Upper Mustang Trek
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Upper Mustang Trek offers trekkers with an exclusive experience of trekking to some of the isolated areas of the country; along with the views of great Himalayas.
Upper Mustang is a highly remote area and a restricted region which has influences from Tibetan culture and tradition. The region holds a unique landscape surrounding with snow-capped Himalayan ranges and deserted lands.
Trekking to the Upper Mustang is a great choice for those who want to explore the hidden kingdom of Lo. Upper Mustang trek involves visiting some of the major attractions of Mustang; which includes the Lo Manthang, Jomsom, Marpha, Kagbeni, Chhosar cave, and Namghel Monastery and many other historical places.
Upper Mustang lies under the rain shadow of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. Due to this, you can expect minimum rainfall in the Upper Mustang region even during the monsoon season. So the trek is doable in almost every season. Upper Mustang Trek is a moderate trek; thus you add Jomsom Trek with it for extra adventure and religious experiences.
One of the major festivals of Upper Mustang is the Tiji festival that falls during the month of May. If you want to be a part of this celebration such as singing and dancing; then trekking to the Upper Mustang during May would be a better idea.
Overall, Upper Mustang Trek has a lot to offer. Upper Mustang Trek is a package that offers culturally significant places to witness the natural beauty of this region.
So, if you have decided on your trip to Upper Mustang and searching for a reliable agency; then you can join us at Nepal Hiking Adventure. We can arrange you with well-experienced guide and representative. Just feel free to contact us if you have any queries regarding your trip.
Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek
- Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo.
- Visit historic monasteries, including Ghar Gompa, Namgyal Monastery, and Chhosar cave.
- Scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, with breathtaking Himalayan views.
- Walk through the Tibetan-influenced villages of Kagbeni, Chele, Gelling, Dhakmar, and Tsarang.
- Experience the unique desert landscape of Mustang: barren cliffs, red canyons, and dramatic rock formations.
- Stunning panorama of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges throughout the trail.
- Trek in the rain-shadow region, meaning low rainfall and excellent trekking conditions even in monsoon.
- Blend of culture and nature, exploring ancient caves, fortresses, and traditional Tibetan-style houses.
- Visit the charming villages of Marpha and Jomsom, known for apple orchards and Thakali culture.
- Rich cultural immersion, learning about local traditions, beliefs, and Mustang’s preserved way of life.
Arrive in Kathmandu
On reaching Tribhuvan International Airport, our representatives from Nepal Hiking Adventure will welcome you and immediately transfer you to your hotel. after reaching the hotel, you will take rest and have a short meeting with your guide. the guide will briefly explain about your trip to Mustang.
Accomodation: Hotel
Duration: 30 min drive to hotel
Distance: Around 6 km
Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Pokhara (820 m)
On the second day of your Upper Mustang Trek, you will leave Kathmandu and drive towards Pokhara. You will have a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara following captivating rivers and beautiful green hills. Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna Region where you can explore many lakes, mountains, waterfalls, caves, monasteries, temples and many more.
On the evening, you can also go for boating in the Phewa lake. Overnight you will stay at one of the hotels in Lakeside, Pokhara.
Accomodation: Hotel
Duration: 6-7 hours drive
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: Around 200 km
Flight from Pokhara (820 m) to Jomsom (2,720 m) and trek to Kagbeni (2,810 m)
After exploring the beautiful city of Pokhara, you will take a flight to Jomsom. It will take you around 25 minutes to reach Jomsom from Pokhara. Jomsom is the headquarter of Mustang and lies north-west from Pokhara.
After reaching Jomsom, you will continue trekking towards Kagbeni. You will follow the Kali Gandaki river bed and cross the Ekley Bhatti Village which leads to Kagbeni. Kagbeni is a captivating village that sits at the bank of two rivers.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 30-40 minutes flight & 3-4 hours trek
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +90 m
Distance: Around 10 km
Trek from Kagbeni (2,810 m) to Chele (3,050 m)
Following the same Kali Gandaki river bed, today you will trek to Chele. Walking along different uphills and downhills, you will come across at a village Tangbe. You will come across the fields of wheat, barley, apple and buckwheat as you reach to this village.
On walking further through unique landscapes and beautiful villages, you will reach Chusang. After reaching Chusang, you will cross a river and trek towards Chele. Chele is a moderately sized village where you will stay overnight at one of the teahouses.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +240 m
Distance: Around 12 km
Trek from Chele (3,050 m) to Gelling (3,570 m)
Early in the morning, you will start your trek from to Gelling from Chele. From Chele, you will take an ascend to Gyakar village. After reaching the village, you will trek along the dry and barren landscape of the region.
After walking for some time, you will reach to a charming village at Samar. From Samar village, you will continue walking towards Bhena. From Bhena, you will take a steep climb towards the Yamda La Pass from where you will have great views of the mountain ranges such as Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre. Descending your way from Yamada La Pass, you will each Syangboche and then finally to Ghilling village.
