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Upper Mustang Trek
Duration 17 Days
Max. Altitude 3,810m/12,500ft
Activities Cultural Sightseeing tour | Adventure Trek | Day hiking
Destination Nepal
Start/End Point Kathmandu - Kathmandu
Transportation Airport & Trailhead Transfers | Domestic Flights | Porter(s)
Grade Moderate
Nature of Trip Lodge to Lodge Trek
Meals 16 Breakfast | 11 Lunch | 12 Dinner
Group Size 2-16 People
Best Seasons Sept - Nov | March - May
Accommodation Hotel/Lodge
Overview of Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek is one of the world-famous trekking destinations of Nepal. The region lies beyond the Himalayas in the northwest part of the country. The entire region of the Upper Mustang falls under the rain shadow area formed by Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massive. Besides this, the wide and mostly barren land of the Mustang is one of the main attractions of Nepal. Furthermore, the region is home to Damodar Kunda and Saaligram, a unique fossils stone. Therefore, the entire region is sacred among Hindu and Buddhists.
Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek
- Pass through the Kaagbeni River Gorge
- Touch the Saaligram, unique fossils stone
- Receive blessings at Muktinath Temple
- Experience local life at the forbidden kingdom of Lo-Manthang
- Insight of Chooser Cave, old Monasteries, Luri Gumpa
Tibetan Buddhists largely inhabit the Upper Mustang region. Upper Mustang was a separate kingdom hence ruled by an independent King till the very recent days. It was an ancient Himalaya kingdom that extended to the northern part of Nepal at the top of the Kali Gandaki River.
Trail Map
The government of Nepal applies its control region policy for foreign visitors. Nepal’s government allows only limited numbers of tourists to enter the region every year. The Upper Mustang Trek region is rich in cultural heritage, ancient caves, farmlands. Besides this, it is famous for its art, and architecture too. The culture and traditions of people in the upper Mustang resemble that of Tibet. Hence, Upper Mustang has another identity as Mini Tibet.
Getting to the trailhead
Travelers have the option to drive or fly between Kathmandu and Pokhara. A scenic drive from Kathmandu – Pokhara- Kathmandu follows Prithwi Highway. It takes 6-7 hours of drive. Alternatively, a private vehicle makes the journey more comfortable and quicker. A short and exciting flight from Pohara lands at Jomsom. A short drive is an option to reach Kaagbeni before starting the trek.
Upper Mustang Drive Tour
Travelers can enjoy the off-road four-wheel Jeep Drive tour with an Upper Mustang Drive Tour. A journey to the forbidden valley of Upper Mustang is an exciting and short trip. It fits people of all ages and physical conditions. The standard itinerary of the Upper Mustang Drive Tour travels through the beautiful villages of Leta, Ghasa, Kalopani, Larjung, Tukuche, and Marpha. While driving bac, relaxing at the hot spring of Tatopani releases all tiredness. The short drive tour to Upper Mustang completes within 10 Days.
Upper Mustang Drive Tour Itinerary
- 1st Day: Arrive in Kathmandu
- 2nd Day: Fly/Drive to Pokhara
- 3rd Day: Drive to Jomsom
- 4th Day: Drive to Ghimi
- 5th Day: Drive to Lomanthang
- 6th Day: Lomanthang Exploration day
- 7th Day: Drive to Jomsom
- 8th Day: Drive to Tatopani
- 9th Day: Drive to Pokhara
- 10th Day: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu
- 11th Day: Fly home
Necessary Permits
You require three different permits to trek the controlled area of the upper Mustang. Annapurna Conservation Area issues ACAP entry permit, Department of Immigration issues Special permit to enter the region. It is mandatory for trekkers to travel in a group (at least 2 persons) to the region. And, Trekking companies issue TIMS permits on behalf of TAAN. The total cost for permits is US$540 for a week trek in the Upper Mustang region.
