Upper Mustang Trek - 16 Days
Get ready to be spellbound by the enchantment of Upper Mustang, where mystical deserts meet snow-capped giants, and adventure awaits around every turn.
Upper Mustang Trek
Price: USD $2200 USD $1999-
Price per person
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2-4 pax$1999
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5-7 pax$1850
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8-13 pax$1750
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14+ pax$1650
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Upper Mustang Trek Facts
Upper Mustang Trek Highlights
- Descend into the World's Deepest Gorge, a humbling chasm plunging over 5,500 meters (18,045 ft).
- Step back in time and explore the ancient capital at of Lo Manthang at 3,800 meters (12,467 ft)
- Discover inner peace amidst the serenity of countless Buddhist temples, chortens, and caves.
- Experience the hospitality of the Mustang people and their traditional cuisine at 3,700 meters (12,139 ft).
- Enjoy mountains like Nilgiri (6,839 meters/22,438 ft), Annapurna I (8,091 meters/26,545 ft), and Dhaulagiri I (8,167 meters/26,795 ft).
- Thrilling flight from Pokhara to Jomsom at 2,743 meters (8,999 ft).
- Hike in a Desert Oasis 3,800 meters (12,467 ft)
Upper Mustang Trek Overview
Imagine yourself surrounded by the Himalayas, where tales of forgotten rulers are whispered in the wind and prayer flags dance against a desert backdrop. Join us on a 16-day journey to Upper Mustang, the Forbidden Kingdom, to uncover its ancient secrets and stunning beauty.
This carefully curated package by Places Nepal will lead you to the most beautiful places like Kaligandaki River Gorge, the deepest canyon on earth (5,500m), and be awed by the power of nature. As you move, you Scale Lo Manthang (3,800m), the timeless capital, and step back in time as you explore the King's Palace, where the aged stones speak of ancient glories. Wander among a tapestry of Buddhist temples, chortens, and caves (3,700m), where peace envelops you like a sacred balm. Breathe in the scent of incense as vibrant prayer flags sway in the breeze, guiding you on a spiritual journey.
It is not just the place but also the people. Experience the warmth of the Mustang people, whose lives are steeped in Tibetan traditions. Mustang offers many wonders, including ancient yak caravans transporting goods along ancient trade routes, their bells blending with the songs of the wind. Savour the unique flavors of their cuisine, each dish a testament to recipes passed down through generations.
The mountains are always with you during the whole trip. Gaze in awe at panoramic views of snow-capped giants: Nilgiri (6,839m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) - their icy peaks piercing the cerulean sky. Observe as the sun paints these titans in a daily dance of light and shadow, a masterpiece that unfolds with each sunrise.
Get ready for a thrilling flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,743m) and witness the stunning beauty of the Himalayas. From lush valleys to barren moonscapes, the journey is full of excitement. You will cross a desert oasis and trek on parched earth, unafraid of rain - a rare occurrence in the Himalayas.
With a maximum height of 3,800 meters, this expedition is perfect for adventurers of all skill levels. The gradual climb and arid climate guarantee a comfortable journey, allowing you to focus on the magic of Upper Mustang. This is more than a hike; it's a cultural immersion and a trip into the unknown. Get ready to be spellbound by the enchantment of Upper Mustang, where mystical deserts meet snow-capped giants, and adventure awaits around every turn.
Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our airport representative will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. After check-in, you will attend a short briefing about the trek. Later, explore Thamel, the city’s lively tourist district, where you can experience the local atmosphere and do any last-minute shopping. Spend the evening unwinding and getting ready for your upcoming journey.
- Today marks the start of our trek; after an early breakfast, we will leave for Pokhara. You can choose the method of transportation between flight, bus, or private vehicle (conditions apply).
- Once we reach Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel
- Enjoy an evening strolling through Pokhara’s most famous destination, Lakeside
Start the day with an early morning flight to Jomsom, offering spectacular aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Upon landing, the trek begins through the northern valley of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge, surrounded by rugged Himalayan terrain and windswept landscapes.
The journey leads to Kagbeni, a picturesque village that is the gateway to Upper Mustang. This ancient settlement is known for its narrow alleyways, traditional mud-brick houses, and centuries-old monasteries. Explore the unique blend of Tibetan culture, local traditions, and stunning mountain scenery before settling in for the night.
On day four, begin your 5–6 hour trek from Kagbeni to Chele, following scenic trails through Mustang’s arid landscapes. Along the way, pass through Tangbe, a charming village with whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and breathtaking views of Mt. Nilgiri.
Continue towards Chhusang, a village set against striking red, orange, and silver-gray cliffs, dotted with ancient cave dwellings once used by early settlers. As you ascend further, cross the Kali Gandaki River before reaching Chele, a small Tibetan-influenced village offering a glimpse into the region’s unique culture. Spend the night in a local guesthouse, resting for the journey ahead.
