangboche. At first, you will take a sharp ascend to the Yamada La pass (3850 m). The path is very green since you will be walking through thick forests, and fields of barley. You will also observe chortens, mani walls, and lovely villages with warm-hearted people.

Eventually, you will reach the Nyi Pass where you will take a descent to Ghami. Ghami is a large village, most significant in the region inhabited by Sherpas.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in  Ghaymi, Distance: 10 kilometers

Day

8

This is the day when you will be heading toward Charang. Marked at an elevation of 3500 m, it might be difficult physically. Thus, it is advised to take smaller steps and not rush to avoid altitude sickness.

The trail is pretty slippery. You will cross a large suspension bridge over the Ghami Khola and then finally reach the Tsarnag La Pass which can be counted as a highlight due to it falling at an altitude of 3870m. You will then enter the Tsrang Village which is situated high in the Charang Chu Canyon.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in Tsarang, Distance: 10.6 kilometers

Day

9

This is the day when you will be reaching Lo-Manthang which is the highlight of the entire trek. The popularity of Lo has also been amassed for being one of the oldest known civilizations in Nepal and also because it represents the long-running and high-standing kingdom of Lo in Nepal. The trek is particularly tiring and challenging.

On the way, you will hike upwards to the Lo La Pass at an altitude of 3950m. The views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountains are almost too real to be true.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in  Lo-Manthang, Distance: 11 kilometers

Day

10

On this day you will take a rest at Lo Manthang, Since Lo is the highlight of the entire trek, you can excuse around the areas nearby to get even more exciting and thrilling views of the ancient land of Lo The age-old monuments, Gompas, Chhodea, Thupchen, and Jhampas in Lo will keep you busy throughout the day.

This day is also essential for acclimatizing your body against any altitude sickness. You can also hike to the Tinghar village in the northwest. Stay overnight at Lo Manthang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in  Lo-Manthang, Distance: 4-6 kilometers

Day

11

On this day, you will trek towards Darkmar following the trail that walks through an old Gompa. The Gompa has some cultural significance and is almost a century old.

The beautiful rock paintings will keep you astounded. You will stay overnight at a lodge or homestay at Drakmar.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in Drakmar, Distance: 12.8 kilometers

Day

12

On this day, after some light breakfast, you can head towards Ghiling. You will pass through a dry plateau and fields along the way. The trek gets more challenging due to the dry sand blowing along with the strong winds. Ghiling is a village that is very dry but still has up close and mesmerizing views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in  Ghiling, Distance: 14.3 kilometers

Day

13

On this day you will be heading towards Chhuksang from Ghiling which is a relatively more comfortable trek. You need to drink plenty of water throughout the day since the land is arid and dries out your throat. You will observe the views of majestic mountains and pass through small villages.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in  Lo-Manthang, Distance: 11.8 kilometers

Day

14

You will head to Jomsom from Chhuksang on this day. Along the way, you will most likely spot many apple farms with lush green and red apples growing. It is particularly windy in Jomsom. If you like, then you might as well buy some dry apples on the way. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Jomsom.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse in Jomsom, Distance: 13 kilometers

Day

15

After breakfast, you will be taken to the domestic airport for a flight towards Pokhara. On a beautiful day, you will see the views of the majestic Mount Annapurna and Mount Macchapuchrey along with some green hills and waterfalls from high above in the air.

Upon reaching Pokhara, you can head to the Fewa lake for boating and roaming around. The evenings and nights near the lakeside are especially fun.

Meals: Breakfast, and Lunch, Accommodation: Three-star category Hotel in Pokhara, Distance: 17 kilometers, flight 25 min

Day

16

This is the day when you will be heading toward Kathmandu valley after an incredible Upper Mustang Tour. The ride will follow the same route as before.

You can take some rest at your hotel and then head out to the streets of Thamel for some souvenir shopping as well. Enjoy your last day in Kathmandu by taking some Nepali dishes and drinks.

Meals: Breakfast, farewell, Accommodation: Three-Star Category Hotel in Kathmandu, Distance: 200 kilometers, flight 25 min 

Day

17

After the spellbinding Upper Mustang Trek, this marks your last day here in Nepal. You will be taking home, the beautiful memories of Upper Mustang. You will be dropped off at the Tribhuvan International Airport by our staff for homeward bound. On the way, you can also make preparations for your next adventure tour in Nepal.

