Upper Mustang Trek - 17 days

Things to Know
  • Duration17 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Altitude 3,840m at Lo Manthang
  • Trip Type Trekking | Hiking
  • Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Time Feb-Jun, Sep-Nov
What You’ll Do
  • Experience a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom with stunning Himalayan views.
  • Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the heart of the hidden kingdom.
  • Discover centuries-old monasteries, sky caves, and sacred Buddhist sites.
  • Enjoy the magnificent valley of the Kali Gandaki River and its dramatic landscapes.
  • Walk through the colorful cliffs, canyons, and high mountain passes of the trans-Himalayan region.
  • Witness the rich Tibetan-influenced culture and daily life of the local Mustang people.
  • Visit Muktinath Temple, an important spiritual site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Capture panoramic mountain views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna ranges.
  • Experience the unique desert beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Upper Mustang.
  • Trek through a rain-shadow region, ideal for trekking even during monsoon season.

The Upper Mustang Trek takes you into the remote and fascinating world of Mustang, a hidden Himalayan region near the Tibetan border. Known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Upper Mustang is famous for its dry landscapes, ancient villages, Buddhist monasteries, caves, and unique Tibetan culture. The trek begins from Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang, and continues through the dramatic landscapes of the Mustang region towards Lo Manthang, the historic capital of the former Kingdom of Lo. Along the way, you will see ancient monasteries, traditional stone villages, caves, colorful rock formations, and beautiful Himalayan views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. Lo Manthang is the cultural heart of the journey. Explore Namgyal Gompa, Tingkhar village, the former King's Palace, and the traditional Tibetan Buddhist lifestyle of the local people. You can also visit Ghar Gompa, believed to be more than 1,200 years old and closely connected with Guru Rinpoche. The Upper Mustang Trek is a moderate-to-challenging high-altitude journey, generally walking around 5–7 hours a day. The dry climate, strong winds, and high altitude make the trek different from other popular routes in Nepal, but the unique landscapes and ancient culture make it truly worthwhile.

The Secrets of Upper Mustang

Lo Manthang – The Hidden Kingdom of the Himalayas

Lo Manthang is the historic capital of Upper Mustang, known for its ancient walls, narrow streets, traditional houses, and Buddhist monasteries. Once the center of the former Kingdom of Lo, the town still preserves its unique Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions. Namgyal Monastery is one of the important cultural sites, while the famous Tiji Festival brings the town to life with colorful dances, prayers, and traditional rituals.

Ancient Caves and Himalayan Landscapes

Upper Mustang is often known as “Himal Paari ko Gaon,” meaning the village beyond the mountains. The region is famous for its dry, dramatic landscapes, unusual rock formations, and ancient caves carved into the cliffs. These caves were once used as homes and shelters, and some are believed to have been places of meditation for Buddhist monks and spiritual teachers.

Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang

The Tiji Festival is one of the most important festivals of Upper Mustang and is usually celebrated in May, although the exact dates change each year. The festival represents the victory of good over evil and is celebrated with traditional dances, prayers, and Buddhist rituals. For travelers, visiting Upper Mustang during Tiji is a special opportunity to experience the region's Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient traditions, and local way of life.

 

    Itinerary
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    • Altitude1,400m
    • AccommodationHotel

    The Iconic Holiday Nepal team will welcome you at the Tribhuwan International Airport terminal on your arrival day. You can see our team holding a play card with our company name. Then they will transfer you to the hotel via private transfer.

    • Altitude820 m
    • Accommodation3 star hotel
    • Time6-7 hours

    Our trekking staff will pick you up from the hotel and escort you to the tourist bus station. The bus to Pokhara leaves at around 7 am. Pokhara is a beautiful valley set on the banks of Phewa Lake.

    • Altitude2,800 m
    • AccommodationTea House
    • Time6-7 hrs

    Drive from Pokhara to Kagbeni via private transfer, enjoying one of the most scenic journeys in Nepal. Along the way, you will witness stunning waterfalls, relax at natural hot springs, explore the charming Marpha Village, and visit the vibrant Jomsom Bazaar.

    • Altitude3100 m
    • AccommodationTea House
    • Time5-6 hours

    We submit our upper mustang special trekking permit at the Kagbeni checkpoint before continuing beautiful mineral landscapes to the village of Tangbe (3060m). The village seems silent, with lots of Buddhists monuments like painted chortens, old ruined fort, surrounded village by fields of barley. We pass inside the village and move towards Chuksang village where we lunch along the eastern bank of the Kali Gandaki River. We can see in this day, the beautiful mountains Nilgiri (7061m) and in the day mountains like Dajori La pass (3650m) from where we enjoy a superb view of the Damodhar Himal and Annapurna range. We cross the river and steep part to arrive our camp Chele (3100m), small colorful village with Buddhist monuments.

