Upper Mustang Trek
Trip Facts
Overview
Overview of Upper Mustang Trek
Discover the Upper Mustang Trek 2026 with a detailed itinerary and cost breakdown. Explore the hidden kingdom of Lo Manthang, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Plan your adventure with Nepal Unique Treks today. The Upper Mustang Trek is unique and adventurous, unlike any other trek in Nepal. It's a journey to the last kingdom of Tibetan culture in Nepal. Also known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom or Kingdom of Lo, the Upper Mustang has preserved the tradition of ancient Tibetan culture.
Only from the year 1992, the trekkers were allowed to visit this ancient Tibetan kingdom. And year to date, every trekker, whether it be domestic or international, requires a special permit to enter the area. This has allowed the community of the Mustang region to preserve its identity historical tradition and culture.
The journey to the Kingdom of Lo begins with a drive to Pokhara and then a flight to Jomsom. Starting the trekking from Jomsom, navigating through the scenic and rock trails, we visit the Muktinath Temple. Furthermore, trekking for a few days, all day in the rocky terrain along the river, we reach Lo Manthang. Exploring the nearby places and experiencing the local lifestyle of the people, we retraced our way back to Kathmandu.
Moreover, immerse yourself in exploring the scenic views of the snow-capped mountains, rocky terrains, landscapes, and many more. In addition, get a chance to explore the traditional Tibetan culture, lifestyle, and food.
To summarize, the Upper Mustang Trek is an adventurous as well as spiritual journey to the untapped Western Region of Nepal. Far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Western Region and its people will amaze you with the views as well as the hospitality. Create unforgettable moments on this journey with Nepal Unique Treks.
Highlights
Chance to visit the Last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal.
Encounter scenic views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other chains of mountains.
Immerse yourself in the Tibetan culture of people in the western region.
Travel through the Himalayas of western Nepal and explore the rugged terrain there.
Traverse high-altitude passes like Yamada La and Lo La for stunning vistas.
Walk through remote villages like Kagbeni, Chele, and Ghami, each with a unique charm.
Explore a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists, the Muktinath Temple.
Why choose Nepal Unique Treks for this trek?
We provide an experience you won't soon forget at Nepal Unique Treks. We have been leading trekkers from all over the world for more than 20 years, guaranteeing smooth and trouble-free travel. Furthermore, as a government-approved trekking company, we provide safety, comfort, and first-rate service to make your Himalayan adventure genuinely unforgettable.
Our team of experienced guides has been navigating the challenging Himalayan terrain for over ten years and is government-certified. Moreover, they are highly knowledgeable about high-altitude treks, the local way of life, and the landscape. They also ensure that you stay informed, safe, and fully engaged in the experience. In addition, our guides are available to help you at every stage, whether you're facing challenging climbs, acclimating to higher elevations, or learning about local customs.
We create itineraries tailored to your needs, recognizing that every trekker has a unique pace and preference. We can customize a journey to fit your timetable, add extra days for acclimatization, or let you discover undiscovered treasures along the way. Our itineraries are carefully crafted to provide the perfect balance of adventure, safety, and cultural exposure.
Nepal Unique Treks handles every aspect of logistics, from obtaining permission to setting up the greatest lodging and food options. We also carefully choose tea houses and lodges to guarantee your comfort and provide you with friendly hospitality in the heart of the Himalayas. Our solid local ties also provide an additional degree of ease, enhancing the immersion and smoothness of your journey.
Permits required for Upper Mustang Trek
Authorities require permits for the Upper Mustang Trek to protect the region’s unique cultural and environmental heritage. Moreover, it helps the government officials to regulate tourism, and ensure that the local community benefits from the tourism industry. Without these permits, we are not allowed to enter the region.
