Upper Mustang Trek

Q: Do I need permit for Upper Mustang Trek?

Yes, you need a Restricted Area permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for the Upper Mustang Trek these can only be arranged through a registered trekking agency. Permit Cost For Upper Mustang Trek Restricted Area Permit : $500 for the first 10 days, $50 per day thereafter. Annapurna Conservation Area: $30 per person

Accomodation
Teahouse/Lodge
Transportation
Bus, Car, Land Cruiser or Aeroplane
Best Season
Feb, Mar, Apr & May
Wifi
Available
Starts/Ends
Pokhara
Maximum Altitude
3840m
Destinations
Nepal
Trip Type
Annapurna Region Trek
Difficulty
Medium

Trip Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Trip Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Upper Mustang, also known as “The Forbidden Kingdom,” is located in the Mustang District of Nepal. It was a restricted kingdom until 1992, making it one of the most preserved regions in the world, with the majority of the population still speaking the traditional Tibetic language. The Upper Mustang Trek offers a chance to explore the hidden world of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Mustang, making it one of the most fascinating trekking destinations in the Himalayas due to its long, rich, and complex history.

This area is full of historical and religious monuments, and its unique geography sets it apart from other parts of Nepal. Situated in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, Upper Mustang features ancient caves, fossils, rocks, arid land, and cliffs. It lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, offering glorious views of the mountain range, including Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), and Manaslu (8,163m).

Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of Upper Mustang, is a small town with around 150 houses, a palace, and a monastery called Lhakhang, which is about 200 years old. In the Tibetan language, Lo Manthang means “the walled city.” Travelers can feel the mythical power of the city, with its old houses and spiritual monasteries. The biggest festival in Upper Mustang is the Tiji Festival, which usually takes place in May. It is celebrated to mark the victory of truth and good deeds over evil.

With our experience in trekking, we help complete all legal and administrative formalities for the trip. Book your Upper Mustang Trek with us and explore this mythical place hassle-free.

Highlights of the trek

Waik freely without worrying about the rain as the region lies in the rain shadow area.
Visit Lo-Manthang- the capital of the ancient kingdom Mustang
Visit famous Temple Muktinath- a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhist.
Majestic view of Annapurna I,II,III, Dhaulagiri including Nilgiri
Natural hot springs in the tatopani village.
Explore various Monasteries, unique art and architecture of Luri-Gumba.
Explore the Tibetan Culture and lifestyle.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport) and Transfer to Hotel

Welcome to Nepal!
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu, where you can rest and prepare for the adventure that lies ahead.

Day 02 :

Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara (By Bus or Flight)

Scenic Drive or Short Flight to the Lakeside City
Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, either by a scenic 6-7 hour drive or a quick 25-minute flight. Pokhara, known for its beautiful lakes and stunning mountain views, is a perfect starting point for your trek.

Day 03 :

Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni (2,847m)

Entering the Mustang Region
Take a 30-minute flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, where the trek begins. Enjoy a 3-hour trek through rugged terrain to the charming village of Kagbeni, an entry point to Upper Mustang.

Day 04 :

Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m)

Following the Kali Gandaki River
Begin a 5-6 hour trek, following the Kali Gandaki River as you pass through barren landscapes and scenic views, reaching the small village of Chele by the evening.

Day 05 :

Trek from Chele to Zhaite (3,730m)

Ascend to Higher Altitudes
A longer trek of 7-8 hours takes you through rugged paths and steep ascents to Zhaite. The landscape becomes more desolate, revealing the unique beauty of the Mustang region.

Day 06 :

Trek from Zhaite to Charang via Dhakmar and Lo Gekar (3,575m)

Discovering Ancient Sites
Trek for 5-6 hours to Charang, passing through the red cliffs of Dhakmar and the ancient Lo Gekar Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the region.

Day 07 :

Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang (3,820m)

Exploring the Walled City of Lo Manthang
After a 5-6 hour trek, arrive at Lo Manthang, an ancient walled city rich in culture and history. Spend the evening exploring the unique architecture and local lifestyle.

Day 08 :

Rest Day in Lo Manthang (Visit Namgyal Gompa and Thinggar Valley)

Explore Sacred Sites and Scenic Valleys
Spend the day visiting Namgyal Gompa, a spiritual center for the locals, and Thinggar Valley, enjoying the serene beauty and traditional Tibetan-Buddhist culture.

Day 09 :

Rest Day in Lo Manthang (The Chosar Valley)

Further Exploration of Lo Manthang’s Surroundings
On this additional rest day, explore the Chosar Valley, home to fascinating caves and monasteries, including the famous Jhong Cave and the Nyphu Monastery.

Day 10 :

Trek from Lo Manthang to Dhakmar via Lo Gekar (3,730m)

Retracing Steps through Sacred Sites
Begin the return journey with a 6-7 hour trek to Dhakmar, revisiting the sacred Lo Gekar Monastery and taking in the striking red cliffs and expansive views.

Day 11 :

Trek from Dhakmar to Geling (3,570m)

Scenic Descent to Geling
A 4-5 hour trek brings you to Geling, a small settlement with traditional mud-brick houses and breathtaking scenery.

Day 12 :

Trek from Geling to Chaksang (2,950m)

Descending Further into Lower Mustang
Descend over 7-8 hours through scenic landscapes, following ancient trade routes as you make your way to Chaksang, with views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge along the way.

Day 13 :

Trek from Chaksang to Jomsom (2,750m)

Final Day of Trekking
On the last day of trekking, walk for 5-6 hours to reach Jomsom, where you can celebrate the completion of your adventure through Mustang.

Day 14 :

Return to Pokhara by Flight or Drive to Tatopani (Hot Springs)

Relax in the Natural Hot Springs
Either fly back to Pokhara from Jomsom or drive to Tatopani (5-6 hours), where you can enjoy the natural hot springs and relax after the trek.

Day 15 :

Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara

Back to the Lakeside City
A scenic 4-5 hour drive returns you to Pokhara, where you can relax by the lakeside and reflect on the incredible journey through Upper Mustang.

Upper Mustang Trek FAQs

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Do I need permit for Upper Mustang Trek?

Yes, you need a Restricted Area permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for the Upper Mustang Trek these can only be arranged through a registered trekking agency.

Permit Cost For Upper Mustang Trek

Restricted Area Permit : $500 for the first 10 days, $50 per day thereafter.

Annapurna Conservation Area: $30 per person

Can I go Solo on Upper Mustang Trek?

No, Solo trekking is not allowed in Upper Mustang. It is a restricted area and you must trek with a licensed guide and at least one other person

Can i take part in the Tiji festival during the Upper Mustang trek?

Yes, you can attend the tiji festival during the Upper Mustang trek if you plan your trip to reach Lo-Manthang during the festival dates. The Tiji festival takes place a year, usually in may but the exact dates vary each year based on the Tibetan calendar.

Do I need a guide for the Upper Mustang trek?

Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for Upper Mustang Trek. The region is classified as a restricted area and trekkers are required to travel with a registered guide.

Can I use ATM card during Upper Mustang Trek?

ATMs and credit card machine are available in Kathamandu , Pokhara and Jomsom. However for many services beyond these areas, Nepali cash payments payments are necessary.

What type of food and accommodation can I expect during the Upper Mustang Trek?

The Upper Mustang Trek offers comfortable accommodation in teahouse and lodges along the trail, for hassle free stay. The menu is diverse , featuring delicious local Nepali dishes, traditional Tibetan cuisine and a variety of western favorites to satisfy every plate.