Upper Mustang Trek, Journey To The Hidden Tibetan World In Nepal.

'Footsteps into the Lost Kingdom - Upper Mustang Odyssey' The Upper Mustang Trek is a unique Himalayan journey to the ancient walled kingdom of Lo Manthang, offering a rare glimpse into preserved Tibetan culture, desert-like landscapes and centuries-old Buddhist monasteries. Located in Nepal's rain shadow region, this trek is ideal even during the monsoon and takes you through wind-carved cliffs, hidden caves and remote villages with deep spiritual and historical significance.

18

Minimum Age

Mustang

Location

$2550.00

Per Person

Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek is a captivating journey into the remote and ancient Himalayan Kingdom of Lo Manthang, located in the trans-Himalayan region of northwestern Nepal. Once a restricted and independent kingdom, Upper Mustang remained isolated from the outside world until 1992, preserving its rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, centuries-old monasteries and fortress-like villages. The trek follows the Kali Gandaki River Gorge, through a dramatic landscape of wind-eroded cliffs, colorful rock formations, hidden caves and arid valleys, unlike any other part of Nepal. The trail leads to the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang (3,840m), the cultural heart of Mustang, where you can explore royal palaces, ancient gompas and traditional Tibetan-style homes. Due to its location in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, the Upper Mustang trek is ideal even during the monsoon season(May to August). This trek offers a rare glimpse into a preserved Tibetan way of life and spiritual heritage, making it one of the most culturally rewarding and visually striking treks in Nepal.

Notes:

Restricted Area Permit (Upper Mustang): USD 500 per person for first 10 days; USD 50/day extra.
Musk trek with a registered guide and through a licensed agency.
No solo trekking allowed in Upper Mustang.
Best to avoid July-August due to windy and rainy weather (although Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow).
Total trek distance: Approx. 110 - 130 km(Jomsom to Lo Manthang and Back)

Transportation Details:

Kathmandu to Pokhara: Flight or drive
Pokhara to Jomsom: Flight or drive
Jomsom to Pokhara: Flight or drive
Pokhara to Kathmandu: Flight or drive

Trip Details

Trip Duration

16 days

Max Altitude

4280 m

Trip Difficulty

Moderate

Accommodation

Lodges and Teahouses

Best Season

Spring: March-May, Summer/Monsoon: June - August and Autumn: September - November

Meals

Included

Nearest Airport

Jomsom, Pokhara

Local Transport

road transportation; bus, car, jeep, donkey, horses and flights

Route Itinerary

Upper Mustang Trek, Journey To The Hidden Tibetan World In Nepal.

16 Days · Full Journey

Start

Day 1

Arrival In Kathmandu - 1,350m.

One of our team will be waiting you at airport with garlands of marigold flowers to welcome you in the land of mountains, he/she will transfer to hotel in Thamel, a touristic hub spots. Your trek guide comes to you and will brief about your trek preparation.   Explore: Thamel's vibrant streets, traditional markets, visit Boudhanath/Swayambhunath if you arrived in time. Vibe: Buzzing cultural atmosphere, pre-trek excitement. Overnight at a 3 star hotel at Thamel in Kathmandu.

Day 2

Fly From Kathmandu To Pokhara(823m)

The flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara is a quick and scenic journey, taking only 25 minutes . It offers you breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges , including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu, along with lush hills and river valleys. Ideal for trekkers heading to Annapurna, Mustang or Mardi Himal , it saves time and avoids the long 7-8 hours drive. You'll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport and fly to Pokhara International Airport , making it he fastest and most comfortable way to reach Nepal's trekking hub. Then you'll  explore beautiful Phewa lakeside and International Mountain Museum in Pokhara. Overnight at a 4 star hotel in Pokhara. 

Day 3

Fly To Jomsom - 2,720m. From Pokhara Then Trek To Kagbeni - 2,810m.

