About Upper Mustang Trek Nepal

About Upper Mustang Trek Nepal 12 Days US$ 5

overview

Destination

Mustang, Nepal

Difficulty

Easy to fairly moderate

Max altitude

Lo Manthang 3840 Meters

Best time

March to November

Activities

Trekking & Sightseeing

Accommodation

Tea houses / Lodges / Hotels

About upper mustang trek package details visit mustang Nepal

The Upper Mustang trek is a trip to explore a hidden valley behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. Transcend the time, and experience an age old life in a Buddhist kingdom and its natural surroundings. Culturally upper mustang is reflecting Tibetan Buddhism and values. The ancient kingdom of mustang is the last part of the untouched lands in Himalaya. Lo Manthang, the only walled city in Nepal is located in this place.

Upper Mustang was once an independent kingdom that remained closed to the outside world until 1992. This isolation helped to preserve its culture, traditions, and lifestyle. As a result, Upper Mustang has become a popular destination for trekkers who want to experience the unique culture and traditions of Mustang. Upper Mustang is a cultural and geographical marvel, and its unique landscape and ancient Buddhist monasteries have been drawing travelers from all over the world for decades. Upper Mustang trekking trail follows the salt caravan route of ancient times via Yara, Ghara, Luri Gompa, Tangge to Chhusang. The geography, culture and language of Mustang are very similar to Tibet. The final destination of trekking to Upper Mustang is the capital of Mustang known as Lo Manthang.

Upper Mustang valley is located at the altitude of 3840 meters /12598 feet above the sea. It is famous for its natural wonders and cultural heritage. It has enticed many trekkers since its opening to the rest of the world. Its people are warm and welcoming.

Upper mustang trekking itinerary covers major highlights of this rain shadow area of Himalayas including Muktinath temple in lower mustang Nepal. The trekkers who follow the upper mustang trek map and enter the walled town of Lo Manthang through the town gate get the opportunity to visit the royal palace, the ancient monasteries, museum and ancient cave civilization. In fact the restricted region of upper mustang starts from Kagbeni.

The tourists reach Lo Manthang after enjoying the magnificent views of the mountains, visiting the ancient monasteries, cultural villages and diverse landscapes. Explore the hidden kingdom by doing upper mustang trek Nepal Himalaya. Experience the hidden religious and cultural treasures, alpine meadows, the glaciers and valleys it makes the trip momentous adventure.

10 days’ trip duration start to cover total distance of upper mustang trek 17 days. Its difficulty level categorized as moderate level. Highest elevation of upper mustang trek and tours journey 3840 meters /12598 feet Lo Manthang. The best time of the year to visit upper mustang area is spring autumn and monsoon season. Among of these season April and October as well as the June to September in monsoon season are highly recommended time to go. Book your mustang trekking package with us . We are a government registered adventure guide specialist.

highlights

  • Travel around amazing landscapes with ancient monastery, caves, archeological sites and nomad lands.
  • Explore walled capital of the kingdom of lo, founded by Ame Pal in 1380.
  • Hiking through striking semi-arid desert with colorful rock formations, deep gorges, and gorgeous scenery.
  • Off the beaten path trek offers stunning views of Himalayas including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri range as well as the Kali Gandaki valley.
  • Explore the traditional villages of mustang, including Samdzong, Chhonhup, Yara, Ghara, Ghiling and Ghami.
  • Explore the mystic mustang to feel the silence and tranquility of Himalayas.
  • Hiking to upper mustang along the ancient salt caravan route that once linked Tibet and India for trading.
  • Enjoy upper mustang tea house trek staying in traditional tea houses or small lodges with limited facilities run by local families.
  • An opportunity to witness the ancient trade practices and traditions of mustang Nepal.
  • Catch a live glimpse of yak pastures, magnificent lakes, glaciers, gorges, and waterfalls in desert of Nepal.

itinerary

After arrival in Kathmandu Airport (TIA) Nepal, our representative welcome you and transfer to hotel by private vehicle. At hotel he/ she will give short briefing about program agreement and day to day plan. Check into hotel, use free time to take rest, relax and explore around Thamel.
Elevation: 1,400 meters / 4593 feet.

The main ways to travel from Katmandu to Pokhara are by bus, private car and plane as per the budget, interest and booking deal. It takes 6 to 7 hours to cross 200 kilometers distance of Prithivi Highway in between Kathmandu and Pokhara. If you prefer flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara then only takes about 25 minutes.
Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara is incredibly scenic, with breathtaking views of Himalayan mountains, waterfalls, picturesque scenery, Trishuli & Marshyangdi River. Along the way, you will pass through small towns and villages that give you a glimpse into the rural life of Nepal.
Once you reach Pokhara, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of Annapurna range, serene Phewa Lake and beautiful Pokhara city. After checking into hotel you can take a rest or go to explore lakeside area, boating and walk around watching the reflection of mountain and sky in beautiful Phewa Lake. Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara end but memories last forever.

