Upper Mustang Jeep tour
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Overview
Upper Mustang Jeep tour is an adventurous trip for travelers; who want to cover different aspects of the Upper Mustang region within a short period.
Upper Mustang was a restricted and one of the isolated regions of Nepal until 1992. The region remains isolated from the outside world comprising two-third of the Mustang district.
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour helps you to explore this extraordinary region without having to walk for hours. You can simply stop your private jeep whenever you want, and explore a particular place and take some pictures.
Jeep Touring to Upper Mustang explores the beautiful places of Upper Mustang; which are Lo Manthang, Marpha, Jomsom Muktinath, Kagbeni and many more. Upper Mustang is full of ancient caves, historical monasteries and stupas, unique landscapes and spectacular mountain ranges. The Jeep Tours to Upper Mustang is a very efficient way to explore the region within a short period.
The Upper Mustang Trek routes follow the riverbed of Kali Gandaki River with the views of mountain ranges; such as Mount Annapurna, Mount Machhapuchhre, Mount Dhaulagiri and many more.
So, don’t you want to explore the off-beaten route to the Hidden Kingdom? You should not miss this chance of exploring the semi-deserted region of Upper Mustang via Jeep. Nepal Hiking Adventure has come up with a suitable 12 days Itinerary for Jeep tour to Upper Mustang. We Provide you with exclusive four-wheel jeep with a highly experienced driver and guide.
You can contact us to know more about the details regarding your trip.
Highlights of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
- Driving through a road to Marpha, Jomsom, and Kagbeni.
- Exploring the hidden kingdom of Lo Manthang.
- A chance to be a part of Tiji Festival during the month of May.
- Visiting Muktinath temple and other important cultural sites of the region.
- Bathing in the hot water spring at Tatopani.
- An incredible Jeep tour experience following the Kali Gandaki Riverbed.
- The tour is best suited for the ones who have limited time to spend.
- Witness stunning landscapes of the Himalayas, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Visit ancient monasteries and caves, including Chhosar Cave and Namgyal Monastery.
Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Today, you will arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Our representative from Nepal Hiking Adventure will come to pick you from the airport and transfer you to your hotel. You will take some rest in the hotel and later in the evening, you will interact with your guide.
Accomodation: Hotel
Duration: 30 min drive from Tribhuvan International Airport to hotel
Distance: Around 10 km
Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Pokhara (827 m) (by private jeep)
Early in the morning, you will have your breakfast at Kathmandu and our representative will pick you at your hotel. You will then drive to Pokhara by a private jeep. Along the way to Pokhara from Kathmandu, you will get to witness the natural beauty of Nepal. You will see the gorgeous mountains of the Himalayas and lush jungles of the Terai as you drive to Pokhara.
The route to Pokhara includes greenery, rivers, village settlements, lakes and many more. After traveling for about 200 kilometers, you will finally reach Pokhara. Pokhara is also called the City of Lakes. It is the tourist hub of Nepal. On reaching Pokhara, you will have the magnificent views of the mountains such as Mount Annapurna, Mount Machhapuchhre, Mount Dhaulagiri and Manaslu.
You will explore some of the beautiful places of Pokhara and enjoy boating in Phewa Lake in the late evening.
Overnight at Pokhara.
Accomodation: Hotel
Duration: 6-7 hours drive
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: Around 200 km
Drive from Pokhara (820 m) to Tatopani (1,190 m) - Kalapani (2,610 m) - Marpha (2,650 m) - Jomsom (2,750 m) - Kagbeni (2,800 m)
After having your breakfast at Pokhara, today you will start your journey to Mustang. The route from Pokhara to Tatopani takes the west direction towards Bheni. You will follow the Kali Gandaki riverside which is the deepest George in the world.
Admiring the views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range, you will reach Tatopani. You can bath in the natural hot water spring at Tatopani. From Tatopani, you will drive through the local villages of Kalapani and Ghasa. After a short drive from Kalapani, you will reach a village of Marpha. Marpha is mostly famous for apple farming and apple pies.
After exploring the Marpha village, you will drive towards Jomsom today. Jomsom is a village where you can find several local markets. You can taste the local yak cheese in Jomsom.
From Jomsom, you will drive towards Kagbeni village. You will visit the culturally significant Muktinath temple. Overnight at Kagbeni.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 8-9 hours with stops
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +1,980 m
Distance: Around 180 km
Drive from Kagbeni to Tangbe (3,000 m) - Chele (3,050 m) - Chusang (3,150 m) - Syangboche (3,400 m) - Ghami (3,540 m) via Syagboche La (3,750 m) - Chunggar (3,600 m) - Nyi La (3,500 m)
On day 4 of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, you will drive to Tangbe from Kangbeni. You will drive through the forest of alpine trees and rhododendron, exploring some of the old settlements, before you reach Chele.
