Long-standing medieval towns, Tibetan royal palaces, cliffside caves, and ancient monasteries like Lhakhang largely encapsulate the Upper Mustang Trek. But beyond the shadow of the walled city, there’s another Upper Mustang, where nature prevails. In this part of the trek, you’ll witness a dramatic landscape that strikes a contrast between the vast Tibetan plateaus and splendid red cliffs. In the meantime, the Upper Mustang Trekking route unfolds new hidden treasures and charming villages that cannot wait to be discovered.
- Trek through the ancient marvels and iconic landmarks, including Ghar Monastery, Kali Gandaki Gorge, Yama La Pass, and Lo Manthang Palace.
- Insight into Tibetan culture and their rural life in the charming villages of Chele, Charan, Dramkar, and Chhusang.
- An idyllic escapade through the Mustang highlands, Dhumba Lake, windswept landscapes, barren cliffs, and rugged terrain of the Tibetan plateaus.
- A once-in-a-lifetime chance to attend the most prominent festival in the Tibetan Calendar and interact with locals of the Mustang district.
- Enjoy the mesmerizing view of pristine mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Damodar Himal, and Annapurna North.
The trek to Upper Mustang is a journey through time, where each route unravels a layer of natural wonder and fascinating history. It offers trekkers a unique experience as they navigate the razor-edge trails surrounded by towering mountains and sheer cliffs of mixed colors. Although the jeep tour to Upper Mustang is garnering popularity, the trek to the high-altitude rain shadow has its unreplicable allure.
The Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang also provides a glimpse into the ancient culture and traditions of Upper Mustang, which are deeply ingrained in Tibetan Buddhism. It allows visitors to watch the infectious chants of Tibetan monks, uncover holy fossil rocks, participate in local festivals, and observe customary rituals, including the Tiji Festival, which contrasts Upper Mustang with Muktinath.
Your trek to Nepal’s Hidden Kingdom of Upper Mustang begins after a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. This is followed by a quiet journey on a well-paved road beside the Kali Gandaki River, which makes for an easier walk.
Over the next days of your Upper Mustang adventure, you’ll travel to its lesser-known but timeless villages of Chele and Ghami. For this, you’ll make a strenuous journey on a dirt road, passing through deep valleys and crossing Kali Gandaki River gorges, which not only elevates the adventure but also tests your limits.
Despite this, the trek comes with a huge reward. Arriving at each of these beautiful settlements after a long day of trekking brings you a sense of fulfillment and relief. Comfortable local teahouses and warm hospitality with a unique cultural atmosphere enrich your Upper Mustang Adventure.
While Charang sets the stage for the historical understanding of Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang lets you dive deep into it. The Kingdom of Lo gives you a closer look at the centuries-old history and customs of people living in the community,y like Thakali, Lopa, and Gurung.
The walled city of Lo Manthang, with its mud-brick houses and narrow alleys, displays a timeless allure and natural charm. Meanwhile, its historical landmarks, including the majestic royal palace, symbolize the Tibetan heritage and its everlasting legacy.
In this serene village, you’ll discover numerous historic monasteries, colorful Chortens, and prayer walls with significance and architectural wonders. Moreover, these religious sites serve as spiritual sanctuaries for locals and pilgrims, cultivating a deep sense of devotion.
Coming out of Lo Manthang, you’ll continue the Upper Mustang Trekking Expedition and traverse Dhakmar. Dhakmar is a small village resting in a narrow valley, together with red cliffs, which offer a stunning view.
The Upper Mustang hike continues with a gentle descent to Ghiling, where you’re met with a 15th-century monastery and rocky mountains. Besides that, you’ll see traditional mountain homes in Ghiling, which are simple yet imposing with deep cultural ties to Tibet.
On Day 10 of the Upper Mustang Trekking itinerary, you’ll return to Chhusang and further trek to Jomsom on the following day. Finally, you’ll fly to Jomsom on the last day of the Upper Mustang Trek Nepal whilst enjoying the pristine views of snowcapped mountains.
