Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport where our representative welcomes you to Nepal. You’ll be transferred to your hotel and given time to rest after your journey. In the evening, meet your trekking guide for a briefing about the Upper Mustang trek and enjoy a welcome Nepali dinner. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
Upper Mustang Trek - 15 Days
Overview
The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most unique and culturally rich trekking experiences, taking you deep into the Mustang region, often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” This trek is perfect for travelers who want to explore remote Himalayan landscapes, desert-like terrains, and traditional Tibetan culture without the crowds of popular trekking routes.
The journey begins from Jomsom, following the Kali Gandaki Valley, and gradually ascends to the Upper Mustang region, passing through small villages, barren cliffs, and windswept plateaus. Along the way, trekkers witness traditional Tibetan-style houses, ancient monasteries, and prayer walls, offering an authentic glimpse into a culture largely untouched by modern influences.
One of the highlights of the trek is Lo Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang. Here, visitors can explore ancient palaces, monasteries, and local markets, and engage with friendly locals who preserve centuries-old traditions. The trails also offer spectacular views of Himalayan peaks, including Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna ranges, contrasted against Mustang’s arid desert-like landscapes, creating a surreal trekking experience.
Accommodation along the trek is in tea houses and lodges, providing basic yet comfortable rooms and locally prepared meals. Experienced guides and porters assist with navigation, safety, and cultural insights. Daily trekking is generally 4–6 hours, allowing trekkers to enjoy the unique scenery, take photographs, and immerse themselves in the culture.
Over the course of the trek, travelers experience quiet trails, ancient villages, sacred monasteries, and stunning desert landscapes, making it ideal for photographers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. By the end of the journey, trekkers return to Jomsom or Pokhara, carrying unforgettable memories of Mustang’s mystical beauty, Lo Manthang, and Himalayan grandeur.
Take a scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers. The road winds through terraced fields, riverside villages, and lush hills. Upon reaching Pokhara, enjoy your free time by exploring Lakeside or relaxing by Phewa Lake. Overnight at hotel in Pokhara.
Catch an early morning scenic flight to Jomsom, offering sweeping Himalayan views. From Jomsom, begin trekking along the Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni, a charming medieval village marking the gateway to Upper Mustang. Kagbeni is known for its mud-brick houses, narrow alleys, and Tibetan Buddhist culture. Overnight at lodge.
After permits are checked in Kagbeni, follow sandy trails through Mustang’s windswept desert valley. The walk features cliffs, ridges, and panoramic views of Nilgiri and Tilicho peaks. Passing small hamlets, you eventually reach Chele, a ridge-top village with stone houses and barley fields. Overnight at lodge.
Climb gradually via Ekle Bhatti and over Taklam La (3,624m), with views of Tilicho Peak and Yakawa Kang. The route winds across plateaus, gorges, and narrow paths carved into the cliffs. Tibetan culture becomes more prominent as you pass chortens and mani walls. Reach Syangboche, a small settlement with spectacular mountain scenery. Overnight at lodge.
The day begins with an ascent to Yamada La (3,850m), passing Tibetan villages and fields of buckwheat. After crossing the Nyi La Pass (4,010m), descend to Ghami, one of Mustang’s largest villages. The landscape features barren cliffs, colorful canyons, and Buddhist shrines. Overnight at lodge.
Cross the Ghami Khola and ascend to a plateau, then walk beside Mustang’s longest mani wall, built from stones carved with prayers. The trail continues through dry terrain, with views of distant snow peaks. Arrive at Charang, a village known for its red-walled monastery and maze of fields. Overnight at lodge.
Trek from Charang to Dhakmar
Spend the day exploring Lo-Manthang and its surroundings. Visit Namgyal Gompa, perched on a hill, and Tingkhar, the last main village in the northwest. Optional hikes include Chhosar’s cave dwellings and monasteries. This day provides deep cultural immersion into Mustang’s Tibetan Buddhist heritage. Overnight at lodge.
