Important Information

Region
Mustang Region Treks
Duration
11 Days
Max Altitude 3750 Meters
Best Season Spring, Summer & Autumn
Activity Per Day
4-5 Hours Walk
Grade
Level 3
Group Size
2 - 12 people
Transportation Bus/Flight

Lower Mustang trek takes place in the Mustang district within the classical Annapurna circuit route. Lower mustang lies between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Mountain where the Kali Gandaki River flows and formed the deep gorge which is one of the deepest gorges in the world.  This specific area is also known for Thak Khola in the past during the salt trading between Nepal and Tibet. Trekking permits here are very much cheaper as compared with the Upper Mustang where you need Annapurna conservation entrance permit (ACAP) and a TIMs Card. It is suitable for all kinds of hikers or trekkers to trek in lower mustang as it is short and moderate. Although the best time to visit mustang is during spring and autumn, it is possible to do trek even in the monsoon season because of the rain shadow area.

Lower Mustang trek offers a glimpse of Tibet as the culture, people, religion and even the landscape is similar to the Guge Kingdom of western Tibet. This hidden valley offers beautiful sceneries of Dhaulagiri icefall, pristine Titi Lake, vistas of snow-capped Nilgiri, and the Thak Khola valley. In terms of religion, Muktinath is the holiest site here for both Buddhist and Hindu.  Traditional houses in the villages look like stone masonry, and monasteries, Mane wheels, and Chortens are seen in every village. Even Apple orchids are beautifully grown especially in Marpha village. Do not forget to try apple pie and Marpha brandy made from a variety of fruits such as pear, apricot, apple, etc. Every corner of this valley has its own unique features to attract tourists.

Lower Mustang Trek Routes:
Lower Mustang trek route is prepared based on the exploration of Mustang culture and its surrounding attraction like stunning mountains, pristine lakes, etc. This trek starts by taking a flight over the deepest Kali Gandaki gorge to Jomsom from Pokhara. The actual trek begins from the town of Jomsom to Kagbeni and further to Muktinath via Jharkot. After three days of the trek, you will trek to Lupra (only Bon village in Mustang), untouched village of Phalyak, Thini (foothill village of Nilgiri), Chimang, Kalopani, Dhaulagiri icefall of Larjung and Marpha village. The trek ends in Jomsom and flies back to Pokhara.   

If you are looking for a different itinerary than the itinerary here, please Customize Your Trip. 

Lower Mustang Trek short Itinerary:

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (827 m)
Day 02: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720 m) & Trek to Kagbeni (2,810 m)
Day 03: Trek to Jharkot village (3,550 m)
Day 04: Trek to Muktinath (3,760 m)
Day 05: Trek to Lupra village (3,668 m)
Day 06: Trek to Phalyak (3,229 m)
Day 07: Trek to Thini village (2,840 m) & Side Hike to Dhumba Tal (2,830 m)
Day 08: Trek to Chimang village (2,850 m)
Day 09: Trek to Kalapani (2,530 m)
Day 10: Drive to Pokhara (837m) 
Day 11: Return to Kathmandu (1,338 m)

Outline Itinerary ( 11 Days )

Day 1

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (827 m)

The Bus to Pokhara leaves early in the morning from Kathmandu. It will go along the winding highways through several hilly settlements before arriving at Pokhara. Although the distance between Kathmandu and Pokhara is just 200 km, it takes around 7 hours or more to cross that distance. The primary reason for this delay is the road condition. But, sometimes, the traffic jams in the middle places make the delays worst. Despite that, it is a fun journey that keeps you close to nature. You may as well catch a flight to Pokhara or hire a private car or Jeep.

Overnight accommodation is set with BB Plan.

Day 2

Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720 m) & Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m)

From Pokhara, catch the early flight to Jomsom, a fabulous place to shop for souvenirs and handicraft items. Then, start your trek to Kagbeni. Just as you leave Jomsom, a new and imposing monastery bids the warm wishes. Within a while, a linear chain of Chortens (little Buddhist Shrines) appears, directing you towards the wonderful town of Kagbeni. Walk until you arrive at the Eklobhatti, and join the trail leading to Kagbeni. Once you reach there, you will feel a completely different environment. There are classic alleys and monasteries to explore, but above all, their Tibetan inspired cultures and traditions are more intriguing. (In case of flight cancel; we offer 4 wheeler Jeep).

