Upper Mustang Trekking.
Region: Mustang Region
Region
Mustang RegionDuration
16 DaysAccomodation
Hotel/LodgeTrek Style
N/AMax Elevation
3800mTrek difficulty
N/AGroup size
N/ABest months
N/ATrip starts/Ends
KathmanduOverview
The Upper Mustang Trek is a fascinating journey that takes you into the heart of the remote and culturally rich region of Mustang, also known as the “Forbidden Kingdom.” This trek offers a unique opportunity to explore an untouched part of Nepal, where ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions and way of life have been preserved for centuries. Here is a detailed overview and highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek:
The Upper Mustang Trek is a moderate to challenging trek that takes you to the Trans-Himalayan region of Mustang, located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trek begins with a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, and from there, you will embark on a trek that follows the Kali Gandaki River and takes you through picturesque villages, barren landscapes, deep canyons, and ancient monasteries.
Trip Highlights
Unique Culture and Traditions: Upper Mustang is influenced by Tibetan culture and was once an important trading route between Tibet and Nepal. The trek offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant Tibetan Buddhist culture, visit ancient monasteries, witness religious ceremonies, and interact with the friendly local people.
Lo-Manthang: The capital of Mustang, Lo-Manthang, is the major highlight of the trek. It is a walled city that provides a glimpse into the region’s rich history and architectural beauty. You can explore the narrow alleyways, visit the royal palace, and witness the vibrant festivals and cultural events.
Scenic Landscapes: The trek offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including prominent peaks like Nilgiri, Annapurna I, and Tukuche. The stark contrast between the barren landscapes, deep gorges, and the snow-capped mountains creates a stunning visual experience.
Unique Mustangi Villages: The trek takes you through charming villages like Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, and Charang, where you can observe the traditional Mustangi architecture, whitewashed houses, and intricate monasteries. These villages provide an insight into the local way of life and their close bond with nature.
Chyosyor Cave: One of the highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek is the visit to Chyosyor Cave, also known as Shija Jhong Cave. This mysterious five-story cave, perched on a precipice, offers a glimpse into the ancient history and architecture of the region.
Unique Flora and Fauna: Despite the arid landscape, the region is home to unique flora and fauna. You may come across rare species of birds, including the Himalayan griffon vulture and Tibetan snowcock, as well as wildlife like blue sheep and Himalayan marmots.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and a special permit is required to enter. As a result, the trek offers a sense of exclusivity and solitude, with fewer trekkers on the trail compared to popular routes like Everest or Annapurna. This allows for a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.
The Upper Mustang Trek is a remarkable journey that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and historical exploration. It is a trek that will leave you with lifelong memories and a deeper understanding of the unique Mustangi culture and its remarkable landscapes.
Itinerary
Day 1
Altitude: 1300m
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After a long journey, you’ll have some private time to rest and shower.
Day 2
Today, you will embark on a sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. You will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, the Monkey Temple (Swyambhunath Temple), and the Buddhist Shrine Great Boudhanath Stupa. In the evening, there will be an orientation session for your trekking adventure.
Day 3
Altitude: 900m
After breakfast, you will head to Pokhara via the Prithivi Highway. The scenic bus ride will take approximately 6-7 hours, during which you can enjoy views of the western Himalayas. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel. In the evening, you can relax at the hotel or explore the beautiful lake city and its local bars at Lakeside.
Day 4
Altitude: 2800m
Duration: 3-4 hours
After breakfast, you will drive to the Pokhara airport and take a short 25-minute flight to Jomsom. Jomsom serves as the district headquarters of Mustang and offers spectacular views of mountains, including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Upon arrival, you will begin your trek, which will take approximately 3-4 hours, uphill alongside the Kali Gandaki River, until you reach Kagbeni. Kagbeni is the gateway to Upper Mustang, and you will spend the night at a local guest house.
Day 5
Altitude: 3050m
Duration: 6-7 hours
After breakfast, the trek continues towards the east bank of the Kali Gandaki River. You will climb through ridges and reach the picturesque Tangbe Village, known for its white-washed mud and stone houses. As you proceed towards Chele, you will cross another beautiful village called Chhusang. During these two days, you will witness the transition in cultures from the Manangi culture in Jomsom and Kagbeni to the Tibetan culture. Overnight stay at a guest house in Chele.
Day 6
Altitude: 3800m
Duration: 5-6 hours
Today’s trek takes you along a steep and barren land. You will stop for lunch at Samar village and then continue the trail with uphill and downhill sections. After passing through the beautiful and sparsely populated village, you will cross the Yamada La pass (4010m) before finally descending to Syangboche.
