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Upper Mustang Trek

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Upper Mustang Trek
Lo-manthang trek
Upper Mustang Journey
Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek At a Glance

Location

Nepal

Region

Mustang

Max Elevation

4,320 m
Highest Point Reached During the Trek.

Duration

18 days

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge
Typical lodges or teahouses during the trek

Best Seasons

Spring and Autumn

Group

Min. 2 Pax

Difficulty

Moderate

Start Point

Kathmandu

End Point

Kathmandu

Permit

Specail permit Required
A permit is required for this trek.

Food

Included
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are typically included

Overview of the Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek is located in the northern central part of Nepal and the border of Tibet. Trekking in Upper Mustang is similar to trekking in Tibet, as it is geographically a part of the Tibetan Plateau. Upper Mustang Trek is most popular to visit the last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal to see the beautiful arid landscape, the distinctive high pastures of the Himalayan Mountains, the old Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and tradition.

Upper Mustang trekking is a popular restricted trekking trail in Nepal — a special permit is required to enter the “Forbidden Kingdom of Mustangs”, as Upper Mustang remains a restricted area beyond Kagbeni village. Mustang offers an opportunity to travel to the remote Trans-Himalayan mountain region with Tibet influence culture.

The land of the Upper Mustang in the early 7th century was highly influenced by the Lhasa of Tibet, mainly Lo Tshu Dhyun. The land was given to a retainer of the Ghunthang king of western Tibet. In the late 1300s, Ampel (the first king of Mustang), a warrior from Tibet, defeated local warlords to unify the kingdom and established his capital at Lo-Manthang. Located at an altitude of 3810 meters,

Lo-Manthang is the capital of an independent state allied with the Democratic Republic of Nepal. For centuries Mustang or ‘Lo-manthang’ situated in the extreme north of the Kaligandaki gorge was a forbidden land, forever raising the curiosity of travelers. The hardy people of this Himalayan desert follow Tibetan Buddhism and are of Tibetan origin, having migrated south from the Tibetan plateau centuries ago.

The trek begins with a short flight from Pokhara to Jomsom passing through a narrow section between the two tallest mountains: Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Annapurna I (8,091 m). A fascinating old citadel where ancient trails intersect. The route towards the north and beyond is the forbidden land of Mustang but a special trekking permit is required only after the Kagbeni village.

For the next few days passing through the ancient villages like Samar, Ghiling and Charang finally lead to Lo-Manthang (3810m), the walled capital city of Mustang. The villages and monasteries around the capital city like Namgyal Gompa, the village of Thinkar, Garfuk, and Nifuk are worth a visit where people still live in cave dwellings cut into surrounding cliffs.

The return route from Lo-manthang can be made more exciting by passing over Dri and Yara with a day trip to Luri gompa then finally coming out over Tetang, visiting the holy temple of Muktinath and then descending to Jomsom and flying back to Pokhara from Jomsom. The trek itinerary below does not include the route to Dri and Yara, We use the same route to go to Lo-Manthang and return to Jomsom, which is easier and more common.

Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek

  • Lo Manthang: The walled capital of the ancient Kingdom of Lo with whitewashed houses, monasteries, and a royal palace.
  • Tibetan culture and traditions: Deep Buddhist roots, prayer flags, chortens, and ancient monasteries like Thubchen and Jampa.
  • Unique landscapes: Eroded cliffs, red rock formations, and high desert plateaus - very different from the lush Annapurna region.
  • Restricted area: This trek requires a special permit, which helps preserve the region’s culture and limit tourism.
  • Cave systems: Like Chhoser Cave—man-made cave dwellings carved into cliff walls.

Upper Mustang Trek Route and Itinerary

Day 01

Arrive Kathmandu

After you arrive in Kathmandu airport please check our company board outside the main gate there will be our airport representative you will meet with him, and he will be transferred to hotel by private vehicle and our representative will help you to check in your hotel after that if time enough, representative will take you to our office for short briefing about the trip but if not enough time then give a short trip brief in hotel and request to pay the due balance for the trip. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 02

Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation

After breakfast, Kathmandu visits Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Boudhanath Stupa which are all World Heritage Sites. Durbar Square throws light on the life of the royals in ancient times. Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage places for all Hindus. Swayambhunath is also known as Monkey Temple and Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in the world. Late in the afternoon, we introduced you to your mountain/trek guide. overnight at Hotel

Day 03

Kathmandu drive by tourist bus to Pokhara (820 m)

Trekking staff will arrive at your hotel at 6:30 am to pick you up to tourist bus station for journey to Pokhara. Normally bus leave at 7:00 am from Kantipath and it takes about 7 hours from Kathmandu. Today, you can take a breakfast in your hotel that you order earlier night or request to manage packing breakfast that you eat in bus journey because on the way we are not stopping for breakfast as well not available good breakfast, but we stop for a lunch so try to eat Nepalese food (Dal Bhat). Afternoon you arrive in Pokhara then check in your hotel and refresh and look around lakeside. Pokhara is a beautiful valley, with panoramic views of Annapurna, Machapuchare (shape of fishtail) in the north, Dhaulagiri in the west, Lamjung Himal and Manaslu in the east. The town of Pokhara is set on the banks of the Phewa Lake. It is smaller and much less hectic than Kathmandu, providing the perfect starting point for our trek. Overnight at hotel.

