Experience 18 days of adventure with Amazing Himalaya Trekking, exploring the unique, rain-shadowed landscapes of Upper Mustang, a once-remote Tibetan kingdom, with breathtaking views and rich cultural insights.
Amazing Himalaya Trekking brings you 18 days of Upper Mustang Trek. Mustang is part of the Tibetan plateau, and while it is now a district of Nepal, it was once a separate kingdom within Nepal’s borders until 1950. Upper Mustang, a region within this area, was opened to tourists only in 1992. Even today, it remains a highly restricted area, requiring trekkers to obtain a special permit to explore its rugged beauty. Known as the Himalayan rain shadow, Upper Mustang receives no monsoon rain, making it a unique destination where trekking is possible even during Nepal’s rainy season, unlike many other trails that are prone to landslides.
Before starting our adventurous trekking to Upper Mustang, we will spend two days sightseeing around Kathmandu. We will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar and learn about Kathmandu’s rich culture and heritage.
The Upper Mustang Trek is considered a moderate trek, with the highest point reaching 3,920 meters. Although it’s one of the easier trekking routes in terms of altitude, trekkers should still be in good physical condition. The region is known for its persistent wind and dust throughout the year, and temperatures can drop significantly in winter. Despite these challenges, the trek offers stunning views of towering mountains, breathtaking landscapes, and an authentic glimpse into the lives of the mountain communities.
Trekkers should also be prepared for more basic accommodations. Since the trail is relatively new to tourism, sophisticated lodges are not yet common in the region. However, there are now many tea houses along the route where trekkers can find shelter and meals, making the experience comfortable enough for the adventurous spirit. Throughout the trek, you will be accompanied by our experienced guide to make your journey comfortable and safe.
The 18-day Upper Mustang Trek route starts from Kathmandu, drives to Pokhara, flies to Jomsom, treks through Kagbeni, Chele, Syanbochen, Ghaymi, Tsarang, and Lo-Manthang, then returns via Ghar Gompa, Ghilling, Chusang, and Jomsom before flying back to Pokhara and driving to Kathmandu.
Overall, trekking in Upper Mustang is a unique adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a sense of discovery. It’s a journey that takes you through a landscape untouched by time, where the challenges are rewarded with unforgettable views and experiences.
Welcome to Nepal! On arrival, a representative from Amazing Himalaya will receive you at the airport to take you to your hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Before starting Upper Mustang Trekking, we will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan, and Swayambhunath Stupa. All the sites we visit today are listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. While you are visiting these sites, the amazing Himalaya Trekking team will prepare a special trekking permit for you.
We start our sightseeing tour from the heart of Kathmandu, the Kathmandu Durbar Square. It sheds light on the life of the royals in ancient times. Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is on top of a hill and has historical significance associated with the foundation of Kathmandu Valley.
Patan, one of the oldest Buddhist cities in the world, is home to ancient temples and palaces. In the ancient local language, Patan is also known as Lalitpur, which means beautiful city.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Continuing our sightseeing journey in Kathmandu. In the morning, visit Pashupatinath Temple, the most important Hindu temple. The temple area is the destination of countless pilgrims, yogis, and all believers, with daily Hindu rituals taking place here. The dead are cremated on the banks of the Bagmati River. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the temple complex, but you can get a good view from a terrace beyond.
The next stop is Boudhanath. It presents a completely different world, being the largest Buddhist stupa surrounded by numerous Tibetan monasteries. I
In the afternoon, visit the most beautiful royal city of Bhaktapur, including Durbar Square, the pottery market, the famous Peacock Window, and the five-story Nyatapola, the highest pagoda in Nepal.
After soaking into Kathmandu’s cultural and historic vibe, we will be heading to Pokhara. After breakfast, drive through an impressive mountain landscape and peaceful villages to Pokhara (200 km). The city is located directly on Lake Fewa, offering a fantastic view of the Annapurna massif. Numerous hiking routes into the Annapurna area begin from here.
