Upper Mustang Trek - 17 Days
Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek
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Trip Code HTA-8
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Duration: 17 Days
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Trip Grade Moderate
Trip Highlights
Upper Mustang Trek Highlights:-
- Leave no stones unturned of Transhimalyan region, also known as the forbidden kingdom of “Lo”.
- Picturesque rural ethnic hamlets and their socio-cultural lifestyle.
- Get to know ancient Buddhist monasteries from the medieval period and also from the 8th century.
- Dig into astounding caves around “Lo Manthang”.
- Search high heaven in almost tree-less barren topography and a marvelous view of mountains.
About Trip:
“Life is a longing for love, adventure, excitement, laughter, and beauty—a fiery urge to dive into experiences, discover their meaning, and embrace the journey without looking back.” – Saul D. Alinsky
The Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most fascinating journeys in the Trans-Himalayan region. This route offers an incredible adventure through some of the most remote and untouched areas of the “Lo” kingdom. With breathtaking mountain vistas, trekkers get a chance to immerse themselves in the ancient way of life, much as it was centuries ago. Lo Manthang, located in northern Nepal, was a restricted area until 1992, making it one of the world’s best-preserved regions. Many locals still speak the traditional Tibetan language and maintain cultural practices similar to those of Tibet.
Geographically, Upper Mustang covers roughly two-thirds of the Mustang region within the Dhaulagiri Zone. The traditional Lo Kingdom stretches about 53 km from north to south and 60 km from east to west, rising from the Kali Gandaki River near Kagbeni to the 6,700-meter-high Khamjung Himal in the southeast.
Historically, Mustang was once an independent kingdom deeply influenced by Tibetan culture and language. Between the 15th and 17th centuries, its strategic location allowed it to control trade between the Himalayas and India. By the late 18th century, it was incorporated into Nepal. In 2007, Shepard collected 55 paintings depicting the life of Buddha from this region. Trekkers can also explore the ancient Lo-Ghyekar Gompa, a palace dating back to the eighth century.
Mustang is renowned for its Buddhist traditions and provides a unique opportunity to experience Tibetan culture amidst stunning landscapes. The Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang is a major attraction for tourists eager to witness local customs. Each year, over a thousand travelers visit this region. As it lies within a protected area, special permits costing $50 per day are required, and permits are issued for groups of at least two people. Himalayan Traverse Adventure organizes this trek for travelers seeking adventure and an authentic experience in the Trans-Himalayan region.
Outline Itinerary
| S.N.:- | Outline Itinerary:- |
| Day-01:(1,350m.) | Step On Kathmandu |
| Day-02:(1,350m.) | UNESCO World Heritage(Sightseeing) |
| Day-03:(823m.) | Drive Pokhara,6 hrs. |
| Day-04:(2,858m.) | Fly Jomsom & trek Kagbeni,3-4 hrs. |
| Day-05:(3,050m.) | Chele, 5-6 hrs. |
| Day-06:(3,475m.) | Syanbochen,6-7 hrs. |
| Day-07:(3,520m.) | Ghaymi,5-6 hrs. |
| Day-08:(3,500m.) | Charang,4-5 hrs. |
| Day-09:(3,700m.) | Lo-Mangthang, 5-6 hrs. |
| Day-10:(3,700m.) | Explore Lo-Mangthang |
| Day-11:(3,810m.) | Drakmar,6-7 hrs. |
| Day-12:(3,806m.) | Ghiling,5-6 hrs. |
| Day-13:(3,050m.) | Chhuksang, 5-6 hrs. |
| Day-14:(2,700m.) | Jomsom, 6-7 hrs. |
| Day-15:(823m.) | Fly Pokhara |
| Day-16:(1,350m.) | Fly Kathmandu |
| Day-17:(1,350m.) | Final Departure |
Cost Includes:
- Domestic flight service from Pokhara and Jomsom
- International & domestic airport transfers from and to Hotel
- All ground transportations in tourist vehicles as per itinerary
- Accommodation in star level hotel with bed and breakfast facility in Kathmandu and Pokhara as per itinerary
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) while trekking as indicated by the itinerary.
