Important Information

Region
Mustang Region Treks
Duration
14 Days
Max Altitude 4200 Meters
Best Season Spring, Summer, and Autumn ( April - May )
Activity Per Day
3 - 4 hours
Grade
Level Level 2
Group Size
2 - 12 people
Transportation Jeep, Bus,

The Sand Mandala Jeep Tour in Upper Mustang from Kathmandu is a meaningful Himalayan journey that combines cultural discovery, spiritual experience, and scenic adventure. This tour takes travellers through high mountain roads, ancient villages, and sacred monasteries where Buddhist traditions are still actively practiced.

A special highlight of this journey is the sand mandala experience, where monks create detailed sacred art using colored sand, symbolizing peace, impermanence, and harmony. Along with breathtaking landscapes and cultural encounters, this tour offers a deep connection to the spiritual heart of the Himalayas.

Outline Itinerary ( 14 Days )

Day 1

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival at Kathmandu, meet the tour team and transfer to the hotel. After check-in and rest, a short briefing is given about the full Mustang jeep journey, permits, road conditions, and cultural expectations. This day is mainly for recovery and preparation before starting the Himalayan adventure.

Day 2

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Fly to Pokhara (800m)

In the morning, explore the major cultural highlights of Kathmandu Valley, such as temples, stupas, and heritage streets. After sightseeing, take a scenic flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival, transfer to a hotel and relax by the lakeside while enjoying mountain views and preparing for the road journey ahead.

Day 3

Day 3 : Drive by private Jeep from Pokhara to Marpha (2650m)

Drive by private jeep from Pokhara to Marpha through scenic mountain roads, river valleys, and changing landscapes. Marpha is a peaceful Thakali village known for apple orchards, traditional houses, and a calm Himalayan atmosphere, marking the beginning of the Mustang region journey.

Day 4

Day 4: Drive from Marpha to Chhuksang via Kagbeni (2850m)

Drive through the Kali Gandaki valley, passing traditional villages and apple orchards of Marpha. Continue toward Kagbeni, a spiritual gateway village, then proceed to Chhuksang. The route offers dramatic desert-like landscapes, river crossings, and Tibetan-influenced culture.

Day 5

Day 5: Drive Chhuksang to Ghami via Sangbochen & Chungshi Cave Monastery

Travel deeper into Upper Mustang with rugged mountain roads and red cliff landscapes. Visit Sangbochen and the sacred Chungshi Cave Monastery, known for its meditation history and spiritual significance. Arrive at Ghami, a traditional village surrounded by prayer walls and ancient fields.

Day 6

Day 6: Ghami to Lo Manthang via Dhakmar & Lo Gyakar Monastery

Drive through the famous red cliffs of Dhakmar, continuing to Lo Gyakar Monastery, one of the oldest Buddhist sites in the region. Reach Lo Manthang, the walled ancient capital of Upper Mustang, rich in royal heritage and Tibetan culture.

Day 7

Day 7: Visit Monasteries & Caves of Chosar and Konchokling Landscape

Explore the Chosar valley, famous for sky caves carved into cliffs. Visit ancient meditation caves and walk through Konchokling landscape, a remote and spiritual area with strong Buddhist influence and dramatic Himalayan scenery.

Day 8

Day 8: Visit Yak Herders & Monasteries of Lo Manthang

Experience traditional life by visiting local yak herders and nearby monasteries. Learn about the Tibetan-influenced culture, daily lifestyle, and spiritual practices of the Lo Manthang community.

Day 9

Day 9: Drive to Ghara & Visit Luri Gompa

Travel toward Ghara village, enjoying remote mountain views. Visit Luri Gompa, a sacred cave monastery known for ancient murals and deep meditation history, set in a peaceful cliffside environment.

Day 10

Day 10: Drive to Tatopani & Visit Muktinath

Descend towards Tatopani, known for natural hot springs, then continue to the holy site of Muktinath Temple. This sacred place is important for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims and is believed to bring spiritual purification.

Day 11

Day 10: Drive to Tatopani & Visit Muktinath

Descend towards Tatopani, known for natural hot springs, then continue to the holy site of Muktinath Temple. This sacred place is important for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims and is believed to bring spiritual purification.

Day 12

Day 11: Drive to Pokhara via Baglung & Kali Gandaki Golden Bridge

Continue the return journey through Baglung district, crossing the famous Kali Gandaki Golden Bridge. Arrive in Pokhara and relax after the long mountain drive.

Day 13

Day 12: Pokhara Sightseeing & Evening Flight to Kathmandu

Explore Pokhara’s lakeside, viewpoints, and peaceful surroundings in the morning. In the evening, take a flight back to Kathmandu and transfer to a hotel.

 

 

Day 14

Day 13: Final Departure

Transfer to the airport for the final departure. End of the Sand Mandala Jeep Tour with lasting memories of Mustang’s culture, landscapes, and spiritual journey.