After breakfast start on a trek from Chele to Syanboche, navigating diverse landscapes and high mountain passes. The day begins with a steep ascent and a descent into deep canyons with dramatic rock formations.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan range as the trail unfolds, including Mt. Tilicho (7,134m). The journey continues through Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La Pass (3,735m), offering panoramic vistas of the rugged Mustang terrain. Descend to the picturesque village of Samar, a peaceful settlement surrounded by stunning landscapes.
The trek then winds through a forested trail, eventually leading to Syanboche, where a cozy guesthouse awaits for an overnight stay.
Today, the trek from Syanboche to Ghami begins. The trail ascends gradually toward Yamada La Pass (3,850m). It winds through deep valleys and wind-sculpted canyons, offering mesmerizing views of the towering Himalayas.
Continue through dense forests and golden barley fields, making your way to Nyi La Pass (4,010m), one of the highest points of the trek. As you descend, arrive at Ghami, one of the largest villages in Upper Mustang, known for its traditional stone houses, ancient monasteries, and Tibetan-influenced culture. Settle into a local guesthouse for a well-deserved rest.
The trek begins on a rocky, slippery path, past Mustang’s longest and oldest Mani wall, decorated with ancient Buddhist inscriptions. Along the way, encounter traditional Chortens, adding to the region’s spiritual charm.
The path gradually ascends to Tsarang La Pass (3,870m), offering panoramic mountain views before entering Tsarang village. This historic settlement is known for its red-walled monasteries, traditional whitewashed houses, and deep-rooted Tibetan culture. End the day with an overnight stay at a local guesthouse.
Today's trek is short and easy, leading to the Last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal. The journey begins with a descent into a canyon, crossing the Kali Gandaki River before ascending to Lo La Pass (3,950m). From here, enjoy your first breathtaking view of Lo Manthang.
As you approach the village, take in stunning Himalayan vistas, including Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Tilicho, and Annapurna I. After lunch, explore Lo Manthang's historic monasteries—Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chhoeda—each holding deep cultural and spiritual significance. End the day with an overnight stay at a local guesthouse.
After breakfast, take a trip to Chhoser, the last village of Mustang, situated near the Tibetan border. This remote settlement is known for its centuries-old cave dwellings and monasteries, which have been a part of Mustang’s history for generations.
Visit the Nyphu Cave Monastery, built into a cliffside, where monks have meditated for hundreds of years. Explore the Jhong Sky Cave, an ancient structure with multiple rooms that once served as homes and hiding places. Walking through these historical sites, you’ll get a deeper understanding of Mustang’s unique culture and traditions.
After an insightful day, return to Lo Manthang, where you’ll spend the night at a local guesthouse, enjoying the peaceful surroundings of this walled Himalayan village.
On this day, your journey begins to get back towards Dhakmar, retracing your steps through Mustang’s rugged landscapes. The trek takes you over Marang La Pass (4,230m) and Mui La Pass (4,100m), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Before reaching Ghar Gompa, believed to be the oldest Tibetan monastery in the world, you will Continue towards Gyakar village, a small but historically significant settlement.
After exploring the monastery and soaking in its rich history, trek to Dhakmar, where you’ll spend the night at a local guesthouse, surrounded by its striking red cliffs and serene landscapes.
After breakfast in the early morning, you will trek to Ghiling, passing through the picturesque village of Ghami. The trail gradually ascends towards Nyi La Pass (4,010m), offering panoramic views of the Mustang region.
After crossing the pass, descend towards Ghiling, a peaceful village surrounded by traditional stone houses and barley fields. Spend the night at a local guesthouse, enjoying the tranquility of this remote Himalayan settlement.
Today’s journey takes you towards Chhusang, passing through the scenic village of Syanboche. Along the way, traverse Samar village and ascend Dajori La Pass (3,375m) and Taklam La Pass (3,624m) before reaching the charming town of Chele.
From here, descend into Chhusang, a beautiful riverside village along the Kali Gandaki River, famous for its vibrant red cliffs and flourishing apple orchards. After a rewarding day of trekking, settle in for the night at a cozy guesthouse surrounded by Mustang’s breathtaking landscapes.
After breakfast, begin your trek to Jomsom, passing through the traditional villages of Jharkot and Kagbeni. As you descend into the Kali Gandaki Valley, witness the dramatic shift in landscapes, with views of the Himalayas accompanying you along the way.
Upon arrival in Jomsom, check into a guesthouse and unwind after the long journey. Enjoy the evening reflecting on your incredible adventure through the rugged terrains of Mustang before concluding your trek.
Today, take an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, with the beautiful aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
In the afternoon, go on a sightseeing tour of Pokhara, visiting iconic landmarks such as Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, and Davis Falls, along with other cultural and natural attractions.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Pokhara, where you can enjoy atmosphere of this beautiful lakeside city.
Travel from Pokhara to Kathmandu, enjoying a scenic 6-7 hour drive through the picturesque hills and countryside.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel in Kathmandu for an overnight stay.
Optional: A 30-minute flight to Kathmandu is available for a quicker and more comfortable return.