Along the way to Chele, you will see many Buddhist monasteries such as Kang Gompa. Following the route through apple, barley, and wheat, you will reach Chukkung Village. Taking the route towards the north, you will cross the bridge and reach Chele.
From Chele, you will take a jeep drive to Chhusang. From Chele, you will cross the Tangbe village to reach Chusang. From Chusang, you will drive towards Syangboche. The route involves the views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kang, and Damodar Danda.
You can stop your jeep between your journey to take rest and click some beautiful pictures. Driving through Syagboche La and Nyi La, you will take the route to Ghami. Admiring the beautiful mountain passes and unique landscapes of the region, you finally reach the village of Ghami.
Overnight at Ghami.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 6-7 hours drive with stops
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +950 m
Descent: -250 m
Distance: Around 27 km
Drive from Ghami (3,540 m) to Tsarang (3,650 m) - Lo Pass (3,950 m) - Lo Manthang (3,800 m)
After having your breakfast at Ghami, today you will drive towards the hidden King kingdom of Lo Manthang today. At first, you will drive towards Tsarang via Lo Pass. crossing the Ghami river, the route takes you to a plateau crossing several Mani Walls. After a few hours of drive, you will reach Tsarang which is also known as Charang.
From Tsarang, you will drive towards the capital of Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang. Along the way to Lo Manthang, you will be able to see some of the magnificent mountains such as Mount Annapurna, Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Bhrikurti. You will cross the Lho Pass before you reach the beautiful Lo Manthang Valley.
After reaching Lo Manthang, you will stop and jeep and stay at one of the hotels overnight.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 5-6 hours drive
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +410 m
Descent: -150 m
Distance: Around 17 km
Exploring Lo Manthang (3,800 m)
Lo Manthang is a restricted region in the Upper Mustang. The region belongs to king Lo and is highly influenced by Tibetan culture and lifestyle. Today, you will basically spend your day by exploring this isolated region of Upper Mustang.
After having your breakfast in the morning, you will visit the 4-story palace of the KIng. some of the Royal families still live in the palace. Other than this, you will drive towards the Jampa monastery, which is the oldest monastery of the region that was built in 15 century. Some of the other monasteries that you will explore today are Chodey Gompa, Thubchen Gompa, and many others.
In the evening, you will return back to your hotel and stay overnight over.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 2-3 hours of exploration
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +50 m
Descent: -50 m
Distance: 5 km (on foot)
Drive from Lo Manthang (3,800 m) to Tsarang (3,650 m) - Ghami (3,540 m) - Chusang (3,150 m) - Tetang (3,300 m) - Kagbeni (2,800 m) - Muktinath (3,710 m)
From Lo Manthang, you will drive back to Tsarang and Ghami following the same route. You will drive all the way, crossing some of the villages and Mani Walls. On reaching Tetang, you will follow the route to Kagbeni passing the villages of Chusang, Syanboche, and Chele.
After a short drive from these villages, you will reach Kagbeni. From Kagbeni, you will drive towards Muktinath. Overnight at Muktinath.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 7-8 hours drive
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +410 m
Descent: -660 m
Distance: Around 80 km
Drive from Muktinath (3,710 m) to Lete (2,050 m) - Tatopani (1,190 m) - Pokhara (827 m)
From Muktinath, you will drive back to Tatopani today. Following the way to Lete, you will reach Tatopani. It will take you around 4-5 hours drive to reach Tatopani from Marpha. Viewing the scenic beauty of the region just outside your window, you will reach Tatopani.
From Tatopani, you will drive towards Pokhara on the day 8 of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. After driving for about 5-6 hours, you will reach Pokhara. You can stop your jeep at Pokhara for refreshments if you want to.
Overnight at Pokhara Hotel.
Accomodation: Hotel
Duration: 8-10 hours drive including stops
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +100 m
Descent: -2,983 m
Distance: Around 200 km
Drive from Pokhara (827 m) to Kathmandu (1,400 m)
On day 9 of Upper Mustang Tour, you will drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. After driving for about 6 hours, you will finally reach Kathmandu. You will be transferred to your hotel as soon as you reach Kathmandu.
At the evening, you can walk around the alleys of Thamel and Ason if you want.
Overnight at the hotel.
Accomodation: Hotel
Duration: 6-7 hours drive
Meal: Breakfast
Distance: Around 200 km
Final Departure: Transfer to the International Airport
Today is the last day of your Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. You will pack your things, and our representative will pick you up in a private jeep for the final departure.
