Upper Mustang Trek

Duration: 18 Days    Based on 2 reviews
Photo Gallery Choser Village Ghami Village(3520 M) Ghar Gompa(3930 M) - The oldest monastery of Nepal built in 8th century Kagbeni(2810 M) - Entry point of Upper Mustang Lo Manthang(3809 M) - The capital of the last forbidden kingdom(Upper Mustang) Huge Chorten at the entrance of Tsarang Village      Video     Map Upper Mustang Trek map     

About Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek takes you to an isolated and remote hidden paradise located in the Trans Himalayan region of Nepal. It was once an independent kingdom, although closely tied by language and culture to Tibet until annexed by Nepal in the 18th century. Also known as, ‘The Last Forbidden Kingdom’ because it was a restricted and demilitarized area. It was opened to foreigners only in 1992 by the Nepalese government.

The Upper Mustang trek gives the trekkers, an unforgettable unique experience of the closely tied Tibetan culture and tradition with the warm hospitality of the local people. Stupas, Chhortens, Kaanis, Prayers flags, centuries-old monasteries, etc. are commonly seen along the treeless barren landscape with the panoramic view of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho, and several other snow-capped peaks. Because of the loneliness and isolation for a long time, trekkers will have the opportunities to explore the lifestyle and cultural heritage that have remained almost unaffected for centuries.

The Upper Mustang region is an ideal trekking destination in Nepal for anyone who is highly interested in Tibetan Buddhism. There are centuries-old monasteries in every village. One of the most prominent and important monasteries in the Upper Mustang is Ghar Gompa(Lho Ghyekar) of Marang Village. It holds a high place in Tibetan Buddhism because it is an 8th-century monastery older than the Samye Gompa of Tibet built on the recommendation of Guru Rinpoche. Another place of high interest is the long mani wall of Ghami which is believed to be the intestine of a demon killed by Guru Rinpoche.  

Our 18-day Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary starts from Jomsom by taking a scenic and short flight from Pokhara. Another option is to walk from Ghorepani-Poon Hill-Tatopani-Jomsom. The best time to trek is between Aug-Oct and April-June. The best thing about this place is, that it is equally possible to visit during the monsoon as it receives little or no rainfall because of its geographic location. The highest altitude in this trek is 4230 meters.

Highlights

  • Last forbidden kingdom with people that have rich culture and tradition that resembles the Tibetan people
  • Lo-Manthang, a walled capital city of Upper Mustang, built-in 1380 AD by the first King of Lho, ‘Ame Pal’
  • Breathtaking views of mountains like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tilicho and Annapurna ranges
  • Centuries-old monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism and the rare Bon religion
  • 25-minute of a scenic flight over the Himalayas from Pokhara to Jomsom
  • Kora La pass, one of the oldest border routes used for salt trading
  • Almost treeless barren landscape as like the Plateau Tibetan
  • World’s deepest gorge,' Kali Gandaki Gorge'

 

Itinerary

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Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1350 M) and transfer to hotel

Arrive at Kathmandu airport. One of the members of our team will take you to the hotel. You can rest for the day, and in the evening, you will meet with the guide in your hotel lobby. He will brief you on further programs

  • 3 star category hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1350 M

You will go on a guided sightseeing tour to several UNESCO World Heritage. You will visit one of the holiest temples of Hindus, the Pashupatinath temple. Nearby this temple is located the largest in Nepal, Boudhanath stupa. After visiting these places, you will head to Swayambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the evening, you will meet with your trek guide who will brief you about the trek. 

  • B&B
  • 3 star category hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1350 M

After having breakfast, you will drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The drive will be scenic and long. Enjoying beautiful views of lush green hills, rivers, waterfalls, terraced fields, and small settlements, you will reach Pokhara welcoming you with excellent views of Mt. Fishtail, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and Mt. Annapurna. In the evening, you can stroll in the Lakeside market and also do boating on tranquil Fewa Lake. 

  • B&L
  • 3 star category hotel
  • Pokhara
  • 825 M
  • 7 hours

An early morning scenic flight will take you to one of the most gorgeous places in Nepal, Jomsom. After reaching here, you will begin trekking alongside the lovely valley. You will reach Ekalbatti, and further, the trail from here will take you to Kagbeni. 

Elevation: + 95m/ -50m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Kagbeni
  • 2810 M
  • 7 hours

Leaving Kagbeni behind, you will begin ascending toward one of the holiest sites of Hindu, Muktinath Temple. The trail will pass by small villages and present you with a beautiful landscape view. 

