Important Information

Region
Mustang Region Treks
Duration
18 Days
Max Altitude 4200 Meters
Best Season Spring, Summer & Autumn
Activity Per Day
4-5 Hours Walk
Grade
Level 3
Group Size
2 - 16 people
Transportation Bus/Flight/Jeep

Explore the hidden kingdom of Upper Mustang beyond the great Himalayas, featuring the 12th century pure Tibetan culture and religion with astounding landscapes. 

Upper Mustang, the place which reflects the pure Tibetan culture and tradition since 12th century, located at the northern Kora La, border to China, having the lowest elevation of 2,750m on the Kali Gandaki River just north of Kagbeni and the highest point of 6,700 m at Khamjung Himal, a peak in southeast Mustang. The kingdom has its own history since the 13th century and the king had successfully ruled the kingdom till 2008 AD with 25th descendent. It is the small kingdom beyond the great Himalayas and known from different names like high altitude desert, rain shaded area, and the forbidden kingdom of Lo.

Tourist from all over the world comes to visit Upper Mustang for the cultural attraction and the spectacular landscape. The place is blessed with a large number of centuries back Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries, Chorten (Stupa), and numerous pilgrimage sites. Lo-Gekar monastery (Ghar Gonpa) in Upper mustang is considered as the first monastery of Tibet built by a great Tantric Master of 8th century Guru Padma Sambava who contributed his whole life flourishing Buddhism in Tibet. Another fascinating site is the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang where the people still reside in the walled city portraying the live tradition and culture of the century back livelihood.

Following the trekking route to Upper Mustang will unveil the enchanting view of Canyon, ridge, ancient caves, colorful Chorten, Monasteries, Mani walls, and cliffs which manifests the unique landscape and the culture of the localities. The trekking season is from late March to early November. Normally, most visitors make targets for May month to visit the Tiji festival (a ritual dance performed by the Monk) and August for the Yartong festivals (Horse riding ceremonies).

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

Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek

  1. Hidden kingdom of Lo beyond the great Himalayas
  2. The ultimate place to visit the pure Tibetan culture and traditions
  3. Spectacular landscape formation
  4. The ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang
  5. Century back Monasteries and Buddhist monuments

"Best decision ever if you want to visit Nepal
When it came to my mind that I need to go to Nepal for seeing the holy sites of that beautiful country, I thought about traveling on my own. Thank god I didn't! I met that amazing group of talented organizers that made my time in Nepal just amazingly beautiful. Visiting the beautiful sites in Kathmandu I was accompanied by Rigzin who has amazing knowledge about culture, architecture, history, people, traditions, spiritual stories, and rites. No question remained unanswered. On my way further into the mountains of Mustang, I was accompanied by Dorjee. What a kind, open-minded and caring companion. He did not organize everything necessary on the way but took care of every step I made by preserving my very own space and rhythm. I enjoyed every single second in his presence. Last but not least I want to thank all of you for organizing my stay and also my rebookings due to the corona crisis. I went home safe and really happy having been traveling with you. I recommend you to everyone who wants to visit Nepal regardless of whatever organized or individualized travels you want to do in Nepal. I will be back for sure and finish my beautiful trip whenever its time for it. Take care and stay safe. Thank you from deep within my heart." By Katja, Germany. Read our more reviews here: Clients Review 

Outline Itinerary ( 18 Days )

Day 1

Arrival to Nepal

Arrival in Kathmandu-Transfer to Hotel, Welcome assistance by Himalayan Wander Walkers' representative at the Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to hotel, rest at the hotel, and briefing about the trip.
Overnight at 3*** Hotel with BB Plan.

Day 2

Kathmandu (1,340m) Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

Today after breakfast we will start the city tour to most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. These landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites; including the historic Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swyambhunath) and the world largest Buddhists stupa, Bouddhanath. Briefing regarding the trek with two-way question-answer with the trip leader (The Guide).
Overnight at 3*** Hotel with BB Plan.

Day 3

Drive to Pokhara (800m) – 6 – 7 hours

Morning 6:30 guide will be in your hotel to take you to the tourist bus station to drive Pokhara at 7 am. Driving 210km will take around 7 to 8 hours. Pokhara is the second biggest city or valley of Nepal and one of the best tourist destinations of Nepal as well. After reaching in Pokhara in the afternoon, you will visit the Phewa Lake.
Overnight at 3*** Hotel with BB Plan.

