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Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek is a captivating journey into the mystical and isolated kingdom of Mustang, nestled in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges in Nepal. This restricted area trek offers a unique glimpse into the ancient Tibetan-influenced culture, stunning landscapes, and rugged terrain of the region. Starting from Jomsom, the trek typically takes around 10 to 14 days to complete, traversing through arid desert-like terrain, dramatic cliffs, and deep gorges. The highlight of the trek is the exploration of the walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Mustang Kingdom, renowned for its ancient monasteries, chortens, and whitewashed mud-brick houses. Along the way, trekkers encounter traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture, with opportunities to visit centuries-old monasteries, interact with local villagers, and witness unique festivals and rituals. The landscape is adorned with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind and breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks like Nilgiri and Annapurna. Due to its remote location and restricted access, the Upper Mustang Trek offers a sense of adventure and exploration unlike any other trek in Nepal. It provides a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in a timeless and preserved Himalayan culture, making it a truly unforgettable trekking experience.
Max. Altitude: 3,950 m
Group size: 2-14
Duration: 17 Days
Meals: Full Board on trekking
Best Time for Visit: April-June & September-November
Transportation: Private Car, jeep, Bus
Activity: Tea house trekking
Difficulty: moderate
Accommodation: At hotels and tea houses during treks.
Region: Annapurna
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Trip Duration
17 Days
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Highlights

  • On high windswept terrain on extension of Tibetan plateau around scenic Upper Mustang.
  • Explore impressive Mustang farm villages of great interest and its impressive monasteries.
  • Walk leads into former walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang within high and dry Upper Mustang.
  • Grand panorama of Mustang Himal with Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri’s on daily exciting walks.
  • Trek on old Trans-Himalayan Salt and Caravan Route of Nepal and Tibet through Mustang.
  • Fabulous highland with incredible views of picturesque landscapes and high peaks.
  • Sweeping scenic flights to and from Pokhara-Jomsom with amazing views of peaks.
  • Enjoy waling into cultural villages of Mustang with age-old traditional life and custom.

Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most photogenic and scenic regions on the planet, located on an extension of the vast Tibetan Southwest plateau. Indeed, it is considered the world’s highest and largest desert.

This trek immerses you in the grand beauty of desert-like landscapes, eroded canyons, and high cliffs dotted with caves used for meditation and preserving ancient artifacts of great religious importance.

As you explore, you’ll discover cultural villages interwoven with old Buddhist traditions and the ancient Bon religion, which worships natural spirits and mountains. Moreover, the impressive monasteries, adorned with colorful Thanka paintings, reflect the area’s rich spiritual heritage.

A highlight of the trek is entering the former walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang, where you can wander narrow streets and experience traditional Tibetan life close to the border.

Starting from beautiful Pokhara, a renowned tourist spot in Nepal, a short flight takes you to Jomsom, the headquarters of the Mustang district. Jomsom, home to the Thakali people, has been a trade hub with Tibet for centuries. From here, you’ll head into the windswept landscapes of Upper Mustang toward Lo-Manthang, the old kingdom of Mustang.

Along the way, enjoy stunning villages adorned with prayer slabs known as Mani, as well as a series of long prayer bells welcoming visitors. As you travel through Chusang, Ghami, and Charang, you’ll reach historical Lo-Manthang to visit its monasteries and the former palace of the Mustang Raja.

After a rewarding experience, you will return to Jomsom via an alternative route, specifically stopping at Muktinath, a famous pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, with breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri range. Ultimately, your marvelous Upper Mustang adventure concludes with a scenic flight back to Pokhara. Thus, you leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of this unique region.

Itinenary

On reaching Kathmandu International Airport, received by our guide and staff and then transfer to your respective hotels in the hub of Kathmandu city.

First check into your hotel rooms after getting refreshed from the flight, where our expert guides will inform regarding hotels, trekking, local lodge and overland drives with do’s and dont’s information.

  Elevation Gain : 1350m.\4429.134ft.