We trust you made some incredible memories with us. Thank you, and have a safe journey home.

Meals: Breakfast Included.

Inclusions

  • Airport picks up and drops services as per itinerary by private vehicle.
  • Kathmandu valley sightseeing with a City tour guide by private vehicle.
  • Three nights at a three-star hotel in Kathmandu breakfast/wifi included(Twin sharing base).
  • Two nights at a three-star hotel in Pokhara breakfast/wifi included (Twin sharing base).
  • professional English-speaking trekking guide during the trek with a first aid kit.
  • Porter during the trek (1 Porter between 2 people).
  • Stuff, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment.
  • Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch dinner, and cup of tea/coffee) during the trek.
  • Pokhara -Jomsom-Pokhara by flight.
  •  Upper Mustang special permit.
  • Annapurna conservation region permit.
  • Tea house accommodation during the trek.
  • Deluxe touristic bus Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu.
  • Tourists service charge, vat.
  • International airfare & Nepali visa fee.
  • Lunch and dinner while you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
  • Personal travel insurance.
  • personal expenses (phone. Call, internet, laundry, bar bills, wifi,  battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, hot shower, trekking person equipment, etc..).
  • Kathmandu Valley City and Pokhara sightseeing entrance fee.
  • Kathmandu- Pokhara-Kathmandu private vehicle and flight ticket.
  • Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara private vehicle.
  • Tips for stuff (it is expected)

Complimentary

    • Welcome,/ farewell dinner in a famous Nepali restaurant with a Nepali culture dance program.
    • upper mustang trekking map.
    • Sleeping bag during the trek, (to be returned after the trip completion).
    • Seasonal fresh fruit during the trek.
    • Trekking Pools (to be returned after completion of the trip).
    • Certificate of achievement.

Upcoming Departure Dates

Start Date End Date Offer Price Status
1st Dec, 2022 17th Dec, 2022 USD 2,834
USD 1,790
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2nd Jan, 2023 18th Jan, 2023 USD 2,834
USD 1,790
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12th Feb, 2023 28th Feb, 2023 USD 2,834
USD 1,790
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26th Feb, 2023 14th Mar, 2023 USD 2,834
USD 1,790
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15th Mar, 2023 31st Mar, 2023 USD 2,834
USD 1,790
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1st Apr, 2023 17th Apr, 2023 USD 2,834
USD 1,790
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14th Apr, 2023 30th Apr, 2023 USD 2,834
USD 1,790
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1st May, 2023 17th May, 2023 USD 2,834
USD 1,790
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15th May, 2023 31st May, 2023 USD 2,834
USD 1,790
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2nd Jun, 2023 18th Jun, 2023 USD 2,834
USD 1,790
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Frequently Asked Questions

Similar to most Himalayan country walks that include ups and downhill, Upper Mustang is not a difficult trek, it is just walking on high altitude and dry terrain, it makes trekkers tired. But one can take it slowly with enough short rest, it will be good to cover the day walks to each overnight stop. 

Much of the trail is well defined and straightforward towards Lo-Manthang the last destination from Jomsom. Having enough rest days makes the adventure much enjoyable and getting well acclimatized at every overnight stop at certain heights.

From winter times of December to early spring in February and March gets much snow around Upper Mustang. Where trekking is not done during this low season. The village will be almost empty and deserted, as the local migrates to lower warm areas to escape the winter cold with much snow.

Minimum age of 12 to 14 years, and not older than 65 years, should be in good physical shape and in sound health to cope with high hills and altitude.

From the start at Jomsom to the last overnight stop in Lo-Manthang there is electricity, but from Chusang onwards few places with hydropower. Smaller settlements around Syangboche, Ghiling runs electricity by solar energy, where you can charge your gadgets. Where you need to pay for every item per hour to the owner of the lodge.

Depending upon the seriousness of the illness, if it’s a critical situation the client needs immediate evacuation for medical help, by any means of fast transportation. The fastest way in Nepal Himalaya and on route to Upper Mustang is taking a private jeep ride or similar four-wheelers and Helicopter Service. Our guide will inform the head office to arrange a Helicopter to evacuate the sick person. From the nearest spot where a helicopter can land and then fly to Pokhara or Kathmandu and admit to the best hospitals for further treatment.

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