Upper Mustang Trek For 17Days

Tour Info

trip code

EN-030

Starting Point/ End Point

Kathmandu

Accommodations

Lodge/ Tea House

Max Altitude

3840m (Lo-Manthang)

Duration

17 days

country

Nepal

Trip grade

Challenging

Activities

Trekking

Best Season

March, April, May, September, October, November

Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek is among the best trekking adventures Nepal has to offer. This trekking experience combines the best of Nepal’s moderate treks with rich cultural experiences and the breathtaking landscapes of the trans-Himalayas. The journey commences at Kathmandu and passes through Pokhara and Jomsom until it reaches the isolated area of the Upper Mustang. On the trekking journey, the tour offers the chance to experience the rich tradition of the Lo Ban or the Loba people. This tradition is influenced by their Tibetan Buddhism religion. The tour will visit various villages like Kagbeni, Chele, Ghaymi, and Charang. Eventually, the trek will take the tour to Lo-Manthang or Lo Baruik at 3,840 meters. Lo Manthang is the former kingdom of Lo. Here, the tour will visit the Namgyal Gompa and the Tingkhar villages to experience the preserved tradition of the place.

Details

Upper Mustang Trek is one of the best trekking destinations in Nepal. This Himalayan trek is an enriching blend of moderate trekking, cultural exploration, and stark trans-Himalayan scenery. Beginning in Kathmandu and continuing through Pokhara and Jomsom, the trail gradually ascends into the heart of Upper Mustang, passing through ancient villages such as Kagbeni, Chele, Ghaymi, and Charang. Throughout the journey, you encounter the rich traditions of the Loba community, shaped by Tibetan Buddhism, evident in the prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, and ancient monasteries.

The trek reaches its cultural pinnacle at Lo-Manthang (3,840 m), the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo, where exploration of Namgyal Gompa and the village of Tingkhar reveals a way of life preserved for generations. The route follows less-travelled trails, which offer you solitude and a sense of exclusivity that is rarely found in other popular trekking routes. 

As one of the best trekking companies in Nepal, we at Ever Nepal carefully choose lodges and teahouses to provide you with warm hospitality and comfortable rest after long trekking days, allowing you to relax beside the dramatic landscapes of eroded cliffs, deep canyons, and vast open valleys. The return journey via Muktinath adds spiritual depth to the experience before descending to Jomsom and flying back to Pokhara. This Ultimate Mustang Trek - 17 Days offers a perfect mix of cultural exploration and adventure at high altitudes, as it has scenic drives and easy transitions to and from Kathmandu, which makes this trek in Nepal an extraordinary journey.

Highlights

  • Scenic arrival in Kathmandu with cultural sightseeing in the capital

  • Beautiful drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara along hills and river valleys

  • Spectacular mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom

  • Explore remote cross-Himalayan routes featuring breathtaking cliffs & deep canyons.

  • Visiting the traditional Mustang villages of Chele, Ghaymi, Charang, and Drakmar

  • Cultural immersion in Tibetan-influenced Loba traditions, monasteries, chortens, & mani

  • Visit to the walled city of Lo-Manthang (3,840 m), the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo.

  • Visit to Namgyal Gompa and Tingkhar Village from Lo-Manthang

  • Spiritual visit to the holy pilgrimage center, Muktinath Temple

  • Trails less traveled, which provide solitude and a feeling of exclusivity

  • The teahouse offers comfortable stays with local hospitality.

  • Jomsom to Pokhara back scenic flight. Unwind on the way back to Kathmandu, then fly home.

Itinerary

Day 1: Land in Kathmandu and settle into your Hotel (1,400 m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you are warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to a carefully selected 3-star hotel. After settling into your comfortable room, you can take time to rest or explore the lively streets of Thamel nearby. This relaxed first day helps you recover from travel while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu. In the evening, enjoy a pleasant dinner at the Hotel, offering a gentle introduction to Nepali flavors in a calm and refined setting. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,400 m
  • Travel Distance: 6–8 km
  • Travel Time: 20–30 min
  • Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
  • Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Enjoy sightseeing around Kathmandu while getting ready for the trek