Stay overnight in the lodge/tea house.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 3

Trek to Jharkot village (3,550m)

From Kagbeni, catch a side trip trekking route to Jharkot. Even in this part of the trail, the Chortens and small monasteries are ubiquitous. Sometimes, the Mani walls (prayer inscribed stones) flavor the trip, but it is mostly the prayer flags, wrapped around the houses and pathways, that form a welcoming atmosphere. Once you arrive at Jharkot, explore the local villages and farm fields to experience the unspoiled cultures of ancient times. Plus, don’t miss out on the chat with the seniors of the village. This is how you get real-life experiences.

Stay overnight in the lodge/tea house.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 4

Trek to Muktinath (3,760 m)

From Jharkot, Muktinath is not very far away. Once you reach there, explore the serene lakes on the side of the temple. They are calm and peaceful. Pilgrimages could be seen diving into these oases by chanting the Mantra of Bishnu. Inside the temple, there are 108 stone taps, where the water naturally comes from the underground, mixed with the natural gas. An eternal flame is the symbol of peace and living cultures of Muktinath. In the core of the temple, a large man-sized golden statue of Lord Vishnu is simply phenomenal. Hindus show deep respect to the temple as it’s believed to be the site of Liberation (Mukti) after death.

Stay overnight in the lodge/tea house.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 5

Trek to Phalyak (3,229m) via Lupra village (3,668m)

From Muktinath, follow the lower route via Ranipauwa towards the village of Lupra. A big Shiva Temple shows you the path to the wonderful monastery of Ranipauwa, which is a colorful and vibrant village. Then, by crossing a bridge, you will walk to the Dhan La. Follow the trail straight to the west until you reach Lupra, a classic Bon settlement of amazing people. The major highlight of this village is the Bonpo Gompa (monastery) and the Thakali village. Unlike other Buddhist dominated regions, Lupra people have their distinct way of living the lifestyle. After lunch at Lupra you will continue trek to Phalyak. 

From Lupra, catch the middle way to the village of Phalyak. Once you arrive at the bank of the Kaligandaki River, continue towards the confluence point of the river where several small tributaries fuse to form a rapidly gushing Kaligandaki River. Cross a bridge and then, walk parallel to the Kolungba Khola, originating from the Tashikang peak and its surrounding glaciers. Within a short while, you will be at Phalyak, a rarely explored pristine village of the Mustang region. Because of the isolation of the village from the main route, only a few put their eye to it. This place is perfect for enjoying the unblemished Tibetan cultures and rituals.

Stay overnight in the lodge/tea house.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 6

Trek to Thini village (2,840 m) & Side Hike to Dhumba Tal (2,830m)

From Phalyak, catch the side trip trekking route to Jomsom (as highlighted in the Upper & Lower Mustang map of Himalayan Map House). The path is pleasant as the browny mountains keep tracking your footsteps. Still, on this isolated section, you will encounter some Chortens on the way, wrapped by the prayer flags. This shows the influence of Buddhism in higher regions of Nepal. Within a couple of minutes, you will show up at Hadigaon, after crossing a bridge. Then, continue towards the Thinigaon.

Go for an hour of a side trip to Dhumba Tal, the exquisite lake to release all the worldly tension. The water is pristine and looks untouched for centuries. Enjoy the moments at the lake and return to Thinigaon.

Stay overnight in the lodge/tea house.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 7

Trek to Chimang village (2,850m)

From Thinigaon, the route to Chimanggaon goes through the incredible stone settlements. The place is exquisite, and the alleyways are formed by placing the flat stone slabs below. The people of this village are also called Chimba. Most of them are Buddhists, so you may as well catch an insight into their lifestyle and cultures. Young kids of the village will come after you for a photograph and they look amazing ahead of the mountains. Take time out to visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp, where they sell their handmade handicraft items and souvenirs.

Stay overnight in the lodge/tea house.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 8

Trek to Kalapani (2,530m)

From Chimanggaon, descend to the Kalapani. The more you progress on the trail, the better the views become. The snowy pinnacles, rising above the northeastern Himalayas, accompany throughout the trail, particularly the peaks of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri (meaning Blue Ridge). The path is completely off-the-beaten and leads you through some of the exquisite locations on the planet. Once you arrive at Kalopani, stroll around the villages and monasteries as it is fun doing that.