Bid a final farewell to Nepal, cherishing the unforgettable memories of your adventure.
We will provide a comfortable airport transfer, ensuring you arrive three hours before you depart for a smooth journey home.
Includes:
- Airport pick up & drop off by private vehicle.
- 3-night hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- 2-night hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Full meals throughout the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
- Domestic Airfair (Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara)
- An experienced government license holder guide from Kathmandu to Kathmandu.
- Special Mustang Permit (USD $500)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP)
- Both-way tourist bus ticket (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
- Trekking Duffle bag.
- Seasonal fruits during the trek.
- Emergency Medical kit bag.
- Complimentary farewell dinner.
Exclude:
- International Airfare and visa fees 30$ for 15 days and 50$ for 30 days
- Personal travel insurance.
- Primary foods ( Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara).
- All kinds of beverages like water, cold/hot drinks
- Porter to carry your belongings during the trek (We provide porters on request extra charge is applicable)
- There will be a hot shower, battery charge, and Wi-Fi during trekking.
- Personal trekking equipment and expenses.
- Tips and gratitude for the staff.
- Additional costs incurred by natural disasters and beyond our control, e.g., weather, illness, strike, landslide, etc.
Upper Mustang Trek Map

Upper Mustang Trek - Useful Information
Upper Mustang Trek Length & Terrain
The primary route mentioned above covers a distance of approximately 100 kilometres, although it's worth noting that it can be customized to your preferences. Each trekking day commences after breakfast at around 8:30 am, providing ample opportunities to pause, appreciate the scenery, capture photographs, or enjoy a cup of tea along the trail. The pace is deliberately unhurried, promoting adequate acclimatization. What distinguishes this trek is that it doesn't involve reaching exceptionally high altitudes. Most trekking days entail 6 to 7 hours of walking and generally conclude by mid-afternoon.
The terrain predominantly consists of well-established and marked paths. The terrain may resemble sandy, desert-like landscapes in some areas, while it can be rocky in other sections. No specialized equipment or technical skills, such as crampons, are necessary; this is purely a trekking experience. Mustang remains untouched, boasting a rich Tibetan culture, as it remained isolated from the rest of Nepal and the world until the early 1990s. Nevertheless, you'll encounter a warm and hospitable reception.
When To Travel To Mustang/Upper Mustang
During spring and autumn, Nepal offers an ideal time for trekking activities. In addition to that, the Upper Mustang Trek can still be done during the monsoon season. The valley essentially represents a vast dried-up ravine that also falls within the Himalayan monsoon shadow, making it accessible most of the year. However, it's advisable to avoid the mid-winter period and consider visiting anytime from March to late November.
Accommodation During Upper Mustang Trek
During the Upper Mustang trek, we will be accommodated in simple yet comfortable lodges managed by Places Nepal and local Mustang families. These lodges typically feature a central communal area with a large stove, providing warmth and a welcoming ambience. The unheated bedrooms are generally furnished with two beds, mattresses, pillows, and blankets.
Most lodges also offer shower facilities powered by gas, ensuring you can refresh along the journey. Additionally, they predominantly provide sit-down flush toilets, although some lodges may offer squat toilets as an alternative.
When it comes to dining, you can expect a delightful culinary experience on the Upper Mustang trek. The food is of high quality and comprises a mix of local Nepali/Tibetan dishes and Western cuisine, catering to various tastes and preferences.
Payment Policy
Places Nepal is a government-approved hiking and travel company in Nepal. We are members of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN). As a result, you may book excursions with Places Nepal with confidence. We demand a 30% deposit to finalize your vacation booking. Within a week after booking, you must submit us the following documents: a passport copy, passport-sized pictures, travel insurance policy, and arrival and departure flight data.
You can pay via bank transfer, Western Union, or our website. After you arrive in Nepal, you can pay the remaining travel costs in cash, via bank transfer, or by credit card. We also include the essential payment methods in your email.
Visa
All foreigners except Indian nationals need a valid visa to enter Nepal. On-arrival visas are available at Tribhuvan International Airport and Nepal's borders with India and Tibet. To apply for a visa, you will need a passport valid for at least six months, a passport-size photo, and the visa fee. The current cost of a 30-day visa is US$50, payable in cash.
Children under the age of ten are eligible for a free visa. Visa requirements are subject to change without notice, so please visit www.immigration.gov.np for the latest information. Citizens of China and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) nations (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) are exempt from visa requirements.
Citizens of certain countries may be denied a visa upon arrival. On-arrival visas may be restricted to citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan. Please visit your nearest Nepali embassy if you are a citizen of one of these countries.
Additional personal expenditures
The package does not include all expenses, so You must carry spending money for a variety of reasons. This package does not have meals or lodging in Kathmandu and Pokhara, Nepal's tourism centres with many cuisine options. We invite you to explore the city and eat anything you like. Trekkers, too, require money for visa fees, travel insurance policy purchases, beverages, snacks, gratuities, souvenirs, tips, and so on.