Upper Mustang Trekking 14 Days
Trip Facts
Trip Highlights
- Explore the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang, home to centuries-old monasteries and royal heritage.
- Walk through Mustang’s iconic desert landscapes, red cliffs, eroded canyons, and high-altitude plateaus.
- Visit famed Tibetan Buddhist sites like Chhoser Cave, Jampa Gompa, Thubchen Monastery, and sky caves.
- Experience the preserved Tibetan culture and lifestyle of the Loba community, untouched for generations.
- Witness panoramic views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and other Himalayan giants
- Journey through wind-carved valleys and ochre cliffs, offering dramatic scenery unique to Mustang.
- Follow the ancient salt trade route along the Kali Gandaki corridor.
- Cultural immersion in Buddhist and Bon traditions, rarely found elsewhere in Nepal
- Experience the Tiji Festival (if timed right), with dramatic masked dances and spiritual rituals
- A rare opportunity to trek inside a restricted Himalayan kingdom with deep spirituality and warm hospitality.
Overview
The Upper Mustang region, located in the northern part of Nepal, is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, offering a unique and mesmerizing upper mustang trek experience. Highest altitude of Upper Mustang Lo Manthang trek is 3840 meters / 12598 feet above sea level. Mustang is hidden behind the spectacular Himalayan ranges. This remote and mystical land is often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” as it remained restricted to outsiders until 1992, preserving its ancient Tibetan culture and breathtaking landscapes. Trekking in Upper Mustang is a journey back in time, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by rugged canyons, dramatic cliffs, and otherworldly desert terrain. The centrepiece of this adventure is the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, with its rich history, monasteries, and a close-knit Mustang community.
This trek is not only about stunning natural beauty but also a cultural immersion into a way of life that has remained largely untouched for centuries. As you traverse the arid landscapes and engage with the local people, you’ll gain a profound appreciation for the unique traditions and customs that define this region.
Itinerary
After breakfast, we leave our hotel early morning for a drive with scenic views along the road to Pokhara via Prithivi national highway. The drive could take roughly 6-7 hrs to reach Pokhara. We also have the option for a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara for 35 minutes. You have choice to relax in Pokhara or have a sightseeing or walk around beautiful Phewa Lake. Overnight in Pokhara.
A short morning flight to Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang, through the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge with the glorious view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri is exceptional. Jomsom is where your actual trek of foot begins. After checking out from the airport, you will start your 3 hours trek. You will trek uphill alongside Kali Gandaki River to reach Kagbeni.
You will get our permits checked then begin our trek on a trail alongside the Kali Gandaki River. Today you will pass by villages Tangbe and Chusang. Made with mud and white painted narrow alleys, you will pass through apple garden and colorful buckwheat field. You traverse several ridges to Tangbe village. This village is a labyrinth of narrow alleys amongst white washed houses, fields of buckwheat, barley, wheat and apple orchards.
You will get our permits checked then begin our trek on a trail alongside the Kali Gandaki River. Today you will pass by villages Tangbe and Chusang. Made with mud and white painted narrow alleys, you will pass through apple garden and colorful buckwheat field. You traverse several ridges to Tangbe village. This village is a labyrinth of narrow alleys amongst white washed houses, fields of buckwheat, barley, wheat and apple orchards.
We ascend to the Yamada La pass at 3,850m. We pass by a few teahouses, chortens, and beautiful villages on the way. We trek through poplar forests and barley fields and reach Nyi Pass at 4,010m. From here, we descend to Ghami, one of the Lo region’s biggest villages. The village is beautiful, with fields surrounding the entire village. Overnight in Ghami.
This day is the continuation of gaining high altitude through constant changes up and down. We have one other high pass to conquer: Yamada La to pass at 3,850m. We will pass by several villages that bring the Tibetian lifestyle tone. After the two high passes, this region gives more Tibetian vibes. At the same time, below Syngbouche, it is more of a Gurung and Thakali cultural influence from the lower Mustang and Manang area (District next to Mustang.
