Upper Mustang Trek-17 Days

based on 5 reviews

Good to Know

Duration 17 Days
Trip Grade Moderate
Starts/Ends Kathmandu to Kathmandu
Group Size 2-10
Max. Altitude 3760 M.
Best Season March, April, May and September, October, November

Upper Mustang Trek is a journey into the mystical rain shadow region of Mustang which shelters the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Mustang- Lo. Mustang, a fortified city positioned atop Kaligandaki River in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, gets nominal rainfall which makes the entire topography dry. For this very same reason, the Upper Mustang Trek is possible even in Monsoon season.

The route for Upper Mustang Treks proceeds through the barren landscape of eroded sandstone columns, taking us through wild experiences of rare natural marvels. Additionally, we'll visit thousand year old monastery of Gyokar Gompa, admiring the fortified wall, and visiting the four storey palace in Lo-manthang. We'll pass through caves of native tribes called Lobos and have 180 degree views of Nilgiri, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges while being encircled by more than 35 mountains over 6000m high.

The Upper Mustang Trek proceeds through the diverse terrain, traversing the world’s deepest gorge in Kali Gandaki to world’s highest regions of Lo-Manthang Valley. Upper Mustang Trek is a Restricted Area Trek and requires a special permit from department of immigration to travel through, included in the cost of the trek.

Upper Mustang Treks will take you through unusual experience that will alter your vision towards trekking and leave you with infinite memories that will remain in your heart throughout your life.

Itinerary

Our representatives from Adventure Himalayan Travels will pick you up in Tribhuvan International Airport at Kathmandu and take you to the hotel where you will be briefly explained about your trekking package.

Kathmandu Valley includes several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath (famous Hindu temple and cremation ground) Boudhanath (massive Buddhist stupa). We can also visit Swyambhunath, also known as Monkey Temple, which was built roughly 2000 years ago. Finally, we can visit Patan, city of fine arts. In the afternoon, you will be meeting with your trekking guide and will check all the necessary things. Overnight stay at the hotel.

It's about a 6 hrs drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara through the Prithvi Highway. The forest above the stream, waterfalls and the terraced hillside that can be seen are fabulous. Overnight in hotel in Pokhara.

The iconic flight of a mere 20 minutes will lead us to Jomsom - the hub and the district headquarters of Mustang that links Nepal with Tibet through an ancient salt trade route. The flight will be a memorable one as it offers the views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Upper Mustang Trek initiates from Jomsom. We will move forward along the Kaligandaki River and traverse Ekley Bhatti Village before continuing on the way that allows the 180 degree views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Dhampus and Tukuche and then descend to Kagbeni, a Tibetan village located at the edge of two rivers.

The trail proceeds further through the eastern edge of Kaligandaki River and climbs uphill towards Tangbe Village. Following the tapered alleys amidst the houses and fields of apples and wheat, we will arrive at the pretty Chhusang Village. Later we will cross the Kaligandaki River on a steel footbridge and climb the hill again to the village of Chele which is located on a ridge above the gorge. Overnight at tea house.

The trail follows the inclined and arid landscape before lowering down the hill. We will climb Taklam La Pass (3624m) which allows the panoramic view of Tilicho Peak and Damodar Danda. Later, the route spirals downward passing chhortens to Samar Village from where the trail drops further to a large ravine. Another 3 hours of walking through stream and juniper trees will take us through Ramchung Cave to Syangboche. Overnight at tea house.

Today’s trek proceeds through Tibetan styled local houses, tea houses and Buddhist monuments all the way to the Yamda La. Allocating some time to praise the scenic beauties the apex offers, we will move along the fields of Barley to climb the Nyi Pass at 4010m altitude which is the second pass for the day. The steep descent from Nyi Pass will take us to Ghami which is the third largest village in Lo Region, nestled in the rugged mountains.

The trek on the 8th day of Upper Mustang Trek commences by crossing the Ghami River. The route then passes Mani walls and heads east through maize fields and willow trees to Charang Village(3500m) which exists at the top of Tsarang Chu Canyon and is inhabited mostly by Lobos - the natives of the area. Enroute, we will visit the huge five-storey white dzong and red gompa situated on the bank of gorge Kali Gandaki River.

After a gentle drop from Charang, we will cross the Charang-Chu and climb uphill through the rocky path with views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I and Bhrikiuti Peak. Later we will move up and down the hill through another plateau to reach Lo-Manthang where we will spend the night.