Breakfast is followed by a guided tour of the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Your visits will cover the Swayambhunath Stupa, one of the oldest Nepalese Buddhist stupas in the world. This stupa is said to have manifested spontaneously in its current form in the shape of a lotus flower more than 2,000 years ago. This stupa is home to prayer wheels, shrines, and monasteries that provide spectacular views of the corridor of the Kathmandu Valley. This tour program also covers Kathmandu Durbar Square and the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the world's most sacred Hindu shrines. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,400 m

  • Travel Distance: 5–10 km

  • Travel Time: 2–4 hours

  • Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel

  • Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3: Drive to Pokhara (822 m)

Today begins with a scenic drive through lush lowlands and river valleys toward Besisahar. From here, you continue by jeep along rugged mountain roads, passing terraced fields, waterfalls, and remote villages. The ever-changing landscapes offer great photo ops as well as an insight into the rural life of the Himalayas. Towards the latter part of the day, you reach the village of Jagat, a beautiful hamlet that signals the beginning of the entry into the mountainous zones. You get to stay at a cozy lodge. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,300 m
  • Travel Distance: ~140 km
  • Travel Time: 8–9 hours
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: From Pokhara fly to Jomsom (2,700 m) and trek to Kagbeni (2,858 m)

Your trekking journey in the Himalayas starts with stone-paved paths that go through the forest, fields, and villages. Along the journey, you come across prayer wheels, mani walls, and Buddhist prayer houses. This shows that the region is influenced by the early forms of Tibetan Buddhism, which are designed in such a manner that meditation is performed in them. When you finally arrive in Dharapani, a lodge is in place that offers a refreshing environment around the mountain ranges. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,960 m
  • Travel Distance: 15.7 km
  • Travel Time: 5–6 hours
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050 m)

Leaving Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang, you officially enter the restricted region. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River before climbing through arid landscapes, colorful rock formations, and wind-sculpted cliffs. You travel through villages with traditional Nepali villages and caves carved into the sides of the hills. The influence of Tibetan culture becomes more and more evident in prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls. On arriving at Chele, a village, you take a rest at a warm teahouse, experiencing warm hospitality and catching a glimpse of the desert lands of Mustang. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,050 m
  • Travel Distance: ~15 km
  • Travel Time: 6–7 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Trek from Chele to Ghaymi (3,520 m)

Today's trek involves gradual ascents and descents across high ridges and narrow trails overlooking deep canyons. You cross several passes adorned with prayer flags, offering expansive views of the Mustang landscape. Along the way, you encounter ancient chortens and small monasteries, which serve as spiritual markers for local travelers. The terrain becomes more rugged and remote as you approach Ghaymi, a village known for its long mani walls carved with Buddhist mantras. You rest at a cozy lodge for the night. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,520 m
  • Travel Distance: ~17 km
  • Travel Time: 6–7 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Trek from Ghaymi to Charang (3,500 m)

Today's trek leads you across wide valleys and striking eroded landscapes toward Charang, one of Upper Mustang's most culturally significant villages. A key highlight is a visit to Charang Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in the region. This monastery is home to ancient Buddhist scriptures, statues, paintings, and murals that demonstrate a history of Tibetan Buddhist practices that span over several centuries. The monastery is very important in the lives of the villagers and their religious ceremonies. After discovering this monastery and the traditional villages, you can spend a night at a convenient lodging.

  • Max Elevation: 3,500 m
  • Travel Distance: ~16 km
  • Travel Time: 6–7 hours
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Trek from Charang to Lo-Manthang (3,840 m)

Today's trail crosses high plains and gentle ridges to reveal the walled city of Lo-Manthang. Arriving here, you will have opportunities to learn about the ancient capital of this Kingdom of Lo, with a royal palace and several historic monasteries. You visit Jampa Lhakhang, which is considered one of the oldest monasteries in Mustang, and Thubchen Gompa, noted for its massive walls and dark interior adorned with ancient murals. Chodey Monastery, still active today, keeps working as a center of religious learning and rituals. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,840 m
  • Travel Distance: ~12 km
  • Travel Time: 4–5 hours
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Lo-Manthang to Namgyal Gompa and Tingkhar (3,840 m) and return