Upper Mustang Trek - Accommodation
Upper Mustang Trek is a journey to a controlled area of Nepal. However, the trail has a teahouse lodge for the trekker’s accommodation. Hence, Upper Mustang trekking has been a lodge trek. The standard package trip includes a 3-star accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a twin sharing basis. The meals include breakfast. Trekkers will stay governing at tea house lodge during the trek.
| Days | Hotel/Lodge | Category | Place |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01,02-16 | Thamel Eco Lodge or Similar | 3 Star | Kathmandu |
| 03-15 | Kuti Resort | 4 Star | Pokhara |
| 04-14 | Trekking Lodge | Lodge | En route |
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Upper Mustang Trek - Detail Itinerary
01
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,428ft)
The Oriental Journeys representative will welcome you at Tribhuvan International airport and transfer you to the hotel. After having rest, a special welcome dinner will be organized in a traditional Nepali restaurant. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
02
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing & trek preparation
An experienced guide will receive you from the hotel for sightseeing after having breakfast. You will be taking to the UNESCO world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley including Swayambhunath Temple, Boudhanath temple. Pashupatinath temple and Kathmandu durbar square. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
03
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (827m/2689ft): 5-6 hours
Today, you will be checking out from the hotel and depart to Pokhara by AC tourist bus. We will get lunch on the way. On the way, you will be enjoying the scenic drive along the Trisuli River. In the evening, you will be roaming around Pokhara Lakeside after settling in the hotel. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
04
Day 04: Fly to Jomsom (2,700m/8898ft) and trek to Kagbeni (2,810m/9,216ft): 3-4 hours trek
We will check out from Pokhara early in the morning and catch a morning flight to Jomsom. From Jomsom, we will start our trek officially following the Kaligandaki river. Overnight stay in Kagbeni.
05
Day 05: Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m/10,004ft): 5-6 hours
We start the trekking early in the morning along the Kaligandaki River. We need to walk in the sandy trails with strong winds until reaching uphill ascend. When we continue the trekking, the route takes us to Tange village where we take a small break. After this, the ridge trail leads us to Chele. Overnight stay at Chele village.
06
Day 06: Chele to Syanbochen (3,475m/11,398ft): 6-7 hours
The trek takes us upwards from where we need to cross two passes. The trail is strenuous and also observing our condition while crossing Taklam La Pass and the Dajori La Pass. On the way, we will enjoy the amazing views of Yaskawa Kang, Damodar Danda, and Tilicho. After this, we follow the descending trek and pass the Ramchung cave. Then we will be heading to Syanbochen village.
07
Day 07: Syanbochen to Ghaymi (3,520m/11,546ft): 5-6 hours
The trek continues and heads towards Yamda La Pass after crossing a few Chortens and rural villages. The ascends is steep till Yamda La. After this, we head through Popular forest trails. A final climb leads us to Nyi Pass where we take a break. Then we again follow the descending trails lead to the fields of Ghami village. Overnight stay at Ghami.
08
Day 08: Ghami to Charang (3,620m/11,873ft): 5-6 hours
We follow the descending trails through rough and slippery terrain. Once we reach Ghami Khola, we cross the suspension bridge and start ascending the trail. While heading upwards, we pass by beautiful Mani Walls and reach Charang La Pass. Overnight stay at Charang.
09
Day 09: Charang to Lo-Manthang (3,730m/12,136ft): 3-4 hours
We will be following descending trail from Charang chu canyon which takes us to the river. The trail leads us to the Lo La Pass. After reaching the top of the pass, we get to relax and enjoy the amazing views and panoramas. A final descend takes us to the village of Lo-Manthang. Overnight stay at Lo-Manthang.
10
Day 10: Explore Lo Manthang/ Acclimatization
Today, we will take a rest for acclimatization and explore the medieval town of Lo-Manathang. We will be doing sightseeing at the three gompas: The Jhampa Gompa, The Thupchen Gompa, and The Chhoeda Gompa. In the late afternoon, we will be heading towards Lo-Manthang. Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.