Overnight at Gelling village.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 6-7 hours trek
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +520 m
Distance: Around 14 km
Trek from Gelling (3,570 m) to Dhakmar (3,820 m)
On day 6 of Upper Mustang Trek, you will start your day from Gilling village, where you will have your breakfast early in the morning and start trekking to Dhakmar. Today you will cross several passes such as Ghami La and Nhi La Pass. You will take an ascend towards Dhakmar where you will see different Chortens and stupas.
Walking along the stone wall, you will reach to a field at Dhakmar Village. From Dhakmar, you will have some of the beautiful views of the mountain ranges and villages of the Mustang region.
Overnight at Dhakmar Village.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +250 m
Distance: Around 12 km
Trek from Dhakmar (3,820 m) to Ghar Gompa (3,900 m) to Tsarang (3,570 m)
Today, you will trek towards Tsarang village from Dhakmar. You will have your early morning breakfast at Dhakmar and start trekking. You will descend towards some routes crossing some alpine meadows. After walking for some time, the trail will take you to an ancient Ghar Gompa which is more than 1200 years old. There, you will get a chance to meet guru Rimpoche. The Gompa contains different rock paintings and inscriptions.
From the Gompa, you will walk further and cross the Chongo La Pass and trek down towards Gekar. After walking through an irrigated field of the city, you will finally reach Tsarang.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +80 m
Descent: -330 m
Distance: Around 10 km
Trek from Tsarang (3,570 m) to Lo Manthang (3,800 m)
After exploring Tsarang and Tsarang old monastery, you will trek to Lo Manthang today. Lo Manthang is the ultimate destination of your trek today. Trek to Lo Manthang is a short trek where you will cross several Chortens and Mani walls along the route between Tsarang to Lo Marang.
Your trek starts by crossing a steel bridge and then walking towards the Marang village. From the village, you will take an ascend to the top of a ridge where you can view the beautiful landscape surrounding with Tilicho, Nilgiri and Bhrikuti peak. After exploring the spectacular landscapes, you will climb over to cross Lo La Pass. after crossing the pass, you will have the first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang.
Descending your way through a nice trail, you will finally reach Lo Mantang where will spend two nights. Overnight at Lo Manthang.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 4-5 hours trek
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +230 m
Distance: Around 12 km
Explore Lo Manthang (3,800 m): Visit Chhosar Cave, Namgyal Monastery, and local gompas
Lo Manthang is the restricted region in the Upper Mustang which stood out as a forbidden kingdom in Nepal. From Lo Manthang, you will trek towards Chhosar village today. It will take you around 4-6 hours to reach the village from Lo Manthang. You can also hire a horse or a pony to reach Chhosar if you want to.
After reaching the mysterious village of Chhosar, you will explore several caves and monasteries of the area. You will explore the Jhong cave, which is the largest man-made cave in the Upper Mustang. The cave is decorated with Buddhist murals and Tibetan inscriptions and holds several secrets of the past centuries.
Along with the Chhosar Cave, you will also get a chance to visit the Namgyal monastery. The monastery is also known to the name as Dalai Lama’s Temple. After exploring the Chhosar Cave and Namghel monastery, you will return back to Lo Manthang. Overnight at Lo Manthang.
There are many attractive and historical places in Lo Manthang that need our attention. So, today you can also explore some more Gompas and monasteries of the region such as Niphu monastery, Chyodi Gompa, Champa Lakhang and Red Thubchen Gompa. You can also explore various caves which are around 2500 years old.
After exploring the historical Gompas of the region, you will return back to your place at Lo Manthang.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 4-6 hours walking/visiting
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: Around 6 km
Lo Manthang (3,800 m) to Ghemi (3,520 m)
From Lo Manthang, you will descend towards Charang today. Walking along the same route exploring the beautiful landscapes, you will walk through downhills to reach Dhakmar village. From this village, you will walk through stone and Mani walls, walking along the Ghar Gompa.
From Ghar Gompa, you will cross the Nhi La Pass and Ghemi pass and finally reach to a village of Ghemi. Overnight at Ghemi.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +50 m
Descent: -330 m
Distance: Around 12 km
Trek from Ghemi (3,520 m) to Chumsi Cave Monastery to Samar (3,660 m)
In the early morning, you will have your breakfast and start trekking towards Ghiling from Ghemi. From Ghemi, you will descend your way through Chumsi cave monastery and Syanggboche. You will cross the Yamda La Pass along with the views of mount Mount Machhapuchhre.