Today is dedicated to deeper cultural exploration around Lo-Manthang. You trek to Namgyal Gompa, the key monastery in the area, which previously served as a royal monastery and a religious institution for monks. Positioned on a hilltop, the gompa offers commanding views of the entire Lo-Manthang valley. You then continue to Tingkhar, one of the highest permanent settlements in Upper Mustang. This excursion offers rare insight into monastic education, ancient rituals, and the preserved lifestyle of the Loba people before returning to Lo-Manthang. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,840 m
  • Travel Distance: ~8–10 km
  • Travel Time: 3–5 hours
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Trek from Lo-Manthang to Drakmar (3,810 m)

From Lo-Manthang, you will trek through the remote valleys towards Drakmar, stopping at the sacred Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in Mustang. This monastery, said to date to the 8th century, has a strong connection with Guru Rinpoche and is spiritually powerful to locals. Legend has it that wishes made here are fulfilled. The deep spiritual weight of this monastery belies a very simple structure. Continue on to Drakmar, nestled up against dramatic red cliffs, for a quiet lodge. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,810 m
  • Travel Distance: ~15 km
  • Travel Time: 6–7 hours
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Trek from Drakmar to Shyangmochen (3,800 m)

Today's path is a serene one through open valleys and rugged terrain. The surrounding landscapes feel vast and untouched, accentuating the remoteness of Mustang. Passing the small chortens and prayer walls still echoes the deep-seated Buddhism in this region. The walk remains regular, spectacularly allowing continuous views within the surrounding hills and plateaus. You come to Shyangmochen, locate a cozy teahouse, and spend your quiet evening resting from today's trek. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,800 m
  • Travel Distance: ~14 km
  • Travel Time: 5–6 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Trek from Shyangmochen to Chhuksang (3,050 m)

Beginning our descent from the high plateau, today's trek begins with obvious changes in terrain and climate. The trail passes through rocky terrain and a river crossing before reaching the village of Chhuksang. Along this trail, you will see ancient cave monasteries carved into cliffs, which were used for meditating and taking refuge. The village rests at a confluence of rivers and trading points. You rest at a welcoming lodge, which allows you to enjoy the lower altitude and look back at your trek in Upper Mustang. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,050 m
  • Travel Distance: ~16 km
  • Travel Time: 5–6 hours
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Trek from Chhuksang to Muktinath (3,800 m)

Today's trek carries strong spiritual significance as you ascend toward Muktinath. Upon arrival, you visit Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. For Buddhists, the site is known as Chumig Gyatsa, meaning "Hundred Waters," and is associated with Avalokiteshvara. The temple complex features 108 water spouts and an eternal flame fueled by natural gas. Pilgrims believe that bathing here brings purification and liberation. You spend the evening resting at a lodge near this holy site. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,800 m
  • Travel Distance: ~18 km
  • Travel Time: 7–8 hours
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom via Kagbeni (2,700 m)

As you descend from Muktinath, the trail leads back towards the Kali Gandaki Valley. You pass through the Kagbeni river once more, as you take a final glimpse into the cultural gateway of Mustang. As you move past this river, the terrain gradually opens up into wider valleys with strong mountain winds and dramatic scenery. Once you reach Jomsom, which is a major hub in the region, you can enjoy modern comforts after days of trekking in the relatively remote region of Nepal.  The evening is spent relaxing and celebrating the completion of your trek.

  • Max Elevation: 2,700 m
  • Travel Distance: ~20 km
  • Travel Time: 5–6 hours
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (822 m).

Early in the morning, you board a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. The short flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you are transferred to your hotel near Phewa Lake. The rest of the day is free to relax, explore lakeside cafés, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the city after your mountain adventure. 

  • Max Elevation: 822 m
  • Travel Distance: 158 km
  • Travel Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast

Day 16: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350 m)

On your final leg of the journey, you start your day off with a warm breakfast in the morning and take the drive to Kathmandu, going by rivers, terraced hills, and rural settlements-just about all of Nepal's landscapes. You can make numerous stops en route, where you can get out to stretch, take pictures, and have refreshments. On arrival at Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,350 m
  • Travel Distance: ~200 km
  • Travel Time: 7–9 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 17: International departure from Kathmandu Airport.