Morning depart from hotel to Kathmandu domestic airport for interesting and scenic short flight to Pokhara, beautiful views of Himalayan mountains from Langtang, Ganesh-Manaslu to Annapurna Himalaya range of peaks.

On reaching at Pokhara transfer to respective hotels located nearby Phewa Lake for overnight stops with time for walks around.

Pokhara a beautiful, renowned touristic city blessed with natural beauty placed on the laps of massive Annapurna Himalaya with magnificent Machhapuchare Himal ‘Fish Tail’,  a virgin and unclimbed peaks of Himalaya.

Besides mountains and rolling green hills treasures calm lakes of Phewa and Begnas where most of the good hotels and international standard restaurants located by the Phewa Lake.

  Driving Distance : 220 k.m by road
  Elevation Loss : 860m\2821.52ft.
  Fly Time : 30 min

After pleasant stop in Pokhara, morning transfer to Pokhara airport for short scenic flight to Jomsom, headquarter town of Mustang district, during air exciting close views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains.

At Jomsom transfer to lodge with time in the afternoon short walk to a charming village at Marpha famous for delicious apples and its products, where houses painted white with an interesting monastery.

Jomsom and Marpha located with Lower Mustang, one of the main villages of Mustang area with Jomsom as headquarter, the home of Thakali tribe interwoven with Buddhism religion and culture.

  Elevation Gain : 1865m/6118.766ft.
  Elevation Loss : 45m/147.638ft
  Fly Time : 20 min

Start your journey early from your current location, driving towards Samar. Enjoy the scenic landscapes and rugged terrain typical of the Mustang region. Upon reaching Samar, take a brief stop to appreciate the local culture and picturesque surroundings. Continue your drive to Chusang, about 13 kilometers away, where you can have a short rest and perhaps a light meal. Afterward, proceed to Chaile, another 6 kilometers from Chusang. Arrive in Chaile (3100 m/10170 ft) by late afternoon. Spend the evening exploring the village, interacting with locals, and enjoying the stunning mountain views. Overnight at a local guesthouse in Chaile, savoring a traditional Nepali dinner.

  Elevation Gain : 430m/1410.76ft.
  Trekking Duration : 5 hrs

Trekking from Chaile to Ghiling offers a fascinating journey through the Mustang region’s rugged terrain and charming villages. Begin your trek early in the morning, following the trail that winds through the picturesque landscape. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you make your way to Ghiling. Along the way, take breaks to rest and replenish your energy while immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Himalayan wilderness. Arrive in Ghiling, a quaint village known for its ancient monasteries and cultural heritage, by late afternoon. Spend the evening exploring the village and interacting with locals, experiencing the unique charm of rural life in the Himalayas. Overnight in Ghiling, resting up for the next leg of your journey.

  Elevation Gain : 470m/1541.99ft.
  Trekking Distance : 10-12 km
  Trekking Duration : 6 hrs.

Begin your day with a scenic drive to Ghami, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Mustang region. Upon arrival in Ghami, explore the village’s ancient monasteries and traditional architecture. Afterward, embark on a picturesque trek to Dhakmar, enjoying the rugged beauty of the terrain and passing through charming villages along the way. Pause intermittently to marvel at the awe-inspiring vistas of the majestic Himalayas and to appreciate the distinctive geological formations that characterize this region. Arrive in Dhakmar by late afternoon, where you can relax and unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings. Overnight stay in Dhakmar, experiencing the warmth of Nepali hospitality and savoring local cuisine.

  Driving Distance : 15-17 km
  Elevation Loss : 240m/787.402ft.
  Driving Duration : 2 hrs
  Trekking Distance : 8-10 km
  Trekking Duration : 5 hrs

After departing Dhakmar, travelers ascend towards Lo-Manthang, situated at an elevation of 3,810 meters (12,500 feet). The journey offers breathtaking vistas of the Mustang region’s rugged landscape, with its ancient monasteries and unique geological formations. Upon arrival in Lo-Manthang, visitors immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the walled city, exploring its narrow alleys, royal palace, and centuries-old monasteries such as Jampa Lhakhang and Thubchen Gompa. With an overnight stay in Lo-Manthang, adventurers have ample time to savor the tranquility of this remote Himalayan town, interacting with locals and experiencing the timeless traditions of Mustang.

