Duration

16 Days

DIFFICULTY

Medium

GROUP SIZE

1-12

MAX. ALTITUDE

3840m

Best Season

April to November

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast ,Lunch, Dinner

Walking per day

6 hours

Overview

Upper Mustang trek – Explore the last forbidden Kingdom

Upper Mustang Trek offers a unique tour and holiday package designed to uncover the hidden kingdom of Lo Manthang. Mustang is recognized as one of the world’s concealed kingdoms. Situated along the Kaligandaki River, it is located in the northern part of the Annapurna region, adjacent to Kagbeni village. The trek culminates at Lo-Mangthang, a fortified city characterized by its whitewashed mud brick structures, adorned with exquisite Buddhist prayer wheels and stupas. Mustang is home to one of the last remaining undisturbed Tibetan cultures globally.

The journey to Upper Mustang commences north of Kagbeni. Within Upper Mustang, one can observe some of the oldest Buddhist monasteries and nunneries, which are ingeniously constructed into steep cliffs and mountain ledges. The Mustang Trek was inaugurated in 1990 and continues to be a restricted area to ensure cultural preservation.

A trekking permit for 10 days incurs a government fee of USD $500. The optimal season for trekking in Mustang spans from May to August, although treks can also be comfortably undertaken in September and October.

The primary attractions of the Mustang trek include the arid landscape, caves, the Palace, the indigenous populace, their culture, and the ancient monasteries.

Upper Mustang Trek — Now Just US$ 1,999!

Embark on the unforgettable 16-day Upper Mustang Trek in the mystical “Last Forbidden Kingdom”—now at a special US$ 400 off.

Price Type Amount

Original Price US$ 2,399

Special Discount US$ 400 off

Discounted Price US$ 1,999

Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek

Discover magnificent temples, monasteries, and Gompas.
Experience a remarkable flight from Pokhara to Jomsom over the Kaligandaki River gorge.
Visit the apple and apricot gardens en route to Upper Mustang.
Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges, both towering above 8,000 meters.
Explore the Chungshi Cave while enjoying a tea and coffee break.
Appreciate the landscape that resembles a mountain desert.
Visit the oldest monastery in Upper Mustang, known as “Ghar Gumba.”
Explore the walled city of Lomanthang, which features numerous monasteries, stupas, and traditional soil houses.
Tour the royal palace of Upper Mustang.
Investigate the Jhong Cave, which contains over 40 rooms that were historically used by monks for meditation.
Visit Tinkar Village to observe the education of young monk children, where they learn about Buddhism and meditation.

Itinerary Snapshot
Duration: 16 Days
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Max Elevation: ~3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)
Start/End Point: Kathmandu → Pokhara → Jomsom

Why Trek to Upper Mustang?
The Upper Mustang Trek is unlike any other in Nepal. It’s not just about the mountains—it’s about traveling back in time. Whether you’re a cultural explorer, a seasoned trekker, or someone looking to walk off the beaten path, this trek promises an unforgettable journey into a mystical Himalayan kingdom.

Permit Information
Due to its restricted status, Upper Mustang requires a special permit ($500 for 10 days) and must be done through a registered trekking agency with a licensed guide. Group travel only (minimum 2 trekkers).

Ready to step into the Lost Kingdom of Lo?
Contact us today to start planning your Upper Mustang adventure!

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What You Can See in the Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek is a journey into one of the most remote and culturally preserved regions in Nepal. Often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Upper Mustang offers a dramatic contrast to the lush greenery found elsewhere in the Himalayas. From wind-eroded cliffs to ancient Tibetan monasteries, every day on the trail reveals something extraordinary.

1.Unique Himalayan Landscapes
Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, creating a semi-arid desert landscape reminiscent of Tibet. You’ll walk through:

Colorful eroded cliffs in hues of red, orange, and gray.
Deep gorges and barren ridgelines sculpted by centuries of wind.
Wide riverbeds of the Kali Gandaki River, once a key part of the ancient salt trade route.
Snow-capped views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri ranges in the distance.
Windswept plateaus and high mountain passes such as Lo La (3,950 m), offering panoramic views.
The terrain feels like another planet—isolated, vast, and mesmerizing.