Day 04

Pokhara flight to Jomsom (2,713 m) and trek to Kagbeni (2,800 m)

Early morning transfer to Pokhara airport, fly to Jomsom. This is one of the world's exciting flights to see mountain closely through the tiny aircraft, Annapurna I 8091 meters, Dhaulagiri 8167 meters, fishtail 6997 meters and other numerous peaks. You begin your trek to Kagbeni following along the bank of Kali Gandaki River. En- route, you pass through arid part of Kali Gandaki River with beautiful Ekle Bhatti. Kagbeni people are influence with more Tibetan and also Kagbeni is gateway for Upper Mustang and Damodar Kunda trekking. After reaching at Kagbeni (2800m) there is the oldest monastery so better to visit this monastery and look around Kagbeni village. Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.

Day 05

Kagbeni trek to Chele (3,060 m)

Today trek trail starts with a special permit check up and onwards to the riverbank of Kaligandaki up stream. During the trek we have scenic picturesque place to stop through the sandy and windy trails. This trails follows the up and downhill. Firstly we reach Tangbe village (3060m) with narrow alleys amongst white washed houses, fields of buckwheat, barley, wheat and apple orchards. From there we trek forward to Chhusang (2980m) and after crossing the river head up to the huge red chunk of conglomerate that has fallen from the cliff above, forming a tunnel through which the Kaligandaki follows. We head up to small ridges reach at Chele village (3050m) overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.

Day 06

Chele trek to Shyangbochen (3,800 m)

Today trek trail climb to Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La (3725m) through plateaus and narrow stretches with views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kang and Damodar Himal. Further descend a little to the village of Samar (3620m). Climb the trail that goes above Samar village to the ridge then descending steeply to a stream. Another about 3 hrs easy walk takes us to Shyangbochen (3800m). On the way, we relax along the surrounding of cool streams and juniper trees. Locals use the dried leaves of junipers as incenses to invite deities and start any auspicious work. We also pass by a cave famously known as Ramchung Cave. Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.

Day 07

Shyangbochen trek to Ghami (3,520 m)

Today trek trail short gentle climb to the small pass (3850m) then you will meet two trails one right hand side trail goes to Geling (3570m) where available larger red Gompa and another left hand side trail goes directly to Nyi La Pass (4010m) through Tamagaon (3710m) Please consult with your guide for route recommendation. If you choose trail goes to Tamagaon will be shorter one but if you choose through Geling will be longer walk. Both trail flat and gentle up hill till Nyi La Pass (4010m) then descend to the Ghami / Ghemi (3520m), the third largest village in the Lo region. The trail is passing a chortens and local villages which is like Tibetan style of houses with open Varanda. You will passes on the trail poplar trees and fields of Barley. Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.

Day 08

Ghami trek to Tsarang (3,560 m)

Today trek trail start after with a pleasant walk. After crossing Ghami Khola, the trail climbs to a plateau and passes beside a very long Mani wall, a sacred stone wall made by the followers Buddhism. From the end of the wall we meet two trails one left hand side trail goes to Dhakmar (3820m) and another right hand side uphill trail lead to Choya La Pass (3870m) then after descend and flat walk to Charang (3560m). Charang is a maze of fields, willow trees and houses separated by stone walls, Chorten Gate, red Gompa and greatest library in Lo (Old palace) Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.

Day 09

Tsarang trek to Lo-Manthang (3,810 m)

Today, trek trail to Lo-Manthang with a magnificent view of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna and Bhrikuti peak. The trail first descends to Charang Khola and then climbs steeply after crossing the river (Khola). Further the trail ascends gently to the 3,950m windy pass of Lo, from where you can see the Lo-Manthang Valley. While descending to Lo-Manthang (3810m), views of the walled city appear magnificent with its hills on the Tibetan Border. Finally you reach at Lo-manthang then visit Royal Palace, Monasteries and town. Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.