- Accommodation in twin sharing basis tents or local lodges/guesthouses while trekking
- All necessary paperwork and trekking related permits and fees like Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS, special permit for restricted Mustang region, etc.
- Professional, government licensed, helpful, and English speaking guides with necessary porters (1 porter per two members)
- First Aid Medical Kit box during the trip
- All costs of Nepalese staff including their wages, insurance, food and accommodation, domestic flights, transportation and other related costs.
- Himalayan Traverse Adventure duffel bags
- Government and local taxes as per itinerary
Cost Excludes:
- International airfares to and from Nepal.
- Lunch and Dinner while in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Nepal Visa fees
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Extra expenses by members like Laundry fees, drinks, phone calls, shower, etc.
- All foods and beverages are other than on the itinerary.
- Personal gears and equipment.
- Good Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
- Excess Baggage charges
- Services more than included in “Trip Includes” section.
Trip Map
DAY-01: Step on Kathmandu (1,300M./4,264 FT.)
From the moment you set foot in Nepal, your journey begins at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, where you will complete the mandatory customs formalities. A cheerful representative from Himalayan Traverse will be waiting at the gate to escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is reserved for rest and relaxation, allowing you to recover from the long flight and prepare for the adventure ahead.
✈1,300m.
☾Hotel Vaishali
〄No Meal
DAY-02: UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SIGHTSEEING(1,350M./4,429FT.)
Explore 4 iconic landmarks and 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu with a professional licensed guide who will help you understand the city’s rich history in depth. Visit Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. After an insightful day of sightseeing, enjoy a warm welcome dinner hosted by Himalayan Traverse, featuring traditional Nepalese cuisine. This is a perfect opportunity to meet our team, get to know your guides personally, and feel like part of a family in the heart of Nepal.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
INCLUDED MEALS: WELCOME DINNER
✈1,350m.
☾Hotel Vaishali
〄Breakfast, Welcome Dinner
Day 03: Drive Pokhara [823m/2,700ft.],6 hrs.
Early in the morning at 7:00 AM, we depart for Pokhara in a comfortable tourist vehicle. This scenic drive takes us through beautiful landscapes, leading to one of Nepal’s most picturesque destinations. By the afternoon, we arrive in Pokhara, a charming lake city offering stunning views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, and the five peaks of the Annapurna range, among others.
In the afternoon, we explore Fewa Lake, the most accessible and beautiful lake in the region. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride, relax by the water, and take in the serene surroundings. There’s also an opportunity for some shopping in town. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈823m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 04: Fly Jomsom & trek Kagbeni [2,858m/9,375ft],3-4 hrs
Early in the morning, we take a flight from the airport to Jomsom, a spectacular 20-minute journey offering breathtaking views of 8,000-meter peaks like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang, is a significant town in the Kali Gandaki region and historically served as a key point on the Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade route to Tibet.
In the afternoon, we continue our journey along the Kali Gandaki River, facing strong winds as we travel slowly for about three hours until we reach the village of Ekle Bhatti, where we stay for a short break. Afterward, a one-hour drive brings us to Kagbeni, a fascinating village situated at the confluence of two rivers. Kagbeni lies along the ancient salt trade route connecting Tibet and Upper Mustang. Here, the waters of Kak Khola from Muktinath meet the Mustang Khola, forming the Kali Gandaki River. Overnight stay in Kagbeni.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈2,858m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 05: Chele [3050m/10,004ft], 5-6 hrs
Our journey begins with special permits, allowing us to explore the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. Along the way, we traverse scenic landscapes shaped by sand and wind, with the route featuring gentle ups and downs.