On walking further, you will have to take a steep descend before you reach Bhena. After reaching Bhena, you will continue walking and finally reach the captivating village of Samar.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +140 m
Distance: Around 13 km
Trek from Samar (3,660 m) to Kagbeni (2,810 m) to Jomsom (2,720 m)
From Samar, you will trek down to Kagbeni today. Walking along, dry and barren landscape, you will trek down towards Gyakar village. From the village, you will take a route to Chele. After crossing Chele, you will find several teahouses and moderately-sized settlements and reach Chhusang.
From Chhusang, you will walk along with beautiful villages and unique landscapes of the region. From there, you will reach Tangbe and finally to Chele.
From Kagbeni, you will head towards the Ekley Bhatti Village. Walking through different stupas, Chortens and monasteries, you will follow the Kali Gandaki River bed. After taking a downhill trail along with the views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri, you will reach Jomsom.
Overnight at Jomsom.
Accomodation: Lodge
Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascent: +30 m
Descent: -940 m
Distance: Around 18 km
Jomsom (2,720 m) to Pokhara (827 m) by morning flight
Today, in the morning, you will take a flight to Pokhara from Jomsom. It will take you around 30 minutes to reach Pokhara. After reaching Pokhara, you will explore the beautiful city. You can buy souvenirs for your friends and family if you want to.
Accomodation: Hotel
Duration: 30-40 min flight
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descent: -1,893 m
Distance: Around 135 km flight distance
Drive from Pokhara (827 m) to Kathmandu (1,400 m) by tourist bus
After having your breakfast at Pokhara, you will take a private tourist bus to Kathmandu. It will take you around 5-6 hours to reach Kathmandu from Pokhara via Mugling.
As soon as you reach Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can either rest or walk around the streets of Thamel and Ason.
Accomodation: Hotel
Duration: 6-7 hours drive
Meal: Breakfast
Distance: Around 200 km
Final Departure: Transfer to the international airport
Today is the final day of your trip. Our representatives from Nepal Hiking Adventure will assist you to the Tribhuvan International Airport for the final departure.
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.
- 2-night accommodation Pokhara with breakfast.
- Kathmandu to Pokhara tourist bust ticket.
- Mentioned Share/private jeep ticket during the trek.
- Three meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and overnights at guest houses during the trek.
- English speaking guide with his food, salary, insurance, equipment, etc.
- Experienced potter 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. (incase of emergency rescue/medical tritment)
- Entrance fees of Kathmandu sightseeing tour/UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- All kinds of drinks during the trek.
- All kinds of personal expenses.
- Tips for Guide/potter.
Temperature Chart
Altitude Chart
Useful Info
Why Upper Mustang is a Restricted Area?
Upper Mustang is one of Nepal’s most protected trekking regions because of its unique geography, ancient culture, and sensitive border location. The government keeps Upper Mustang as a restricted area mainly to safeguard its centuries-old Tibetan traditions, fragile desert landscapes, and important archaeological heritage. Since the region lies close to the Tibetan (Chinese) border, it is considered a geographically sensitive zone. To prevent uncontrolled movement and ensure proper monitoring, foreign trekkers must obtain a special Restricted Area Permit (RAP). This helps in controlling the flow of visitors and maintaining both cultural and security stability in the region.
Another major reason for its restricted status is the preservation of its ancient Tibetan-influenced culture. Upper Mustang was closed to outsiders until 1992, and because of this isolation, the local people have maintained their traditional customs, languages, monasteries, and festivals for centuries. The restricted-entry rule ensures that mass tourism does not disturb this authentic cultural identity. For example, the famous Tiji Festival held in Lo Manthang still follows the same rituals practiced for hundreds of years. The permit system helps protect this cultural richness and keeps the region from being heavily commercialized.
Upper Mustang also has a very delicate trans-Himalayan desert ecosystem that resembles the Tibetan plateau. The land is dry, windy, and extremely fragile, with stunning rock formations, steep cliffs, and limited vegetation. If tourism is not controlled, the natural landscape could be damaged very quickly. The restricted entry helps minimize environmental impact, protects natural resources, and maintains the beauty of iconic places like Lo Manthang, Dhakmar, and the ancient sky caves found throughout Mustang.
Additionally, Upper Mustang contains some of Nepal’s most valuable archaeological and historical sites, including centuries-old monasteries, hidden cave settlements, and royal palaces. Many of these structures are extremely sensitive and need protection from over-tourism. The restricted area policy helps ensure that these priceless heritage sites remain untouched and preserved for future generations.
Overall, Upper Mustang is restricted not to make travel difficult, but to protect its culture, environment, and history. The permit fee collected from visitors directly supports local communities, helps restore monasteries, and promotes sustainable tourism. Because of these efforts, travelers today can still experience the untouched beauty of the “Last Forbidden Kingdom” in an authentic, peaceful, and culturally respectful way.
Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek
The best time to visit Upper Mustang is during the spring, summer, and autumn seasons, when the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the landscapes look their best. Spring (March to May) is one of the most popular seasons for trekking in Upper Mustang. The temperature becomes mild after winter, the days are longer, and the winds are less harsh compared to early spring. Trekkers can enjoy bright blue skies, warm sunlight, and comfortable walking conditions. This season is especially beautiful because the dry cliffs and red canyons of Mustang appear even more vibrant. Spring is also the time when the famous Tiji Festival takes place in Lo Manthang, attracting travelers who want to witness the region’s most colorful and spiritually important celebration.
Unlike most trekking regions of Nepal, Upper Mustang is excellent to visit even during the Monsoon (June to August). Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Mustang receives almost no rainfall, making it one of the few destinations in Nepal where trekking is possible throughout the monsoon. Summer brings warmer temperatures, clear views of the desert landscape, and lush vegetation around lower Mustang. The trails remain dry, and the region’s dramatic rock formations are striking under the summer sun. This makes Upper Mustang a perfect choice for those who want to avoid the crowded trekking routes of the Everest and Annapurna regions during the rainy season.
Autumn (September to November) is considered the most ideal time for trekking in Upper Mustang. The monsoon clouds disappear, leaving behind incredibly clear skies, crisp mountain air, and refreshing temperatures. This is the season with the most stable weather and the best visibility of Mustang’s iconic landscapes, such as deep canyons, whitewashed villages, ancient monasteries, and the dramatic Kali Gandaki valley. Temperatures are very comfortable for walking, and the strong Mustang winds are slightly calmer compared to early spring. Autumn also offers an excellent opportunity for cultural immersion, as many local gatherings and small festivals take place after the harvest season.
While winter (December to February) is also possible for experienced travelers, temperatures drop significantly, many teahouses remain closed, and the high-altitude passes often become extremely cold and windy. For most trekkers, spring, monsoon, and autumn remain the best and most comfortable times to explore this once-forbidden kingdom.
FAQ
How many days does the Upper Mustang Trek take?
The standard Upper Mustang Trek typically takes 12-18 days, depending on your route and pace. Including Kathmandu and Pokhara transfers, flights, and acclimatization days, most itineraries span 14-16 days. This allows trekkers to explore key destinations like Lo Manthang, Tsarang, Ghemi, and the Mustang caves without rushing.
What is the best time to trek in Upper Mustang?
The ideal seasons are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November). During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and temperatures are moderate. May is special because of the Tiji Festival, a cultural celebration in Lo Manthang. Upper Mustang is in the rain-shadow region, so it receives very little rainfall even during the monsoon, making trekking possible almost year-round.
Do I need a permit for Upper Mustang Trek?
Yes, Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and trekkers require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). For foreign nationals, the permit is issued by the Nepal government and usually costs around $500-$600 USD per person for 12-15 days. The permit must be arranged through a registered trekking agency, as independent travel is not allowed in this region.
Is the Upper Mustang Trek difficult?
The trek is considered moderate, with altitudes ranging from 2,700 m (Jomsom) to 4,010 m (Nyi La Pass). It involves long trekking hours (5-7 hours per day), some steep ascents, and walking on rocky trails. Trekkers should have good physical fitness and experience with high-altitude trekking. Acclimatization days are essential to avoid altitude sickness.
What should I pack for the Upper Mustang Trek?
Essential items include:
- Layered clothing for variable temperatures
- Warm down jacket and fleece for cold nights
- Good trekking boots and gaiters
- Hat, gloves, and sunglasses
- Trekking poles for stability on rocky paths
- Water bottles and water purification tablets
- Personal first-aid kit and medications
- Headlamp or flashlight for remote lodges
Can I trek to Upper Mustang without a guide?
No, it is mandatory to trek with a registered guide, as Upper Mustang is a restricted region. Guides are knowledgeable about local culture, trail navigation, accommodation, and emergency procedures. Hiring a guide ensures safety, smoother permit processing, and cultural insight.
Are there medical facilities in Upper Mustang?
Medical facilities are very limited in Upper Mustang. Small health posts exist in villages like Lo Manthang and Jomsom, but they only provide basic first aid. Trekkers are advised to carry altitude sickness medication, basic first-aid supplies, and travel insurance covering emergency evacuation.
Can I attend the Tiji Festival during the trek to Upper Mustang?
Yes, the Tiji Festival is held in Lo Manthang every year in May. It is a three-day religious festival with traditional dances, rituals, and colorful performances. Trekking in May allows travelers to experience this unique cultural event, but it requires advance planning and booking, as accommodations fill up quickly.
What wildlife and natural scenery can I expect?
Upper Mustang offers a unique desert-like landscape with red cliffs, canyons, and barren valleys. You may see Tibetan wildlife, including yaks, blue sheep, and Himalayan birds. The trek also provides breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and allows exploration of ancient caves, monasteries, and Tibetan-style villages, making it a combination of nature, culture, and adventure.
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