Your adventure in Upper Mustang comes to an end today. Depending on your flights, you will be transferred to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flights. As you leave Nepal, you will take with you memories of the kingdoms, monasteries, landscapes, and richness of the cultural heritage of the Upper Mustang. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,350 m
  • Travel Distance: 6–8 km
  • Travel Time: 20–30 minutes
  • Meals: Breakfast

Trek Route

Upper Mustang Trek Route 17 days

Packing List for Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek takes trekkers deep into the ancient walled kingdom of Upper Mustang, a dry lands area of the Himalayas, full of caves, monasteries, deep canyons, and windy desert landscapes. Weather in the area is dry and cold, particularly in the morning and night, but in a rain-shadow zone. When you have the right trekking equipment, you will be safe from dust and wind and the intense sun, along with the changing mountain weather.

Head and Face Gear

  • Warm woolen cap
  • Wide-brim trekking hat
  • UV-protected sunglasses
  • Neck buff or scarf
  • Sunscreen with a high Sun Protection (SPF)
  • Lip balm
  • Lightweight headlamp and extra batteries
  • Dust mask or face covering

Upper Body Clothing

  • Thermal base layers
  • Quick-dry trekking t-shirts
  • Full-sleeved hiking shirts
  • Warm fleece jacket
  • Insulated down jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof shells jacket
  • Raincoat or poncho for slight rain (light weight)

Lower Body Clothing

  • Trekking trousers
  • Thermal inner pants
  • Comfortable hiking shorts
  • Waterproof pants
  • Warm fleece pants for evenings
  • Casual camp pants

Gloves and Handwear

  • Inner liner gloves
  • Warm insulated gloves
  • Waterproof outer gloves

Footwear

  • Waterproof and durable trekking boots
  • Relaxed sandals or slippers
  • Moisture-wicking trekking socks
  • Warm wool socks
  • Gaiter for dusty or snowy areas

Toiletries and Personal Hygiene

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Soap or body wash
  • Wet wipes and tissues
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Small shampoo bottle
  • Skin moisturizing lotion
  • Toilet paper

Trekking Equipment

  • Trekking poles
  • A sleeping bag
  • Duffel bag
  • Day pack with a rain cover
  • Reusable water bottles
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Dry bags for electronics and clothing

Medical and First Aid Supplies

  • Diamox for altitude sickness
  • Personal medicines
  • Painkillers
  • Antiseptic cream
  • Blister care pads
  • ORS packets
  • Bandages and tape
  • Remedies for cold and flu

Electronics and Miscellaneous Items

  • A cell phone or camera
  • Power bank
  • Charging cables
  • Universal adapter
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Notebook or travel journal
  • Binoculars for mountain views

Additional Essentials for Female Trekkers

For women trekking, you might want to bring along a couple more personal items as services in villages of Mustang may be limited.

  • Sports Bra and comfortable underwear
  • Proper sanitary pads or tampons
  • Intimate hygiene wipes
  • Hairbands or fleece headband
  • Apply a moisturizer and skin-care products
  • Fleece combed leggings for evenings

Documents

Upper Mustang is a restricted region for trekking in Nepal and trekkers should prepare all the relevant travel documents and permits of the Nepal government. 

  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit: Upper Mustang trekking can be only undertaken with this main permit. Typically, USD 500 per person (more or less depending on the number of days spent in the region) for the first 10 days, after which additional days spent in the region are charged.

     

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Since the trekking route goes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, it is important that the trekking permit is obtained from ACAP before the trek.

     

  • TIMS Card: TIMS Card is a card for the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) which helps in keeping records of the trekking and also helps to make it easier to track a trekker's safety in remote mountain areas.

     

  • Valid Passport: It is necessary for the trekkers to have an original passport with six months validity from the date of entering into Nepal.

     

  • Passport-Sized Photographs: Make sure to have a minimum of 3 to 4 recent passport-sized photos for permits or travel paperwork on the hike.

     

  • Nepal Tourist Visa: All those who are coming to Nepal from abroad need to have a tourist visa for the entire duration of the trek.