The first stop is Tangbe Village, a charming settlement with narrow alleys winding between whitewashed houses, surrounded by fields of barley, wheat, and apple orchards. From Tangbe, we continue to Chhusang, crossing the river and climbing past a striking red cliff, following a natural tunnel carved along the Kali Gandaki. The trek then leads us to the outskirts of Chele Village, where we spend the night.
Overnight stay in Chele.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈3,050m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 06: Syanbochen [3475m/11,398ft], 6-7 hrs
Today, our trek continues as we walk towards Ekle Bhatti. We climb the Taklam La Pass (3,624 m / 11,923 ft), navigating plateaus and narrow stretches while enjoying spectacular views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kang, and Damodar Danda. From there, we descend to Samar Village, then ascend above the village to the ridge before making a steep descent to a nearby stream.
After about three more hours of trekking, we reach Syanbochen, taking breaks along the way to relax near cool streams and juniper trees. Locals traditionally use dried juniper leaves as incense to welcome deities and begin auspicious activities. On the route, we also pass Ramchung Cave.
Overnight stay in Syanbochen.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈3,475m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 07: Ghaymi [3520m/11,546ft], 5-6 hrs
After breakfast we climb up the hill to Yamda La (3,850m / 12,667ft) passing a few teahhouses, chortens & local villages similar to the style of Tibetan houses with an open porch. We cross the mountain roads, as well as the road to the poplar trees & the fields of Baal. The climb to New Pass (4,010m / 13,193ft) will be a long one. Get off at our night stop in Gaymi. The third largest city in the region of Lo, Gayam, is surrounded by large camps, most of which are barren. Overnight in Gyami.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈3,520m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 08: Charang [3500m/11,480ft], 4-5 hrs
Start the trip after breakfast for a fun walk. After crossing Ghaymi Khola, the trail rises to the plains & passes along the tallest wall of Mani, a sacred stone wall made by Buddhist followers. From the end of the wall the route runs east to the village of Charang with lots of fields, willows & houses separated by stone walls at the top of the Tsarang Chu canal. There is also a large white dzong & a red Gompa to our house for tea in the evening. Overnight in Charang.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈3,500m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 09: Lo-Mangthang (3700m/12,136ft), 5-6 hrs
Today, we take a trip to Lo-Mangthang with beautiful views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I & Brikuti peak. The trail first descends to Charang Chu Canyon & then rises steeply after crossing the river. Gradually, the trail gradually exceeds the Lo-Mangthang valley, from where you can see the Lo-Mangthang valley. As you descend into Lo-Mangthang, a spectacular view of the walled city overlooks its hills on the Tibetan Border. We stay in a hotel at the stop all night. Overnight in Lo-Mangthang.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈3,700m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10: Explore Lo-Mangthang
Today, we explore the surrounding areas of Lo-Manthang. Our first stop is Namgyal Gompa, an important monastery that also serves as a local community center and court. From there, we continue to Tingkhar, the last major town northwest of Lo-Manthang, before returning to the hotel.
Alternatively, you can visit several other local attractions, including Tall Champa Lakhang (God House), the red Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, and the Entrance Hall, which are among the main highlights of the city. The four-story Raja Palace is particularly impressive, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayas.
Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈3,700m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11: Drakmar [3810 m/12,500ft], 6-7 hrs
Today, we take a different route on our trek, heading towards Drakmar via Gyakar. Gyakar is home to the 1,200-year-old Ghar Gompa, where Guru Rinpoche is the central figure, and the monastery is renowned for its ancient rock paintings. According to local legend, making a wish at Ghar Gompa brings it to fulfillment.
We enjoy a morning walk amidst the gentle dusty winds, taking in the unique landscapes and cultural heritage along the way.
Overnight stay in Drakmar.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈3,810m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 12: Ghiling [3806m/12,484ft], 5-6 hrs
Today, we trek back to Ghiling, a journey of approximately 5–6 hours. Upon arrival, we enjoy lunch and spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area. Since it can be dusty during the day, it is recommended to do most of the exploration in the evening when the air is calmer and more pleasant.
