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Upper Mustang Trek via Yara Gaon and Tange
Max. Altitude:
4,210 meters (13,812 feet)
Group size:
2-14
Duration:
17 Days
Best Time for Visit:
April-June & September-November
Transportation:
Private Car , bus, & Flight
Activity:
Trekking / Hiking
Difficulty:
moderate
Region:
Annapurna Region
Trip Highlights
- Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the cultural and historical heart of the former Kingdom of Lo
- Visit Luri Gompa, a centuries-old cave monastery with stunning murals and spiritual significance
- Trek through a unique trans-Himalayan desert landscape, shaped by wind and time, unlike any other region in Nepal
- Discover rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, including traditional villages, prayer walls, chortens, and cliffside caves
- Walk in the rain shadow of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, offering dry and stable trekking conditions
- Experience the preserved lifestyle of Upper Mustang, isolated from modern development and deeply rooted in tradition
- Visit the sacred site of Muktinath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists
- Marvel at colorful eroded cliffs and canyon walls, especially near Dhakmar and Tangge
- Cross high passes with panoramic Himalayan views, including Nyi La and Mui La
- Enjoy restricted area trekking, adding exclusivity and authenticity to your journey
Overview
The Upper Mustang Trek is a rare and exceptional journey into one of Nepal’s most mystifying and culturally rich regions — the once-forbidden Kingdom of Lo. Tucked behind the mighty Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, this trans-Himalayan region lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, offering a unique, desert-like landscape vastly different from the lush green trails of Nepal’s more well-known routes.
Opened to trekkers only in 1992, Upper Mustang has remained largely isolated from modern influences. As a result, it has preserved a centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist culture, architecture, and way of life that feels frozen in time. The trail winds through stark cliffs, colorful rock formations, hidden caves, and traditional Tibetan-style villages that still follow ancient customs and rituals. The dry, barren terrain, sculpted by the wind, provides a surreal backdrop for your journey through this ancient land.
At the heart of the trek lies the walled city of Lo Manthang, the historical capital of Mustang. This medieval town, with its whitewashed mud-brick walls, narrow alleys, and royal palace, echoes the legacy of the Lo kings who once ruled the region. The spiritual atmosphere is ever-present, with centuries-old monasteries, chortens, mani walls, and fluttering prayer flags guiding your path. Highlights like Luri Gompa, nestled inside a cave, and the ancient Bon village of Lupra add depth to the experience.
The trek not only offers cultural immersion but also a sense of adventure, as it crosses high passes, remote valleys, and timeless settlements. You’ll also visit sacred sites like Muktinath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, and encounter welcoming locals who share their deep-rooted traditions and stories.
With its combination of dramatic landscapes, spiritual heritage, and cultural integrity, the Upper Mustang Trek is more than a trek — it’s an immersive journey into one of the Himalayas’ last living kingdoms. For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventure and meaningful exploration, Upper Mustang stands as a majestic and unforgettable destination.
Detailed Itinerary
Today, either take a 30-35-minute scenic flight or drive 7-8 hours to Pokhara, Nepal’s serene lake city. Flying offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, while the drive takes you through rural countryside. Upon arrival, enjoy a lakeside walk along Phewa Lake and prepare for the next day’s mountain flight.
Overnight at hotel in Pokhara.
Driving Distance :
230 km
Driving Duration :
6-7 Hours
Fly Time :
25-30 min
Board an early morning flight to Jomsom, flying between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Once in Jomsom, meet your trekking team and drive along the Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni. After completing permits and formalities, continue to Chele, a small cliffside village marking the start of the Upper Mustang restricted area.
Driving Distance :
27.2 km
Driving Duration :
4-5 Hours
Fly Time :
25-30 min
Start the day with a steep ascent through rugged terrain. Cross Taklam La (3,624m) and Dajori La (3,735m) passes, offering great views of Tilicho Peak and Yakawa Kang. Descend into Samar, a peaceful village surrounded by poplar trees.
