Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek
Wilderness Trekking
Trip Facts
Duration : 14 Days
Max-Altitude : 3710m
Program Type : Tea House
Best Season : Sep to Jan, March to August
Per Day Walking : 6/7 Hours
Trek Grade :
Grade 3:
Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should expect to trek above 5416m/17872ft.
Mode of Travel : Flight/Land100%
600 Reviews
Overview
The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most exclusive and breathtaking adventures, offering trekkers an unforgettable journey through a hidden Himalayan valley. With its arid landscapes, ancient monasteries, and deep cultural heritage, the Upper Mustang Trek combines spectacular scenery with a rare cultural experience. The region’s dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and desert-like terrain contrast beautifully with the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Trekking alongside the Kali Gandaki River, one of the world’s deepest gorges, adds to the awe-inspiring scenery. The Upper Mustang Trek also allows travelers to explore centuries-old cave complexes, such as the Chhoser Cave, carved into cliffs for meditation, burial, and residence. These caves contain ancient manuscripts and relics, providing insights into Mustang’s rich history.
Exploring the Forbidden Kingdom
The Upper Mustang Trek grants access to the once-restricted Forbidden Kingdom, opened to outsiders in 1992. This region has preserved a unique Tibetan cultural identity, with monasteries, traditional villages, and spiritual rituals intact. Trekking here feels like stepping back in time, where the lifestyle, architecture, and customs remain largely untouched, similar to Upper Dolpo.
Cultural Immersion on the Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek is not only a physical adventure but also a cultural odyssey. Travelers meet the Loba people, guardians of Mustang’s Tibetan-influenced traditions. Sacred monasteries, prayer wheels, and ancient murals are common along the trail. The locals maintain their heritage proudly, displaying portraits of the former king and queen as a mark of respect.
The Upper Mustang Trek ensures that visitors experience authentic Tibetan culture while helping preserve it. Tourism supports sustainable practices that maintain the region’s spiritual and cultural identity
Trekking Route & Itinerary
The Upper Mustang Trek starts with a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom Airport. From Jomsom, trekkers follow the trail through Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang, and continue to Lo Manthang.
The 14-day itinerary passes through remote villages, high desert plateaus, and iconic cultural landmarks, including optional visits to Chhoser Cave, Garphu Monastery, and sacred lakes. The route can also connect with the Annapurna Circuit or the sacred Muktinath Temple.
Highlights include:
- Lo Manthang: the walled capital with Thubchen Gompa and Jampa Lhakhang
- Chhoser Cave and Garphu Monastery
- Kali Gandaki River, the world’s deepest gorge
- Unique desert landscapes and red sandstone cliffs
- Tibetan-influenced architecture and local villages
- Participation in the Tiji Festival (May)
Trek Difficulty & Preparation
The Upper Mustang Trek is of moderate difficulty:
- Altitude: Lo Manthang sits at 3,800 meters; acclimatization is important.
- Terrain: Arid, rocky, and exposed with gradual ascents and descents.
- Climate: Strong sun, high winds, and sparse vegetation.
- Fitness: Suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness; 5–7 hours of daily hiking.
- Amenities: Basic yet comfortable lodges and tea houses.
Lo Manthang The Heart of Upper Mustang
Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo, retains its medieval charm. The Upper Mustang Trek allows travelers to explore its monasteries, royal palace, and cobbled streets. The city’s architecture, cultural heritage, and spiritual ambiance make it the centerpiece of the trek.
The Tiji Festival
The Tiji Festival, celebrated in late April or early May, is a highlight of the Upper Mustang Trek. This three-day festival features masked dances, rituals, and ceremonies symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Witnessing the festival provides a deep cultural and spiritual insight into Mustang life.
Natural Wonders & Agriculture
Despite its barren appearance, Upper Mustang features striking natural landmarks: the world’s deepest gorge, fossil-rich cliffs, and red rock formations. Local farmers cultivate high-altitude crops such as barley, buckwheat, potatoes, apples, and apricots, using sustainable traditional methods. The Upper Mustang Trek offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Tea Houses & Authentic Hospitality
Tea houses along the Upper Mustang Trek route offer warm hospitality, local meals, and a cozy place to rest. Interacting with locals and fellow trekkers enhances the experience, providing an authentic insight into Mustang’s culture and lifestyle.