Mustang’s Vibrant Tiji Festival
Lo Manthang is one of the few towns that doesn’t fool around when it comes to its festivals. It does know how to have fun, with the Tiji festival being an epitome of cultural reverence. Observed in spring, Tiji, also known as Tenchi, is an annual festival commemorating a victory of righteousness and collective spirit.
The festival recounts the tale of a mythical legend, Dorje Sonnu (Vajrakila), who fought his evil father to end Mustang’s long drought. As a mark of respect to their savior and to protect the town from evil spirits, monks from the Choedhe Monastery burnt a wooden figurine of the demon.
For three days, they perform an intricate dance, depicting the battle between the demon and the lone warrior. Their main dancer, Tsowo, leads the event after completing his three-month retreat, which involves intense training and mental readiness.
To immerse himself in the character, Tsowo reinforces his spiritual connection to Dorje. He even engages in intensive meditation and a dance routine to enhance the role and bring the attendees on his transformative journey.
The festival sees the royal families and residents gather together to observe the formal ceremony and pooja. The locals make their presence known during the display of Thongdrel as well. This is a religious practice in which a painted Thangka is unrolled from the royal palace.
Itinerary
Upper Mustang Trek Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, Trek to Kagbeni
After leaving the hotel early, you’ll board a flight to Jomsom and remain watchful of the scenic marvel. Needless to say, the flight offers a breathtaking view of pristine mountains with verdant hills. It further treats you to the breathtaking view of the Kali Gandaki Gorge carved through the mountains.
Upon arrival, you’ll trek uphill to the parched plain of Kali Gandaki and through the Kalopani village, which offers a picturesque view. Finally, after three hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Kagbeni, a small and secluded village immersed in nature.
Max Altitude: 2,858m (9,376ft)
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 2 - Trek to Chele
Today, you’ll trek east of the Kali Gandaki River, then to Tangbe in the north. Often considered one of the most charming villages, Tangbe is a web of hidden trails with mud-brick houses and apple farms. Once you leave the village behind, you’ll head to Chhusang, crossing the Kali Gandaki River and ascending steep rocks. After a short uphill trek, you’ll arrive at Chele.
Max Altitude: 3,050m (10,006ft)
Meals: BLD
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 3 - Trek to Syangboche
The trek continues along the arid land and the canyon to Eklo Bhatti. Then you’ll cross the Taklam La Pass and head to charming Samar Village. From there, you’ll descend to a deep, narrow valley and pass through Rangchyung Chortenn to reach Syangboche.
Max Altitude: 3,477m (11,407ft)
Meals: BLD
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 4 - Trek to Ghami via Yamda La, Nyi La and Ghemi La
Today will be a gentle uphill trek to Yamda La on a deserted terrain and through the remote village of Geling. Then you’ll gradually descend the barley fields before weaving to the Himalayan settlement of Tama Gaun. After arriving at Nyi La Pass, you’ll descend the trail to Ghemi.
Max Altitude: 3,520m (11,548ft)
Meals: BLD
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 5 - Trek to Charang via Tsarang La Pass (3870 m)
From Ghami, you’ll make a steep uphill climb to the barren wasteland and continue on a high plateau along the mani walls. You’ll carry on through rough terrain before ascending to Charang La Pass. Perched on an uninhabited desert, Charang La Pass is one of Mustang’s most stunning places.
If you gaze around, you can see the marvelous landscapes with rocky hills and mountains. Next up, you’ll descend to Tsarang, a tiny settlement above the Charang Chu Canyon. Take a stroll through the village to discover the medieval fort and red gompa, which features a beautiful collection of thangkas and statues.
Max Altitude: 3,500m (11,482ft)
Meals: BLD
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 6 - Trek to Lo Manthang
Leaving Charang, you’ll set off on an arduous journey to the Tholung Valley and further up to the village. The views are marvelous as you ascend the trail, surrounded by dunes before arriving at Lo La Pass. After catching a glimpse of Lo Mathang in the distance, you’ll trek downhill to the ancient fortress and finally arrive at the ancient capital of Upper Mustang.
