Upper Mustang Trek
Trip Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek
- Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang.
- Walk through the remote landscapes of Upper Mustang.
- See ancient monasteries and Buddhist locations.
- Cross high mountain passes with panoramic views.
- Experience the traditional lifestyle of Mustang villages.
- Follow the historic Kali Gandaki Valley.
- Trek with the experienced team of Nepal Wanderlust Treks.
Overview of Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek is a journey into Nepal’s former Himalayan kingdom, where ancient Tibetan culture, centuries old monasteries, dramatic cliffs, and desert like landscapes create a unique trekking experience. This is a small area, situated to the north of the Annapurna range, where the traditional way of life and cultural heritage have been maintained over the generations. The trail traverses isolated villages where prayer walls, whitewashed homes, and Buddhist monasteries continue to form a significant aspect of daily life.
Your adventure begins with a drive to Pokhara, followed by a scenic flight to Jomsom. From there, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki Valley through Kagbeni, Chele, Ghiling, Charang, and finally to the historic walled city of Lo Manthang. You will traverse high mountain passes on the route, walk under colored rock formations, and the old monasteries that are heavily influenced by Tibet. Every day of the journey provides new landscapes that make the journey culturally and geographically diverse.
With Nepal Wanderlust Treks, every part of your journey is carefully arranged to ensure a safe and comfortable trekking experience. We will take care of transportation, permits, accommodation, and daily logistics, so that you can experience the history, culture, and landscapes of the area to the fullest.
Our Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary will be gradual in terms of rising the altitude and a day of thorough exploration in Lo Manthang so that you have ample time to sightsee the ancient royal city and its surrounding monasteries. The 17 Days Upper Mustang Trek is suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness who want to explore a less visited part of Nepal. If you are looking for a journey that combines history, culture, and unique Himalayan landscapes, the Lo Manthang Trek is an excellent choice.
Itinerary of Upper Mustang Trek
Arrival at Kathmandu Airport (1,400 m)
When you reach Tribhuvan International Airport, a Nepal Wanderlust Treks representative will also receive you and take you to your Kathmandu hotel. After you have checked in, you can relax after the drive or explore the nearby streets as much as you have time.
We will have an evening meeting with a briefing on the trek. The Upper Mustang Trek will start with our guide explaining the itinerary, checking your trekking equipment and answering any questions you may have. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation (1,400 m)
The sightseeing tour today will take you to the cultural heritage of Kathmandu Valley prior to your experience into the Himalayas. We will visit some of the city’s important historical and religious sites while learning about Nepal’s history and traditions.
On returning to hotel, you will have time to pack up your trekking equipment or purchase any other item required. Our team will complete the permit formalities and make the final preparations for tomorrow’s drive to Pokhara.
Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Pokhara (820 m)
After breakfast, we will leave Kathmandu and go on the Prithvi Highway to Pokhara. The scenic route goes through rivers, terraced fields, traditional villages, and green hills and provides beautiful sceneries on the way.
When you get to Pokhara, you can have a relaxing evening at Phewa Lake, or you can visit the lakeside. We will have a night in Pokhara before tomorrow flight into the Mustang area.
Fly from Pokhara (820 m) to Jomsom (2,710 m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2,800 m)
An early morning flight takes us to Jomsom with excellent aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival, we will start walking up the Kali Gandaki River all the way into Kagbeni, the customary entrance to Upper Mustang.
Kagbeni is a very interesting village where there are small lanes, old houses, and Buddhist monasteries. We will then take a walk around the village and settle in our teahouse to prepare to enter the restricted Upper Mustang.
Trek from Kagbeni (2,800 m) to Chele (3,050 m) via Chhusang
Today, we will officially enter Upper Mustang after completing the permit checkpoint at Kagbeni. This route is along the Kali Gandaki Valley across the dry hills, colourful cliffs, and the traditional villages to Chhusang.
The path crosses the river and ascends gradually to Chele where one can enjoy beautiful sights of the desert landscape around. After arriving, we will check into our teahouse and enjoy a peaceful evening in this traditional Mustang village.
Trek from Chele (3,050 m) to Ghiling (3,570 m) via Samar
Leaving Chele we will ascend a sequence of ridges and then descend to the quiet village of Samar. The trail takes one through colorful cliffs, deep canyons, and small streams and provides excellent views of the landscapes around it. Several prayer walls and chortens reflect the region’s strong Buddhist traditions.
The road passes through small villages and deserted deserts up to Ghiling, west of Samar. The village is characterised by a culture of stone houses, fields and picturesque mountainous landscape. Overnight stay at a local teahouse.