    • Altitude3,800 m
    • AccommodationTea House
    • Time5-6 hours

    Upper Mustang Trek difficulty level will increase slightly as you will gain an elevation of around 800 meters. We pass through ghyakar Gurung village (3562m), we start to climb up gradually, and downs and steep climb up to Samar village(3620m), where we lunch. This day is long day of walk as we go to visit the Rangchung cave of Buddhist, Guru Rimpoche with up and down path. We can drink a tea by lama. And really steep scents up to our camp Syangboche village (3800m). We might be tired in this day.

    • Altitude3820 m
    • AccommodationTea House
    • Time6-7 hours

    Small climb up to Syangboche la pass (3850m) with big old stupa and perfect view of Gheling village and visit monasteries and start to climb up towards Nya La Pass (4020m), we descends towards Ghami la (3765m) and arrive at Ghami pretty big village (3510m), where we stop for the lunch break. We cross through the middle of village by turning the prayer wheels in manies and stupas. Beautiful typical Tibetan styles houses. and cross the river and passing by the old big stupas and ascents gradually to Dhakmar village (3820m). We can see the different landscapes at Dhakmar, imposing natural red earth fortress pierced by troglodyte.

    • Altitude3,840 m
    • AccommodationTea House
    • Time7 hours

    This day is very important day that we arrive at the capital of this region (Lo-mathang). We climb up to Mui la Pass (4170m). Descents slowly towards 'Ghar Gompa" (3920m) is the oldest monastry. The pure virtue of Nyingmpa secte, scriptures of Padhmashambhava. We take of packed lunch in this day and climb up to another second pass of the day, we lunch just before arriving the second pass of Chogo La (4280m). It seems as we change the valley, we can see open valley and descends towards the Lo-manthang village, the mythical capital of the kingdom of Mustang, which was founded by Ame Pal at the end of the 14th centaury. This village was only accessible throught two gates which were closed at night. Lo-manthang is historical, Tibetan culture with 3 big monasteries and we can see the people regrouping at the center of village, just infront of the gate of the palace royal.

    • Altitude3,840 m
    • AccommodationTea House
    • Time4-5 hours

    Today is the day for acclimatization and explore Lo-Manthang and it's region. We don't have lots of time to visit Lo-Manthang village et to explore near it's area. That's we reserve local transportation to gain our time, Breakfast early in the morning and reserve local jeeps to go Chosar cave, Jhong and Nyiphu monasteries. Like most cave complexes in Mustang, these caves were probably dug during the first millennium BCE, perhaps during the second, when the Bonpo kingdom of Zhang Zhung was at the height of its power. We lunch over there, and return back to Lo-Manthang to visit the visit the main sites and monuments of Lo Manthang: the Jhampa Lhakang which houses a huge statue of Buddha as well as superb mandalas, the monasteries of Thubchen and Chodey, Royal palace and village. The distance from Lo-Manthang to the Tibetan border is around 50 kilometers. Lo-Manthang served as the main commercial junction for garments and salt between Nepal and Tibet. We sleep for the second night in the same lodge.

    • Altitude3620m
    • AccommodationTea House
    • Time6 hours

    Time to return back but not from the same way, today, you will depart from Lo-Manthang and go via Lo La before arriving in Dhi, we leave the path which lead to Tsarang village and walk through the magnificent balcony path. This is the beginning of a magnificent Upper Mustang Trekking with Muktinath that will offer an incredible panoramic view of the surroundings and the view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Arriving at a small pass (4000m) overlooking the village of Dhi. The scenic settlement is situated along the banks of the Kali Gandaki, where you can find a collection of homes, a stretch of fields, and some trees and descend in a landscape of fairy chimneys that water and wind have slowly shaped. A lovely village named Yara is located far above the river. Like most of the villages in the Upper Mustang, this one has terraced fields as well as a collection of traditional houses and we pierced by a seventeen-story troglodyte city on climbing up to Yara. We might meet a group of enterprising local women selling bracelets and other souvenir in the way before arriving our camp at Yara village.

    • Altitude3600m
    • AccommodationTea House
    • Time6 hours

    We head towards Luri Gompa, by following the small river and visit Tashi Kabum cave, which is in the cliff of the mountain. he Newar style suggests that the artists were from the Kathmandu valley. The luri Gompa (3880m) is also dug into the cliff, surrounded by impressive fairy chimneys. It is in a very small room, where we can see a old and beautiful decorate Stupas, probably dating of around 13th century. And we back towards to our camp, before we stop for the lunch break at a small village Gharagaon.