Flight Duration: 20 - 25 minutes. Trek Distance: 10 km. Trek Duration: 3 - 4 hours. Elevation Gain: +1,987m.   When you take the flight from Pokhara to Jomsom , you'll enjoy one of the most scenic and exciting aerial journeys in Nepal. In just 20 minutes , you'll soar through the kali Gandai Gorge (the world deepest gorge), flanked by the towering peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri-8,167m. ( the world 7th highest peak ). To avoid strong midday winds, your flight will usually depart in the early morning(before 10 AM). As you look out the window, you'll see deep valleys, a crisp and clear view of the Himalayas, scattered mountain villages and rugged cliffs unfold beneath you. This quick flight not only saves you from a long and bumpy road journey but also adds a spectacular start to your Mustang trekking adventure. The plane lands at Jomsom Airport(2,720m) , placing you right at the gateway to Upper and Lower Mustang, Kagbeni and Muktinath treks. Then you've to walk 3-4 hours to reach the destination; Kagbeni . Along the way, you'll pass small settlements and cross bridges. You can explore narrow alleys, ancient mud-brick houses and a 15th-century Buddhist monastery , all set against a dramatic Himalayan backdrop. Overnight at a teahouse in Kagbeni.

Day 4

Trek From Kagbeni To Chele - 3,050m.

Trek Distance: 14 km. Trek Duration: 5 - 6 hours. Elevation Gain: + 240m.   As you leave Kagbeni behind, you officially enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang . After your permits are checked, you begin walking along the east bank of the Kali Gandaki River , surrounded by dramatic cliffs, eroded canyons and the dry , windswept beauty of Mustang's desert landscape . The trail gradually ascends as you pass Tangbe , a charming village with whitewashed houses , narrow alleys and apple orchards . You'll continue through Chhusang , where red cliffs and ancient cave dwellings make the scenery feel almost surreal. Soon after Chhusang , you cross a steel bridge over the Kali Gandaki and climb up a steep trail carved into the cliffside. As you gain elevation, you'll feel the terrain become more remote and rugged . After about 6-7 hours of trekking, you'll reach Chele ; a small settlement tucked against a barren hillside . At Chele , you'll rest in a traditional teahouse , surrounded by dry mountain ridges and the silent beauty of Mustang . The Change in culture becomes more evident here; stone walls, Tibetan prayer flags and a noticeable shift in dialect, dress and architecture . Overnight at a teahouse in Chele.

Day 5

Trek From Chele To Syangbochen - 3,800m.

Trek Distance: 12 km. Trek Duration: 5 - 6 hours. Elevation Gain: +750m.   As you begin your trek from Chele , you immediately start ascending through a narrow canyon with steep, rocky terrain . The climb is steady but rewarding and as you gain height, you'll be treated to striking views of the barren Mustang landscape-windswept cliffs , sculpted canyons and distant snow-capped peaks . You'll cross your first high pass of the day, Taklam La(3,624m) , followed by Dajori La(3,735m) . From here, you can see far across the desert plateau , with occasional glimpses of Tilicho Peak and Yakawa Kang . The trail continues through dry hills and silent valleys where the wind whispers through the rocks and cliffs . Along the way, you may encounter herds of goats or yaks and pass small cave dwellings and chortens , reflecting the deep spiritual heritage of the region. You'll also walk through Samar village , a perfect place to pause for tea and soak in the tranquil atmosphere . After Samar , the trail becomes more undulating and descend into narrow gorges . Finally, after 6-7 hours of trekking, you'll reach at Syangbochen ; a small, peaceful village surrounded by terraced fields and rugged cliffs . Where, you'll rest in a traditional teahouse , warmed by local hospitality and surrounded by stunning views under the open Mustang sky .    

Day 6

Trek From Syangbochen To Ghami - 3,520m.

Trek Distance: 11 km. Trek Duration: 5 - 6 hours. Elevation Gain/Loss: +50m at Yamada La Pass, +210m at Nyi La Pass and -280m when you reach Ghami.   From Syangbochen , your trek begins with a gradual climb toward one of the higher passes on the trail- Yamada La(3,850m) . As you ascend, you'll walk through open plateaus and small patches of juniper , surrounded by sweeping views of the arid Mustang terrain and distant snowy peaks . Along the way, you'll pass mani walls , chortens and old Tibetan-style teahouses , giving you a sense of the deep spiritual and cultural atmosphere of this region. After the pass, you descend into the village of Geling , where whitewashed houses , ancient barley fields and a centuries-old monastery make for a beautiful rest stop. From Geling , you continue up to another ridge, then cross Nyi La Pass(4,010m) -one of the highest points on the trek. At the top, you're rewarded with panoramic views of Mustang's dry valleys and rugged cliffs , before beginning a steep descent into the Ghami Valley . As you approach Ghami , you'll see the terrain begin to flatten , with patches of cultivated land and a long stretch of mani wall-the longest in Mustang -just before the village. After 5-6 hours of trekking, you reach this quiet settlement, where you'll relax in a local teahouse, surrounded by ancient traditions and dramatic scenery.        