Trek from Ghiling (3,570 m) to Charang (3,560 m) via Ghami
Our walk today will cross open valleys and smooth mountain passes before we reach Ghami, a traditional village with fields and huge formations of rocks. In our path we will see long mani walls, ancient chortens and prayer flags that indicate the rich Tibetan Buddhist history of the region.
The trail ascends slowly after lunch to Charang, where whitewashed houses and a historic monastery make a unique atmosphere. We will spend the night here while enjoying views of the surrounding valley.
Trek from Charang (3,560 m) to Lo Manthang (3,810 m) via Lo Gekar
After breakfast, we will visit Lo Gekar Monastery, which is believed to be one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Nepal, before continuing towards Lo Manthang. The calm environment and the old architecture gives one an exciting experience of the history of the Upper Mustang before moving on to Lo Manthang.
Passing through open plains and smooth ridges, the route slowly heads towards the ancient walled city. You are then able to wander around the small lanes, old fashioned houses and ancient monasteries before settling in our teahouse at night.
Exploration Day in Lo Manthang (Up to 3,930 m)
Today is dedicated to exploring the ancient capital of Mustang.We’ll explore historic monasteries, the former royal palace and nearby villages, learning about the region’s unique Tibetan culture and traditions. Optional hikes to nearby caves or viewpoints may also be included, depending on time and weather.
The relaxed schedule allows plenty of time to experience daily life in Lo Manthang before returning to the teahouse for another overnight stay.
Trek from Lo Manthang (3,810 m) to Dhakmar (3,810 m) via Lo La Pass
Leaving Lo Manthang behind, we will cross Lo La Pass before descending toward Dhakmar. The trail passes wide valleys, colorful rock formations, and ancient cave cliffs that make this section of the trek especially interesting.
Dhakmar is known for its dramatic red cliffs and peaceful surroundings. Upon reaching the village we will have a relaxing time as we prepare to go back through the Mustang region.
Trek from Dhakmar (3,810 m) to Syangmochen (3,780 m) via Ghami
After breakfast, we will leave Dhakmar and walk beneath its impressive red cliffs before climbing toward a high ridge. The route goes through old mani walls, traditional villages and agricultural lands as well as providing the stunning vistas of the Mustang scenery. On our route we will retrace Ghami and proceed on less noisy paths.
By afternoon, we will arrive at Syangmochen, a peaceful settlement surrounded by open hills and mountain scenery. Overnight stay at a local teahouse.
Trek from Syangmochen (3,780 m) to Chhusang (2,980 m)
Today’s journey gradually descends through the dry valleys of Upper Mustang. We will pass by Samar and Chele with the familiar glimpses of colorful cliffs, in depth gorges, and the traditional Tibetan style of villages. The changing landscape provides a different perspective of the route we followed earlier.
Continuing alongside the Kali Gandaki Valley, we will reach Chhusang by late afternoon. The village is a good place to have a rest before climbing towards Muktinath tomorrow.
Trek from Chhusang (2,980 m) to Muktinath (3,760 m) via Gyu La Pass
Today’s trail leaves the main valley and climbs steadily toward Gyu La Pass (4,077 m). The ascent is rewarded with wide views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, and the surrounding Mustang landscape. Once through the pass, the road leads down to the holy pilgrimage of Muktinath.
On arrival, we will get some time to explore the area and visit the renowned Muktinath Temple and then spend the night in a local teahouse.
Trek from Muktinath (3,760 m) to Jomsom (2,720 m) via Lupra
Instead of following the regular trail, we will take the quieter route through Lupra Valley. This picturesque highway explores classic villages, expansive hills and Bon Monastery giving a varied cultural experience and back to the Kali Gandaki Valley.
Afternoon will see us arrive at Jomsom where the trekking part of the journey will end. The evening is free to relax and celebrate the successful completion of the trek.
Fly from Jomsom (2,720 m) to Pokhara (820 m)
Early in the morning, we will board a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. During the short flight, you will enjoy your final aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges before arriving in Pokhara.
Once you have checked in to your hotel, then you are free to spend the rest of the day. You can rest at the Phewa Lake, explore the surrounding attractions or just rest in the peaceful environment after a long time in the mountains.
Drive from Pokhara (820 m) to Kathmandu (1,400 m)
We will take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu via Prithvi Highway after breakfast, leaving Pokhara. It follows the Trishuli River, and through green hills, terraced farming, small towns, and traditional villages to give a last glimpse of the Nepal countryside.
When we get to Kathmandu, we will take you to a hotel.The remaining day is at your own leisure to explore the local markets or have a final dinner with reflection of your 17 Days Upper Mustang Trek.