As you completed the tour, you will be presented with a certificate of completion, to remember your unforgettable journey through the culturally rich and scenic Upper Mustang region.
Accomodation: Hotel
Duration: 30 min drive to airport
Meal: Breakfast
Distance: Around 6 km
Fixed Departure
Cost Includes
- Airport arrival and departure transfers by a private car/Jeep/Bus.
- 3-Night accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- 1 Night accommodation Pokhara with breakfast.
- Kathmandu to Pokhara Jeep drives with experienced Guide.
- Pokhara to full private jeep transportation and back to Kathmandu Jeep drive with an experienced guide.
- Three meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and overnights at guest houses during the tour.
- Jeep with a permit, petrol, driver’s expenses, and all parking charges.
- English speaking guide with his food, salary, insurance, equipment, etc.
- All the necessary permits including special Upper Mustang permits, Tims, and AcAP Permit.
- Our Service charges and government taxes and surcharges.
- Free Duffel bag, and Company T-shirt.
- Emergency First aid kit box.
Cost Excludes
- Your travel insurance (in case of emergency rescue/medical treatment)
- Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fees at the place of visit.
- All kinds of drinks during the tour.
- All kinds of personal expenses.
- Tips for Guide/Diver.
Temperature Chart
Altitude Chart
Useful Info
Best Season for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is achievable in every season. During this tour, you do not have to worry about getting wet in the monsoon rain. Though the lower regions receive monsoon rain, the Upper Mustang remains completely dray as it lies in the rainshadow of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range.
To avoid possible problems, it would be better to trek during March-May and September- November. Autumn and Spring are the most favorites of every traveler. The weather and temperature of the Upper Mustang during these seasons are very favorable offering you great visibility of mountains and overall natural beauty.
Mustang Permit Validity & Seasonal Rules
Upper Mustang is a restricted region of Nepal, so every traveler must follow special permit rules before entering. These permits are checked at several police and immigration checkpoints along the route. Although the Mustang Jeep Tour is possible in all seasons, you must understand how permit validity, rules, and seasonal conditions affect your journey.
Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The Restricted Area Permit is the most important document for visiting Upper Mustang. It is mandatory, and no traveler is allowed to enter Lo Manthang without it. The RAP is issued only through a government-registered trekking agency, and you cannot apply for it individually.
The RAP is valid for 10 days from the date of entry into the restricted zone. If you stay longer, an extra fee is charged per day. This 10-day period is usually enough for the Jeep Tour, but travelers staying for festivals or extended exploration should plan additional days.
During peak tourist seasons, such as Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November), permit processing is faster due to higher staff availability. However, in the winter months, some offices may take slightly longer to process permits due to limited manpower.
TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)
Although Upper Mustang mainly requires the RAP, many travelers still need a TIMS Card depending on their travel route. TIMS is used for safety, record keeping, and emergency support.
TIMS availability is consistent in all seasons, but the number of operating counters may reduce during the monsoon or winter, especially in Pokhara. Even then, it is still possible to obtain the card without delay when traveling with an authorized agency.
Seasonal Rules at Checkpoints
There are several checkpoints during the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, including Kagbeni, Chusang, Samar, Syangboche, Ghami, and Lo Manthang. Each checkpoint verifies your permits before you continue further.
Most checkpoints remain open throughout the year; however, in winter months (December-February), opening hours can become shorter due to harsh weather and snow in higher areas. During festivals like Tiji or Yartung, checkpoints may be more crowded, and travelers should expect slightly longer verification times.
Festival Seasons in Upper Mustang
Upper Mustang is not only famous for its dramatic desert landscapes, ancient caves, and royal walled city, but also for its rich cultural festivals that attract travelers from around the world. These festivals are deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, and witnessing them offers a rare chance to experience the spiritual heart of Mustang. Planning your Jeep Tour around these festivals makes the journey even more meaningful.
Tiji Festival (May: Most Popular Festival in Mustang)
The Tiji Festival is the biggest and most important celebration in Upper Mustang. It takes place in Lo Manthang and lasts for three days. This festival represents the victory of good over evil and the blessing of peace in the region. Monks from the Chode Monastery perform powerful masked dances called “Tsa Chham” and “Nga Chham”, which retell ancient Buddhist stories. The atmosphere becomes vibrant as locals dress in their finest traditional clothes, while drums, long horns, and chants fill the air.
Tiji attracts hundreds of international travelers every year because it is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural event that cannot be found anywhere else in Nepal.