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit:
This permit is required to enter the Upper Mustang region, which is a restricted area. The Department of Immigration in Kathmandu issues it, and they charge a higher cost compared to other trekking areas in Nepal.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
This permit is required for trekking in the Annapurna region, including parts of the Upper Mustang Trek. It helps support conservation efforts and ensures the maintenance of natural resources and wildlife in the region. It is valid for the entire Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes popular trekking destinations like Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Upper Mustang.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card:
Although trekkers no longer need the TIMS card for the Upper Mustang region due to the restricted area permit, they are typically still required to obtain it for other trekking areas in Nepal. The card helps authorities keep track of trekkers and ensure safety in the trekking regions. Finally, Nepal Unique Treks will assist you in getting these permits hassle-free. For this, we will require a few documents from you. You can easily connect with us to know more about the details of obtaining the permits.
Why does the Upper Mustang Trek require trekking insurance?
Mustang is not a walk in the park. You are climbing high-altitude terrain, far from hospitals and towns. There are a few scenarios where things can go wrong in our journey. And, that is why insurance is the most: The insurance specifically includes emergency helicopter evacuation, which may be your only lifeline if you suffer from altitude sickness. The remote nature of Mustang means limited medical facilities, making insurance coverage for medical care and evacuation essential for your safety and peace of mind.
Mustang's unpredictable mountain weather can cause serious travel disruption, with snowstorms or gusty winds potentially leaving you stranded due to flight cancellations. A good insurance policy will take care of you from such unexpected delays and associated costs. Furthermore, the policy provides cover for lost or broken trekking gear since it can be challenging and costly to replace critical equipment in far-flung areas. This little outlay is well worth the investment for your amazing Himalayan experience.
Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist Bus (Drive) 210 km, 8 hours, 810 m
The 13-day Upper Mustang Trekking package starts with a scenic and beautiful drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. 210 kilometers to cover, 8 hours to drive, and more than just beautiful scenarios to witness; you will be in for the perfect start of this thrilling and adventurous trekking journey to Upper Mustang. We know traveling such a long distance can get any individual exhausted. But you don't have to worry! The Nepal Unique Treks team makes sure to arrange a comfortable tourist bus with proper leg space and driven by a professional driver with a valid license.
Flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu
The trekkers can also choose to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara via flight if they do not want to go for a long journey via bus. The flight can take you from Kathmandu to Pokhara within 25 minutes, which means you will have extra time to stroll around the city on the same day. However, if you choose this method of transportation, you must add a little more to the existing Upper Mustang Trekking package cost.
As you reach Pokhara, you meet our local representatives, who then drive you to the hotel. Check-in at the hotel and store all your belongings. After that, you can take your time to freshen up and have some rest before strolling around the city of lakes. In the evening, you can sit in any of the lakeside cafes and enjoy the prestigious nightlife of Pokhara.
Day 2: Pokhara to Jomsom (2700m) Flight - 30 mins , Trek to Kagbeni 2,858m - 4 hours
Did you enjoy your day at Pokhara yesterday? Well, we also believe that you had a sound and comfortable sleep, didn't you? Well, now it's time to wake up, freshen up, have some delicious and fulfilling breakfast, and get ready for another section of the Upper Mustang Trek.
Our day begins with the guides driving you from the hotel to the Pokhara Domestic Airport. After that, you will board a 20 to 25-minute long mountain flight to Jomsom. Tickets? Well, we will have them ready for you. As you land at the Jomsom Airport, we will go for a quick break, have something to eat if necessary, and then go for the first hike of this trekking package to Upper Mustang.
Alternate way to reach Kagbeni
If you want to go for some adventure, the Nepal Unique Treks can also arrange a jeep drive to Kagbeni from Pokhara. This drive takes us through some good roads and some rugged rough off-roads as well and takes about 6 to 7 hours. However, believe us, the drive will be a lot more adventurous than a quick flight for someone looking for an adrenaline rush.
Trek to Kagbeni
Say hello to the first trekking route of this 13-day Upper Mustang trekking journey. This section of the trail covers a total distance of 10 to 12 kilometers, which takes about 4 hours. It will certainly be an easy trek as the stretch is well-developed. Covering a relatively flat path with a few gentle ascents, we walk from Jomsom to Kagbeni. Also, let us tell you that this section of the trail follows the Kali Gandaki riverbed.