The return journey begins via a different route. Trek through Gyakar to visit Ghar Gompa, a 1,200-year-old monastery linked to Guru Rinpoche. Local legends say wishes made here come true. Continue across high desert terrain to Drakmar, a village beneath striking red cliffs. Overnight at lodge.
A morning trek takes you across ridges and fields before descending into Ghiling. Afternoon winds often bring dust, so it’s best to reach the village earlier in the day. Ghiling is a traditional settlement with a monastery, surrounded by barley fields and open landscapes. Overnight at lodge.
The trail descends gradually along Mustang’s desert-like landscapes. Passing Tibetan chortens and caves, you’ll enjoy views of distant peaks before reaching Chhuksang. This village lies at the confluence of two rivers and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Overnight at lodge.
The final trekking day follows the Kali Gandaki River back toward Jomsom. Enjoy panoramic mountain views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna ranges. Jomsom, a bustling town, marks the end of the Upper Mustang trail. Overnight at lodge.
Take a short morning flight back to Pokhara, with stunning views of the Annapurnas. Spend the afternoon exploring Lakeside, visiting temples, or relaxing by Phewa Lake. Overnight at hotel in Pokhara.
Drive from Muktinath to Jomsom
After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure. The Upper Mustang Trek concludes with memories of ancient Tibetan culture, desert valleys, and Himalayan grandeur.
Farewell Departure
Cost Includes
- Professional trekking guide and support staff for safety and navigation.
- Accommodation in tea houses and lodges along the trail.
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
- All necessary trekking permits, including Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit and TIMS card.
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu (arrival and departure).
- Transportation to and from the trailhead.
- Optional porters to carry luggage for a more comfortable trekking experience.
- Emergency support and first aid kit available throughout the trek.
- Pre-trek briefing covering route, safety, and cultural insights.
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Nepal visa fees for entry.
- Travel insurance (mandatory for trekking, including high-altitude medical evacuation).
- Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and hot showers.
- Trekking gear and equipment like sleeping bags, jackets, trekking boots, and walking sticks.
- Tips for guides and porters.
- Optional activities or side trips not mentioned in the itinerary.
FAQs
The trek is moderate to challenging, suitable for trekkers with good fitness and some prior trekking experience. Daily trekking ranges from 4–6 hours, with some high-altitude sections. Proper acclimatization is recommended to avoid altitude sickness.
The ideal seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Spring offers lush landscapes and clear skies, while autumn provides stable weather and panoramic Himalayan views. Winter can be cold, and the monsoon season may make trails slippery.
The trek typically begins from Jomsom, which can be reached via a short domestic flight from Pokhara or by road. From Jomsom, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki Valley, gradually ascending to the Upper Mustang region.
Accommodation is in tea houses and lodges, offering basic but comfortable rooms with locally prepared meals. Some lodges provide limited electricity and hot showers. Daily meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring Nepali and Tibetan dishes.
Hiring a professional guide is highly recommended, as the Upper Mustang is a restricted area. Guides assist with navigation, permits, cultural insights, and safety, making the trek smoother and more enjoyable.
Trekkers need the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit and a TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System). These permits are mandatory, and guides usually assist with obtaining them before the trek begins.
Essential items include:
- Layered clothing for variable temperatures
- Trekking boots and walking poles
- Sleeping bag suitable for -10°C
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Basic first aid kit and personal medications
The Upper Mustang Trek is not recommended for beginners or young children, due to remote trails and high-altitude areas. Experienced trekkers or groups with guides and porters are best suited for this trek.
Daily trekking ranges from 4–6 hours, giving trekkers time to rest, take photographs, and explore villages. Acclimatization is important as the trek reaches high-altitude points around 4,000–4,200 meters, especially near Lo Manthang. Guides monitor trekkers for altitude sickness and recommend proper pacing.
Upper Mustang Trek - 15 Days
Trekking & Hiking Adventure