2.Ancient Villages & Mud-Brick Settlements
Upper Mustang is dotted with timeless Tibetan-influenced villages, where traditional lifestyles have remained unchanged for centuries:

Kagbeni: The gateway to Upper Mustang, with narrow alleys, prayer wheels, and a 15th-century monastery.
Chele, Syangboche, and Ghami: Small settlements with whitewashed homes and vibrant local culture.
Tsarang (Charang): Home to a 5-storey dzong (fort) and red-walled monastery overlooking vast fields.
Lo Manthang: The walled capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang, filled with medieval alleys, royal palaces, and ancient temples.
The architecture is traditional—flat-roofed stone and mud houses, intricately carved wooden windows, and livestock pens within the courtyards.

3. Monasteries, Chortens & Buddhist Heritage
Upper Mustang is a spiritual stronghold of Tibetan Buddhism, and it shows in the many monasteries and religious symbols scattered across the region:

Thubchen Gompa: A 15th-century monastery in Lo Manthang with vivid murals and towering prayer halls.
Jampa Lhakhang: The oldest monastery in Lo Manthang, often referred to as the “God House”.
Lo Gekar Monastery: Said to be older than Samye Monastery in Tibet, possibly the oldest in Nepal.
Chortens and Mani Walls: Hundreds of stone prayer walls and stupa-like structures line the trails.
Cave Monasteries: Including Chhoser and Niphu, where monks still practice in meditation caves carved into cliff faces.
Many of these places are still active centers of worship and house ancient texts, statues, and paintings.

4.Festivals and Local Life
If you time your trek right, you may witness one of Mustang’s incredible festivals:

Tiji Festival (usually in May): A 3-day Buddhist celebration in Lo Manthang, featuring masked dances and rituals that reenact ancient myths of good triumphing over evil.
Local markets and horse culture: The region has a strong connection to Tibetan horse culture, and you may see locals riding decorated horses across the open plains.
Traditional dress and language: People wear traditional woolen clothing, and speak the Mustang dialect of Tibetan.
Unlike many tourist areas, daily life here remains authentic and closely tied to the environment and seasons.

5.Mysterious Caves of Upper Mustang
Upper Mustang is home to over 10,000 man-made caves, many of which are still unexplored. Some of the most famous are:

Chhoser Sky Caves: Ancient multi-level caves built into cliff walls, used as meditation chambers, homes, and burial sites.
Luri Gompa: A spectacular 13th-century cave monastery with unique frescoes and religious artifacts.
These archaeological wonders give insight into the lives of people who lived and meditated in the cliffs thousands of years ago.

6. Flora, Fauna, and Unique Ecology
Despite its dry terrain, Upper Mustang hosts unique high-altitude flora and fauna:

Himalayan blue sheep, marmots, and occasionally snow leopards.
Wild buckthorn bushes, juniper, and desert-adapted herbs used in traditional medicine.
Eagle and vulture sightings are common, especially near cliff faces and high passes.
The region is part of the Trans-Himalayan Ecosystem, a unique biogeographical zone.

7.A Journey Through Isolation
Perhaps most significantly, what you see in Upper Mustang is solitude and preservation. The restricted entry has helped the region maintain:

Minimal tourist traffic.
Authentic culture unaffected by mass tourism.
A sense of stepping back in time, where nature and spirituality are deeply intertwined.
This is not just a trek—it’s a pilgrimage through an ancient kingdom, a living museum of Tibetan Buddhism, and a landscape of otherworldly beauty.

Upper Mustang Trek – 16-Day Itinerary

Journey into the mystical kingdom of Lo, where ancient Tibetan culture still thrives among arid cliffs, sacred monasteries, and timeless Himalayan beauty. This Upper Mustang Trek offers an unforgettable experience in a restricted region, combining spiritual depth, dramatic landscapes, and authentic cultural immersion.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. Enjoy a short 15-minute drive through the bustling capital. Rest and refresh after your journey.
Overnight in Kathmandu

Day 2: Rest Day and Trek Briefing in Kathmandu

Spend the day acclimatizing, resting, and exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel. Later, attend a detailed briefing about the Upper Mustang trek, covering the route, cultural etiquette, and gear preparation.
Overnight in Kathmandu

Day 3: Drive to Pokhara (820m) – 7 hours

Begin your overland journey with a scenic drive to Pokhara. Enjoy breakfast and lunch en route at charming hilltop restaurants offering panoramic views of lush valleys and terraced farms.
Overnight in Pokhara

Day 4: Fly to Jomsom (2,720m) & Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)

A dramatic early morning flight takes you through the Kali Gandaki gorge to Jomsom. From here, begin your trek along the windswept trails to Kagbeni, a beautiful medieval village marking the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Trekking time: ~3 hours
Overnight in Kagbeni