Even though the path remains significantly easy till Kagbeni, you need to be ready to face some wind and dust. However, as you reach the final destination of the day, a village located at the edge of Mustang Valley, this village serves as the meeting point between the rugged soul of the Himalayas and quiet spiritual grace. Besides, the trekkers will also witness some unique colored homes with carved wooden windows, and fluttering prayer flags everywhere. Just imagine spending a part of the evening and the entire night in a village that serves views that significantly look like a masterpiece of art.
Day 3: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3050 m) - 6 Hours
Have you ever walked through a terrain that feels like a blend of desert and Himalayas? Why this question? Well, that's because this section of the Upper Mustang Trekking trail offers the same to the trekkers. Yes, get yourself prepared, freshen up, and have your breakfast in the hotel because we have about 13 kilometers of distance to cover on this day. This walk takes about 6 hours for any average trekker to complete, where we walk past some smaller settlements, over the suspension bridge, and along the windswept Kali Gandaki riverbed.
Moreover, we will also stop by the picturesque Tangbe village, where the locals offer amazing hospitality. Besides, the trekkers also witness whitewashed houses, apple orchards, and fluttering prayer flags, just like many other villages in the Himalayan region. As you keep walking, make sure to take a look around and notice the surroundings as well. Why? Because you will notice the landscape shifting while the lifestyle is influenced by Tibetan culture and tradition. After about 6 hours of walking past a beautiful section of the trail, you will finally reach Chele.
As you walk through the moderate but steady trail, you can see the vistas opening up to barren cliffs, red canyons, and distant snow peaks like Nilgiri and Tukuche. This small village, located at an altitude of 3050 meters above sea level, helps you soak in the silence, peace, and tranquility of the nearby Himalayas. Take your time to interact with the locals, and try some local delicacies, before returning to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 4: Trek from Chele to Syangboche (3475 m) - 6 /7 hours
On the fourth day, we take ourselves through a little challenging part of the trek. Yes, this is the point from where you can sense a significant increase in the difficulty level of the Upper Mustang Trekking route. However, if you follow the guides keep slow, and keep yourselves hydrated, you can efficiently cover this section of the trail as well. The walk begins after you have your breakfast in the hotel and get ready with your backpacks.
As we leave Chele and walk for a couple of hours, we will have to ascend on a steep ridge and then a canyon before reaching a settlement named Eklo Bhatti. Here, we sit for a while and then go for one of the best walks of this trek. It's time to head towards one of the two passes, the Taklma La Pass. During this section of the ascend, the trekkers can get outstanding views of Tilicho Peak, Damodar Danda, and Yaskawa Kang. It'll be like walking in a painting for sure.
On the fourth day of the Upper Mustang Trekking journey, the trail takes us to two different passes; Taklam La Pass (3,624 meters) and Dajori La Pass (3,735 meters). Are you ready for this adventure and an increase in adrenaline?
Furthermore, we will also visit the Rangchung Chungsi Cave (the sacred meditation cave of Guru Rinpoche) on the same day. Well, that's not it! Your excitement and thrill exceed the peak as you walk past some rocky trails, narrow gorges, and over the open plateaus. At last, it takes about 6 to 7 hours for us to reach Syangboche, the final destination of the day. Check-in at the hotel, have dinner, and go for a much-needed rest.
Day 5: Trek from Syangboche to Ghami (3500 m) - 5 hours
As we keep ascending higher, the risk of altitude sickness also increases. Today our destination will be to reach an altitude of 3500 meters above sea level. Therefore, we recommend that trekkers be prepared with all the precautions before the start of the walk and during the walk as well. After having a delicious and fulfilling breakfast in the hotel, we start tracing the remaining part of the Upper Mustang Trekking map.
This section of the trail is almost similar to the one we crossed a day before, so we will not face much difficulty. However, there certainly is a lot to witness in this day's journey. Yes, keep ascending and you will see the great Himalayan ranges cheering for you. Moreover, the trail also takes you deep into the Tibet-influenced villages like Gelling and Tama Gaon.
What more? Well, beautiful Chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags cover the entire route whereas, the local lifestyle, agriculture, and cool breeze coming from the Himalayas keep you active and going. Within the next 5 hours, we will ascend to an altitude of 3,500 meters, the Ghami village. Check-in at your hotel room, get your things stored, and before dinner, you can go for a quick stroll of the village and nearby areas.