Check in to the hotel, and enjoy free time in Pokhara. You can stroll around the beautiful lakeside.
Overnight stay in Pokhara.
After breakfast, you’ll head to the airport for a short but breathtaking 20-minute flight to Jomsom, soaring through the dramatic Kali Gandaki gorge with stunning views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna Massif. Once you land in Jomsom, the Mustang district’s headquarters, your porters will get your gear ready, and then you’ll hit the trail on an ancient trade route.
The hike to Kagbeni takes 2-3 hours and leads through a landscape rich in history and culture. In the afternoon, wander through the charming village of Kagbeni, where Tibetan influences are evident in the Buddhist Gompas, stone houses, and narrow, shadowy alleys. You’ll spend the night here, soaking in the unique atmosphere.
Our hike begins with getting a special permit to check into Kagbeni and continues alongside the Kaligandaki River. We will make our way to a small village in upper Mustang called Tangbe through a very windy trail of sand. After half an hour of trekking, we will reach Chhussang. From here, we will finally hike towards Chele.
On our way there, we will see a red conglomerate fallen from the top of the hill, which makes a tunnel through which the Kaligandaki River makes its way. Overnight in Trekkers Lodge.
Today our trek starts by passing through Eklo Bhatti and climbing up to the Taklam La Pass at 3,624 meters. From there, we’ll reach a plateau where you can enjoy close-up views of Tilicho, Nilgiri, and Damodar Danda. After a short walk, we’ll arrive at the village of Samar, where we’ll stop for lunch. Following our meal, we’ll continue trekking for about three hours until we reach Syanbochen. We’ll spend the night in a cozy Trekkers Lodge.
After breakfast, we’ll start our day with an uphill trek to Yamda La, reaching 3,850 meters. Along the way, we’ll pass through some tea houses and cross the Nyi Pass at 4,010 meters. The landscape and architecture will remind you of the Tibetan highlands, with their rugged beauty and unique charm.
After lunch, we’ll begin our descent to the village of Ghaymi, sitting at 3,520 meters. Once we arrive, we’ll settle in for the night at a Trekkers Lodge, ready to rest and recharge for the journey ahead.
On the ninth day of our Upper Mustang Trek, after breakfast, we’ll begin our journey to Tsarang. We’ll cross the Ghaymi Khola and make our way to a plateau, where we’ll see the long Mani wall—a sacred site for Buddhists in the area. From this point, we’ll start a steady five-hour ascent to Tsarang. We’ll spend the night in a Trekkers Lodge, resting in the peaceful surroundings of the village.
Today, we’ll set out on our trek to Lo-Manthang. As we journey, we’ll be treated to magnificent views of towering peaks like Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Annapurna-I. The trail ascends to Lo Pass at 3,850 meters, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Lo-Manthang Valley nestled below at 3,700 meters. From the pass, we’ll descend into the valley, eventually reaching the historic stone-walled town of Lo-Manthang.
In the evening, we’ll soak in the serene ambiance of this enchanting town, illuminated by the glow of the moon and stars. We’ll spend the night in a Trekkers Lodge, resting amidst the tranquil mountain surroundings.
Exploring Lo-Mangthang Today is all about exploring the rich history and culture. We’ll start by visiting Namgyal Gompa, perched on a hill. This ancient site once served as the palace and local court of a regional king. From there, we’ll head to Tingkhar, where we’ll see 40 identical houses, a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Next, we’ll visit some of the town’s main attractions, including Champa Lakhang, known as “God’s House,” the red Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, and others. We’ll also explore the four-story residential palace of an ancient king, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. Keep in mind that each monastery requires either donations or entrance fees. After a full day of discovery, we’ll spend the night at a Trekkers Lodge.