You begin your trek by descending to a canyon and cross a river before beginning our uphill trek to Lo La pass which at 3950m. From the top of the pass you can admire the beautiful Lo Manthang village. From the pass we descend to Lo Manthang which is a beautiful walled village. From here the views of the Himalayas including Nilgiri, Tilicho and Annapurna I, Bhrikuti Peak as well as Damodar Kunda (pond) is quite good. Overnight in Lo-Manthang.
Lo Manthang, the capital city of Mustang, contains about 150 houses and has some of the largest and finest Tibetan Buddhism gompas in Nepal. The town is fascinating, with four major ancient Monasteries, impressive, and an enormous 14th-century palace imposing a 4-story building in the center of the city.
After breakfast, your leader will organize a jeep for the Chhosar excursion.
• Nyphu Cave monastery built into the side of a soaring cliff.
• 2500 years old Jhong Sky Cave has more than 44 compartments and gives you the pre-historic settlement of humans.
• During the afternoon, if you are not exhausted, you can walk to Thinker summer palace or explore the unique ancient monasteries inside the walled city itself, which is exceptional.
You will take the upper highland trail to bid farewell to Lo-Manthang. This gives you splendid views of both Lo-Manthang and Charang Valley. You can also see the snow-capped mountains in the background. On the way, you can visit the oldest Tibetan monastery- Ghar Gompa. From here, you will cross one of the last passes, Dhi Pass at 4100m. Onwards you will trek to Dhamkar.
From today the trail connects to the same path as we hiked up. For 14 days itinerary, you can’t extend via Yara Gomba due to the short time. If you wish to make an alternative circuit route, you may need to add two extra days. The journey in midday might be harassing due to the strong wind against us. However, the panoramic view of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, is still worth it on the south side.
You will continue your trek back. If you want, you can visit some of the attractions you missed on the trek, like the Chungsi Cave monastery. We can stop for lunch at Samar village once again. From here, we make our descent down to Tetang. This upper village of Chuksang lies between two hills. It gives you some escape from the fierce wind that Kali Gandaki valley is known for. Chusang is yet another beautiful village you will spend the night in.
Walking through the river valley, today you will exist the restricted area. You spend an exact ten days in a forbidden area. Leaving behind all the memories of Upper Mustang we are ready to set off for Pokhara. It is our last night in the Mustang area. This is the last camp before you leave this region. You may want to enjoy the last toss of local Marpha alcohol cider or apple brandy from the area with your guide support crew.
You will catch an early morning flight to Pokhara. It is a fantastic way to finish off your Upper Mustang trek. This flight takes you along the Kali Gandaki Gorge between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Today you will take back the scenic drive back to Kathmandu which takes around 6 hrs. There is an option to have flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara on added extra cost as required.
Price Includes
- Airport picks up & drop by private vehicle to hotel.
- Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu.
- Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and Jomsom to Pokhara.
- Necessary paperwork and Trekking Permits fee (ACAP permit & Upper Mustang Restricted Permit).
- Accommodation during trek and Meal (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea).
- Licensed English or Chinese or Korean or Hindi along with Nepali speaking Friendly trekking guide.
- Coverage of Guides including their Meals, Insurance, Salary, Lodging, transportation and other necessary equipment.
- First Aid Medical Kit(Carried by the guide) Aarogya PC-303 Portable Vital Signs Monitor Device
- Sleeping bag, down jackets and trekking map, if necessary.
- Emergency Evacuation Assistance Service (The cost of the helicopter, hospital and necessary transport are not payable by the company).
- Welcome or farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a cultural restaurant (complimentary).
- A nation-wide operated Mobile SIM Card and a map of the trekking region.
Price Excludes
- International airfare.
- Nepal Entry Visa fee: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport.
- Personal Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory.