Key Highlights of Tiji Festival:
- Three-day ritual, dances, and blessings
- Performed inside the walled city of Lo Manthang
- Rare cultural experience of Tibetan Buddhist traditions
Yartung Horse Festival (August: Celebration of Horses & Warriors)
The Yartung Festival is another major event celebrated in Mustang, especially in the villages around Muktinath and Kagbeni. This festival marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the harvest period. It is famous for traditional horse races, where local riders dressed in colorful warrior-style costumes compete with great energy and excitement. The festival also includes singing, dancing, and village feasts, creating a joyful social gathering for the entire community.
Yartung showcases the strong connection Mustang people have with horses, which were historically used for trade routes between Nepal and Tibet.
Key Highlights of Yartung Festival:
- Exciting horse races and cultural dances
- Celebrated by Thakali, Gurung, and Tibetan communities
- Great time for photography and learning local traditions
Why Festivals Matter for Travelers
Visiting Mustang during these festivals adds incredible value to your Jeep tour. The cultural energy, ancient rituals, and traditional lifestyle make your journey much more than a scenic adventure. You experience the true soul of Mustang, its people, beliefs, and centuries-old heritage, while still enjoying breathtaking landscapes.
Video
FAQ
Why take a Jeep Tour to Upper Mustang instead of trekking?
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is a scenic overland journey that takes travelers to the ancient Kingdom of Lo, one of Nepal’s most culturally preserved and geographically unique regions. Instead of trekking for several days, travelers can explore Upper Mustang comfortably by 4WD jeep. This tour is popular because it gives access to dramatic landscapes, Tibetan-influenced culture, unique caves, monasteries, and the walled city of Lo Manthang without the physical demands of trekking. It is ideal for families, elderly travelers, and those short on time.
Do I need special permits for the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour?
Yes. Upper Mustang is a restricted region, and every visitor must obtain:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Mandatory, valid for 10 days
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
These permits are issued only through a registered Nepal trekking agency. You cannot apply independently. Your permits are checked at multiple checkpoints along the route, including Kagbeni, Chusang, Syangboche, and Lo Manthang.
How difficult is the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour?
The jeep tour is considered moderate in difficulty. There is no trekking required, but the off-road terrain can be bumpy, dusty, and uneven, especially in the higher sections near Lo Manthang. The altitude gradually increases, so mild symptoms like headache or tiredness are possible but manageable with proper rest and hydration.
What kind of accommodation can I expect in Upper Mustang?
Accommodation during the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour includes basic to moderate tea houses and lodges. Rooms are simple with twin beds, blankets, and solar-powered lights. Hot showers may be available in some lodges with an extra charge. In Lo Manthang, a few guesthouses offer better comfort, attached bathrooms, and reliable electricity. Despite the remote location, hospitality is warm and friendly everywhere along the route.
What is the altitude of Upper Mustang, and is altitude sickness common?
Upper Mustang sits at an altitude range of 3,000m to 3,900m, with Lo Manthang at 3,840m. Altitude sickness is possible but not very common since the journey gradually ascends by road. Staying hydrated, eating light meals, and avoiding alcohol on high-altitude days helps reduce discomfort. If symptoms appear, your guide will recommend descending or resting until you feel better.
How long is the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour typically?
A standard Upper Mustang Jeep Tour lasts 10 to 14 days, depending on the itinerary. This includes arrival in Kathmandu, driving from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then to Jomsom, Kagbeni, and finally Upper Mustang. The actual restricted area (Upper Mustang region) usually takes 6-7 days to explore, including Ghami, Tsarang, Lo Manthang, and surrounding caves or monasteries.
What should I pack for the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour?
Even though the tour is jeep-based, you still need proper clothing and essentials. Recommended items include:
- Warm layers (fleece, down jacket, thermals)
- Comfortable trekking shoes or boots
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
- Gloves, beanie, and windproof jacket
- Reusable water bottle
- Power bank and personal medications
- Lightweight snacks for long driving hours
Because the weather changes quickly in Mustang, layering is very important.
Is the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour suitable for families and seniors?
Yes. This tour is ideal for families with children, seniors, and travelers who prefer a comfortable adventure. Since there is no long trekking involved, travelers can enjoy the landscapes and culture without physical strain. The tour operator can also customize driving hours and sightseeing options to suit the group’s comfort level. Private jeep travel offers flexibility and safety for all age groups.
How much does the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour cost?
The cost of the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour depends on group size, type of accommodation, permit fees, and travel season. Trips usually cost more because of the Restricted Area Permit, vehicle cost, fuel, and support staff. Average prices range from USD 2,000 to USD 3,000 per person for a complete package from Kathmandu. Larger groups pay less per person, while private tours for one or two travelers cost more. Your tour operator will provide a detailed cost breakdown, including what’s included and excluded.
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