11
Day 11: Lo-Mangthang to Drakmar (3810 m/12,500ft): 6-7 hours
We follow a different route to leave Lo-Manthang and we reach Gyakar village. After a short break, we continue our trekking towards Drakmar. Overnight stay in Drakmar village.
12
Day 12: Drakmar to Ghiling (3,806m/12,484ft): 5-6 hours
From Drakmar to Ghiling, we mostly follow the descending trails but while trekking, we try to avoid strong winds. When we continue hiking downwards, we reach Ghiling. Overnight stay at Ghiling.
13
Day 13: Ghiling to Chhuksang (3050m/10,004ft): 5-6 hours
The trek leads us towards Lo-Manthang today and after 5 hours of exciting trekking, we reach Chhuksang. Overnight stay in Chhuksang village.
14
Day 14: Chhuksang to Jomsom (2,700/8,856ft): 6-7 hours
We will start trekking from Chhuksang and prepare a trek back to Jomsom. At the end of the trekking, we will join the Annapurna circuit trail and heading towards Kagbeni. Overnight stay in Jomsom.
15
Day 15: Fly back to Pokhara
After having an early breakfast, we catch a flight back to Pokhara, the city of the lake. After arriving in Pokhara, we transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
16
Day 16: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
In the early morning, we will drive to Pokhara. We take a scenic bus drive back to Kathmandu and stop on the way for lunch at the highroad restaurant. After arriving in Kathmandu, we transfer you to the hotel. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
17
Day 17: Final departure
You will have free time in Kathmandu before moving to the airport. We will transfer you to the airport 3 hours before the departing time.
Cost Includes
- Accommodation at 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara with bed and breakfast plan
- Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
- Welcome and farewell dinners
- All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
- Domestic flights (Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara)
- Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle
- Entrance fees for sightseeing/monument visits as per the itinerary
- An experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed trek leader and assistant trek leader
- Porter service
- Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food and accommodation
- Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)
- Oriental Journey’s trekking bag/duffel bag, t-shirt and trekking map are yours to take
- All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (Conservation area entry permit fee, Special Permit for upper Mustang, TIMS)
- Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
- All government and local taxes
Cost Excludes
- Nepalese visa fee
- Excess baggage charge(s)
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (due to early arrival, late
- departure, early return from mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
- International flights
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled or boiled water, shower, etc.)
Upper Mustang Trek - Fixed Departure Cost & Dates
Duration 17 Days
Max. Altitude 3,810m/12,500ft
Activities Cultural Sightseeing tour | Adventure Trek | Day hiking
Destination Nepal
Start/End Point Kathmandu - Kathmandu
Transportation Airport & Trailhead Transfers | Domestic Flights | Porter(s)
Grade Moderate
Nature of Trip Lodge to Lodge Trek
Meals 16 Breakfast | 11 Lunch | 12 Dinner
Group Size 2-16 People
Best Seasons Sept - Nov | March - May
Accommodation Hotel/Lodge
Upper Mustang Trek is one of the world-famous trekking destinations of Nepal. The region lies beyond the Himalayas in the northwest part of the country. The entire region of the Upper Mustang falls under the rain shadow area formed by Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massive. Besides this, the wide and mostly barren land of the Mustang is one of the main attractions of Nepal. Furthermore, the region is home to Damodar Kunda and Saaligram, a unique fossils stone. Therefore, the entire region is sacred among Hindu and Buddhists.
Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek
- Pass through the Kaagbeni River Gorge
- Touch the Saaligram, unique fossils stone
- Receive blessings at Muktinath Temple
- Experience local life at the forbidden kingdom of Lo-Manthang
- Insight of Chooser Cave, old Monasteries, Luri Gumpa
Tibetan Buddhists largely inhabit the Upper Mustang region. Upper Mustang was a separate kingdom hence ruled by an independent King till the very recent days. It was an ancient Himalaya kingdom that extended to the northern part of Nepal at the top of the Kali Gandaki River.