Max Altitude: 3,700m (12,139ft)
Meals: BLD
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 7 - Exploration of Lo Manthang
Take this day to explore the historical town of Lo Manthang and its underrated beauty. Visit the ancient monasteries such as Jampa, Chodey, Thubchen, and Choprang. You must spare some time to walk through the village and experience the unique Tibetan culture and lifestyle.
Other options include a visit to the Square Tower or Dzong, which serves as an administrative center for Lo Manthamng. In the afternoon, you’ll return to the teahouse and spend the night there.
Max Altitude: 3,700m (12,139ft)
Meals: BLD
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 8 - Trek to Dramkar
Now that you’ve explored Lo Manthang, it’s time to ascend to Chogo La Pass at 4,230m. Reaching the highest point, the trail offers you a breathtaking view of Chatarang Valley, while the spectacular mountains unfold before you. Once you cross the pass, the trail heads to Muila Bhanjyang and Dramkar, offering a magnificent view.
Max Altitude: 3,810m (12,500ft)
Meals: BLD
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 9 - Trek from Dramkar to Ghiling
After having breakfast, you’ll start descending the rugged terrain, while enjoying the magnificent view of gigantic snow peaks. On the walk, you’ll arrive at Ghar Monastery, which shines out from afar with its distinguishing red wall and colorful prayer flags.
Continuing onwards, you’ll pass the beautiful village of Ghami and then head to Chemi La through the arid flatland. From there, you’ll go steeply uphill to Yiy La Pass and slowly drop down to Ghiling. You’ll spend the night at a teahouse in Ghiling.
Max Altitude: 3,050m (10,006ft)
Meals: BLD
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 10 - Trek to Chhusang
From Ghiling, the trek is easier and mostly downhill through a small Tibetan village called Samar. Walk further, and you’ll arrive at a sacred place where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) supposedly meditated. He’s a tantric Buddhist master who has contributed greatly to introducing Buddhism in Lo and Tibet.
From there, you’ll follow the trail to the Kali Gandaki riverbed before crossing it through a tunnel and climbing down to Chhusang. You’ll stay overnight in a teahouse in Chhusang.
Max Altitude: 3,050m (10,006ft)
Meals: BLD
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 11 - Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom
Having bid farewell to Chhusang, you’ll descend to Jharkot village. During your time here, you’ll visit the local monastery and explore an ancient fortress along with a newly built Tibetan Herbal Medicine Center.
You’ll follow the trail back to Jomsom while savoring spectacular views of Kagbeni village and Kali Gandaki Valley. After approximately 7 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at this Tibetan-influenced village.
Max Altitude: 2,700m (8,858ft)
Meals: BLD
Accommodation Type: Tea House
Day 12 - Fly back to Pokhara
This morning, you’ll catch a flight to Pokhara from Jomsom, which lasts 20 minutes or so. You’ll fly over the southern Kali Gandaki Valley and to the city of lakes, which charms you with a splendid view.
Max Altitude: 820m (2,690ft)
Meals: Breakfast
Map And Altitude Chart
Upper Mustang Trek Map and Altitude Chart
Interactive Map
Cost Details
Inclusions & Exclusions
What’s Included
- Meals:
16 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 11 Dinners
- Accommodation:
3-Star accommodation in Kathmandu for 3 nights
3-Star accommodation in Pokhara for 2 nights
Tea house accommodation along the way for 11 nights
- Transportation:
All land transportation with pickups and drops
Domestic Flight to Jomsom from Pokhara and back
- Guides and Porters:
One guide and assistant guide between 6 people
1 porter for two people (A porter can carry up to 30 kg)
- Entry Fees and Permits:
Restricted Area Permit Fee
TIMS Card
Monument Entrance Fee
- Miscellaneous:
Down jacket, a Sleeping bag, which should be refunded to the company after the trip
Necessary paperwork with the government of Nepal and the Tax Department
First Aid service in case of minor injuries
- One-day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
What’s Excluded
- Any meals other than breakfast in Kathmandu
- Rescue & travel insurance, trip cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, evacuation, loss, theft or damage to baggage and personal effects (We strongly advise you to take out personal travel insurance.)