Day 6: Trek from Ghami to Charang (3560 m) - 5 hours
Another day calls for another adventurous day on the 13-Day Upper Mustang Trekking trail. Today, we will leave Ghami and leap towards another beautiful village, Charang, a village located at an altitude of 3,560 meters above sea level. Well, this section of the trekking route features gradual ascents and descents while offering spectacular views of mountain ranges and cultural significance.
On this day, the trekkers will also pass through the longest Mani Wall of the Mustang region. This mani wall stands as a sacred and visually impressive structure made of stone slabs. Moreover, you can also see Buddhist prayers inscribed on the mani walls. So, check carefully! As we continue walking on this section of the trek to Upper Mustang, it takes us above the Tsarang La Pass, also known as Charang La Pass, located at an altitude of 3,870 meters.
Watching some of the spectacular views of wide arid valleys, eroded cliffs, and sky-towering mountains, we delve deeper and deeper into the culturally rich section of the Mustang region. Within the next 5 hours, our journey ends as we finally step into Charang, a historic village named after the Charang Dzong (fort). Take your time to explore around the village, and check out the ancient architecture, religious artifacts, and traditional houses. Moreover, you can also interact with the locals and learn more about this village, its people, and their lifestyle. In the evening, you can have dinner before heading for a cozy and comfortable sleep.
Day 7: Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang (3770 m) - 5 Hours
On the seventh day, our journey leaps towards Lo Manthang, a village where you can listen to the wind echoing through ancient alleyways. Moreover, this spectacular village, guarded by sky-touching cliffs, is also famously known as the ancient Kingdom of Mustang. Just picture this: you will be entering into a living time capsule sitting beneath the towering peaks.
On this day's journey, we gain a total elevation of 210 meters, ascending from an altitude of 3,560 meters to 3,770 meters above sea level. Talking about the trail itself, it starts with a gradual ascend offering some panoramic views of Mustang's barren landscapes, with outstanding distant views of sky-touching peaks like Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. Feel the cool breeze striking you as you make your way to Lo Manthang. Besides all the natural offerings, the trek to Lo Manthang from Charang also takes us through several Chortens, mani walls, and Buddhist shrines.
Therefore, you will also get spectacular chances to immerse in the peace and significance of Buddhism and Tibetan culture. Once you reach Lo Manthang, take your time to explore the royal palace, medieval alleys, and intricately built monasteries like Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, and Chhoede Gompa. In the evening, the hotel serves you delicious Nepali cuisine before going for a much-needed alpine sleep.
Day 8: Day Hike to Chhoser Cave and return to Lo Manthang 3770 m, 5 Hours
As we have ascended to an altitude of 3770 meters above sea level, it's time to give your body a little time to acclimatize. With that in mind, we have planned this day as an acclimatization day. However, like we do in any and every trekking adventure in Nepal, we do not stay back in the hotel throughout the day. Instead, the professional guides will take you for a day hike to the Chhoser Cave. This cave, located to the north of Lo Manthang, feels like walking into the mountain that holds centuries-old secrets.
As we leave Lo Manthang, the trail starts with a gentle ascent, where you can find yourself surrounded by dramatic cliffs, wind-eroded rock formations, and the serenity of the high-altitude desert landscape. After a final stretch through such a mesmerizing route, we finally reach the Chhoser village. This village has its history, charm, and of course, a significant cultural and religious aspect.
A little more to ascend and then we finally reach Chhoser Cave, also known as Jhong Cave. According to the locals, this cave has been there for over 2500 years. Just reach there and take a glance, it's just so amazing to witness. Seriously, just imagine seeing a multi-storied cave carved into a cliff face with so many maze rooms, meditation chambers, and ancient relics. We cannot say more than this, just go visit this cave yourself. After that, we will return to Lo Manthang for another dinner and overnight stay.
Day 9: Trek from Lomanthang to Dhakmar (3860 m) - 8 hours
After enjoying a day's stay in Lo Manthang, we will leave this beautiful village and reach another alpine settlement today. Yes, today's walk takes us to the settlement of Dhakmar village, located at an altitude of 3860 meters above sea level. Many visitors claim this village as one of the most visually striking villages of the entire Mustang region. Why? Well, you'll know!