Trail Map
The government of Nepal applies its control region policy for foreign visitors. Nepal’s government allows only limited numbers of tourists to enter the region every year. The Upper Mustang Trek region is rich in cultural heritage, ancient caves, farmlands. Besides this, it is famous for its art, and architecture too. The culture and traditions of people in the upper Mustang resemble that of Tibet. Hence, Upper Mustang has another identity as Mini Tibet.
Getting to the trailhead
Travelers have the option to drive or fly between Kathmandu and Pokhara. A scenic drive from Kathmandu – Pokhara- Kathmandu follows Prithwi Highway. It takes 6-7 hours of drive. Alternatively, a private vehicle makes the journey more comfortable and quicker. A short and exciting flight from Pohara lands at Jomsom. A short drive is an option to reach Kaagbeni before starting the trek.
Upper Mustang Drive Tour
Travelers can enjoy the off-road four-wheel Jeep Drive tour with an Upper Mustang Drive Tour. A journey to the forbidden valley of Upper Mustang is an exciting and short trip. It fits people of all ages and physical conditions. The standard itinerary of the Upper Mustang Drive Tour travels through the beautiful villages of Leta, Ghasa, Kalopani, Larjung, Tukuche, and Marpha. While driving bac, relaxing at the hot spring of Tatopani releases all tiredness. The short drive tour to Upper Mustang completes within 10 Days.
Upper Mustang Drive Tour Itinerary
- 1st Day: Arrive in Kathmandu
- 2nd Day: Fly/Drive to Pokhara
- 3rd Day: Drive to Jomsom
- 4th Day: Drive to Ghimi
- 5th Day: Drive to Lomanthang
- 6th Day: Lomanthang Exploration day
- 7th Day: Drive to Jomsom
- 8th Day: Drive to Tatopani
- 9th Day: Drive to Pokhara
- 10th Day: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu
- 11th Day: Fly home
Necessary Permits
You require three different permits to trek the controlled area of the upper Mustang. Annapurna Conservation Area issues ACAP entry permit, Department of Immigration issues Special permit to enter the region. It is mandatory for trekkers to travel in a group (at least 2 persons) to the region. And, Trekking companies issue TIMS permits on behalf of TAAN. The total cost for permits is US$540 for a week trek in the Upper Mustang region.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,428ft)
The Oriental Journeys representative will welcome you at Tribhuvan International airport and transfer you to the hotel. After having rest, a special welcome dinner will be organized in a traditional Nepali restaurant. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing & trek preparation
An experienced guide will receive you from the hotel for sightseeing after having breakfast. You will be taking to the UNESCO world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley including Swayambhunath Temple, Boudhanath temple. Pashupatinath temple and Kathmandu durbar square. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (827m/2689ft): 5-6 hours
Today, you will be checking out from the hotel and depart to Pokhara by AC tourist bus. We will get lunch on the way. On the way, you will be enjoying the scenic drive along the Trisuli River. In the evening, you will be roaming around Pokhara Lakeside after settling in the hotel. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Day 04: Fly to Jomsom (2,700m/8898ft) and trek to Kagbeni (2,810m/9,216ft): 3-4 hours trek
We will check out from Pokhara early in the morning and catch a morning flight to Jomsom. From Jomsom, we will start our trek officially following the Kaligandaki river. Overnight stay in Kagbeni.
Day 05: Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m/10,004ft): 5-6 hours
We start the trekking early in the morning along the Kaligandaki River. We need to walk in the sandy trails with strong winds until reaching uphill ascend. When we continue the trekking, the route takes us to Tange village where we take a small break. After this, the ridge trail leads us to Chele. Overnight stay at Chele village.
Day 06: Chele to Syanbochen (3,475m/11,398ft): 6-7 hours
The trek takes us upwards from where we need to cross two passes. The trail is strenuous and also observing our condition while crossing Taklam La Pass and the Dajori La Pass. On the way, we will enjoy the amazing views of Yaskawa Kang, Damodar Danda, and Tilicho. After this, we follow the descending trek and pass the Ramchung cave. Then we will be heading to Syanbochen village.
