Overview

Upper Mustang Trek takes you to the hidden world of the ancientBuddhist kingdom of Lo. Since Mustang used to be a part of the Tibetan empire, it is quite similar to Tibet in culture, language, and geography. 

The trek is a unique experience as it heads to the barren lands with ancient history and religious values. Upper Mustang Trek also boasts of the views of theAnnapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Upper Mustang Trek offers you to explore the Mustang Valley; once forbidden and isolated from the rest of the world.

You get to experience the lifestyle of the Thakali and Tibetan people and know about their unique culture and traditions. Mostly, the views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Tibetan ranges are ample on the trek.

Firstly, you’ll arrive in Kathmandu and the very next day, you’ll drive to Pokhara. You’ll then drive to Jomsom and begin the trek to Kagbeni. Heading towards Chele, you continue along the Kali Gandaki River to Shyangbochen.

Next, you trek to cross the Nyi La Pass (4010m) and descend to Ghami. You’ll cross Ghami Khola and head to Tsarang village.

Trekking uphill to Lo La Pass (3950m), you descend to Lo Manthang. You explore Lo Manthang for a day and visit three main gompas: Jampa, Thubchen, and Chode.

Then, you’ll head back to Jomsom via Dhakmar, Ghiling, and Chhuksang. From Jomsom, you fly back to Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu the next day.

Highlights

  • Explore the major natural landmarks of the Pokhara valley
  • Visit the numerous sky caves in Lo Manthang and admire its ancient relics
  • Enjoy the vistas of Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Trek through the rain-shadow region in Upper Mustang

Itinerary

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Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu

You arrive at Kathmandu to our warmest welcomes. A company representative will lead you to your hotel. If you have any queries about the trip, then please let us know so we can clear them out today. After reaching your hotel have a soulful rest and explore around. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation 3-star Hotel
  • MealsWelcome Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1300 m

A journey to Pokhara awaits us today. The journey can be done either through the air or by road. The flight takes about 30 minutes whereas the road trip takes 7 hours. In Pokhara, you can choose to visit Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, and Mahendra Cave. Spend the evening by roaming around Lakeside. Overnight in Pokhara.

  • Accommodation 3-star Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast

The drive to Jomsom from Pokhara goes through the Pokhara Baglung Highway. The journey is pretty pleasant and, at times, the bumpy road will test you. Along the way, we can see amazing views of the Annapurna range. We take a quick breather at Tatopani and then continue to Jomsom. Jomsom is a town in the Kali Gandaki Valley and was once a trading hub for Tibet. Overnight in Jomsom.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2720m

After buying some apples in Jomsom, we shall start the trek to Kagbeni. Our trail goes through the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. We need to navigate through Ekle Bhatti village before arriving at Kagbeni. It is a small settlement comprising of flat-roofed houses. You can also visit the old fortress which dates back hundreds of years. Overnight in Kagbeni.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2810 m

We walk on the sandy banks of the Kali Gandaki River and then head towards Tangbe village. As we admire the whitewashed houses and apple orchards, we find ourselves walking on amazing ridges. The entire trek continues along arid barren ridges and trails for around 6 hours to reach Chele. It is a small settlement mostly comprising of Thakali people. Overnight in Chele.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3050m

The trail from today turns a bit hard and we have to cross two major passes which go by the name of Taklam La (3624m) and Dajori La (3735m). We get to enjoy great views of the Tilicho range along with the looming Damodar Danda. After descending quite a bit, we reach Samar and from there, it is a mere hour walk to Shyangbochen. It is an ancient Tibetan settlement with comparatively low people. Overnight in Shyangbochen.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3800m

The trail to Tsarang goes through the Yamdo La Pass (3860m) and the road is decorated with small teahouses and lodges. We pass by Ghami, which is the biggest village in this region. From here, we go to Tsarang. You will have to cross the Tsarang La Pass (3870m) in order to reach Tsarang which sits above the Tsarang Chu canyon. Overnight in Tsarang.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3560m

The trail sees descend from the canyon and later goes on an uphill path to Lo La Pass (3950m). You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the surrounding landscapes and Himalayas from the summit of the pass. From here, we gradually ascend until we arrive at Lo Manthang. From here, we can admire amazing views of Bhrikuti and Tibetan Himalayan ranges. Overnight in Lo Manthang.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3800m