Side Trips & Must-See Destinations
- Chhoser Cave and Garphu Monastery: Ancient cliffside caves with centuries of history
- Damodar Kunda: Sacred lake and spiritual meditation site
- Kara La Pass: High-altitude side trip near the Chinese border
- Kagbeni: Gateway to Lower Mustang and Muktinath
Best Season to Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek is best undertaken from May to October, benefiting from the rain shadow effect and clear skies. The trek can also be combined with other routes, including the Annapurna Circuit, via Thorong La Pass.
Permits & Costs
Permits required for the Upper Mustang Trek:
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): USD 30
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card: USD 20
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 500 for 10 days; USD 50/day beyond
Included: Guide, porter, meals, accommodation, flights Pokhara–Jomsom, first aid kit.
Excluded: Meals in Kathmandu/Pokhara, beverages, personal travel insurance, tips, international airfare, and visa fees.
Why Choose the Upper Mustang Trek?
The Upper Mustang Trek is perfect for travelers seeking:
- Remote Himalayan adventure
- Authentic Tibetan culture
- Stunning desert landscapes and red sandstone cliffs
- Participation in unique cultural events like the Tiji Festival
- Moderate trekking difficulty with safe, guided support
With expert guides from Nepal Wilderness Trekking, the Upper Mustang Trek promises safety, comfort, and an unforgettable journey through one of Nepal’s most mystical regions.
Detail Itinerary
Early in the morning, take a scenic mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720 m), a short but spectacular journey offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After landing, meet your trekking crew and begin your journey along the windswept Kali Gandaki Valley.
The trail is mostly flat and follows the riverbed, passing through arid landscapes with dramatic cliffs and strong Himalayan winds. After approximately 3 hours of trekking, you arrive at Kagbeni (2,800 m), a medieval-style village with narrow alleys, red-walled monasteries, prayer flags, and traditional mud-brick houses.
Kagbeni is the official gateway to Upper Mustang, where your Restricted Area Permit is checked.
Overnight stay in Kagbeni.
After permit registration, the trek officially enters Upper Mustang. The trail gradually ascends along the Kali Gandaki River, revealing a dramatic transition from green valleys to desert-like terrain.
You pass through Tangbe village, known for whitewashed houses, barley fields, chortens, and narrow alleyways filled with Buddhist prayer wheels. The route continues to Chhusang, where cliffs and caves dominate the landscape. From here, cross the river and climb steadily to Chele, a small village perched above the valley.
Overnight stay in Chele.
Today is a more challenging trekking day with several steep ascents. You climb toward Taklam La (3,624 m) and Dajori La (3,735 m), offering stunning views of the Nilgiri and Damodar Himal ranges.
The trail passes through deep gorges, caves used by ancient monks, and barren rock formations. Lunch is usually taken at Samar village, a beautiful settlement surrounded by poplar trees. After lunch, a gradual climb leads you to Syanbochen, a quiet village in a high-altitude desert setting.
Overnight stay in Syanbochen.
A scenic and culturally rich day. The trail ascends through Yamda La (3,850 m) and Nyi La (4,010 m), two of the most beautiful viewpoints of Upper Mustang, offering wide Himalayan panoramas.
The landscape becomes increasingly arid, with red cliffs, wind-carved hills, and ancient Buddhist symbols carved into rocks. You descend into Ghami, one of the most picturesque villages in Mustang, known for its long mani wall and traditional architecture.
Overnight stay in Ghami.
Today’s trek is shorter but culturally rewarding. The trail crosses dry valleys and follows ancient trading routes used for centuries between Tibet and Nepal.
After crossing Ghami Khola, you reach Charang (Tsarang), a historic settlement with a large monastery, ancient fortress ruins (dzong), and red-and-white painted houses. The village reflects the deep Tibetan influence of the region.