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to any reason
- Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, cold drinks, bottled or boiled water, hot shower, etc.)
- All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including mineral water
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Tipping for the Sublime crew
Reviews
Client’ Testimonials and their Experiences
Trekking to reach an Ancient City of Lo Manthang
I knew Nepal was an amazing country but if somebody had told me this amazing then I would not waste so many years of my life waiting for a perfect time. When I was in Kathmandu on the first day, I thought oh well, it is a nice city, not like any place I have seen but as the trek started, I couldn't believe my eyes sometimes, I would see around and question myself, is this real? That's how incredible Mustang is.
Yes, the trek was very hard and our guide did everything possible to make it less hard, they would crack jokes, they would tell stories and be the one to help us and the locals communicate. They answered all our silly questions with utter seriousness. I can't tell I have traveled to many places but by my experience, if you travel to such places, you will learn a lot about life beyond technology and modern facilities.
Mustang was amazing, even if we travelled in monsoon, there was no rain unlike in Kathmandu. Some days were hard, some were fine but some were so beautiful that it is bound to make you want to come here again.
Essential
Know Everything Before You Go Upper Mustang Trek
How difficult is the Upper Mustang Trek?
The Upper Mustang Trek may not be a high-altitude challenge, but it still presents its own set of difficulties. The trek isn’t arduous but also not a walk in the park. It involves several ups and downs at a sheer altitude. Some of its journeys are relatively more demanding than others, involving steeper sections and rocky paths.
While trekking in Upper Mustang is mostly below 4000m, the elevation gain is rather continuous, prompting the risk of altitude sickness. The remoteness of Upper Mustang combined with rugged terrain doesn’t help either, making the journey slightly challenging.
But don’t fear, since the Upper Mustang Trek is pretty doable as long as you’re fit and mentally prepared. Acclimatization is key to the Upper Mustang Trek, so you must rest well before any ascent to higher altitude.
Best time for Upper Mustang Trek
The busiest season in Upper Mustang is primarily Spring and Autumn as travelers flock to the town to enjoy good weather and cultural festivals. These seasons bear favorable weather conditions and a preferable temperature of around 10 to 15 Degrees Celsius -perfect for strolling the stone alleys and trekking rugged terrains.
However, the trekking season in Upper Mustang isn’t confined to it all since travelers can visit the walled capital in summer as well. The months between June and August witness warm weather and great visibility, making for a great trekking experience.
Meanwhile, winter presents significant challenges for trekkers. From December to February, the region experiences cold temperatures and snowfalls, making trekking conditions harsher than any other season.
Accommodation on the Upper Mustang Trek
The accommodation during the Upper Mustang Trek is in a simple mountain teahouse run by local families. They offer basic services with cozy dwellings, making your stay comfortable and restful.
The teahouses in Mustang provide a well-accommodated room of ample size that consists of warm bedding, mattresses, and pillows. Some teahouses even offer an extra duvet on request of travelers.
While the shared accommodation option is more prevalent here, you can still opt for a private room if you want. While they aren’t budget-friendly, private rooms provide a more personalized trekking experience than the group dwelling. They also cost a bit more.
Menu items include the classic Nepali Dal Bhat and other region-specific specialties.
Necessary fees and permits for Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang region is a restricted area in Nepal, meaning trekkers must secure the necessary permits before entering. They must obtain three permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit, Restricted Area Permit, and TIMS Card.
For access, foreigners have to pay USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and an additional USD 50 for any extended time. They are further required to pay NRS 2000 for the TIMS Card, while the ACAP permit costs NRS 3000.
So that you know, Upper Mustang doesn’t permit solo trekking and requires at least two people to grant access. Hence, an individual trekker must join an existing group or travel in a close-knit group to meet the requirement.