Elevation: + 960m/ -45m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Muktinath
  • 3760 M
  • 3:30 hours

You will visit Muktinath Temple early in the morning. After that, you will have breakfast and continue trekking towards Chele. The trail ascends to the Gyu La Pass (4077 M). From here, you will descend down through Tetang, Chhuksang village, and cross a bridge over the Kaligandaki river then after a short climb, you will arrive at Chele. 

Elevation: +540m/ -1250m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Chele
  • 3050 M
  • 7 hours

Today, you will take an alternative route as the old and short route has been damaged by road construction. You will slowly ascend to Ghyakar village by crossing Ghyakar Khola and from there to Samar village via Dajori La pass (3735 M). You will take our lunch here enjoying the view of the Annapurna massif. From here you will need to make short descend and ascend about 3/4 times until Chungsi Cave by crossing rivulets three times. You will spend some time here and after then continue trekking to Syanboche through a small gorge. 

Elevation: +1185m/ -515m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Syanboche
  • 3800 M
  • 6:30 hours

After having a warm breakfast, you will begin trekking towards Dhakmar. You will make a gradual ascend on a rugged path to Nyi La pass (4010 M) via Tamagaun, Chhungar, and Jhaite village. From the pass, you can see the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.  And then, you will descend to Ghami village via Ghami La Pass (3765 M) where you will have our lunch. After lunch, you will continue your trek to Dakmar by crossing a wooden bridge over Ghami Khola. While walking, you can see the longest Mani wall of Upper Mustang at a hill opposite to our trail. Then you will arrive at Dhakmar after making a short ascent. Dhakmar is a small peaceful village situated in front of huge red cliffs. 

Elevation: + 685m / -780m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Dhakmar
  • 3520 M
  • 6 hours

After breakfast, you leave Dhakmar and ascend Mui La Pass (4170 M) and then descend until Ghar Gompa while passing through the alpine meadows. Ghar Gompa is the oldest monastery in Nepal and Tibet, which was built by Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century. After having lunch in Ghar Gompa, you will cross a wooden bridge over Tsarang Khola and gradually climb up to Chogo La (4280 M), and finally descend down to the walled capital of Lo-Manthang.

Elevation: +825 m / -745 m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Lo Manthang
  • 3820 M
  • 6 hours

Today, you will explore Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang which contains about 150 houses and has some of the largest and finest Tibetan Buddhist gompas in Nepal. It is a fascinating place with four major ancient Monasteries which are impressive and an enormous 14th-century palace imposing a 4-story building in the center.

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Lo Manthang
  • 3820 M

From Lo- Manthang, you will ascend towards the Lo La Pass. From here, you will leave the main trail and descend to Dhi village via Dhi La Pass where you will have our lunch. Then by crossing a bridge over the Kaligandaki river, you will ascend on a narrow trail until reaching Yara. The trail passes through a beautiful landscape with caves on the hills opposite the trail. 

Elevation: +640m/ -810m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Yara
  • 3650 M
  • 7 hours

After having breakfast, you will go on a short excursion to nearby areas. You will trek to Luri Gompa by passing through Ghara village. While exploring this gompa, you will visit Luri Caves as well, which are believed to be linked with Tashi Kabum caves. After spending some time, you will take another route to Yara through the Puyung Khola and Tashi Kabum Gompa.

Elevation: +540 m/ -550 m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Yara
  • 3650 M
  • 4 hours

Leaving Yara behind, you will trek on the off-the-beaten path and cross a bridge over Dhechyang Khola. There we can see the new settlement and community apple farm in a big valley above the Dhechyang Khola bank. The settlement was started by the people of Dhey village because of the scarcity of drinking water in their old village. Then you will ascend for the next 2 hours, descend and then walk on the flatlands for the next  2 hours finally reaching Tange village. It's a small village located on the bank of a river.

Elevation: +815m/ -1015m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Tange
  • 3340 M
  • 7 hours

Today you will need to take pack lunch as there are no settlements until Chhusang. You will start the trek by crossing a bridge near the village and another one a little bit further. From here, you will ascend to Pa Bhanjyang (4200 M) where you will get to see the superb views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, Tilicho Peak, Thorong Peak, and the Upper Mustang valley. You will have a packed lunch here. The trail then descends to Chhusang. This is one of the most challenging days of this trek. 