Day 4

Transfer to airport, fly to Jomsom (2,743m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2804m)

Morning drive to the airport to fly Jomsom as your flight schedule before one hour of flight time. The flight to Jomsom will take around 30 min . Flying between the two world's highest mountain peak Annapurna and Dhaulagiri is absolutely breathtaking.  From Jomsom, we will trek to Kagbeni. Kagbeni is the gateway to the controlled area of Upper Mustang where you need to show your permit and we will visit the monastery and town as well. We can enjoy the majestic view of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche peak from Kagbeni. 

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 5

Drive from Kagbeni to Samar and Trek to Sangbochen (3,800m) via Chungshi Rangjung Cave.

Today you will first drive to Samar village and trek begins by cross a suspension bridge toward Samar sheepherd camp. After that we cross a side-valley, descending to its base and crossing over a creek before we trek all the way up again on the other side. About two hours from Samar crossing a Pass offering a good view towards Samar, the Kali Gandaki valley, and snow-capped peaks in the distance and will reach close to the river. We walk up through the stairs to Chungshi Rangchung Gonpa (sacred cave monastery). Buddhist well known Tantric master, Padmasambhava meditated here centuries ago. Inside the cave monastery, you will see spontaneous stone statues of Avalokiteshvara (Chenresig), Tara, and prayer beads. The trail goes through green bushes and soon the valley broadens out and we can see walls built in front of caves which are temporary homes for the goats and sheepherders. Sometimes it is possible to see rabbits and the rare blue sheep in this area. The open widen trail finally reaches Shyangboche village.

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 6

Sangboche to Dhakmar (3820m)

From Sangboche you will climb gently to a small pass with extraordinary views of the soaring peak of Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Annapurna in the south. After an hour of the walk leads you to Ghiling village and stop for a monastery visit. After visiting the Monastery you will trek to Ghami via Karki La (4026m). The old trek route is from a Nyi La (3,950m) of Zete and now turned into a highway road. Climbing Karki La looks easy from distance but it’s really exhausting with a short ascent pass. The path descends gradually towards the Ghami La pass and on the way, you see a rundown, Ghami village surrounded by the field, Nepal's longest Mani wall, and partial red cliffs of Dhakmar. Afternoon your lunch at Ghami you will trek to Dhakmar (red clip village) via next to the longest Mani Wall. 

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 7

Dhakmar to Lo Manthang (3750m) via Lo Gyakar gompa. Evening Visit Monasteries in Lo-Manthang which are some of the masterpiece wall paintings.

After leaving Dhakmar village we climb up the yellow canyon to Mui La (4170m). After 45 minutes of walk from Mui la, we will reach the Lo-Gyakar Gompa –Oldest Buddhist monastery in the world. There we will have lunch. As usual, we start our trek Lo Manthang after lunch via Chogo La (4280 m). The trek will be 4-5 hours. At first, the trek will be a long climb to Lungri La at 4070m. After crossing the Lungri la we will walk through a small valley of Marmot spot and finally after a gentle climb will reach Chogo La. From Chogo la we will have a view towards the borderline of Nepal and china were once used to be Tibet. After descending toward lo Manthang we will see Yaks on the way if the summer nomadic camps are still there. If not we will go on the second day at Lo-Manthang.

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 8

Trek from Thingkar village and visit Monastry and Caves in Chosar. Stay in Chosar. There are many things to do in Chosar.

Today after our breakfast we will hike to Chosar via Thingkar village. We will explore to Chosar valley where we will see old caves, monastery, and traditional cave houses. 

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 9

Morning hike to Kuncholing (an amazing landscape) and after lunch return back to Lo Manthang.

Today we will hike to Kuncholing the most amazing landscape in upper mustang. And return back to Chosar and lunch. Afternoon we will hike to Lo-Manthang. Today we will visit the three main monasteries of Lo-Manthang.

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 10

Trek to Yara (3650m)

From Lo-Manthang the trail walks straight till Dhi pass 4100 m and descends down to Dhee village. So, the whole trekking will be 7-8 hours including lunch and break times. The trekking will be more rewarding and interesting than the west side of the valley. Dhi village is one of the best villages of the whole Lo-Manthang and it seems more prosperous and settled in a very suitable place. After having lunch in Dhee village we will trek to Yara.

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 11

Trek to Luri Gompa and stay at Yara

Today, we climb up to reach Luri Cave Monastery via Gara village and on the way back we will visit Tashi Kabung Chorten. Locals believe that there are 108 Kabung (Stupa) and only a few of them are discovered.