Final Departure
Your Upper Mustang Trek comes to an end today. According to your flight schedule, we will transfer you to Tribhuvan international airport and you will proceed with your flight.
Thank you for choosing Nepal Wanderlust Treks. We wish you to take with you many beautiful memories of the ancient Nepal villages, exotic landscape, and the cultural heritage that you have encountered on this Lo Manthang Trek.Hopefully, you will come back to another Himalayan adventure.
Includes/Excludes
What's Included?
- Airport arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle.
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Kathmandu sightseeing tour with a private vehicle and professional guide.
- Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu.
- Domestic flights between Pokhara and Jomsom (both ways).
- Twin sharing teahouse accommodation throughout the trek.
- Three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Seasonal fresh fruits after dinner during the trek.
- Experienced, government licensed English speaking trekking guide.
- One porter for every two trekkers (maximum 20 kg combined luggage).
- Guide and porter salary, meals, accommodation, insurance, and equipment.
- Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- Trekking map and duffel bag for use during the trek.
- First aid kit carried by the guide.
- All government taxes and company service charges.
What's Excluded?
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Nepal entry visa fee.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Travel insurance, including emergency helicopter evacuation.
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing. Hot showers, WiFi, charging facilities and laundry during the trek.
- Bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and extra snacks.
- Personal expenses, shopping and tips for guide and porter.
- Costs caused by flight delays, weather conditions, natural disasters, strikes or other unforeseen circumstances.
- Any services not mentioned in the Cost Includes section.
Essential Information - Upper Mustang Trek
Best Time for the Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek is most suitable during spring (March-May), as well as autumn (September-November). These months usually bring stable weather, mild temperatures, and clear views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscapes. Since Upper Mustang lies in the Himalayan rain shadow, it also remains a good trekking destination during the summer monsoon when many other trekking regions receive heavy rainfall.
Taking our Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary at these seasons gives you a comfortable time to walk and have a clear sight of the unique cliffs, valleys, monasteries, and old villages of the region.
Difficulty of the Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek is a moderate trek, which is recommended to people of average fitness. The majority of trekking days include 5-7 hours of walking through dry valleys, mountain passes, rocky paths, and traditional villages. Even though the trail reaches an altitude of over 4,000 meters, the gradual itinerary allows trekkers to acclimatize comfortably.
It is advisable to walk, hike, or do a light cardio workout prior to your trip. Our qualified guides keep a moderate speed and give frequent rests and make sure everyone is enjoying the ride without any accidents.
Accommodation and Meals
On the Upper Mustang Trek, you will spend your nights in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with teahouses along the trail of the trek. The majority of teahouses have basic twin share rooms and friendly restaurants where trekkers can rest after a day of walking.
Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with menus offering Dal Bhat, noodles, fried rice, pasta, soups, potatoes, eggs, vegetables, and seasonal local dishes. Most of the overnight stops serve tea, coffee and other hot beverages.
Permits for the Upper Mustang Trek
An Upper Mustang Trek needs an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Since Upper Mustang is a restricted region, the trek must be completed with a licensed guide, and current government regulations require a minimum of two trekkers.
All the required permits will be organized by Nepal Wanderlust Treks and will be in place before your trek starts. You only need to provide your passport details, and our team will arrange all the required permits before the trek begins.
Travel Insurance
The Upper Mustang Trek is highly advised to be covered with travel insurance. High altitude trekking, emergency medical care, helicopter evacuation, cancellation of trips, personal property should be covered in your policy.
Although the trails are well established, weather conditions and altitude can sometimes create unexpected situations. Proper travel insurance provides peace of mind and ensures emergency assistance, including helicopter evacuation when required, can be arranged quickly during your Lo Manthang Trek.
Most Asked Questions by Travellers
The Upper Mustang was not opened to external visitors until 1992, and it served to preserve the Tibetan culture, old monasteries and traditional way of life.
Yes. The Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and trekkers must obtain the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
The highest point of the trek is Gyu La Pass (approximately 4,077 m), crossed on the way from Chhusang to Muktinath.
Yes. On the exploration day you have the opportunity to explore the old royal palace, monasteries and other cultural sites within Lo Manthang.
Yes. Since the region lies in the Himalayan rain shadow, it receives much less rainfall than other trekking areas in Nepal.
Its dry desert landscape, Tibetan influenced culture, ancient cave dwellings, and historic villages make it very different from the greener trekking regions of Nepal.
Yes. Charging facilities are usually available in most teahouses at an extra charge but this can be different depending on the village.
Yes. The Upper Mustang Trek is often combined with Muktinath, the Annapurna Circuit, or even a visit to Pokhara by many trekkers before they go back home.
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