Elevation:  +1205m/ -1560m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Chhusang
  • 2980 M
  • 9:30 hours

After a quick breakfast, you will begin descending towards Jomsom. The trail will present you with gorgeous views of nature. Passing by small villages, you will descend to Jomsom village for a night's stay. 

Note: Today we will need to walk mostly through the rugged vehicle road. There is no other option as the trekking trail has been completely covered up by the rugged vehicle road.

Elevation:  +95m/ -340m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Jomsom
  • 2720 M
  • 6 hours

Today, early in the morning, you will fly back to Pokhara. The flight will be short with an outstanding landscape view. Upon reaching Pokhara airport, you will head to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore around. 

  • B&B
  • 3 star category hotel
  • Pokhara
  • 825 M
  • 25 mins

After having breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu following a scenic route. In the evening, you will have a farewell dinner organized by the company. 

  • B,L&D
  • 3 star category hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1350 M
  • 7 hours

Today, you will fly back to your home. As per your flight departure time, you will be taken to the airport.

  • B&B
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What’s Included

  • One porter for two people (maximum weight:12 kg per client) and an assistant guide for group sizes above 4 people.
  • 3 nights’ accommodation in a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu and 2 nights in Pokhara on a BB basis.
  • All the necessary permits including a special permit for the restricted area and paperwork.
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, hot drinks) during the trek.
  • Lodge/Tea House accommodations with twin sharing basis during the trek.
  • Rescue and evacuation arrangements in case of emergency. 
  • All the staff’s salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance.
  • Kathmandu valley tour with a tour guide in a private vehicle.
  • Government taxes, service charges, and official expenses.
  • Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by private vehicle.
  • Round flight Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara.
  • Professional English-speaking guide.
  • All airport and hotel transfers.
  • Tips for the guide, assistant guide, porter, and driver (Tipping is expected).
  • Excess baggage charges during domestic flights (only 15kg altogether).
  • Meal while you are in Kathmandu and Pokhara, i.e. Lunch and Dinner.
  • Medical evacuation cost (In case of emergency).
  • Sightseeing/Monument entrance fees.
  • Your Travel Insurance (Compulsory).
  • Your personal expenses.
  • International airfare.
  • Nepal entry visa fee.
Departure Note

If the departure dates do not match your time frame, leave us a message. And we will customize the trip according to your desire and availability of time.

Useful Information

Alternative trail via Tsarang, Ghami, and same way back to Jomsom
To trek through the alternative Upper Mustang circuit route, we will have to take a packed lunch as there are no lodges available between Tangge and Chhuksang. This is a long day during this trip. Renting a horse is available at Tangge.

About safety and weather
During the monsoon (Mid-June to Mid-September), rivers may affect the trail and there is no bridge at Dhye and Yak Khola. We will have to take the shoes off and cross the river with rope. The climate factors are very important in deciding on a visit to Nepal trekking. About the weather forecast for the Himalayas, nobody can give fully accurate information because the mountain weather changes very quickly. And flights may be delayed or even canceled due to weather conditions. So, to be on the safe side, you can add a few extra days. Similarly, natural calamities or political problems may cause the guide to modify the program.

Upper Mustang Special Permit
To limit the number of visitors in order to reduce the impact on the environment on local culture and environment, the Nepal government has made it mandatory for visitors to have a special permit to enter the Limi Valley. And to obtain special permits, visitors should be at least two going through a government-registered agency.   

Client Reviews

Rating:  
Review by : Christine Perrin, France

Trek with confidence with Sujan

We (4 french people) a trek with Sujan in Autumn to Mustang because we knew him from a previous trek. Hé clearly understood our needs ( we also wanted to havé Time to visit, meet and discuss with local people). Hé proposed the perfect tour with great timing. Sujan is very expérimented, hé Knows Népal routes so well that he knows the people from all lodges, so easy to adapt the food to our needs. Quel guide népalais pense au dessert, si important pour un français ? sujan bien sur avec des fruits, des gâteaux. Hé is very careful about how we feel. Hé is very nice, speaks excellent english and good french. In a nutshell, do ont hesitate to trek with Sujan, you Will enjoy yourself, for sure. Thanks Sujan

Rating:  
Review by : Arthut Blachier, France

Great experience in the Upper Mustang

Highly recommend Sujan as a guide (experienced, serious and speak multiple languages). Wonder full experience in this beautiful region. Je recommande vivement Sujan en tant que guide. Expérimenté, sérieux et parle Français. Une très bonne expérience dans cette magnifique région.