Day 7
Altitude: 3500m
Duration: 5-6 hours
The trek today involves ascending to Jaite and onwards to the Nyi La Pass at 4020m. From here, you will experience the strong gusty winds of Mustang and see the fluttering prayer flags. After a final descent, you will reach Ghemi.
Day 8
Altitude: 3560m
Duration: 4-5 hours
On the outskirts of Ghemi, you will pass one of the longest mani walls (1000ft) in Mustang. As you trek uphill over a pass (3820m), the landscape begins to resemble a desert with barren hills. The red-painted Charang Stupa welcomes you to Charang Village, which is the capital of Mustang before Lo-Manthang. In Charang, you will visit the monastery and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the area.
Day 9
Altitude: 3840m
Duration: 4-5 hours
Today, you will trek to Lo-Manthang, the major highlight of the Upper Mustang Trek. Lo-Manthang is the capital city of the forbidden Kingdom of Mustang. You will have the opportunity to explore the ancient monasteries and immerse yourself in the unique traditions and customs of the region. Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.
Day 10
Altitude: 3840m
Duration: 8-9 hours
Today, you will visit the mysterious and amazing Chyosyor Cave, also known as Shija Jhong Cave. Located close to the Chinese border (Tibet), this five-story structure perched on the edge of a precipice offers breathtaking views. With its multiple rooms and ladders leading to higher levels, the cave provides a glimpse into the trans-Himalayan region of Chhoser valley. Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.
Day 11
Altitude: 3820m
Duration: 7-8 hours
Leaving the highland terrain of Lo-Manthang, you will be rewarded with splendid views of both Lo-Manthang and Charang Valley. You will also catch glimpses of the snow-capped mountains in the background. On the way down, you will visit one of the oldest Tibetan monasteries, Ghar Monastery.
Day 12
Altitude: 3800m
Duration: 7-8 hours
After breakfast, you will retrace your steps back to Syangboche, enjoying the scenic beauty and serene atmosphere of the region. Overnight stay in Syangboche.
Day 13
Altitude: 2980m
Duration: 6 hours
Continuing the trek back, you will make your way to Chhusang, retracing the trail and relishing the sights and sounds of the Mustang region.
Day 14
Altitude: 2720m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Today, you will continue tracking your way back towards the south. You will pass through the village of Jharkot and explore Jharkot Monastery. Afterward, you officially exit the restricted region of the Upper Mustang trek and arrive in Kagbeni. This night is usually celebrated with dancing, eating, and drinking as a way to mark the end of the trek. Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Day 15
Today, you will catch an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. This flight offers breathtaking views as it takes you along the Kali Gandaki Gorge between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax and unwind.
Day 16
Distance: 200km
Duration: 7 hours
After breakfast, a private car will take you on a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. You will enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way. In the afternoon, you can indulge in some shopping to take back mementos of your Nepal journey.
Day 17
Our representative will escort you to the airport for your final departure.
What's Included
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the entire trek
- Accommodation during the trek
- Tea and coffee during the trek
- 3 nights’ accommodation in a hotel in Kathmandu (twin/double sharing, bed and breakfast basis)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in a hotel in Pokhara (twin/double sharing, bed and breakfast basis)
- Transportation throughout the trip, including airport transfers
- Domestic air tickets from Pokhara to Jomsom and Jomsom to Pokhara
- Special permits for Upper Mustang and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- Trekking guide
- Porter (one porter for every two clients)
- Annapurna Conservation Fees
- Guide, car, and fees for Kathmandu sightseeing
- Private transportation by car from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back
What's Excluded
- Bottled beverages such as Coke, beer, and bottled water
- Battery charge and hot shower during the trek
- International air tickets
- Tips for guides and porters
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
- Expenses of any extra activities not included in the itinerary
- Any changes in the trekking program due to sudden bad weather conditions or health issues
Gallery
Equipment
Packing List:
- Appropriate light backpack
- Puffy down jacket
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Camera with full battery (plus extra battery/memory)
- Gloves (light cycling gloves for poles and warm/waterproof gloves)
- Hiking poles
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Ibuprofen
- Hand sanitizer
- Water bladder (2 to 3 liters)
- Headlight (plus extra batteries)
- Small face towel with a clip for the pack (sweat)
- Passport
- Hiking pants with detachable legs
- Underwear (2 for a 6-day trek or 4 for a 15-day trek)
- T-shirts (2-4)
- Casual pants for after the hike
- Warm thermal top and bottom
- Toiletry bag with toothbrush and essentials
- Sleeping bag (good to -15ºC) – can be hired in Nepal
- Comfortable shoes
- Flip flops for showers