Overnight stay in Ghiling.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈3,806m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 13: Chhuksang [3050m/10,004ft], 5-6 hrs
We return to Ghiling for an overnight stop after a scenic five-hour drive, enjoying beautiful landscapes and stunning views of the Himalayas along the way. Take time to relax and enjoy the journey. Overnight stay in Chhuksang.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈3,050m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 14: Jomsom [2700/8,856ft], 6-7 hrs
On the last day of the trek, it’s best to start early and make our way back to Kagbeni. We follow the Mustang highways and reconnect with the regular Annapurna circuit. After lunch in Kagbeni, we continue to Jomsom for the night stop.
Alternatively, if time allows, the guide can arrange a visit to Muktinath before heading to Jomsom.
Overnight stay in Jomsom.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈2,700m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 15: Fly Pokhara
After an early morning drive to the airport, we take a scenic 30-minute flight to Pokhara, flying between the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival, our guide and group transfer to the hotel for lunch. Later, we head to Sarangkot, where we can enjoy panoramic views of the sunrise over the mountains. The day also includes a Pokhara city tour covering the following highlights:
Devi’s Fall (Patale Chhango) – One of Pokhara’s most famous attractions, this waterfall plunges into a deep ravine. It is named after a Swiss woman, Devi, who tragically drowned here in 1961. Located about 2 km south of Pokhara Airport, it is easily accessible by city buses or taxis.
Gupteswor Cave – Situated near Devi’s Fall, this extensive cave features a natural underground formation of Lord Shiva, attracting many devotees. Well-maintained steps and lighting make it safe for exploration, and a small tunnel behind the Shiva statue connects the cave to Devi’s Fall.
Mahendra Cave – Another natural wonder located about 9 km north of Pokhara Airport, named after the late King Mahendra. Visitors are advised to use a torch or a guide to safely explore the cave. Nearby is Bat Cave (Chameri Gupha), known for its bat population.
Bindabasini Temple – Located north of the airport, this temple is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Bhagabati. The surrounding area is park-like and ideal for sightseeing, with several other smaller temples, including a Shiva temple, nearby.
Tibetan Refugee Camps – There are three main camps in and around Pokhara, where visitors can learn about Tibetan culture, traditions, and crafts. They are located near Devi’s Fall (Chorepatan), Prithwichowk, and Hemja.
Buddhist Palace (Nyeshang Monastery) – Founded in 1960 by the Manangi Buddhists, this monastery is located in Matepani, about 4 km east of the airport. It is situated on a small hill, offering panoramic views of Pokhara city and surrounding mountains.
Seti River – A natural wonder flowing from the Machhapuchhre snowfields, the Seti River disappears into a deep underground gorge in the city. The river’s dramatic course and roaring sound can be observed from key points like KI Singh Bridge, Mahendrapool, and Prithvichowk.
Overnight stay in Sarangkot, with the opportunity to enjoy the serene mountain views and relax.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈4,580m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day-16: Fly Kathmandu
After breakfast and enjoying the spectacular sunrise from Sarangkot, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Kathmandu, scheduled around 10:00 AM. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we check into the hotel and spend the evening at leisure.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
✈823m.
☾Hotel/Tea-House
〄Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY-17: FINAL DEPARTURE
Today marks the farewell. We hope to welcome you back to Nepal for another adventurous journey in the future. You will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport at least three hours before your scheduled flight for your departure back home.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast
✈1,350m.
☾Homeland
〄Breakfast
(Note: Booking must be confirmed 6 months before in advance)
You must bring the important documents mentioned below in your trip.
- Valid Passport with 2 pp sized photos
- Proof of insurance and visa form
- International air tickets
- Enough cash which can be exchanged once you reach Kathmandu
- Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler's checks, etc.
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