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%
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Overview
Upper Mustang Trek – 14 Days Ultimate Itinerary
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
- Day 1: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720m) & Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)
Flight Duration: 20–25 minutes
Trek Duration: 3 hours
Early in the morning, take a scenic mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, offering panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna ranges. After a quick breakfast in Jomsom, trek along the windswept Kali Gandaki riverbed to Kagbeni, a picturesque medieval village with narrow alleys, red-walled monasteries, and apple orchards. Overnight in Kagbeni.
Restricted Area Permit checkpoint at Kagbeni.
- Day 2: Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m)
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
After registering permits, the trail enters Upper Mustang proper. Pass through the culturally rich village of Tangbe, characterized by whitewashed houses, chortens, and narrow alleys. Continue to Chhusang, then cross the Kali Gandaki River to reach the village of Chele, perched dramatically on the cliffside.
Overnight in Chele.
- Day 3: Chele to Syanbochen (3,475m)
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
A challenging but rewarding day. Ascend steeply to Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La (3,735m), offering views of Tilicho and Damodar Himal. Walk past caves, unique rock formations, and remote seasonal settlements. Lunch at Samar village, before a gentle climb through juniper forests leads you to Syanbochen.
Overnight in Syanbochen.
- Day 4: Syanbochen to Ghami (3,520m)
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Continue uphill to cross the Yamda La (3,850m) and later the Nyi La Pass (4,010m), one of the highest points on the trek. The landscape transitions into barren hills and ochre-colored cliffs. Descend to the whitewashed village of Ghami, home to the longest mani wall in Mustang.
Overnight in Ghami.
- Day 5: Ghami to Charang (3,570m)
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
A short trek through rugged terrain and ancient mud villages. After crossing the Ghami Khola, continue to Charang, one of the oldest and largest settlements in Mustang. Visit the 400-year-old monastery and the crumbling red-walled dzong (fortress).
Overnight in Charang.
- Day 6: Charang to Lo Manthang (3,810m)
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Cross the Lo La Pass (3,950m), with stunning views of the Lo Manthang valley and snow-capped mountains. Descend gently to reach the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang.
Overnight in Lo Manthang.
- Day 7: Explore Lo Manthang & Chhoser Cave Monasteries (3,810m)
Spend the day exploring ancient Buddhist monasteries, including Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, and the Royal Palace. Optional excursion by jeep or horseback to Chhoser, where you’ll visit the sky caves and centuries-old Nyphu and Garphu Gompa.
Overnight in Lo Manthang.
- Day 8: Lo Manthang to Yara (3,650m)
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Depart from Lo Manthang through lesser-trekked territory with spectacular views and desert cliffs. Descend to the village of Dhi, cross the river, and ascend to Yara. This region is known for its unique cliff caves and fossil-rich terrain.
Overnight in Yara.
- Day 9: Excursion to Luri Gompa & Return to Yara (3,900m)
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
A day trip to the remote and sacred Luri Gompa, tucked inside a cliff and decorated with ancient Tibetan murals and artifacts. This 13th-century cave monastery is a spiritual highlight of the trek. Return to Yara by evening.
Overnight in Yara.
- Day 10: Yara to Tangge (3,240m)
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
One of the longest and most remote trekking days. Cross the Dhechyang Khola and climb rugged desert hills to reach the hidden village of Tangge, known for its many chortens and traditional stone-built houses.
Overnight in Tangge.
- Day 11: Tangge to Chhusang (2,980m)
Trek Duration: 8–9 hours
Start early for a tough ascent over Pha Pass (approx. 4,050m). After enjoying views of Upper Mustang and the Dhaulagiri range, descend to Chhusang. A long and scenic day on a lesser-used route with wild, remote beauty.
Overnight in Chhusang.
- Day 12: Chhusang to Muktinath (3,800m)
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Climb gradually via Tetang, an ancient fortified village, and reach the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Visit the Muktinath Temple complex, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, where natural gas flames burn eternally beside water spouts.
Overnight in Muktinath.
- Day 13: Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m)
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Descend through the traditional village of Jharkot, known for its beautiful monasteries and herbal medicine schools. Follow the trail down to Jomsom along the Kali Gandaki River.
Overnight in Jomsom.
- Day 14: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
Take an early morning flight back to Pokhara. Enjoy your final aerial views of Mustang and the Annapurna ranges.
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 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.