Stay overnight in the lodge/tea house.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 9

Drive to Pokhara (837m)

We will take a good breakfast and we leave for Pokhara by 4 wheeler jeep to Pokhara via Beni. It will take 6/7 hours. We will have lunch on the way.

Overnight accommodation with a BB Plan is arranged.

Day 10

Return to Kathmandu (1,338m)

Return to Kathmandu from Pokhara via the same trail that you have been earlier.

Overnight accommodation is set with BB Plan.

Day 11

Final Departure

We are saying goodbye as your journey to Nepal comes to an end today. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3-4 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Himalayan Wander walkers will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

 

Include

Arrivals and departure transport by car (We will collect you from the Kathmandu international airport) and transfer to Hotel.
Kathmandu to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu by tourist bus
2 nights’ accommodation (2 persons per room) in Pokhra and 1 Nights in Kathmandu with breakfast.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and TIMs Permits
All land transportations as mentioned in the itinerary
Full Board Meal (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the whole trek.
Government licensed guide and a porter for two people.
Group First Aid Kit.
HWW Company Duffle Bag for luggage

Exclude

Meals & drinks during the trek and in Pokhara and Kathmandu (unless stated otherwise under ‘The trip cost includes’)
Personal trekking equipment
Travel/medical insurance
Emergency rescue evacuation
Phone calls
Internet
International air ticket
Tips for your trekking guide & porters at the end of the trek
If you’re forced to extend your trek due to bad weather or natural disaster circumstances, we are not liable to pay any compensation or otherwise be responsible for any expenses you may incur
Nepal Visa
Anything not mentioned in the ‘includes section’

Route Map

Lower Mustang Trek

Important Information

CHECKLISTS

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • One other picture ID, such as driver’s license (in case of emergency and for use as a substitute of passport or in case of loss of your passport) Photocopy of passport page to carry in a wallet
  • Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
  • Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of emergencies)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, traveler's cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators then your cell phone will  work in Nepal.)

Guiding, Food, and Lodging
In Nepal, all trekking supplies - Teahouse trekking means staying and eating in local lodges. We stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow, blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We eat at teahouses and, although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, the menu is not extensive. They offer a variety of potatoes, rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. Beers and local spirits are often available, but that will be at your own cost. A variety of cereals, bread, and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There are also snacks available such as basic biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks and in some areas, you will find fresh fruit in season. It is normal to meet your porter in the teahouse where you will stay overnight. So, pack your necessary things in your own day pack.

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES IN NEPAL

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.

Note regarding itineraries
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan; their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers has led till now. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is successful.

Frequently Asked Question

🔍
Can I customize the Lower Mustang Trek?
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Yes, the Lower Mustang Trek can be customized to meet your needs. We can modify the itinerary based on your preferences, whether you want to shorten or extend the trek or add extra rest days. If you're interested in specific destinations, such as monasteries or villages, we can adjust the route to include those as well. Just let us know what you're looking for, and we’ll be happy to accommodate your wishes: “Customize Your Trip.”

What are the gears or equipment that I need during the Lower Mustang Trek
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For the Lower Mustang Trek, you need to have sturdy trekking boots, trekking sticks (if you need them), a proper and strong wind cheater, all your medication, along with a water purification pill, sleeping bags, energy bars, hats to block the sun, and proper SPF sunscreen. Read more about trekking gear.

What trekking permits are needed for the Lower Mustang Trek?
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For the Lower Mustang Trek, the trekkers need to have the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Tourist Information Management System (TIMS) card, which they can obtain from a government-licensed trekking agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Can I extend my Lower Mustang Trek?
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Yes, you can explore additional locations and extend your Lower Mustang Trek. You can visit Damodar Kunda and Tilicho Lake, do the Larkey Pass, or even take a tour to Upper Mustang to its villages, caves, and monasteries.

Trekking or Driving, which is better for Lower Mustang trek?
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It depends on your time limit, your physical fitness, and many other factors. If you can trek physically for 4-5 hours a day, then trekking is best since you will get to experience the local village life and people closely, but if you are on a time limit and can’t do much physical work, then driving is best, as it will save much energy and time.

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