Day 5: Trek to Chele (3,100m)

Trek past whitewashed houses, black, white, and red chortens, and apple orchards through the picturesque village of Tangbe. Continue towards Chhuksang before a final push up to the windswept village of Chele.
Trekking time: ~6 hours | Altitude gain: +430m / -130m
Overnight in Chele

Day 6: Trek to Geling (3,570m)

Traverse deep canyons and cross several passes as you hike through Samar, a tranquil village surrounded by poplar trees and a favorite stop for traditional horse caravans.
Trekking time: ~7 hours | Altitude gain: +1,060m / -590m
Overnight in Geling

Day 7: Trek to Tsarang (3,560m)

Climb steadily through ochre cliffs and high desert terrain. Cross passes and descend into Tsarang, home to an ancient monastery and a maze-like village full of history.
Trekking time: ~6 hours | Altitude gain: +890m / -870m
Overnight in Tsarang

Day 8: Trek to Lo-Manthang (3,840m)

Today marks your entry into the walled city of Lo-Manthang. The trail gradually climbs, opening into wide Himalayan panoramas. Explore the first glimpses of this ancient kingdom as you approach its fortress-like entrance.
Trekking time: ~4 hours
Overnight in Lo-Manthang

Day 9: Explore Lo-Manthang

A full day to discover the spiritual and historical landmarks of Lo-Manthang. Visit the Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, Choprang Gompa, and the monastic school Tsechhen Shedrubling. Don’t miss the Royal Palace, where the former king still resides.
Overnight in Lo-Manthang

Day 10: Excursion to Chosar, Namgyal & Tingkhar (on horseback)

Venture beyond Lo-Manthang by horse to visit Chosar’s cliffside caves and Nyphu Gompa. Ride through Namgyal, home to a monastery and local court, then continue to Tingkhar to view the Summer Royal Palace and Kimling Gompa.
Overnight in Lo-Manthang

Day 11: Trek to Drakmar (3,820m)

Retrace your path through different terrain, visiting Ghar Gompa en route — an ancient temple associated with Guru Rinpoche. Arrive at Drakmar, known for its striking red cliffs, which legends say were stained by the blood of a slain demoness.
Trekking time: ~6 hours | Altitude gain: +710m / -730m
Overnight in Drakmar

Day 12: Trek to Shyangmochen (3,800m)

Continue through remote valleys and passes dotted with chortens and Mani walls. Enjoy the peace of Mustang’s high desert landscapes as you descend to Shyangmochen.
Trekking time: ~5 hours | Altitude gain: +645m / -671m
Overnight in Shyangmochen

Day 13: Trek back to Kagbeni then 30 minutes drive to Jomsom.

Today’s route brings you full circle as you descend steadily to Kagbeni. It’s a long day of walking through familiar terrain with plenty of opportunities to reflect on your journey through the lost kingdom.
Trekking time: ~7 hours
Overnight in Jomsom

Day 14: Fly to Pokhara

Catch an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Once in the lakeside city, relax and enjoy the comfort of a hot shower, great food, and beautiful views of Phewa Lake.
Overnight in Pokhara

Day 15: Drive Back to Kathmandu – Farewell Dinner

Travel back to Kathmandu by private car, enjoying a final glimpse of rural Nepal along the way. In the evening, celebrate your trek with a traditional Nepali farewell dinner and cultural program.
Overnight in Kathmandu

Day 16: Departure Day

Our team will drop you off at the airport for your return flight. We hope your journey to Upper Mustang leaves lasting memories of a truly special part of the Himalayas.

Trek Summary:

Total Trekking Days: 11

Maximum Altitude: 3,840m (Lo-Manthang)

Difficulty: Moderate

Itinerary

Day 1 :
Arrival at the Kathmandu airport

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. Enjoy a short 15-minute drive through the bustling capital. Rest and refresh after your journey.
Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 2 :
Rest in Kathmandu

Spend the day acclimatizing, resting, and exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel. Later, attend a detailed briefing about the Upper Mustang trek, covering the route, cultural etiquette, and gear preparation.
Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 3 :
Drive to Pokhara

Begin your overland journey with a scenic drive to Pokhara. Enjoy breakfast and lunch en route at charming hilltop restaurants offering panoramic views of lush valleys and terraced farms.
Overnight in Pokhara
Day 4 :
Fly to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni

A dramatic early morning flight takes you through the Kali Gandaki gorge to Jomsom. From here, begin your trek along the windswept trails to Kagbeni, a beautiful medieval village marking the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Trekking time: ~3 hours
Overnight in Kagbeni
Day 5 :
Trek to Chele

Trek past whitewashed houses, black, white, and red chortens, and apple orchards through the picturesque village of Tangbe. Continue towards Chhuksang before a final push up to the windswept village of Chele.
Trekking time: ~6 hours | Altitude gain: +430m / -130m
Overnight in Chele
Day 6 :
Trek to Geling

Traverse deep canyons and cross several passes as you hike through Samar, a tranquil village surrounded by poplar trees and a favorite stop for traditional horse caravans.
Trekking time: ~7 hours | Altitude gain: +1,060m / -590m
Overnight in Geling
Day 7 :
Trek to Tsarang

Climb steadily through ochre cliffs and high desert terrain. Cross passes and descend into Tsarang, home to an ancient monastery and a maze-like village full of history.
Trekking time: ~6 hours | Altitude gain: +890m / -870m
Overnight in Tsarang
Day 8 :
Trek to Lo-Manthang

Today marks your entry into the walled city of Lo-Manthang. The trail gradually climbs, opening into wide Himalayan panoramas. Explore the first glimpses of this ancient kingdom as you approach its fortress-like entrance.
Trekking time: ~4 hours
Overnight in Lo-Manthang
Day 9 :
Explore around Lo-Manthang

Breakfast and sightseeing in Lo-Manthang city. You will visit Jampa Lhakhang (house of gods) built in 1447- 48 AD. Thubchen Gompa is another attraction of the Lo-Manthang. The Choprang Gompa and Tsechhen Shedrubling Monastic schools are also visited in Lo-Manthang . The Raja’s Palace, in English Royal Palace, is really interesting to visit where the ex. King of Lo-Manthang lives. Explore around the city
Day 10 :
Excursion around Lo-Manthang

After breakfast head towards Tingkhar, Namgyal and Chosar by horse. Tingkhar is the western valley where you can visit Summer Royal palace and Kimling Gompa. Phuwa Gompa and Namgyal Gompa are the main attraction of Namgyal. The Nyphu Gompa and Garphu Gompa are situated in Chosar
Day 11 :
Trek to Drakmar

After breakfast trek to Drakmar (3820m). On the way, you will visit Ghar Gompa means the house style Gompa. In Drakmar, you can see red rock. The local people say it as the blood of an ogress that was vanquished by Guru Rinpoche. If tourists want to visit Luri Gompa, we have to follow another trail from Lo-Manthang city. This day we walk 710m up and 730m down
Day 12 :
Trek to Shyangmochen

Continue through remote valleys and passes dotted with chortens and Mani walls. Enjoy the peace of Mustang’s high desert landscapes as you descend to Shyangmochen.
Trekking time: ~5 hours | Altitude gain: +645m / -671m
Overnight in Shyangmochen
Day 13 :
Trek to Kagbeni then 30 minutes drive to Jomsom.

Today’s route brings you full circle as you descend steadily to Kagbeni. It’s a long day of walking through familiar terrain with plenty of opportunities to reflect on your journey through the lost kingdom.
Trekking time: ~7 hours
Overnight in Jomsom
Day 14 :
Early in the morning fly back to Pokhara

Catch an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Once in the lakeside city, relax and enjoy the comfort of a hot shower, great food, and beautiful views of Phewa Lake.
Overnight in Pokhara
Day 15 :
About 6 hours drive back to Kathmandu by private car

Travel back to Kathmandu by private car, enjoying a final glimpse of rural Nepal along the way. In the evening, celebrate your trek with a traditional Nepali farewell dinner and cultural program.
Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 16 :
Drop off at the airport

Our team will drop you off at the airport for your return flight. We hope your journey to Upper Mustang leaves lasting memories of a truly special part of the Himalayas.

Oxygen Level

From: $2,399

The initial price based on 1 adult with the lowest price in low season

Cost Includes

All transport as mentioned in the itinerary
Accommodation in Kathmandu and during the trekking
Accommodation,Lunch,Dinner and Breakfast in trekking
English speaking trekking guide and porters
National parks’ fees and government royalties
Privvate car from Kathmanu to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu.Flight ticket from Pokhara Jomsom and Jomsom to Pokhara.
Insurance of our trekking staff members
Sightseeing in Kathmandu valley or other parts of Nepal as mentioned in the itinerary