Today we enter the special permit zone of upper mustang Nepal. The journey from Kagbeni to Chele begins after breakfast at lodge. The trail winds its way northwards along the Kali Gandaki River. It offers stunning views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Dhampus and Tukuche peak of Himalayas and unique landscapes of Mustang. Chele itself is a fascinating destination, with a rich history, ancient monasteries, chortens, culture, traditional architecture influences by Tibetan Buddhism.
We traverse several ridges, farm land, apple orchard, picturesque mountain scenery and Tangbe villages to take a break at Chhusang village for lunch. Then after walk along the river observing unique rock formation, high cliff and sky caves of Nepal. Finally cross the Kaligandaki River and from the river bed short uphill climb to reach Chele village of Mustang. This area become very windy and dusty after noon try to cross earlier as much as possible and use sunglasses, mask and windproof clothes. Kagbeni to Chele is a beautiful journey to experience the unique culture and beauty of the Mustang region in Nepal.

Chele to Syangboche trek is a part of Upper Mustang journey starts from Chele and goes through beautiful villages, rocky trails, and narrow canyons. Hiking from Chele to Syangboche  will be hard compared to other days to cross two passes, Taklam La 3,624m and Dajori La 3,660m.

You will get to witness the unique culture and lifestyle of the people living in Mustang. The trail passes through several small villages like Ghyakar, Samar to reach Syangboche. Samar is a beautiful village with traditional houses and ancient monasteries, well known common lunch stop of travelers. Along the way you will pass ups and down off-road trail in barren hills, rocky terrain via Ranchung Chungsi cave of Mustang. Chele to Syangboche trek is a wonderful experience for those who want to explore the unique culture and landscape of Upper Mustang region.

The journey from Syangboche to Dhakmar is a relatively short but incredibly scenic one. Along this route traveler spellbound with scenic mountain views, unique landscape, ancient chortens, beautiful terrains and hamlet of Ghiling area.
Syangboche to Dhakmar route follow the Tamagaon, Chhunggar, Zaite and ghami villages and ascent towards Nyi la 4010 m then descend to Ghami la 7365 to reach beautiful Ghami village. After lunch at Ghami we continue towards Dhakmar village famous for its unique red cliff and sky caves. The trek from Ghiling to Dhakmar is a scenic and rewarding experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Mustang.

Today is the final day to reach the highlights of upper mustang trip the wall city “Lo Manthang “. Dhakmar to Lo Manthnang distance offers stunning views of mountains, an opportunity to explore the culture, history and natural beauty of Mustang.  …………………. From the pass we descend to Lo Manthang which is a beautiful walled village.
Trail offers eye catching views of Himalayan range including two above 8000 meters’ peaks Mount Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massif.
From the pass explorer gets the first glimpse of Lo Manthang city, wide barren land in mustang valley. Famous wall city known for their traditional mud-brick houses, narrow alleys, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Finally, we reached ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang. At the Lo Manthang city we feel pure Tibetan culture, rich history, interact with Lowa people and know about their way of life. There are many things to see around Lo like historic royal palace, ancient monasteries, local markets, mani, chortens and prayer wheels that provides lifetime experiences.

Today is the day to discover the secret of Lo Manthang Nepal that you’ve been waiting for. After breakfast trip starts with either horse riding, walking or jeep safari towards chhoser, garphu & kora la border. Chhosar village offers a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life, daily activities that the practice in upper mustang.
Ancient monasteries like Garphu and Niphu monastery, surrounding colorful rock formations and centuries old caves in rock cliff are really impressive to see in Chhoser area. Niphu monastery is an ancient cave monastery carved into the cliffs. Travelers impressed to visiting Jhong cave, Konchok ling cave & Ritseling cave in Chhoser valley Nepal.
After of before Chhoser we heading to kora la, a high mountain pass located in mustang district of Nepal. It is a part of ancient salt trading route between Nepal and Tibet autonomous region of china. Kora la is known for its stunning mountain views and rugged terrain.
Afternoon we will be back to Lo Manthang and spent rest of the day visiting the city’s ancient monasteries, palace, narrow alleys, stupas and the architecture of earthen wall city. The long walls of the prayer wheels and flags provide a colorful appearance of the place. Royal palace, three ancient monasteries, Amchi school and the local way of life are the highlights of Lo Manthang exploration.
Lo Manthang is a small town surrounded by towering mountains and arid landscapes. It is a fascinating place to explore, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty which make an epic journey into the Himalayas.