     

  • Travel Insurance: It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance for the Upper Mustang Trek. High altitude trekking, emergency helicopter evacuation, and medical treatment in remote Himalayan areas should be covered under the insurance.

What's included

  • Lodging throughout the trek in carefully selected tea houses or lodges, ensuring comfort and a restful stay at each stop. 

  • All meals are provided during the trekking days, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, giving you full support for energy and nutrition on the trail. 

  • Expert, qualified guides and porters who accompany you on the trek to help and guide you, and who are trained in first aid and emergency rescue techniques, if needed.

  • All required trekking permits, like the Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang and ACAP/TIMS permits, are required to enter restricted areas with no hassles.

  • Transportation according to the itinerary, which may include trans Porter, overland transportation, and any internal transportation needed during the trek.

  • Help with all the necessary paperwork for permits and administrative matters so that you do not have to worry about them while on the trek

What's excluded

  • Visa fees must be charged upon entering Nepal, no matter which nationality of are visiting.

  • International flights, to and from Nepal, involving any stops during flights.

  • Those meals that are not included within the trekking package, especially lunch and dinner in Kathmandu or any other place that is not within the trekking schedule.

  • Phone calls, laundry, bottled water, snacks, hot showers, or other personal preferences that a trekker might have.

  • Further hotel nights which might be required because of early arrival in the area, late departure, and any resulting changes in the trek plans.**Insurance**:

  •  It should cover emergency evacuation insurance, medical insurance, and rescue insurance in the event of unforeseen incidents.

  • Tips or gratuities for guides, porters, or other staff members, which, though highly solicited, remain excluded from the package price.

  • All other costs, as well as services, that are not listed in the 'Cost Includes' section, have to be borne by the trekker.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Upper Mustang Trek?

The trail of the Upper Mustang is on the moderate level. Not too high of a grade of trails, but walk 6 to 7 hours a day in dry, windy, and high altitudes. The trip should be made easier and more pleasurable by a degree of fitness and some trekking experience.

What is the best time for the Upper Mustang Trek?

This trek is most popular during the spring and fall season. The thing that is interesting is that Upper Mustang can also be trekked in the monsoon season; as it is situated in a rain-shadow area with little rainfall compared to other trekking routes in Nepal.

Do I need a guide for Upper Mustang Trek?

Yes, Upper Mustang is a restricted area and requires a licensed guide for trekking. It is not possible to undertake independent trekking. On the way, guides are also making arrangements to ensure that you know how to proceed, how to get a permit and where to stay as well as sharing local culture.

Is altitude sickness common during the trek?

The altitude of the Upper Mustang is above 3500 meters and it leads to the problem of altitude sickness in the trekkers. Slow acclimatization, adequate hydration, frequent rest and a gradual ascent into the highlands decrease the likelihood of developing significant health concerns associated with higher elevations.

How long does the Upper Mustang Trek take?

Typically, most trips in Nepal are from 12 to 17 days, based on the route, acclimatization days, and side trips. A few trekkers also visit nearby villages, monasteries and unexplored caves at Lo Manthang during the trip.

Are tea houses available in Upper Mustang?

Yes, tea houses and lodges can be found in most of the trekking villages in Upper Mustang. Basic, but comfortable enough for trekkers, facilities are simple rooms, warm meals and friendly homes by local families.

What kind of food is available during the trek?

Dals, bhat, noodles, soups, fried rice, Tibetan bread, potatoes, tea and eggs are common food items available at teahouses. A few villages also serve basic international cuisines, but this becomes more limited in some areas.

Can beginners do the Upper Mustang Trek?

Since most of the trails are not as difficult as some of the High Mountain passes in Nepal, beginners with good fitness can successfully complete the trek. But, considered preparation, frequent walking sessions, and acclimatization are still very crucial preparation for trip.

Why is Upper Mustang famous?

Upper Mustang is known for its ancient culture of Tibetan heritage, medieval villages, caves, monasteries, and desert-like landscapes of the Himalayas. Its unique traditions and historical atmosphere were well preserved for many years because the area was restricted.

Is internet or mobile network available during the trek?

Mobile networks and limited internet services are available in some villages, including Lo Manthang. This is due to the mountainous terrain in parts of the remote trail sections; which can make connections weak or unavailable.

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