The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most unique and culturally rich trekking experiences. Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Mustang offers a stark contrast to the lush green trekking routes of Nepal. This region, often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” remained closed to foreigners until 1992, preserving its centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and unique desert-like landscapes.
Upper Mustang is situated in the Mustang District of Gandaki Province, Nepal. The trek starts from Jomsom, which is accessible via a short flight from Pokhara. The highest point of the trek is Lo Manthang, the ancient walled city, at an altitude of 3,840 meters.
Upper Mustang was historically part of the ancient Tibetan kingdom and later became the Kingdom of Lo. It served as a vital trade route between Tibet and India, with traders exchanging salt, wool, and grains. Lo Manthang, founded in the 15th century by King Ame Pal, remains the cultural and spiritual center of the region. The region was a restricted area until 1992, allowing it to retain its authentic Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
Finally, the trek provides a chance to witness one of Nepal’s most extraordinary festivals—the Tiji Festival. This colorful three-day event is a mesmerizing display of ancient Buddhist rituals, masked dances, and prayers that depict the victory of good over evil. Attending this festival in Lo Manthang adds an unforgettable cultural dimension to the trek, making it an experience that goes beyond just trekking and into the heart of Mustang’s vibrant traditions.
Arrive in Kathmandu and explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, Basantapur Durbar Square, and local markets.
- Enjoy a scenic drive to Pokhara, passing through hills, rivers, and small villages. (flight opt.)
- Explore Phewa Lake or relax by the lakeside.
- Overnight stay in Pokhara.
- Take a short morning flight to Jomsom (20 minutes) with stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Start trekking to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.
- Explore Kagbeni’s ancient monasteries and narrow alleys.
- Begin the official Upper Mustang trek.
- Cross the Kali Gandaki River and pass through Tangbe and Chhusang villages.
- Reach Chele and enjoy the desert-like landscape.
- Climb to Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La Pass (3,735m).
- Pass through Samar village and enjoy panoramic mountain views.
- Overnight in Syangboche.
- Cross the Nyi La Pass (4,010m) and descend to Geling.
- Trek through beautiful landscapes and traditional villages encountering the longest mani wall in Mustang and stunning rock formations.
- Reach Ghami, one of the oldest villages in Mustang.
- Explore ancient Buddhist stupas and monasteries along the way to Tsarang.
- Visit Charang Monastery, a significant spiritual site.
- Cross the Tsarang La Pass for stunning views.
- Enter the walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang.
- Explore the royal palace, monasteries, and local culture.
- Visit Namgyal Gompa and Tingkhar village.
- Explore ancient caves and monasteries like Jampa Lhakhang.
- Immerse yourself in the unique Tibetan-influenced culture.
- Begin the return journey.
- Trek to Drakmar via the Ghar Gompa monastery.
- Enjoy the red cliffs and unique landscapes.
- Overnight in Drakmar.
- Descend through arid landscapes with views of the Nilgiri and Annapurna ranges.
- Pass through traditional villages and enjoy the desert-like terrain.
- Overnight in Ghiling.
- Continue descending towards lower Mustang, passing traditional villages.
- Enjoy the changing landscapes and cultural experiences.
- Overnight in Chhusang.
- Descend to Jomsom via Jharkot and Kagbeni.
- Enjoy the final views of the Kali Gandaki Valley.
- Celebrate the completion of the trek in Jomsom.
- Take an early morning flight to Pokhara.
- Relax and explore Pokhara’s attractions.
- Overnight in Pokhara.
- Drive back to Kathmandu.
- Spend the last day shopping or sightseeing.
- Relax and stay overnight in Kathmandu.
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Upper Mustang is a restricted and remote trekking region in Nepal, offering a unique blend of Tibetan culture, arid landscapes, and ancient monasteries. Here’s everything you need to know before embarking on this incredible journey:
- Required Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Restricted Area Permit, and TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- You must trek with a licensed guide and at least one other person (solo trekking is not allowed).
- The highest point on the trek is around 4,200 meters (13,780 feet).
- The altitude gain is gradual, but you should acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
- Drink plenty of water, walk at a steady pace, and avoid alcohol.
- Tea houses are available along the route, offering basic rooms and traditional Nepali and Tibetan food.
- Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), Tibetan bread, noodles, and momo (dumplings) are common meals.
- Electricity and Wi-Fi are available in some places but may be limited.
- Limited network coverage (NTC and Ncell work in some areas).
- No ATMs after Jomsom—carry enough cash for the trek.
- Moderate Difficulty: The trek involves long walking days (5-7 hours daily) and steep ascents/descents. Prepare with cardio, strength training, and hiking practice.
- Packing Light: Carry only essentials to reduce strain.
- Dry and Windy: Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, so the landscape is arid and desert-like. Expect strong winds and dusty trails.
- Temperature Variations: Days can be warm, but nights are extremely cold, especially at higher altitudes.
- Clothing: Layered clothing for varying temperatures, a warm jacket, thermal wear, and a windproof/waterproof shell.
- Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots and comfortable socks.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, hat, gloves, and a buff for dust.
- Gear: Trekking poles, sleeping bag (for cold nights), headlamp, and a daypack.
- First Aid Kit: Include altitude sickness medication, painkillers, bandages, and any personal medications.
- Leave No Trace: Carry all trash back with you and avoid using single-use plastics.
- Respect Nature: Stick to designated trails and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure your insurance covers high-altitude trekking (up to 4,000 meters) and emergency evacuation.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep contact details for your embassy, guide, and local authorities.
- Health Precautions: Carry a basic first aid kit and be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Lo Manthang: The walled city with its royal palace and ancient monasteries.
- Tiji Festival: If you go trekking in May, you might witness this vibrant Buddhist festival.
- Caves and Cliffs: Explore ancient caves and dramatic red cliffs in the region.
- Permits & Documentation
- Transportation: Domestic flight: Pokhara–Jomsom–Pokhara, jeep/bus by road
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu & Pokhara (as per itinerary), tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek
- Meals: Daily breakfast in Kathmandu & Pokhara, three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- Guide: Licensed trekking guide with Upper Mustang experience
- International Flights: Flights to/from Nepal
- Nepal Visa Fees: On arrival
- Personal Expenses: Extra snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, hot showers, charging devices at tea houses, personal trekking gear
- Travel Insurance (Mandatory): Must cover high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and helicopter evacuation
- Tips & Gratuities: Guide & Porter
- Extra Costs Due to Unforeseen Circumstances: Flight cancellations, bad weather, additional accommodation, and meals due to delays
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