Day 10

Explore around Lo-Mangthang (3,810 m)

Today we explore the surrounding areas. Visit Namgyal Gompa and Tingkhar. Namgyal Gompa situated on a hilltop serves as an important monastery of the local community and also as a local court. After visiting Namgyal Gompa continue the tour to Tingkhar, the last main village to the northwest of Lo-Manthang and stroll back to hotel. Or you may hire horse to go to Chosar village to see the beautiful two Gompa (monasteries) called Garphu and Nyphu Gompas as well as Chosar village is main trading route to Lhasa (Tibet) and return to Lo-manthang (3,810 m) overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.

Day 12

Dhakmar trek to Ghiling (3,570 m)

Today the trek trail descend alongside a stream passing the stone walls and fields of the wide village of Dhakmar, the climb to a ridge chorten and onto a ridge at 3710m. After that descend to another stream and makes a short climb to the upper part of Ghami (3520m). Descend to lower part of Ghami then climb up to Ghami La (3765m) and continue climb up to Nyi La (4010m). After small descend you will meet two route one right hand side trail goes to Shyangbochen (3800m) through Tamagaon and left hand side trail goes all the way down hill to Ghiling (3570m). Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.

Day 13

Ghiling trek to Chhuksang (2,980 m)

Today first trek trail climb up to Shyangbochen La (3850m) then gently descend to Shyangbochen (3800m). Near by Shyangbochen there are two trails to go for Samar (3660m). One left hand side trail goes to through Ranchung Cave and another right hand side trail lead to Samar village which is we are going to follow the trail that goes passing through Yamdo La (3920m), then gentle descend to Bhena La (3860m) then continue descend to Samar village (3660m) but better to consult with your guide before choose the trail from Shyangbochen junction because if you are not walking good then he will choose the trail which will be more easier. After Samar you will be short climb and all the way descend through Chele to the Kali Gandaki. Trek downstream to Chhuksang (2980m) Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.

Day 14

Chhuksang trek to Jomsom (2,720 m)

Today is quite long day trek from Chhuksang to Jomsom but Trekkers will be manage it because if they camp between is more short and not interesting short walk at the end of trekking. During the trek from Chhuksang to Kagbeni (2800m) we have scenic picturesque place to stop through the sandy and windy trails. This trail follows the gentle up and more downhill with narrow alleys amongst white washed houses, fields of buckwheat, barley, wheat and apple orchards. With beautiful walk you will reach at Kagbeni (2800m) in Lunch time and better to take a lunch then start your about 3 hours journey to Jomsom through Ekle Bhatti (2740m). It is windy at afternoon it makes little hard to walk but you are walking in flat and gentle downhill trail so journey will be fantastic. Jomsom is quite big town in Mustang region. Finally you cross the bridge at Kali Kandaki River after that level walk then reach close to Jomsom (2720m) Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.

Day 15

Jomsom Flight to Pokhara (850 m)

Today, you will take the early morning flight which again will give close-up views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Annapurna range and you are flying about 25 minutes flight in a small aircraft. After arrival in Pokhara airport drive to hotel check-in your hotel and relax or do your own activities in Pokhara or look around lakeside. Overnight at hotel.

Day 16

Pokhara drive tourist bus to Kathmandu (1,350 m)

It takes about seven hours, while driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you head up to Damauli,, Dumre, Muglin and Kurintar where the Nepal's first Cable car is operated to reach to Manakamana Temple. En route, you could enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people being engaged in their daily life activities. From Naubishe you climb up to Thankot, the gateway to the capital city. You can also fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu, which takes about 25 minutes, but you will have to pay the airfare. Overnight Hotel.

Day 17

Leisure day in Kathmandu

Today, you have leisure day for relax or shopping in Kathmandu, so you can do your own activities by yourself or consult with company to arrange extra activities. Overnight at hotel.

Day 18

Depart Kathmandu

After breakfast, End of our services with departure transfer to the Kathmandu airport to board flight for your onward destination.

Note

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Upper Mustang Trek Map and Elevation

Map and Elevation data coming soon...

Price Includes

Price Excludes

Note

The pricing is based on our standard plan suited for most customers. We also provide tailored solutions including both Budget and Premium Plans. Feel free to reach out to us directly.

Packing List for the Upper Mustang Trek

This ultimate gear guide is designed to help you prepare smartly without a smartphone, and with no fluff, just essentials. Here’s what you’ll need across documents, clothing, equipment, and more.