- Personal expense (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, hot and cold drinks, hot shower, Alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-chargefee).
- Accommodation, Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu, except the farewell dinner.
- Emergency expenses such as expenses on charted helicopter.
- Additional costs or delays caused by out of management control, for example, landslide, weather condition, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies etc.
- Gratitude and tips for your guide, porter and driver.
Add-ons & Options
1. Accommodation Booking in Kathmandu:
We can arrange your hotel stay in Kathmandu for a smooth and stress-free arrival.
✅ Double Room: USD 55 per night (cost can be shared between two trekkers)
✅ Single Room: USD 45 per night
📍 Centrally located near Thamel – close to gear shops, great restaurants, and cultural sites.
2. Private Jeep Transfer & Flights:
We offer comfortable and convenient round-trip private jeep services between Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kagbeni and returned.
3. Porter Services:We can arrange a reliable, experienced porter to support your trek.
✅ Contact us for current rates and availability.
4. Accommodation Booking in Pokhara:
We can also assist with hotel bookings in Pokhara for your pre- or post-trek stay.
✅ Contact us for current rates and availability.
📍 Centrally located near Pokhara– close to gear shops, great restaurants, and cultural sites.
5. 🪂 Paragliding (Pokhara)
Glide above Fewa Lake with stunning Himalayan views.
6. 🤸 Bungee Jump (The Cliff, Kushma)
Leap 228m over the Kaligandaki Gorge – one of the world’s highest jumps.
7. 🎢 Swing (The Cliff, Kushma)
Feel the thrill on the world’s 2nd highest giant swing.
Don't hesitate to get in touch with us for current rates and availability.
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Elevation Chart: Upper Mustang Trekking 14 Days
DownloadFAQ's for Upper Mustang Trekking 14 Days
General Information
Upper Mustang is known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” offering ancient Tibetan culture, dramatic desert landscapes, caves, monasteries, and the walled city of Lo Manthang.
Yes. Lower Mustang is more accessible and at lower altitude, while Upper Mustang is remote, culturally richer, and requires a restricted area permit.
Itinerary & Duration
A standard Upper Mustang trek takes around 9–12 days, with our package designed for 9 days of trekking and exploration.
Yes, Nepal Lion Trekking can customize the itinerary to include longer stays in Lo Manthang or additional side trips.
Difficulty & Preparation
It is a moderate trek. Trails are not extremely steep but involve long daily walks in windy, dry terrain.
Some prior trekking experience helps, but it is not mandatory. Good fitness and preparation are enough.
Transportation
The trek usually begins after a short flight or a long drive from Pokhara to Jomsom.
Yes, if flights are delayed, Nepal Lion Trekking arranges ground transport via Beni or Tatopani.
Altitude & Safety
The trek reaches up to 3,840m at Lo Manthang.
The risk is lower than high-Himalayan treks but still possible. Proper acclimatization and hydration help minimize issues.
Accommodation & Food
Teahouses and lodges provide basic yet comfortable rooms, often run by local families.
Meals include dal bhat, Tibetan bread, soups, noodles, momo dumplings, and some Western dishes. Vegetarian options are widely available.
Preparation & Gear
Sturdy boots, warm clothing layers, sun protection, a good down jacket, and a sleeping bag are recommended.
Yes, trekking poles are highly recommended for stability on uneven and dusty trails.
Permits & Costs
You need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Upper Mustang, plus an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Nepal Lion Trekking arranges both.
The Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit is regulated to preserve the region’s culture and environment, and the higher fee supports this.
Services & Guides
Yes, trekking independently is not allowed in Upper Mustang. A licensed guide is mandatory.
We provide experienced guides, porters, permits, transportation, meals, accommodations, and all necessary logistics.
Cultural & Local Experience
You’ll explore Lo Manthang’s walled city, ancient monasteries, sky caves, and Tibetan-influenced villages.
Yes, the Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang is the most famous, celebrated with masked dances and rituals.
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