Not satisfied with this itinerary ?

Get in touch with our travel experts to customize this trip within 5 minutes, that matches your interests.

What are included in this package?
  • Airports pick up on your arrival day by private vehicle
  • Transportation Kathmandu - Pokhara by private vehicle / flight
  • Two nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara BB basic
  • Round trip flight/ drive from Pokhara to Jomsom to Pokhara
  • 3 meals (Breakfast, Lunch & dinner) 4 cups of hot drink each day on choice
  • Best accommodation at tea houses during trekking period
  • English speaking local guide service trained by government of Nepal
  • Experience trekking staffs (2 guest =1 porter basic) to carry your backpack
  • All necessary paperwork, trekking permits and local taxes
  • Travel and rescue arrangements if require

FAQs

Upper mustang trekking is to discover a remote and hidden kingdom with rich history, pure Tibetan culture and way of life in Himalayas. Upper Mustang is one the beautiful part of the world and experience you will never forget.

The best time to go on the Upper Mustang Trekking is from second week of March to early June and late September to early December. During these months, the weather is pleasant, skies are clear and offer stunning views of surrounding landscape including high mountain ranges. Upper Mustang is less crowded destination compared to other popular trekking routes of Nepal.

Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a common health risk for trekkers who ascend to high altitudes. Upper Mustang Trekking reach an elevation 4230 meters / 13,879 feet above sea level. It means that there is a risk of AMS for trekkers, need to go with proper acclimatization. The symptoms of AMS typically start to appear from the altitudes above 3000 meters’ likes headache, fatigue, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, loss of appetite. AMS can be serious, and in some cases, it can be fatal. If you experience any of the symptoms of AMS, it is important to descend to a lower altitude immediately.

Upper mustang considered a restricted area, it requires special permits, the special permit cost too expensive that make the trip cost so expensive but affordable. Beside that trekking duration, level of luxury you want, transportation and the time of year you go also play the role to make trip cost expensive. However, you can expect to pay around $1,500 – $2,500 for 14 days’ trek.

To get an Upper Mustang trekking permit, you need to go through registered Nepali trekking agency. They will fill out an online application form and submit your data to the Department of Immigration. DOI will process application and issue the permit online within 4-5 working hours. The cost of the upper mustang restricted area permit is US$50 per person per day.

Yes, Solo trekking is possible in restricted area of Nepal from 2026 but licensed guide mendatory to visit upper mustang.

Yes, most of the lodges or tea houses provide internet service during upper mustang trekking in Nepal but there are no internet services in Yara and Tangye area. Remember that internet service in Mustang is not as reliable or fast as in other city of Nepal (better than nothing).

We advise you the select an itinerary as per your fitness level, available time, budget and interest. The best upper mustang trekking itinerary is that which cover both sides of Kali Gandaki valley Nepal. This plan covers almost everything of Upper mustang including traditional Tibetan culture, lifestyle, unique rock formation, beautiful landscape and high mountains etc.

These days’ electricity facilities available in Upper Mustang region but it halts few times a day, each lodges have solar and generator backup for emergency use. If you are planning to visit Upper Mustang, better to carry a power bank or solar charger to ensure enough power for your cell phone and camera.

There are few ATM in Jomsom and Muktinath but do not depend on ATMS or credit cards services in small towns and villages. It is best idea to have enough cash on hand when trekking to upper mustang, exchange your money in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

The maximum altitude that we reach during upper mustang trekking journey is 4230 meters above sea level. It is a moderately difficult trek takes you through a remote and beautiful region of the Himalayas. However, the challenge is worth it for the stunning views and unique culture.

There are 3 different ways to reach upper mustang trekking start point either by drive, flight. If you prefer to enter mustang by road the Upper mustang journey begins from Kagbeni (the gateway to mustang) If you prefer flight, then trek start from Jomsom. Upper mustang trekking start point are Jomsom and Kagbeni and trip ends at Jomsom to Pokhara.

Make a lot of research about upper mustang tour organizer to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Government licensed local company are reliable and experience to organize the upper mustang trekking in Nepal.

There are many walking trails to reach the former kingdom of lo, among of them classic upper mustang trek is best and quite popular route. It starts in Jomsom and goes to Lo Manthang and way back via yara and tetang villages. The best Upper Mustang trekking route depends on your fitness level, interests, and time constraints.

Planning a trip?

Get a free consultation from destination experts, schedule a meeting or chat with us on WhatsApp.

Exclusive Trip - You May Like

Annapurna circuit trek
Days
Inquiry Now
January February March April May June July August September October November December Sitemap