Clothing

  • Thermal underwear (top & bottom)
  • Moisture-wicking T-shirts (2–3)
  • Thermal or wool socks (4–5 pairs)
  • Underwear (quick-dry)
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Lightweight wool sweater
  • Insulated jacket (-10°C to -20°C)
  • Waterproof shell jacket with hood
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Lightweight hiking pants (2 pairs)
  • Windproof softshell (optional)
  • Warm hat, sun hat, buff or neck gaiter
  • Gloves (liner + insulated)
  • Sleepwear and casual evening clothes

Footwear

  • Waterproof trekking boots (broken-in)
  • Camp shoes or sandals
  • Wool trekking socks (3–4 pairs)
  • Sock liners (optional)

Bags & Packing

  • Duffle bag (60–80L for porter)
  • Daypack (25–35L with rain cover)
  • Backpack rain cover
  • Garbage bags / bag liners
  • Packing cubes or dry bags (optional)

Sleeping Gear

  • Sleeping bag (-10°C to -20°C rated)
  • Sleeping bag liner

Personal Hygiene & Toiletries

  • Biodegradable soap & shampoo
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper
  • Lip balm (SPF) & sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Nail clippers, tweezers
  • Razor (optional)

Trekking Essentials

  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp (extra batteries)
  • Water bottles (2 x 1L Nalgene)
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Dry snacks (energy bars, trail mix)
  • Pocket knife (optional)
  • Altitude sickness meds (Diamox)
  • Blister treatment (moleskin, Compeed)

First Aid & Health

  • Personal first aid kit
  • Prescription medications
  • Electrolyte powder
  • Basic cold/flu medicine

Electronics & Miscellaneous

  • Power bank
  • Charging cables
  • Travel adapter (Nepal types C, D, M)
  • Phone / camera
  • Offline maps or trekking guide app
  • Notebook, pen
  • Copies of passport & permits
  • Extra passport photos
  • Cash (Nepali rupees)

Documents & Permits

  • Passport (original)
  • Travel insurance with high-altitude coverage
  • Annapurna Conservation area project entry permit
  • Upper Mustang special Permit

Upper Mustang Trek FAQ

Overview & Essentials

Typically, packages include accommodation, meals during the trek, guide and porter services, permits, and ground transportation. Flight costs, insurance, and personal expenses are usually excluded.
While prior trekking experience helps, most treks are designed to be achievable with average fitness. Some high-altitude treks may require conditioning or preparation beforehand.
There is no strict age limit, but participants should be reasonably fit. Trekkers above 60 or with health conditions should consult a doctor before the trip.

Arrival & Visa

Most travelers require a tourist visa, which can often be obtained on arrival or online. Check your country’s embassy website for up-to-date visa policies.
Airport pickup is often included in the tour package. If not, taxis or pre-arranged transport options are available and reliable.
Yes, arriving early is a great way to rest and adjust before your trek. We can help arrange additional accommodations if needed.

Health & Safety

Guides are trained in first aid and will assist you immediately. In serious cases, evacuation (often by helicopter) can be arranged. Travel insurance with emergency coverage is strongly recommended.
Yes, especially above 2,500 meters. Our itineraries are designed with gradual acclimatization and rest days to help prevent it. Drinking water, eating well, and resting are key.
Yes, all certified guides are trained in altitude awareness, first aid, and emergency protocols to ensure your safety throughout the trek.

Weather & Temperature

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the most popular trekking seasons with stable weather and clear skies.
Temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially at higher altitudes. Days are usually moderate, but proper layering is important.
Yes, extreme weather can cause delays, especially for flights or high passes. We always try to adjust plans safely and flexibly.

Accommodation & Facilities

Accommodations are usually in local lodges or tea houses with basic amenities—clean beds, shared bathrooms, and dining halls.
Some lodges offer hot showers for an additional fee, but availability may be limited at higher altitudes.
Charging is available in most lodges for a fee. Power supply may be limited or solar-based, so bring a power bank as backup.

Packing & Gear

You’ll need layered clothing, good trekking boots, a daypack, a sleeping bag (if not provided), and basic toiletries. A detailed packing list will be shared upon booking.
Yes, you can rent most essential gear like down jackets, sleeping bags, and poles from local shops at affordable rates.
Keep your daypack light with only essentials (water, snacks, jacket). The porter will carry your main bag, usually limited to 10–15 kg.

Reviews

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Profile of Nathan Reynolds
Nathan Reynolds
5/5
“I highly recommend Alpine Adventure Club Treks & Expedition. Binod Thapa and his staff are friendly and professional, ensuring complete satisfaction. The guide and porter were knowledgeable and organized the best accommodations, making the trek comfortable and enjoyable. All my questions were promptly answered, easing any concerns about booking online....”

All Inclusive Price

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per person (varies with group size)

Group Discounts

  • 2–3 pax$2685/pp
  • 4–7 pax$2650/pp
  • 8–11 pax$2585/pp
  • 12+ pax$2485/pp
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