  Trekking Distance : 14-16 km
  Trekking Duration : 7 hrs

At Lo-Manthang to explore this amazing place, which is a large village about 150 houses plus number of resident for the lamas, the houses are closely packed, and the palace and monasteries are in the bottom portion in this vertical part of the L shaped houses.

The school, health post, police post and several important chhorten are located outside the walls to the north of the gate and east of the monastic part of the city. Despite the apparent squalor of Lo Manthang, the village is prosperous and maintains a strong sense of community.

Though the people call themselves Lobas, people from Lo, they are very much Tibetan and practice a practical culture economy. Before strong trade with Tibet was disrupted, all of the salt and wool trade on the Kali Gandaki passed through Lo Manthang, and this brought a substantial amount of money to this great village town. The Mustang raja’s palace stands an imposing 4 storey building in the centre of the city. It is the home of late Raja, Jigme Parbal Bista, and the rani (queen), who was from the noble family of Lhasa.

After breakfast return journey using the same route for some hours with pleasant walk, where our trail diverts heading east-ward with steep descends leading to a small village of Dhi situated on the bank of the Phuyung Khola.

The trail crosses the small wooden bridge over the Phuyung Khola and climbs steeply to reach the small village of Yara where the Buddhist player flags greets you, explore the incredible erosion landscape on the way to Yara village.

  Elevation Loss : 160m/524.934ft.
  Driving Duration : 06 hrs.
  Trekking Distance : 16km
  Trekking Duration : 6 hrs

A rest day at Yara to explore around this amazing country where  few hours of walk from Yara village brings to a small settlement of Luri Gompa and explore Luri Gompa and caves of full of Gompas (monastery and shrines).

  Elevation Gain : 300m/984.252ft

The journey from Yara to Tangge offers a captivating exploration of the Mustang region’s rugged terrain and cultural heritage. Departing from Yara, travelers traverse the arid landscape, passing through picturesque valleys and ancient villages adorned with traditional Tibetan architecture. Along the way, one can admire the striking vistas of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and encounter the nomadic communities that inhabit this remote region. Upon reaching Tangge, visitors are greeted by its charming village atmosphere and are invited to immerse themselves in the local culture, perhaps by visiting its ancient monasteries or engaging with the hospitable residents. The journey from Yara to Tangge promises an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Mustang region, offering a glimpse into its timeless traditions and natural beauty.

  Elevation Gain : 710m/2329.4ft.
  Driving Duration : 6 hrs.
  Trekking Distance : 12-15 km
  Trekking Duration : 6-7 hrs

Begin the trek early in the morning from Tangge, passing through picturesque landscapes and traditional villages along the trail. Take breaks to admire the surrounding scenery and interact with locals. Enjoy a packed lunch en route. Continue the trek, crossing valleys and ascending gentle slopes. Arrive in Tetang by late afternoon, where you can explore the village, relax, and enjoy the evening, perhaps with a warm meal and conversation with fellow trekkers or locals.

  Elevation Loss : 200m/656.168ft
  Trekking Distance : 10-12 km
  Trekking Duration : 6 hrs.

Walk from Tetang to Muktinath, heading towards Lower Mustang a long day before Jomsom, as the morning begins on a gradual winding trail   where there is two routes to holy Muktinath direct while the other leading  Kagbeni.

While our route leads north east trail, passing several temporary huts and shelters of Yak herders, the high path with super views of Nilgiri’s peaks and Dhaulagiri range, trail winds on the gradual with much wider trail to Muktinath for overnight stop, afternoon visit the holy Muktinath temple and its premises.

Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage area where people from Nepal and India visits here to offer prayer and to Liberate from bad deeds, as the Mukti means to be free, here natural elements are displayed in miraculous form-flickering blue flames of natural methane gas burn on water, stone and earth an offering said to have been first lighted by Brahma, the Hindu creator, this natural wonder have awed man from the beginning, for Muktinath sanctity goes back into antiquity of 2,300 years ago.

This area is equally holy for Hindu and Buddhist, around Kaligandaki and Muktinath pilgrims search for black shiny fossils called Shaligram (ammonite), found in abundance around this area.

  Elevation Gain : 3,760 m\12335.958ft.
  Driving Duration : 6 hrs.

Today final and last of trekking of this memorable trip leads you all the way to Jomsom town, starting morning walk to reach down at Kaligandaki River Valley, following windswept river valley all the way to Jomsom town after a good walk of four hours.

On reaching Jomsom check into its nice cozy lodges for overnight. Here one can celebrate with local apple products.

  Elevation Loss : 2,715 m\8907.48ft.
  Driving Duration : 4 hrs.

Morning walk to Jomsom airport for short scenic flight to reach at picturesque Pokhara valley, during air amazing views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan peaks, as the plane land at scenic Pokhara.

A popular and main touristic destinations of Nepal, overlooking massive Annapurna Mountains with serene Phewa Lake where our hotels located, afternoon free for individual activities and souvenir shopping or just relax and enjoy the views.

  Fly Time : 20 min

Morning transfer either on car or coach as well taking a tourist bus (depending upon the group size ), where interesting overland journey brings you back at Kathmandu with scenic views of mountains, green scenery of hills and farm fields within nice villages and towns as drive brings leads into hustle and bustle city life of Kathmandu.

On reaching Kathmandu transfer to your respective hotels with time for individual activities and shopping souvenirs.

  Fly Time : 25 to 30 min

Last day in Nepal after a wonderful experience and adventure on Upper Mustang Trek with great service of Lhasso Adventure, and as per your international flight then transfer to Kathmandu international airport for your respective destinations.

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.
  • Guides and Porters: Experienced trekking guide. Porters to carry luggage.
  • Medical and Safety: First aid medical kit. Insurance for staff.
  • Miscellaneous: Welcome and farewell dinners. Necessary paperwork and permits.

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

frequently asked question for

Upper Mustang is located in the north-central part of Nepal, near the border with Tibet. It is part of the Mustang District and is often referred to as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom.

The trek typically takes around 12 to 16 days, depending on the itinerary and starting point.

The best time to trek in Upper Mustang is from March to early November. The region lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, making it one of the few areas in Nepal that can be trekked during the monsoon season (June to August).

The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It involves walking on rugged terrain and some high-altitude areas but does not require technical climbing skills.

The highest point of the trek is typically around 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) near the village of Lo Manthang.

Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for the Upper Mustang Trek. This is a restricted area, and trekkers are required to have a guide and obtain special permits.

Trekkers need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a special restricted area permit for Upper Mustang. The restricted area permit is significantly more expensive than regular trekking permits.

As of the latest information, the restricted area permit costs USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and an additional USD 50 per person per day thereafter.

Accommodation on the Upper Mustang Trek consists mainly of teahouses and guesthouses, which provide basic facilities such as a bed and meals.

Teahouses offer a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat, as well as other options such as noodles, pasta, rice, and vegetables.

Altitude sickness can be a concern as the trek involves high elevations. It is important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Medical facilities are limited along the trek route. It is advisable to carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications. In case of serious health issues, evacuation to a hospital in Pokhara or Kathmandu might be required.

Upper Mustang has a distinct Tibetan-influenced culture. The region is known for its ancient monasteries, caves, and the walled city of Lo Manthang, which is the cultural and historical heart of the area.

The landscape of Upper Mustang is stark and arid, with a desert-like environment. It features dramatic cliffs, canyons, and eroded formations, contrasting sharply with the lush green hills found in other parts of Nepal.

Internet and phone connectivity can be limited in Upper Mustang. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi, but it may not be reliable. It is best to inform family and friends of limited communication availability before starting the trek.

If you have any more specific questions or need further details, feel free to ask!

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