Trekking Distance :
7.17 km
Trekking Duration :
4-5 Hours
The trail descends into a deep gorge before climbing up to Bhena La and Yamda La (3,850m). Walk past small teahouses, painted chortens, and barley fields to reach the traditional village of Geling, famous for its ancient monastery and mani walls.
Trekking Distance :
11.3 km
Trekking Duration :
5-6 Hours
Climb gradually to the Nyi La pass (4,010m), marking the border of central and northern Mustang. After a scenic descent, reach Ghami, a large village surrounded by eroded red cliffs. Ghami is home to Mustang’s longest mani wall.
Trekking Distance :
8.10 km
Trekking Duration :
5-6 Hours
The trail climbs through dry, windy landscapes with deep gorges and layered cliffs. Arrive in Dhakmar, known for its dramatic red cliffs and sacred legends. This lesser-visited village offers both spiritual energy and natural beauty.
Trekking Distance :
4.28 km
Trekking Duration :
4-5 Hours
Ascend to Mui La (4,170m) and descend gradually toward Lo Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang. Enter the ancient kingdom through its main gate, and discover its Tibetan-Buddhist heritage, chortens, palaces, and centuries-old gompas.
Trekking Distance :
16.3 km
Trekking Duration :
6-7 Hours
Spend the day exploring Lo’s rich cultural heritage. Visit Namgyal Gompa, Jampa Lhakhang (God House), Thubchen Monastery, and the Royal Palace. Optional hike or horse ride to Chhoser to see the 2,500-year-old Jhong Sky Caves.
Trek along a ridge with panoramic views before descending into a deep canyon and crossing the Dhi River. After Dhi village, follow the trail through barren terrain to Yara Gaon, a rarely visited village nestled below eroded cliffs.
Trekking Distance :
16.7 km
Trekking Duration :
5-6 Hours
A short hike today takes you to the sacred and ancient Luri Gompa, built into a sandstone cliff. It contains ancient murals, religious relics, and a chorten inside the cave. This 14th-century site is one of Mustang’s spiritual highlights.
Trekking Distance :
9.7 km
Trekking Duration :
4-5 Hours
One of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the trek. Cross the Dhechyang Khola and hike through undulating ridges, offering wide-open Himalayan views. Arrive in Tangge, known for its impressive rows of 50+ chortens and peaceful surroundings.
Trekking Distance :
17.5 km
Trekking Duration :
6-7 Hours
Begin with an early ascent to a high pass (4,210m), followed by a long descent into the Kali Gandaki valley. The route is rugged but offers superb solitude and unspoiled scenery. Reach Chhusang, a green oasis village by the river.
Trekking Distance :
23.5 km
Trekking Duration :
6-7 Hours
Leave the arid Mustang terrain behind and re-enter the greener Annapurna region. The trail climbs gradually to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Visit the eternal flame and 108 water spouts.
Trekking Distance :
15.8 km
Trekking Duration :
5-6 Hours
Descend through a different route via Lupra village, home to one of the few Bonpo (pre-Buddhist) monasteries in the region. Enjoy a final walk through rocky trails before arriving back in Jomsom.
Trekking Distance :
19.4 km
Trekking Duration :
5-6 Hours
Catch an early flight to Pokhara, and then connect on a flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time for shopping or relaxing. In the evening, join a cultural farewell dinner with a traditional Nepali dance performance.
Fly Time :
Approx 1.5 Hours via Pokhara
After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu according to your international flight schedule. As you depart Nepal, you will carry unforgettable memories of the mystical landscapes and ancient culture of Upper Mustang, along with the excellent service provided by Lhasso Adventure during your remarkable trekking experience.
Fixed Departure Date
Private Trip
Looking for personalized. We organize privately guided journey which is mainly designed to fit your taste and interest. Please fill out the form below to get started.
Cost Includes
- Permits and Fees: Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- Accommodation: Hotel stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Tea house or lodge accommodations during the trek.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek. Some packages may include meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Transportation: Domestic flights (e.g., Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Jomsom, and return). Ground transportation as per the itinerary.
