Upper Mustang Trek

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will warmly welcome you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey or take a short stroll around the vibrant streets of Thamel, the city’s popular tourist hub. In the evening, you’ll attend a short trek briefing with your guide to discuss the upcoming adventure and prepare for the journey ahead. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley, exploring its rich cultural heritage and ancient architecture. You’ll visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Each site offers deep insights into Nepal’s spiritual and historical legacy. During the tour, your guide will explain the cultural and religious significance of these landmarks. In the evening, return to your hotel for a short trek briefing and final preparation for the upcoming adventure.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nepal’s beautiful lake city nestled beneath the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains. The journey takes around 7 to 8 hours along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli River through lush hills, terraced fields, and charming villages. You can also opt for a short 25-minute flight for a quicker and more comfortable journey.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening by Phewa Lake, where you can stroll along the lakeside or enjoy a peaceful boat ride with stunning mountain reflections.
Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Early in the morning, take a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, the headquarters of the Mustang district. The short 20-minute flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, as well as the Kali Gandaki Gorge — the world’s deepest gorge.

After landing in Jomsom, begin your trek toward Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River, passing through windswept valleys and barren yet beautiful landscapes typical of the trans-Himalayan region. Kagbeni is a picturesque medieval village with narrow alleys, ancient monasteries, and traditional mud-brick houses that showcase Tibetan-influenced architecture.

Spend the evening exploring Kagbeni’s cultural charm and enjoy the first glimpse of Mustang’s mystical atmosphere.
Overnight stay in Kagbeni.

After breakfast, your trek begins as you officially enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River valley, walking along sandy and windy paths surrounded by barren cliffs and eroded canyons that define the Mustang landscape.

You’ll pass through Tiri and Chhusang villages, where you can see red cliffs dotted with ancient cave dwellings and centuries-old chortens. Crossing a small iron bridge over the Kali Gandaki River, you’ll continue a gradual climb to reach Chele, a charming village that marks the transition from lower Mustang to the upper region.

Chele is known for its Tibetan-style houses, fluttering prayer flags, and stunning views of the Nilgiri range. The village provides a glimpse into Mustang’s deep Buddhist culture and traditional lifestyle.
Overnight stay in Chele.

Today’s journey is a challenging yet rewarding trek as you traverse steep ascents and descents along rugged terrain. The trail climbs through Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La Pass (3,735m), offering panoramic views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kang, and Damodar Danda.

You’ll walk through arid valleys, rocky gorges, and cliffside trails that reflect the unique Trans-Himalayan landscape of Upper Mustang. Along the way, you’ll pass small settlements like Samar and Bhena, where you can rest and enjoy local hospitality. The route also features ancient caves and Buddhist chortens, showcasing Mustang’s deep spiritual heritage.

After several ups and downs, you’ll finally reach Syangboche, a peaceful village surrounded by barren hills and mountain views. The day’s trek is physically demanding but offers incredible rewards in both scenery and culture.
Overnight stay in Syangboche.

Today’s trek takes you across some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Upper Mustang. The trail ascends gradually toward the Yamda La Pass (3,850m) and continues through small villages adorned with mani walls, prayer flags, and ancient chortens. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of rugged cliffs, deep canyons, and the distant snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges.

After crossing Nyi La Pass (4,010m) — one of the highest points of the trek — the trail descends toward Ghaymi, the third-largest village in Upper Mustang. This beautiful settlement lies beside a long stretch of mani walls, said to be the longest in Nepal, symbolizing the region’s strong Buddhist influence.

By evening, you’ll arrive in Ghaymi, where you can rest and soak in the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
Overnight stay in Ghaymi.

Today’s journey begins with a pleasant walk across the Ghaymi Khola River, followed by a climb along a spectacular stretch of mani walls, among the longest and most sacred in the Mustang region. The trail continues with several ups and downs across rugged terrain, offering incredible views of eroded cliffs, canyons, and the arid beauty that defines Upper Mustang.

As you approach Charang (Tsarang), you’ll notice a charming village perched above a canyon with a backdrop of red, brown, and gray hills. Charang is home to a five-story white dzong (fort) and an ancient red Gompa filled with beautifully preserved Buddhist paintings and scriptures.

The village also provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich Tibetan-influenced culture and traditional lifestyle.
Overnight stay in Charang.

Today’s trek takes you on a fascinating journey from Charang to the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang, the cultural heart of Upper Mustang. The trail begins with a gradual ascent through arid plateaus and rocky terrain, offering breathtaking views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Annapurna ranges. Along the way, you’ll pass through mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags, reflecting the deep-rooted spirituality of the region.

As you approach Lo-La Pass (3,950m), a short climb rewards you with your first mesmerizing glimpse of Lo-Manthang, beautifully nestled in a broad valley surrounded by rugged cliffs. Descending from the pass, you’ll enter the mystical walled kingdom, where whitewashed houses, ancient monasteries, and narrow alleys preserve the medieval charm of Mustang.

Today is a well-deserved rest and exploration day in the enchanting walled city of Lo-Manthang, allowing your body to acclimatize to the higher altitude while you immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and culture.