Our journey begins with an ascent to the highest point of the Mustang region, the Chogo La Pass (4,280 meters). The trail takes us through many cliffs, and canyons, while of course, offering the mountain as backdrops. We reach the pass, rest there for a while, and then descend towards Dhakmar. On this verge, you can also visit the Ghar Gompa, believed to be one of the oldest Gompas in Nepal and Tibet.
Well, in the final section of today's walk, we will go across the red cliffs of Dhakmar, named after the red Craig walls. As per the locals and legends, this red color represents the blood of a demon slain by Guru Rinpoche. Isn't that something interesting? Well, you can talk to the locals to know more, so, don't miss the chance.
Day 10: Trek from Dhakmar to Somar (2620 m) - 6 / 7 hours
We have almost approached the end of this exciting Upper Mustang trekking journey. Wake up to the cool morning breeze, have your breakfast, and get ready to cover another exciting route. Today, we will go on a descending journey towards Somar. This journey, full of excitement, adventures, and fewer uphills to cover, offers a less strenuous walk.
With the same red rocks of Dhakmar as the backdrop, we walk past some quiet plateaus, barley fields, and high-altitude passes. Moreover, you also get a chance to revisit the Ghar Gompa before visiting the Chungsi Cave (Rongbyung Chhorten). Legends say that Guru Rinpoche used to meditate in this cave. Do you believe that? Well, we leave that upon you, but the trail, that continues as our guides lead. As we start getting lower, you can feel the air getting richer with oxygen, the surroundings becoming more and more green, and settlements getting denser.
In the evening, you can take your time to explore the village and interact with the locals before heading for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 11: Trek from Somar to Chuksang and drive to Jomsom (2700 m) - 4/5 hours
Feels like we just started the trek to Upper Mustang and we already are on the third last day. Yes, on this day, as usual, you will have your breakfast in the hotel before the guides take you for an adventurous walk. Let us tell you that this is the last day for us to walk in the Upper Mustang trekking package. The walk starts with a gentle descent taking us past familiar landscapes, ancient Chortens, and quiet villages.
Just feel how everything starts feeling more vibrant, the air getting warmer, settlements getting denser, and the trail being more gentle. Within the next 4 to 5 hours, we will finally reach Chuksang village. As we reach here, we bid a final farewell to the trekking trail as the guides lead you to the bus station. From here, you will go for a quick drive towards Jomsom. Remember that you have already been to this village. Well, everything remains the same so you will be reliving the memories.
In Jomsom, we will have a delicious dinner and go for an overnight sleep before returning to Pokhara.
Day 12: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (810 m) - 30 minutes
Today, the day will not be as exciting, rather, it will be more of a relaxing day. Yes, wake up in Jomsom, have breakfast, and then the guides will drive you to the Jomsom Airport. From there, you will board a 25 to 35-minute flight to Pokhara. As you land in the Pokhara Airport, our local representatives drive you to the hotel. Check in at the hotel, store your backpack, and the rest of the day is all yours.
Utilize this day to stroll around Pokhara for the last time before officially ending the Upper Mustang Trek the next day. If you want, our guides can take you on a guided tour of Pokhara, where they take you to different significant places, including Phewa Lake, Bindyabasini Temple, Tal Barahi Temple, and several caves. In the evening, we will serve you a delicious farewell dinner before we return to Kathmandu on the last day of the Upper Mustang Trekking package.
Day 13: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1345 m) - 8/9 hours
Finally, it's the last day of the 13-day Upper Mustang Trekking journey. A final breakfast in Pokhara, and a final few minutes to stay in Pokhara, before the guides take you to the Pokhara bus station. However, if you want to reach Kathmandu quicker, you can also opt for a direct flight to Kathmandu, which takes about 25 to 30 minutes.
Talking about the drive, it takes us about 8 to 9 hours to reach Kathmandu. As you reach Kathmandu and we drop you off at the hotel, our trekking package to Upper Mustang officially comes to an end.