- Medical and Safety: First aid medical kit. Insurance for staff.
- Miscellaneous: Welcome and farewell dinners. Necessary paperwork and permits.
- Guides and Porters: Experienced trekking guide. Porters to carry luggage.
Cost Excludes
- International Travel: International airfare to and from Nepal. Nepal entry visa fees.
- Meals: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (unless specified).
- Personal Expenses: Personal trekking equipment. Travel insurance (mandatory). Tips for guides and porters. Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and personal snacks. Laundry and other personal expenses.
- Emergency Services: Medical evacuation (helicopter rescue) in case of emergency.
- Tips for trekking staff and drivers (tipping is expected).
- Miscellaneous: Any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusions.
Equipment
In addition to making trekking more enjoyable, having the appropriate gear guarantees your safety and readiness for a range of situations. Regardless of skill level, every hiker has to invest in high-quality equipment and understand how to utilize it properly. A delightful journey can differ from a difficult ordeal depending on the level of planning and equipment used. Please make your selections of the necessary equipment from the list below.
Clothing
- Down Or Fiber Filled Waterproof Jacket And Trousers
- Fleece Jacket Or Pullover
- Warm Cotton Trousers
- Shirts And T-Shirts
- Lightweight Cotton Long Pants
- Sun Hat Or Scarf
- Woolen Hat
- Sunglasses
- Raincoat
Footwear
- Trekking Boot
- Thick Socks
- Light Socks
- Camp Shoes
- Sandals
Other Equipments
- Sleeping Bag(4seasons)
- Down Jacket
- Daypack
- Water Bottle
- Sun Cream, Sunglasses
Optional
- Insect Repellent
- Laundry Soap
- Plasters
- Cards And Personal Medical Kit
- Toilet Articles
- Pocketknife
- Binoculars
- Notebook & Pen
- Towel
- Camera
- Toilet Roll
- Sewing Kit
- Film
FAQs
The ideal seasons for trekking in Upper Mustang are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is clear and mild, offering spectacular mountain views and comfortable trekking conditions.
Yes, Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and trekkers must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) along with the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Your trekking agency will help you secure these permits before the trek.
Upper Mustang was once a forbidden kingdom with a strong Tibetan influence, preserving ancient Buddhist culture, monasteries, and unique traditions. The region offers a rare glimpse into a living Tibetan cultural heritage.
The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to high altitudes, long walking days, and some steep ascents and descents. Good physical fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.
Yes, since the trek reaches elevations above 4,000 meters, altitude sickness can occur. Proper acclimatization days are included in the itinerary, and it’s important to drink plenty of water, ascend slowly, and notify your guide if you feel symptoms.
Accommodation is primarily in basic tea houses or lodges offering simple rooms with beds. Facilities may be limited, especially in remote villages, but food and warmth are provided. It’s advisable to bring a good sleeping bag.
Meals include traditional Nepali food like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, soups, and Tibetan dishes such as momos (dumplings). Tea, coffee, and hot drinks are widely available.
Hiring a licensed trekking guide is mandatory in Upper Mustang to comply with permit regulations. Porters can be hired to carry your luggage and ease your trekking experience.
Essential items include layered clothing for varying temperatures, sturdy trekking boots, a warm sleeping bag, sun protection, a good water bottle, and basic first aid. Altitude medications and trekking poles are also recommended.
Mobile coverage is limited and patchy in Upper Mustang, especially in remote villages. Some lodges may offer Wi-Fi for a fee, but it’s best to plan for minimal connectivity.
Upper Mustang is generally very safe for tourists. The region is peaceful, and local communities are friendly and welcoming. Trekking with an experienced guide ensures safety and a smooth experience.
Electricity is available in most teahouses, but it can be unreliable. It’s advisable to carry a portable power bank and extra batteries.
If you have any more specific questions or need further details, feel free to ask!
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