Spend the day exploring ancient monasteries such as Thubchen, Chode, and Jampa Gompas, each adorned with centuries-old Buddhist murals, scriptures, and statues. Wander through the narrow alleys lined with whitewashed houses and interact with the warm-hearted locals who still follow Tibetan traditions passed down for generations.

You can also visit the Royal Palace, home to the former King of Mustang, and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan desert and distant snow peaks. For those seeking extra adventure, optional excursions to Chhoser Cave and Nyphu Gompa offer fascinating insights into Mustang’s hidden history and spiritual legacy.

Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.

Leaving the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang, today’s trek follows a different route back, offering new perspectives of Upper Mustang’s majestic landscapes. The trail begins with a gradual climb to the Lo-La Pass (3,950m), from where you’ll enjoy the last panoramic views of Lo-Manthang and the surrounding Himalayan desert.

You’ll pass through remote settlements, ancient caves, and colorful cliffs that display striking red, brown, and grey hues carved by centuries of wind erosion. Along the way, you may visit the famous Ghar Gompa, one of the region’s oldest monasteries built in honor of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), known for its spiritual power and mystical legends.

Continuing through the rugged terrain, you’ll descend towards Drakmar, a scenic village set beneath towering red cliffs and dotted with traditional stone houses. The region is also home to rare blue sheep and Himalayan birds.

Overnight stay in Drakmar.

Today’s trek takes you through the dry, windy terrain typical of the Upper Mustang region. After breakfast, you’ll begin your descent from Drakmar, passing through beautiful landscapes filled with eroded cliffs, ancient chortens, and colorful rock formations. The trail gradually ascends and descends through small ridges and open valleys, offering spectacular views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri Himal on clear days.

You’ll stop at Ghar Gompa, if not visited earlier, to receive a blessing from this sacred monastery said to fulfill wishes. Continuing your journey, you’ll cross windswept plains and rugged trails before arriving at Ghiling, a traditional village surrounded by barren hills and ancient fields.

In the evening, explore the local Buddhist monasteries and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this remote settlement. Ghiling also offers a chance to observe the locals’ simple lifestyle and unique Tibetan-influenced culture.

Overnight stay in Ghiling.

Today’s journey continues southward as you gradually descend from Ghiling toward Chhuksang, retracing part of the ancient trade route that once connected Mustang with Tibet. The trail offers a mix of rocky paths, dry plateaus, and deep canyons, with the strong Mustang winds accompanying you for much of the day.

You’ll walk through scenic villages like Syangboche and Samar, passing by mani walls, prayer wheels, and chortens that mark the deeply spiritual essence of the region. The panoramic views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Annapurna ranges remain stunning throughout the trail.

As you approach Chhuksang, you’ll notice a shift in the landscape — the arid desert terrain gives way to greener valleys and cultivated fields. The village, nestled along the Kali Gandaki River, provides a warm and peaceful ambiance after a long day’s trek.

Overnight stay in Chhuksang.

Today marks the final day of your trekking journey as you head back to Jomsom, completing your incredible adventure through the mystical Upper Mustang region. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River Valley, offering a mix of gentle descents and flat walking paths surrounded by rugged cliffs and wind-sculpted canyons.

You’ll pass through Kagbeni, a beautiful village marking the entry point to Upper Mustang, where you can stop for lunch and explore its ancient monasteries and narrow stone alleys. The trail then continues toward Jomsom, the headquarters of the Mustang district, famous for its strong winds and apple orchards.

As you approach Jomsom, enjoy the last glimpses of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks, standing tall over the horizon. This evening, celebrate the completion of your trek with your team, reflecting on the rich culture, remote landscapes, and unforgettable experiences of the journey.

Overnight stay in Jomsom.

Early this morning, you’ll take a short yet scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The flight, lasting around 20 minutes, provides a final glimpse of the rugged landscapes and deep valleys of Mustang.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll transfer to your hotel and have the rest of the day free to relax and unwind. You can stroll around Phewa Lake, visit the Peace Pagoda, or enjoy the city’s vibrant lakeside atmosphere filled with cozy cafés and souvenir shops.

This marks the end of your Upper Mustang trekking adventure, giving you time to rest and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed.

Overnight stay in Pokhara.

After breakfast, you’ll begin your scenic drive back to Kathmandu, following the winding Prithvi Highway along the Trishuli River. The journey offers beautiful views of terraced hills, traditional villages, and lush green valleys, allowing you to relive the serene beauty of Nepal’s countryside one last time.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax or explore the lively Thamel area for some last-minute shopping and dining. In the evening, you may enjoy a farewell dinner with your trekking team to celebrate the successful completion of your Upper Mustang Trek.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Your incredible journey to the mystical Upper Mustang comes to an end today. After breakfast, you’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping or relaxing at the hotel, depending on your flight schedule.

A representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. As you fly home, you’ll carry unforgettable memories of ancient Himalayan culture, stunning landscapes, and the warm hospitality of Nepal.

We wish you a safe journey and hope to welcome you again for another adventure in Nepal!