    • Altitude3240m
    • AccommodationTea House
    • Time5-6 hours

    From Yara village, we ascend and descend via a peculiar cliff and cross numerous beautiful plateaus and long climb to a pass at 3700m. That day is fablous day to walk on the open plateau, with the magnificent views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Mustang himal. We steep descent towards the Dhechyang Khola river, in summer time, we have to cross it early in the morning, in day time, the glacier melt and the river flow up in big size. We stop for the tea break (3400m), and start to climb of steep part up to the top second pass of the day (4015m), we descend for a while and take a packed lunch. After, gradually, descends at the steep at the end, we then reach at the hidden but beautiful scenery surrounds the settlement, including a wide riverbed and the iconic Mustang Mountains beautiful. We can take a good photos of village with it's Stupas and stone walls inside the village.

    • Altitude2980 m
    • AccommodationTea House
    • Time8-9 hours

    This day, we have to wake up early in the morning, one of the hard and longest day of walk of this Upper Mustang trek but most beautiful. No logdes, tea shop on the way before we arrive at Chhusang. We cross the two rivers, and steep descends towards the Paa Pass (4183m). After few downs and up, we stop for our packed lunch, near small water stream. After the way is easy for a while with magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and Nilgiri snow-capped peaks are also visible in the distance and passesing through more climbing and declining. We can see some extremely amazing rock formations, including hordes of sharp rocky pinnacles, when we start to descends towards Chhusang. During the hike from Tangge to Chhusang, we can see the witness a Himalayan salt mine in Nepal. We arrive at the evening only. Not to forget to put lamp in the day bag.

    • Altitude3800m
    • AccommodationHotel
    • Time6-7 hrs

    We start our day, passing through Tetang village and start to attack Gyu La pass (4050m), from where we can observe spectacular Himalayan views of Dhaulagiri (8167m), Nilgiri (7061m), Thorang la Peak (6144m), Tilicho Peak (7134m) and Muktinath Himal. We pass through some small villages like Jhong, Chyongur and climb towards the holy and scared pilgrims place of Hindu and Buddhist in the same centaury. We can see the 108 bathing spouts, a Buddhist monastery at the same place at the last one, we can see the everlasting flame which was left by the creator of universe Hindu god Bramaha.This is the important junction of Upper Mustang trek , Kaligandaki trek and Annapurna circuit trek. After crossing the famous summit of Thorang La Pass (5416m), we descents and arrive at Muktinath village/city. Mukti (liberation), Nath (The god). We can see lots of pilgrims indienne, Nepalis and tourists.

     

    • Altitude2800m
    • AccommodationHotel
    • Time6 hours

    Today is also, on of the best day for the scenery and views of magnificent Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Thorang Peak, Tilicho Peak and Tukche Peak. From Muktinath we climb up towards some small passes and walk on the balcony for a while. We descends down and cross the suspension bridge to our lunch camp village "Bon Po" religon village Lupra. It's hidden and charming settlement small village. Newly discover village for the trekkeres. The broad, level path from these communities continues along Panda River until it joins the route to Jomsom, the administrative center of the Mustang district, which is situated along the banks of the windy Kali Gandaki River valley. Possible to take the bus/jeep after 1 hour of walk from Lubra to go to Jomsom. It's windy valley after around 10/11 am. The last day of the trek with Nepali staffs.

    • Altitude822 m
    • AccommodationHotel
    • Time5-6 hrs

    Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara, covering a distance of 151 km in approximately 5–6 hours. This scenic journey takes you through beautiful landscapes, river valleys, and charming Himalayan villages, offering a memorable travel experience.

    • Altitude1400m
    • AccommodationHotel
    • Time6 km

    After breakfast, head to Kathmandu via private transfer, covering approximately 200 km. The journey follows the scenic Prithvi Highway, offering beautiful views of rivers, hills, and local villages along the way.

      Return back flight to the destination.

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      Trip Map
      Upper Mustang Trek - 17 days map
      Trip Cost Details
      Included
      • Airports pick up on arrival day by private vehicle
      • Accomodation Kathmandu and Pokhara in a 3 star hotel with breakfast | twin sharing basis
      • Transportation Kathmandu - Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu via Tourist bus
      • Transportation from Pokhara to Kagbeni and Jomsom to Pokhara via Private transportation 
      • 3 meals (Breakfast, Lunch & dinner) during Trek with Tea | Coffee
      • Best accommodation at tea houses during trekking | twin sharing basis
      • English speaking local guide service trained by government of Nepal
      • Experience trekking staffs (2 guest =1 porter basic) to carry the backpack
      • All necessary mustang trekking permits (ACAP, Restricted area Permit) and local taxes
      • Travel and rescue arrangements if require
      • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
      Excluded
      • Visa fee | Nepal Visa information
      • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
      • Extra nights accomodation
      • Personal expenses phone calls, mineral water, bar bills, hot shower, battery recharge, extra porters & gears etc
      • Tips for guides, porters (Tipping are expected but not mandatory)
      Useful Info