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 12

Trek to Tange (3340m)

We leave Yara along a high winding path. This soon leads down to the Dhechaeng river which runs from the Damodar Kund. The trail just crosses the small river of melting ice water and then we climb up for around 2 hours to DHEY village along the winding desert mountain path to the Lo-Pa village of Tange. Buddhist inhabitants and are mostly busy in local businesses; the small foothills roll away to distance horizons sheltering the villagers from the gentle winds coming in from the valley. From the village, you turn your face to the north and we see some sandy cliffs over several hundred years old. Finally, we find the small Tangye village here.

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 13

Trek to Chuksang (3,067m)

We leave packing our lunch and we climb some steps & then crossing over a suspension bridge following the trail to the right side. Soon we reach at Yak River before climbing a terraced hill station 4,210m. It is the highest point of the Upper Mustang trip, which takes about 2:30 hours. From here you can see Damodar Himal and Saribung Himal at (6,346m). No houses but only the ruins remain here but drinking water sources are available. Now the trail descends down the hill, right in time, you can see the village either Chhuksang or Tetang where we stay tonight.

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 14

Tetang to Muktinath temple (3,800m/12,426 feet), 8hours

Today, gradually we trek up till Gyu La pass 4,077m. It is one of those beautiful days and we take it easy on our walk. We will pass through Kharkas where we can see grazing domestic animals as well as wild mountain goats. It’s peaceful up the valley as we reach to the top of Gyu La. From the pass, you can see panoramic views of Thorong peak, Nilgiri, Tukche peak & the lovely Muktinath valley. We reach Muktinath via Chhenkar village. Muktinath is a very demanding and beautiful place that connects with Annapurna round trek. Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage people from all over the world are visiting here. The holy temple has 108 waterspouts that resemble water flowing from taps and enigmatic natural gas fires that marvel at the mind.

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 15

Trek to Jomsom via Lupra village.

As usual, after our breakfast, we will trek to Jomsom via Lupra village. From Muktinath, follow the lower route via Ranipauwa towards the Lupra village. 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. They are humble and gentle people, who are happy for what they have. After a good lunch we will trek to Jomsom.

Overnight at Lodge/Guesthouse.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 16

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara transfer to Hotel

We take an early morning 20min flight from Jomsom to Pokhara; the guide will transfer you to the Hotel there in BB Plan. The day we give you a chance for exploring the beautiful Pokhara valley with its natural and cultural beauty.

Overnight at 3*** Hotel with BB Plan.

Day 17

Tourist Bus Journey or Fly back from Pokhara to Kathmandu

After having breakfast your trip starts with a drive back from Pokhara to Katmandu by tourist Coach about 6-7 hours driving (or take a short 30-minute flight) and overnight is arranged in Kathmandu as per the agreed category with BB Plan. At evening Himalayan Wander Walkers will invite you to join in a farewell dinner in a typical Nepalese cultural restaurant.

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu on request (Flight fare is not included in this package price)

Overnight at 3*** Hotel with BB Plan.

Day 18

Final Departure to your port of Destination

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.

Meal: Breakfast

 

Include

Airport pick up and drop off
Domestic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and back to Pokhara
English-speaking government license holder trekking guide
One porter for two persons
Trekking guide’s and porter’s insurance during the trip
TIMS trekking permit
Annapurna conservation permit
Upper Mustang Special permit
Bus fare from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu
Hotel in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Jomsom
Accommodation during the trek
All Government and local taxes.
Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company)
Meal during Trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek

Exclude

All the drinks except teas
Personal trekking equipment
A meal in Pokhara and Kathmandu
Emergency rescue evacuation
Phone calls
Internet
Travel/medical insurance
horse riding
monastery entry fee
International air ticket
Tips for your trekking guide & porters at the end of the trek
Anything not mentioned in the ‘includes section’

Route Map

Upper Mustang Classic Trek

Fixed Departure Dates ( Limited Seats Available)

Trip Dates Trip Costs Actions

Important Information

CHECKLISTS

  1. Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  2. 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
  3. Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
  4. Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of emergencies)
  5. MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, traveler's cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
  6. 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. The 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 expensive. 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

Although trekking gear is available in Nepal, you are advised to bring your own gear.

Trekking or running shoes, Camp shoes or thongs Socks (polypropylene)

Down or fiber-filled jacket, Jumper or piled jacket, Hiking shorts, Waterproof jackets, poncho or umbrella, Hiking pants, T-shirts, or blouses, Underwear, Sun hat

Rucksack, Self Inflating Sleeping Mattress (optional), Water bottle, Torch, batteries, and bulbs