Today we will take a well deserved rest from our tiring trek and energize ourselves for the trail ahead. We will explore around Lo- Manthang which includes visit into the western valley of Tingkhar, where the summer palace of the Raja resides. The place offers majestic views of Kimling, Phuwa and the Namgyal Gompa. Later we will visit the Namgyal Gompa monastery.

Following the route that passes near Gyokar Gompa, we will climb up through a ridge across a valley to arrive to a meadow. Gyokar Gompa is famous for its rock painting that is believed to be more than 1200 years old. We will have a gentle drop and continue along the eroded path to make it to Drakmar.

We will move along the high and windy road to Ghiling, which though is barren and seems like god forsaken land, provides absolutely stunning views of Mount Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. Overnight in tea house.

A 5-hour walk through rocky path down the hill with spectacular views of mountains at the backdrop will take us to Chhuksang where we will enjoy the terraced field and the spectacular mountain views. We will stay overnight in Chhuksang.

Early in the morning we will set out for our last day of trekking. We will follow the easy trail to the southern border of the region and head toward Kagbeni. From Kagbeni, we will continue along the Annapurna Circuit Trek route and walk along the bank of Kali Gandaki River, eventually making it to Jomsom where we will stay overnight.

The 20 minutes flight from Jomsom Airport through the cleft between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri will take us to Pokhara. There will be enough time to spare to unlock the mysteries of Pokhara. In the evening, we will stay overnight at one of the hotels in lakeside.

Both modes of travel- via air and road are available. It takes 25-minute flight through scenic mountain views or 6-7 hours bus tour of 200km long road to make it to Kathmandu. We will return to our hotel where you will enjoy a typical Nepali dish and a cultural show.

We will transport you to the airport. Thanks for trekking with Adventure Himalayan Travels. We look forward to seeing you again!

This itinerary is not suited for you? Plan your own trip.

Route Map

Upper Mustang Trek-17 Days Map

What's Included

Includes

11 nights and 12 days of food and accommodation during trek (local lodge)
Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Jomsom, Jomsom to Pokhara, and Pokhara back to Kathmandu
English speaking local expert guide, porters(porter carry maximum 20k.g and one porter between two person)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) fees
Annapurna Conservation permit (ACAP)
Special Mustang region permit ($500 for first 10 days, $50/day after that)
Three nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu at bed and breakfast, two nights accommodation in Pokhara at bed and breakfast
Airport transfers and escort
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Equipment & clothing for porter & staffs
Equipment (sleeping bag, first aid kit, oximeter etc.)
Insurance for all staff & porters.
Trekking achievement certificate
Adventure Himalayan Tshirt

Excludes

Nepal visa - Multiple Entry 30 days - USD 50 (Details in Visa Page)
International flight
Insurance for clients (i.e. helicopter evacuation, etc.)
Lunch & dinner during hotel stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Hot Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek
Alcoholic drinks, candies, etc.
Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary
Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
Tips, any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation/road block due to any reason, table drinks, snacks while walking.

Media Gallery

Mustang Nepal | The Kingdom of Lo | Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang

Dates and Prices

Select a Departure Month

Date		Price	Availability
Start DateStarts: MondayApr 22, 2024	End DateEnds: WednesdayMay 08, 2024	PricePriceUS$2095	StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayApr 25, 2024	End DateEnds: SaturdayMay 11, 2024	PricePriceUS$2095	StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayApr 29, 2024	End DateEnds: WednesdayMay 15, 2024	PricePriceUS$2095	StatusStatusAvailable

Custom Trip Inquiry

Start fromUS$2095~~US$2395~~(Price varies by group size)

We Offer Group Discount Price


1 pax	US$2195
2 - 3 pax	US$2095
4 - 6 pax	US$1995
7 - 10 pax	US$1895

Client Reviews

Upper Mustang valley Trek
Beautiful trek,guide Deu and our porter Malpa were great! Beautiful people! an amazing experience, thank you!
Sima KeremIsrael,Aug 01, 2022
Upper Mustang Valley Trek
Rana (op manager) was organised and responsive, Deu our guide was very professional, kind hearted and thoughtful. Malpa our ported was enthusiastic, jolly and mountain king. The area of upper mustang was harsh at times, remote and also awe inspiring and dramatic landscapes. The culture and small villages were welcoming and very interesting . Thankyou himilayan Adventures for a great trip! Would recommend this trip as a off grid experience!
NATHAN PHILIP CASTLEAustralia,Jul 28, 2022

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