      A Perfect Monsoon Trek in Nepal

      Most trekking routes in Nepal are best in spring and autumn, but Upper Mustang is one of the best trekking destinations for the monsoon season. The region lies in the rain-shadow area of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, so it receives much less rainfall than other parts of Nepal. This makes the Upper Mustang Trek in June, July, and August a great option when many other trekking trails are affected by the monsoon. The dry landscape, blue skies, colorful cliffs, and ancient villages look especially beautiful during this season. The trek can also be combined with the Annapurna Circuit Trek, allowing travelers to experience both the classic Annapurna trail and the remote landscapes of Mustang.

      Upper Mustang Trek or Jeep or Bike Tour

      Today, a road reaches Lo Manthang from Jomsom, making it possible to explore Upper Mustang by jeep, motorcycle. A jeep tour is a good option for travelers with limited time, while trekking offers a much deeper experience of the region. Walking through the ancient villages gives you more time to enjoy the landscapes, interact with local people, visit monasteries, and explore places that are not easily accessible by vehicle. The road can also be rough and dusty, and rapid changes in altitude during a jeep journey can make acclimatization more challenging. For travelers who enjoy adventure, Upper Mustang cycling tours and motorcycle journeys are also becoming popular.

      Kaligandaki River, Gorge and Shaligram

      The Kaligandaki River flows through the Mustang region and has great geographical and religious importance. The river runs through the famous Kaligandaki Gorge, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The river is also known for Shaligram, sacred fossils traditionally regarded by Hindus as a form of Lord Vishnu. These black ammonite fossils are found along the river and hold deep religious significance for Hindu and Buddhist communities.

      New Upper Mustang Permit System

      The Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit system has become more flexible in 2026. Previously, travelers had to pay a fixed USD 500 for the first 10 days, even if they planned to stay for only a few days. This higher upfront cost was a barrier for many travelers, particularly those planning short jeep, motorcycle, or customized trips. Under the new system, the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit costs USD 50 per person per day, so travelers pay according to the actual number of days they spend inside the restricted area.

      FAQs

      • There are many Upper Mustang Trek itineraries ranging from a minimum of 10 days to a maximum of 18 days starting from Kathmandu and navigating back. These itineraries have a lot to offer in terms of the radiating history of the former Kingdom of  Lo Manthang, distinct geography, and remarkable rituals.

      • The best time for Upper Mustang Trek is March–May and September–November, offering clear skies, pleasant weather, and excellent mountain views. June–August is also suitable because Upper Mustang lies in the rain-shadow area, receiving very little monsoon rainfall. This makes it one of Nepal’s best monsoon trekking destinations

      • Yes, trekking without a guide is not allowed in the Mustang Region. Now, solo trekkers are also allowed but must have a guide with them.

      • Yes, you need to spend money along the trail for various purposes like Wi-Fi, snacks, hot showers, etc.

      • Trekking above 3,000 meters carries a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and other altitude-related health issues. Travel insurance with medical coverage ensures you can receive prompt treatment in case of illness. It is highly recommended to have emergency medical evacuation coverage, as remote trekking areas often lack immediate access to hospitals. This ensures timely and professional care, potentially saving lives in critical situations.

      • International travellers need two permits to enter Upper Mustang: the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The RAP is required to enter the restricted area of Upper Mustang, and under the new permit system, it is now charged on a day-wise basis at USD 50 per person per day, making shorter trips more affordable and flexible. The ACAP is also required as the region lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area. This new day-wise permit system is especially convenient for travelers planning short Upper Mustang treks, jeep tours, and motorcycle trips.

      • Trekkers in Nepal are allowed to trek as FIT (Free Individual Trekker) or in a group of various sizes. However, there are certain trekking regions known as 'Restricted Areas' that are highly regulated by the Government of Nepal and hence FITs are strictly forbidden. Trekking in these areas is allowed only upon acquiring permit from the Department of Immigration.  Interested trekkers should contact the authorized trekking agencies who then can apply for permits (on behalf of trekkers) at the Department of Immigration fulfilling all the necessary formalities. Trekkers should be trekking in a group (of minimum two persons) accompanied by licensed trekking guide.Individual trekker cannot apply for the permit.

      Price fromUS$2200(per person)
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