Overnight stay in Charang.
A highlight of the journey. The trail climbs steadily toward Lo La Pass (3,950 m), offering your first panoramic view of the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang.
The descent into the valley reveals one of the most fascinating settlements in the Himalayas—Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Mustang. The city is enclosed by massive stone walls and preserves centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.
A full day dedicated to exploration and cultural immersion. Visit ancient monasteries such as Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, and the Royal Palace.
Optional excursion to Chhoser Valley by jeep or horseback allows you to explore centuries-old sky caves carved into cliffs, along with Nyphu and Garphu monasteries. This area provides deep insight into Mustang’s spiritual and historical heritage.
Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.
Leave Lo Manthang and trek through remote, less-traveled terrain with dramatic desert cliffs and wide open valleys. The route descends to Dhi village before crossing the river and ascending toward Yara.
This region is known for fossil-rich landscapes, ancient cave dwellings, and untouched Himalayan desert scenery.
Overnight stay in Yara.
A culturally significant day hike to Luri Gompa, a hidden cliff monastery dating back to the 13th century. The site features ancient murals, meditation caves, and spiritual relics of Tibetan Buddhism.
After exploration, return to Yara for overnight rest.
Overnight stay in Yara.
One of the longest and most remote trekking days. The trail crosses rugged terrain, deep valleys, and high ridges before reaching Tangge, a hidden village surrounded by chortens and stone houses.
This area offers a true sense of isolation and raw Himalayan wilderness.
Overnight stay in Tangge.
A demanding but rewarding day. Begin early and climb toward Pha Pass (4,050 m), where you are rewarded with panoramic views of Upper Mustang’s desert landscapes and distant Himalayan ranges.
After crossing the pass, descend steeply to Chhusang, reconnecting with lower Mustang villages.
Overnight stay in Chhusang.
Today’s trek follows ancient trails via Tetang village, a fortified settlement with deep cultural significance.
You gradually ascend to Muktinath, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple complex features 108 water spouts and eternal natural flames, symbolizing spiritual purification.
Overnight stay in Muktinath.
Descend through Jharkot village, known for traditional Tibetan-style monasteries and herbal medicine practices. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing through dry landscapes shaped by strong Himalayan winds.
Arrive in Jomsom, a major trekking hub of the Mustang region.
Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Take an early morning scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Mustang’s desert cliffs, deep valleys, and the Annapurna range.
End of Trek.
Cost Included
- Meals: Italian, Chinese, Nepali, Indian, and various European dishes are available three times a day breakfast, lunch, and dinner. One main course is provided per meal during the trek.
- Clean and comfortable lodge accommodations during the trek.
- Government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide with in-depth knowledge of the region.
- One porter for every two to three participants. (Note: Additional charges apply for solo clients requesting a porter.)
- All expenses for the guide and staff, including food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and domestic flights.
- Round-trip Pokhara–Jomsom–Pokhara flight tickets.
- Taxi transfers to and from the domestic airport in Pokhara.
- Special Mustang permit.
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit.
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card.
- First aid medical kit.
Cost Excluded
- Meals and accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- All beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), including soft drinks like Coke, Fanta, mineral water, tea, coffee, and beer.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Emergency rescue operations if required.
- International airfare.
- Nepal tourist visa fee ($25 for 15 days, $40 for 30 days for multiple-entry visas).
- Tips for the guide and porter.
- Any other costs not mentioned under “Cost Included.”
- Additional expenses or delays due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the company’s control, such as landslides, bad weather, changes in government regulations, health issues, itinerary changes for safety reasons, strikes, etc.