Day 07: Syanbochen to Ghaymi (3,520m/11,546ft): 5-6 hours
The trek continues and heads towards Yamda La Pass after crossing a few Chortens and rural villages. The ascends is steep till Yamda La. After this, we head through Popular forest trails. A final climb leads us to Nyi Pass where we take a break. Then we again follow the descending trails lead to the fields of Ghami village. Overnight stay at Ghami.
Day 08: Ghami to Charang (3,620m/11,873ft): 5-6 hours
We follow the descending trails through rough and slippery terrain. Once we reach Ghami Khola, we cross the suspension bridge and start ascending the trail. While heading upwards, we pass by beautiful Mani Walls and reach Charang La Pass. Overnight stay at Charang.
Day 09: Charang to Lo-Manthang (3,730m/12,136ft): 3-4 hours
We will be following descending trail from Charang chu canyon which takes us to the river. The trail leads us to the Lo La Pass. After reaching the top of the pass, we get to relax and enjoy the amazing views and panoramas. A final descend takes us to the village of Lo-Manthang. Overnight stay at Lo-Manthang.
Day 10: Explore Lo Manthang/ Acclimatization
Today, we will take a rest for acclimatization and explore the medieval town of Lo-Manathang. We will be doing sightseeing at the three gompas: The Jhampa Gompa, The Thupchen Gompa, and The Chhoeda Gompa. In the late afternoon, we will be heading towards Lo-Manthang. Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.
Day 11: Lo-Mangthang to Drakmar (3810 m/12,500ft): 6-7 hours
We follow a different route to leave Lo-Manthang and we reach Gyakar village. After a short break, we continue our trekking towards Drakmar. Overnight stay in Drakmar village.
Day 12: Drakmar to Ghiling (3,806m/12,484ft): 5-6 hours
From Drakmar to Ghiling, we mostly follow the descending trails but while trekking, we try to avoid strong winds. When we continue hiking downwards, we reach Ghiling. Overnight stay at Ghiling.
Day 13: Ghiling to Chhuksang (3050m/10,004ft): 5-6 hours
The trek leads us towards Lo-Manthang today and after 5 hours of exciting trekking, we reach Chhuksang. Overnight stay in Chhuksang village.
Day 14: Chhuksang to Jomsom (2,700/8,856ft): 6-7 hours
We will start trekking from Chhuksang and prepare a trek back to Jomsom. At the end of the trekking, we will join the Annapurna circuit trail and heading towards Kagbeni. Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Day 15: Fly back to Pokhara
After having an early breakfast, we catch a flight back to Pokhara, the city of the lake. After arriving in Pokhara, we transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Day 16: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
In the early morning, we will drive to Pokhara. We take a scenic bus drive back to Kathmandu and stop on the way for lunch at the highroad restaurant. After arriving in Kathmandu, we transfer you to the hotel. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 17: Final departure
You will have free time in Kathmandu before moving to the airport. We will transfer you to the airport 3 hours before the departing time.
Cost Includes
- Accommodation at 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara with bed and breakfast plan
- Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
- Welcome and farewell dinners
- All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
- Domestic flights (Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara)
- Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle
- Entrance fees for sightseeing/monument visits as per the itinerary
- An experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed trek leader and assistant trek leader
- Porter service
- Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food and accommodation
- Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)
- Oriental Journey’s trekking bag/duffel bag, t-shirt and trekking map are yours to take
- All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (Conservation area entry permit fee, Special Permit for upper Mustang, TIMS)
- Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
- All government and local taxes
Cost Excludes
- Nepalese visa fee
- Excess baggage charge(s)
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (due to early arrival, late
- departure, early return from mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
- International flights
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled or boiled water, shower, etc.)
Reviews on Upper Mustang Trek
Submit your review | |
Oriental Journeys
Average rating: 0 reviews