Today we shall be exploring the major settlements in Lo Manthang. It was once a restricted area and in recent years has it only been open to the general public. We shall spend the day visiting Niphu, Garphu, and other villages that sit north of Lo Manthang. If you want, then you can also take a pleasant hike to Thinggar. Alternatively, there are a number of sky caves around Lo Manthang which used to be inhabited by early civilizations. Overnight in Lo Manthang.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3800m

We pack our bags and leave Lo-Manthang. We shall pass through the Gekar village and take a quick stop at Ghar Gompa. Legends state that Ghar Gompa was also the resting place for Guru Padmasambhava. The monastery still has a number of artifacts from these ancient times. After exploring the Gompa, we continue the trek until we arrive at Dhakmar. Dhakmar is a great place to observe the panoramic display of mountains and the barren red cliffs. Overnight in Dhakmar.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3820m

The road to Ghiling is prone to strong winds so it is necessary to start the trek as early as possible. Our walk goes through dry plateaus and arid fields to reach Ghiling. The walk can be comparatively difficult if you have to tackle strong winds. Ghiling is a small settlement with very few households. You can get a clear view of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains from here. Overnight in Ghiling.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3570m

From Ghiling, we shall make our way to Samar village. We will be using the Ghiling to Chhusang trail. On the road, we will visit the Chungsi cave which is great for exploration. On the road to Samar, we can even visit the Rachung monastery as well. Samar is a small settlement inhabited by Tibetan Buddhists. Overnight in Samar.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3550m

The trail is nearing its end and we shall make our way back to Kagbeni. The road goes through Chhusang village and we have to walk through the dusty and at times green trails. The trail also runs along the Kali Gandaki River to settle at Kagbeni. Kagbeni is a popular tourist destination and it has numerous Teahouses and small lodges. Overnight in Kagbeni.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2810m

From Kagbeni, we need to head back towards Jomsom. The road goes through Ekle Bhatti and follows the Kali Gandaki River for the entire trek. Along the way, you can admire amazing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. At Jomsom, you can explore the town and enjoy the hospitality of the Thakali community. Overnight in Jomsom.

  • Accommodation Guest House, Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2720m

From Jomsom, you have the option of either driving or flying to Pokhara. The flight takes about 20 minutes whereas the drive takes about 6 hours. Upon arrival in Pokhara, head to your hotel. You can spend the remainder of the day exploring the Lakeside. If you fly to Pokhara, you can also visit places like the World Peace Pagoda and the International Mountaineering Museum. Overnight in Pokhara.

  • Accommodation 3-star Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Maximum Altitude820m

Today, we shall head back to Kathmandu. The drive goes through the Prithvi highway and shows you the green hills along with flowing rivers and greenery. We shall stop at Damauli and Kurintar during the trip for breaks. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel. The company will host you a farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation 3-star Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Maximum Altitude1300m

A company representative will help collect your luggage then accompany you to the airport. We bid farewell today, and after completing your formalities at the airport you should be heading towards home. We part ways hoping our paths cross again and that we did a good job.

  • MealsBreakfast

Cost Details

  • Airport pick up and Drop by private vehicle.
  • 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu with bed and breakfast basis.
  • 2 nights accommodation in Pokhara with a bed and breakfast basis.
  • Kathmandu and Pokhara sightseeing by Private guide and private transportation
  • Your standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
  • All necessary paper works and conservation entry permits.
  • Special Trekking Permit US$ 500 per person for 10 days & Annapurna conservation fee
  • Pokhara – Jomsom – Pokhara flight fare.
  • Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu by private vehicle
  • All accommodations in lodges/tea houses
  • An experienced Government licensed guide and porters (1 porter for 2 peoples).
  • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • All government taxes.
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
  • All kinds of drinks (Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks).
  • Personal Equipment.
  • Personal insurance.
  • Any kind of personal expense.
  • Tips for trekking staff, driver.
  • Upper Mustang Monastery Entrance fees.

Useful Info

Except during the winter season, the Upper Mustang can be done throughout the year. This is because Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trek crosses numerous high passes and follows rocky terrain. So, the trekkers should have a good physical condition to do the trek.

At Eternal Himalaya, we have skilled and licensed guides and porters to help you on the trek. In addition, you will also be provided with the required transportation and accommodations for the tour. We offer many other trips for the tourists trying to explore the Himalayas in Nepal.