| Trip Dates | Trip Price | Confirmed Pax | Trip Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 26, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| May 30, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| September 1, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| September 5, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| September 10, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| September 15, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| September 20, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| September 20, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| September 25, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| September 30, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| October 4, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| October 8, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| October 12, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| October 17, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| October 22, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| October 26, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| October 30, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| November 3, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| November 7, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| November 11, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| November 14, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| November 18, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| November 22, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| November 26, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| November 30, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| December 3, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| December 7, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| December 12, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| December 16, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| December 20, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| December 24, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now | |
| December 29, 2026 | US$ 1700 | Join a Group | Book Now |
Trip Map
Frequently Asked Questions
The difficulty of the Upper Mustang trek can vary depending on several factors such as your level of fitness, prior trekking experience, and how well you acclimatize to the altitude. While it is generally considered a moderate trek, it still involves challenging terrain, long walking days, and high altitudes. The trek reaches an altitude of 3,710 meters, which may pose some difficulties for individuals who are not accustomed to high-altitude trekking. It is important to be physically prepared and take the necessary precautions, including proper acclimatization, to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
On the Upper Mustang trek, the average walking hours per day are around 5 to 6 hours. This translates to covering a distance of approximately 12-15 kilometers. The trek typically begins at around 7:30 AM after breakfast, and a lunch break is usually scheduled around 1 PM. The aim is to reach the next destination by around 3:00 PM in the afternoon. However, it's important to note that these timings can vary depending on the pace of the group, the specific itinerary, and other factors such as weather conditions and the difficulty of the trail.
During the Upper Mustang trek, the accommodation provided is usually in basic tea houses. These tea houses offer simple yet comfortable lodging options for trekkers. The rooms typically have twin sharing beds or single beds, and they are generally clean and cozy. While the tea houses may not offer luxurious amenities, they provide the necessary facilities such as beds, blankets, and sometimes even hot showers. It's important to note that the availability and quality of accommodation can vary along the trekking route, with some places offering better facilities than others.
In case of an emergency during the Upper Mustang trek, the guide will assess the situation and take appropriate action. They are trained to deal with altitude sickness and other emergencies. If necessary, they will contact the insurance office for rescue assistance, provided the insurance covers evacuations. It is important to have comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers trekking at high altitudes and includes emergency medical evacuation. Following the guide's instructions is crucial in such situations.
The best time to undertake the Upper Mustang trek is generally from April to November. During this period, the weather conditions are most favorable for trekking in the region. The months of April, May, September, and October are considered the peak seasons, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and less chance of rainfall. These months offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the opportunity to experience the local culture and festivals.
However, it's worth noting that Upper Mustang lies in a rain shadow area, which means it receives significantly less rainfall compared to other parts of Nepal. This makes it possible to undertake the trek even during the monsoon season (June to August), as the region experiences limited rainfall. Trekking during the monsoon season can have its advantages, such as fewer crowds and lush greenery, but it is important to be prepared for occasional showers and slippery trails.
Ultimately, the choice of when to do the trek depends on personal preferences and priorities. It is recommended to check the weather conditions and consult with local trekking agencies for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.
For the Upper Mustang trek, you will need the following permits: TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Permit, ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit, and the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit. The Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit costs $500 for a 10-day trek, with additional charges for extra days. Please note that permit requirements and fees can change, so it's best to consult local authorities or trekking agencies for the latest information.
Yes, there are trekking restrictions in the Upper Mustang region. It is considered a restricted area, and trekkers need to obtain a special permit called the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit to enter and trek in this region. This permit is designed to control the flow of tourists and preserve the unique culture, traditions, and environment of the area. Additionally, trekkers are required to be accompanied by a registered guide throughout the trek. These restrictions are in place to ensure the sustainable development and preservation of the Upper Mustang region.
During the Upper Mustang trek, you may face challenges such as strong winds, especially after 11 AM each day. The region's remote and rugged terrain, altitude-related symptoms, limited facilities in teahouses, and unpredictable weather conditions are additional challenges to consider. It's important to be prepared with appropriate clothing, trekking poles, and a flexible itinerary to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
The most common means of transportation to reach the starting point of the Upper Mustang trek is by air. You can take a domestic flight fromPokhara to Jomsom, which is the nearest airstrip to the Upper Mustang region. The flight duration is approximately 20-30 minutes. From Jomsom, you can then continue the trek on foot.
Please note that road access to Upper Mustang is limited, and most trekkers choose to fly to Jomsom due to the convenience and time-saving nature of air travel.
