Upper Mustang Trek

Trip Types

View Itineraries

Trip Infos

Accomodation B.L.D.
Transportation Flight/Drive
Max Altitude 3800m.
Best season Sep-Dec & Mar-May
Starts In Pokhara
Ends In Pokhara

Highlights

The Upper Mustang trek leads adventurers to the hidden Buddhist enclave known as the
Kingdom of Mustang, or Lo. Nestled in the remote trans-Himalayan mountains
bordering Tibet, this region exudes a distinct Tibetan ambiance, evident in its people,
culture, and the arid landscape characterized by towering cliffs and uniquely hued rock
formations.
Beginning at Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang, the trek unfolds through a stark
terrain shielded from monsoon rains by the towering Dhaulagiri massif, culminating in
Lo-Manthang, the historic seat of the Kingdom of Lo's monarchs.
Exploration of this area reveals ancient caves, adorned with rock paintings, alongside
monasteries and gompas, providing insights into the local culture. Magnificent vistas of
Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri add to the allure of this exhilarating journey.
Within Lo Manthang, visits to Namgyal Gompa, Tingkhar village, and the King's palace
deepen understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage. A highlight is the Amchi
museum and school, showcasing the ancient Tibetan healing art adapted for
contemporary needs.
A short trek from Lo Manthang lies Gyakar, renowned for its ancient Ghar Gompa,
dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. The gompa's millennia-old rock paintings and belief in wish
fulfillment add to its mystique.
With altitudes ranging from 3,000m to 3,800m, compounded by dry air, trekking requires
a measured pace to acclimatize. While natives navigate these heights with ease, visitors
adopt a more leisurely approach to mitigate altitude-related concerns. Daily walking
durations span 5 to 7 hours, with some paths characterized by gusty winds and dust.
Despite these challenges, the trek through the restricted Upper Mustang, tracing ancient
salt routes, promises an indelible imprint on one's memory, making it an unforgettable
odyssey.

Include Exclude

Cost Include

Airport pick up & drop off by private vehicle.
2-night hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
2-night hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
Full board meals throughout the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Hot beverages (3 Cups per day).
Domestic Airfair (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
An experienced government license holder guide from Kathmandu to
Kathmandu.
Special Mustang Permit
Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP)
Trekking gear down jacket, sleeping bag, and duffle bag.
Seasonal fruits during the trek.
Emergency Medical kit bag.
Complimentary farewell dinner.

Cost Exclude

Nepalese visa fee.
Travel insurance.
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (and also in the case of
early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra
porters, bottled or boiled water, shower, etc.)
Tips for trekking crews.

Itineraries Expand all

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

• Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
• Transfer to your hotel.
• Briefing about the trek and final preparations.
• Explore Kathmandu and visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites if time permits.
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

• Guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley.
• Visit iconic sites like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath.
• Final trek preparations and gear check.
• Optional: Visit the trekking gear shops in Thamel for any last-minute requirements.
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then to Jomsom (2700m), Trek to Kagbeni (2858m)

• Early morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
• Transfer to the domestic airport and fly to Jomsom.
• Begin trekking from Jomsom to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.
• Trek along the Kali Gandaki River, passing through windy and barren landscapes.
• Reach Kagbeni, a charming village with ancient monasteries and traditional houses.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Kagbeni.
Day 4: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3050m)

• Trek along the Kali Gandaki River through a narrow gorge.
• Ascend gradually through desert-like terrain with views of red cliffs.
• Reach the village of Chele, situated on a ridge.
• Explore the village and its unique architecture.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Chele.
Day 5: Trek from Chele to Syanboche (3475m)

• Ascend steeply to cross the Taklam La Pass (3,624m).
• Descend to Samar village and continue trekking through barren landscapes.
• Cross several passes and descend to Syanboche.
• Enjoy panoramic views of Mustang's rugged terrain.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Syanboche.
Day 6: Trek from Syanboche to Ghami (3520m)

• Trek through the Dhakmar village with its red cliffs and cave dwellings.
• Ascend to Mui La Pass (4,170m) and descend to the village of Ghami.
• Explore the ancient Ghami Monastery and traditional Mustangi architecture.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Ghami.
Day 7: Trek from Ghami to Charang (3500m)

• Trek through barren landscapes dotted with chortens and mani walls.
• Pass through the village of Tsarang with its white-washed houses.
• Visit Tsarang Monastery and continue trekking to Charang.
• Explore the ancient Charang village and its Tibetan-style houses.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Charang.
Day 8: Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang (3700m)

• Trek to Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang.
• Pass through the Lo La Pass (3,950m) and descend to Lo Manthang.
• Explore the ancient walled city with its monasteries, palaces, and narrow alleys.
• Visit the 15th-century King's Palace and other cultural sites.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Lo Manthang.
Day 9: Explore Lo Manthang and Surroundings

• Spend the day exploring the cultural and historical attractions of Lo Manthang.
• Visit monasteries like Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, and Chode Monastery.
• Explore the local markets and interact with the friendly residents.
• Enjoy the unique Tibetan culture and hospitality.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Lo Manthang.
Day 10: Trek from Lo Manthang to Ghar Gompa (2921m)

• Trek to Ghar Gompa, a remote monastery nestled in the mountains.
• Explore the ancient monastery and its surroundings.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse near Ghar Gompa.
Day 11: Trek from Ghar Gompa to Tangbe (3040m)

• Trek back to Tangbe village, retracing your steps through the rugged landscape.
• Pass through picturesque villages and barley fields.
• Enjoy the tranquility of the Mustang region.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Tangbe.
Day 12: Trek from Tangbe to Tetang (3067m)

• Trek through the village of Tetang, known for its Tibetan-style houses.
• Explore the ancient monasteries and chortens in the village.
• Enjoy views of Nilgiri and other surrounding peaks.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Tetang.
Day 13: Trek from Tetang to Muktinath (3710m)

• Trek to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
• Visit the famous Muktinath Temple and its 108 waterspouts.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Muktinath.
Day 14: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom

• Trek downhill from Muktinath to Jomsom.
• Pass through the village of Kagbeni and follow the Kali Gandaki River.
• Arrive in Jomsom and celebrate the completion of the trek.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Jomsom.
Day 15: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara and Kathmandu

• Early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
• Transfer to the domestic airport in Pokhara and fly back to Kathmandu.
• Check into your hotel in Kathmandu.
• Free time for shopping or relaxation.
• Farewell dinner in the evening.
Day 16: Departure from Kathmandu

• Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
• End of the trekking journey.