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Upper Mustang Trek

  • Duration 16
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Moderate Trek
  • Starts at
  • Ends at
  • Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
  • Accommodation Included
  • Max. Altitude 4,100 m
  • Activity Trekking, Hiking and Exploring
  • Group Type Private
  • Group Size 1-12 people
  • Best Season Jan - May & Sept - Dec
Highlights

Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek:

Cultural Immersion: Explore the walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Lo, where traditional Tibetan customs and Buddhist practices are deeply rooted. The Namgyal Monastery in Lo Manthang is a significant cultural landmark.
NEPAL HIGH TREK

Scenic Beauty: Trek through semi-arid deserts, colorful rock formations, deep ravines, and snow-capped peaks. The landscape is reminiscent of Tibet, with its unique geological features and arid terrain.
ADVENTURE ALTERNATIVE

Historical Sites: Discover ancient hill caves believed to have been used for meditation and shelter during times of conflict. These caves offer insights into the region’s history and spiritual practices.
NEPAL HIGH TREK

Festivals: If your trek coincides with May, you might witness the Tiji Festival, a vibrant celebration marking the victory of good over evil, featuring traditional dances and rituals

Upper Mustang Trek Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek is a journey into the mystical “Last Forbidden Kingdom” of Nepal, offering a unique blend of dramatic landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and spiritual heritage. Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, this trek takes you to the arid and remote region of Mustang, where barren cliffs and deep gorges are interspersed with colorful monasteries and timeless villages. With its distinctive landscapes and cultural richness, Upper Mustang feels like stepping into a different world.

The trek begins in Jomsom, following the Kali Gandaki River into Mustang’s starkly beautiful desert-like terrain. Along the trail, you’ll encounter fascinating rock formations, hidden caves, and medieval settlements like Chele, Geling, and Tsarang. The highlight of the trek is Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Mustang. Here, you can explore historic monasteries, traditional whitewashed houses, and the royal palace, immersing yourself in the Tibetan Buddhist culture that defines the region.

One of the unique features of the Upper Mustang Trek is the opportunity to experience the Tiji Festival, an annual celebration marked by colorful rituals and traditional dances. The trek also offers panoramic views of Himalayan peaks, including Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri, which form a stunning backdrop to Mustang’s surreal landscape.

Spanning 12-17 days, this trek is moderately challenging and requires a special permit to preserve the region’s cultural and environmental integrity. Whether you’re drawn by its unique geology, vibrant culture, or spiritual allure, the Upper Mustang Trek promises an adventure unlike any other in Nepal. It is a perfect choice for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in the heart of the Himalayas.

Day to Day Itinerary
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  • Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure for acclimatization.

  • Explore the historic and cultural sites of Kathmandu Valley, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath Stupa.

  • Drive from Kathmandu to Jomsom, passing through the Annapurna Conservation Area.

  • Begin your trek to Kagbeni, a charming village with ancient mud-brick houses and a monastery.

  • Continue trekking through the barren landscape to Marpha, known for its apple orchards.

  • Trek to Tsarang, a picturesque village with a distinctive Tibetan-style monastery.

  • Reach Lo Manthang, the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Mustang. Explore the unique Tibetan culture and architecture of the city.

  • Spend a full day exploring the ancient city of Lo Manthang, including its monasteries, temples, and palaces.

  • Trek to Yara, a small village with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Continue trekking to Dhikur Pokhari, a beautiful high-altitude lake.

  • Trek to Chhosar, a traditional Tibetan village with a unique culture.

  • Trek to Ghami, the last village before the border with Tibet.

  • Trek to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

  • Trek back to Jomsom, descending through the Kali Gandaki Valley.

  • Take a short flight from Jomsom to Kathmandu.

  • Depart Kathmandu for your onward journey.

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Customize Trip
Cost Includes
  • Airport transfers
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and during the trek
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Trekking permits and entrance fees
  • Professional trekking guide
  • Porter to carry your luggage
  • Necessary equipment (sleeping bag, trekking poles, etc.)
Cost Excludes
  • International flights
  • Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for the guide and porter
Departure Dates
  • We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you’ve made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.
Useful Info
  • Altitude sickness is a potential risk, so acclimatize properly.
  • Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can be cold at high altitudes.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Obtain a TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) before starting the trek.
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Dilip Singh Rai

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FAQs

  • The average daily walking distance is around 5-7 hours.

  • While the trek is not extremely difficult, it requires a moderate level of fitness and experience. Beginners may find it challenging, especially at higher altitudes.

  • The highest altitude reached is around 4,100 meters.

  • Yes, you can hire a horse or mule to carry your luggage, but this will incur additional costs.

  • The weather in Upper Mustang can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. It’s best to be prepared for all weather conditions.

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