 

Include

Airport pick up and drop off
Kathmandu to Pokhara and Return Flight
English-speaking government license holder trekking guide
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) TIMS trekking perm Upper Mustang special permit Transportation by 4x4 car during the trip in Upper Mustang as per itinerary
Meal during the trip except in Pokhara and Kathmandu
Hotel in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Jomsom
Accommodation during the trip in Upper Mustang
Sightseeing entrance fee

Exclude

Personal trekking equipment
Travel/medical insurance
Emergency rescue evacuation
Phone calls, internet, international air ticket fare
Monastery entry fee
International air ticket
Tips for your crew
All kind of drinks except teas

Important Information

CHECKLISTS FOR Sand Mandala JEEP TOUR

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, some cash is highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators, then your cell phone will  work in Nepal.)
  • This is a high-altitude jeep tour in Mustang, so gradual ascent and proper rest are important for comfort and safety.
  • Road delays may occur due to rain, snow, or landslides.
  • Warm clothing is essential, even during daytime, as temperatures drop in higher regions.
  • Some areas have limited mobile network and internet connectivity.
  • Carry valid identification and permits at all times during the trip.
  • Photography may be restricted in certain monasteries or sacred places.
  • Drinking enough water and staying hydrated is highly recommended during travel.
  • The best travel seasons are spring and autumn for clear skies and stable weather.
  • Follow guide instructions at all times for a safe and smooth experience.
  • Trekking gear and equipment(if you have your own trekking gear and equipment, such as trekking poles, sleeping bag, and shoes, then you can bring them; else you can rent them in Thamel, Kathmandu). Read more for trekking gears and peak climbing gears 

 

Guiding, Food, and Lodging during Upper Mustang Jeep Tour 

On this Sand Mandala Jeep tour in Mustang, accommodation and meals are arranged in simple, locally operated lodges throughout the journey. A single room will be provided wherever possible, though in some places sharing may be necessary. The rooms are basic, usually offering just a bed with a pillow and blankets. Electricity is available in most of the regions covered, and in off-grid areas, solar power is used for charging devices. Food is served at teahouses and lodges, where meals are filling, tasty, and reasonably priced. You can expect dishes like rice, potatoes, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Breakfast commonly includes eggs, bread, and cereals. Snacks such as biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks are available, and in some areas, seasonal fruits can be found, while alcoholic drinks like beer and local spirits are available at your own cost.

 

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 umbrellas, No Slippers, no t-shirts, no short skirts, and no half-pants
  • Photographs are allowed in the courtyard only.

 

Note regarding itineraries 

While we generally follow the planned schedule, please note that the itinerary may change due to factors beyond our control, such as weather and trail conditions, availability of suitable campsites, and the overall fitness level of the group. Given the logistical complexity of the trek, such adjustments are sometimes necessary. Each evening, your guide will brief you on the plan for the following day, and their experience and judgment are essential to the success of the journey, as has been the case for many successful treks led by Himalayan Wander Walkers. We appreciate your understanding that flexibility in the schedule helps ensure a safe and rewarding trekking experience.

Frequently Asked Question

🔍
What is the Sand Mandala Jeep Tour in Mustang?
+

It is a cultural and spiritual jeep journey in Mustang where travelers explore monasteries, villages, and witness the sacred sand mandala creation by Buddhist monks.

How long is the tour?
+

The tour usually lasts around 10 to 14 days, depending on the itinerary and route.

What is special about sand mandalas?
+

A sand mandala is a spiritual art made by monks using colored sand, symbolizing peace, harmony, and impermanence.

Is this tour difficult?
+

It is a moderate jeep tour, but high altitude travel requires basic fitness and proper acclimatization.

Do I need permits for Mustang?
+

Yes, special permits are required for entering the restricted Mustang region.

What is the best time to visit Mustang?
+

Spring and autumn are the best seasons due to clear weather and stable road conditions.

What kind of accommodation is available?
+

Basic to comfortable lodges and guesthouses are available in major stops.

Is the internet available during the trip?
+

The network is limited in remote areas, especially in Upper Mustang.

Can I take photos during the sand mandala ritual?
+

Photography may be restricted depending on the monastery's rules and permission.

What makes this tour unique?
+

It combines Himalayan adventure, ancient culture, and rare spiritual experiences like sand mandala rituals in a remote mountain landscape.

No questions found matching your search. Try different keywords or browse all questions above.

You might also like

Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang
  • 17 days
  • Mustang Region Treks

Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang

Are you looking for a local travel agency to organize your Tiji Festival Trek to Upper Mustang in the year 2026 and 2027? The date for the Tiji Festival Trek 2026 and 2027 is already been updated. The Tiji festival Trek year 2027 will be celebrated on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd June 2027. According to the...

Upper Mustang Classic Trek
  • Mustang Region Treks

Upper Mustang Classic Trek

  • $  2200.00 /person
  • 18 days
Yartung - Horse Riding Festival of Mustang
  • Mustang Region Treks

Yartung - Horse Riding Festival of Mustang

  • $  2200.00 /person
  • 17 days
Upper Mustang Overland Jeep Tour
  • Mustang Region Treks

Upper Mustang Overland Jeep Tour

  • $  2100.00 /person
  • 14 days
Teri La Pass Trek
  • Mustang Region Treks

Teri La Pass Trek

  • $  0.00 /person
  • 26 days