After spending quality time in Lo-Manthang, we’ll begin our journey back, retracing our steps to Ghar Gompa. We’ll take a leisurely pace today, aiming to avoid as much of the dusty wind as possible. Once we arrive, we’ll settle in for the night at a Trekkers Lodge, resting.
After a nice time in Lo Manthang, we will start our retreat. Today, we will return to Ghar Gompa, and we will take our time so that we will have to face as little dusty wind as possible. Overnight in Trekkers Lodge.
Today, we’ll make our way back to Ghilling at an elevation of 3,806 meters. After a 5-6 hour trek, we’ll arrive and settle in for the night at a Trekkers Lodge, surrounded by the serene mountain atmosphere.
After breakfast, we’ll set off toward Chhuksang, following the main trail. The stunning scenery along the way will captivate us, making the journey all the more rewarding. The journey will take around 6 to 7 hours to reach Chusang. As we take our time navigating the winding rocky path, we’ll finally arrive in Chhuksang, where we’ll spend the night at a cozy lodge.
On our final day of trekking, we say goodbye to the mystical landscapes of the Upper Mustang and descend into the lower regions, reaching the Lower Mustang. Our path leads us to the town of Jomsom. Along the way, we’ll pause for lunch in Kagbeni and take care of the check-out process for our special permit. From Kagbeni, the trail reconnects with the renowned Annapurna Circuit route. We’ll spend the night in Jomsom, reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve just completed.
We will fly back to Pokhara early in the morning. After arriving in Pokhara, check in to the hotel. You can spend your free time relaxing in the hotel. Overnight in Pokhara
After breakfast, check out of the hotel around 8:00 a.m. You will drive back to the east of Pokhara on the Pokhara—Kathmandu highway. If the weather is clear, you can once again enjoy breathtaking views of the beautiful Himalayan range, including renowned mountains like Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, Manaslu, and Annapurna, on your journey to Kathmandu.
Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Our Upper Mustang Trek will end today. You will be transferred to the airport according to your flight time. I hope you had a great experience with the Amazing Himalaya Team.
The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderately difficult. The trek involves long walking days, often 5-7 hours per day, over rugged terrain with significant elevation gain. The highest point of the trek reaches around 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), which means altitude acclimatization is necessary. The trails are well-defined but can be steep and challenging in parts, particularly due to the arid and windy conditions typical of the region.
The Upper Mustang Trek typically takes 10 to 14 days, depending on the route and pace. The standard trekking route covers around 160-200 kilometers (100-125 miles), starting from Jomsom and reaching Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the Kingdom of Mustang.
The Upper Mustang trekking permit costs USD 500 per person for the first ten days. For each additional day beyond ten days, the permit costs USD 50 per person per day. This permit is necessary because the Upper Mustang is a restricted area.
Upper Mustang is restricted to preserve its unique culture, environment, and historical significance. As a former kingdom, Upper Mustang has maintained a distinct Tibetan-influenced culture that has remained largely untouched by modern development. The restricted status helps control the number of visitors, protect the area’s cultural heritage, and minimize environmental impact.
The best time to trek in Upper Mustang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is stable, with clear skies and mild temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. The monsoon season (June to August) is also an option because Upper Mustang lies in a rain shadow area, meaning it receives very little rainfall, but trails can be more slippery. Winter (December to February) is cold, and some lodges might be closed due to snow.
Yes, a guide is required for the Upper Mustang Trek. Since it’s a restricted area, trekkers must be accompanied by a licensed guide and need to be part of a registered trekking agency. This regulation ensures safety, proper navigation through the remote region, and adherence to cultural and environmental guidelines.
While some parts of Upper Mustang are accessible by road, such as the journey from Jomsom to Lo Manthang, the road conditions can be rough, and the experience is not the same as trekking. The trek offers a much more immersive experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the region’s landscapes, culture, and remote villages. If you’re short on time or prefer not to trek, you can hire a jeep, but be prepared for a bumpy and dusty ride.
* The price may vary depending on the number of people.
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