Day 7

Trek From Ghami To Tsarang(3,570m) Via Tsarang La Pass(3,870m)

Trek Distance: 11 km. Trek Duration: 4 - 5 hours. Elevation Gain: +300m. at Tsarang La Pass+50m.   As you leave Ghami , your trek begins by crossing a small river near the village and walking alongside the longest mani wall in Mustang -an ancient line of carved prayer stones that reflects the deep spiritual heritage of the region. The path then climbs gradually through barren hills, with the dry wind and wide open skies reminding you that you're trekking in one of the most remote corners of the Himalayas. After a steady ascent, you cross the Tsarang La Pass(3,870m) . From the top, you'll enjoy expansive views of Mustang's arid landscapes, dotted with red and brown cliffs, deep gorges and occasional white chortens standing alone in the wilderness. As you descend toward Tsarang(Charang) , you'll spot the striking red-walled Tsarang Monastery (Ghar Gompa) and the old royal palace sitting dramatically on the edge of a canyon. After about 4-5 hours of trekking, you reach in the village-a quiet but historically important place with stone-built houses , narrow lanes and fields of buckwheat and barley . In the evening, you can explore the monastery , chat with the locals , or simply relax while soaking in the solitude and the spirit of this once-royal settlement .    

Day 8

Trek From Tsarang To Lo Manthang - 3,840m.

Trek Distance: 13 km. Trek Duration: 5 - 6 hours. Elevation Gain: +270m.   Leaving Tsarang , you'll feel a growing sense of anticipation-today, you're walking toward the heart of the ancient Kingdom of Lo . The trail starts with a gentle descent into a wide canyon , then gradually climbs to the Lo La Pass(3,950m) , the final gateway before entering Lo Manthang . As you ascend, you'll catch your first glimpse of Lo Manthang-a walled city standing proudly in the middle of a vast, wind-swept plateau . The view is stunning: whitewashed houses , a ncient monasteries and palace towers set against the backdrop of arid cliffs and distant snowy peaks . From the pass, you descend along a dusty trail with expansive views all around. You'll walk past colorful prayer flags , solitary shortens and dramatic landscapes until you reach the northern plateau of Upper Mustang . After about 4-5 hours of trekking, you'll enter the legendary city of Lo Manthang through one of its ancient gates . Inside, narrow alleys wind between earthen homes and the sound of chanting from monasteries floats through the air. You'll be staying at the spiritual and cultural heart of Mustang -where Tibetan tradition lives on, untouched by time.  

Day 9

Acclimatization Day, Explore Lo Manthang.

Your acclimatization day in Lo Manthang is not just about adjusting to the altitude-it's also a chance to explore one of the most fascinating and culturally rich towns in the Himalayas. In the morning, you can take a relaxed walk through the narrow alleys of the walled city , where time seems to stand still. You'll see whitewashed houses , intricately carved wooden windows and local dressed in traditional Tibetan clothing going about their daily lives. You can visit three major monasteries - Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa and Chode Gompa -each centuries old and filled with ancient statues, colorful mandalas and spiritualthree major monasterieses of the region's deep Buddhist roots. You'll have a chance to step inside the King's Palace , a five-story mud-brick building that once housed the royal family of Lo. In the afternoon, you will take a side trip(on foot or horseback) to Chhoser village , located about 2-3 hours away. Where, you'll explore the incredible Jhong Cave(Sky Caves) -a five-story cave system carved into a cliff, once used as a monastery, meditation chamber and shelter. This day helps your body adjust to the elevation before you begin the return journey over high passes and it allows you to deeply connect with the rich heritage, landscape and spirit of Upper Mustang.

Day 10

Trek From Lo Manthang To Dhakmar(3,520m) via Chogo La Pass(4,280m) And Ghar Gompa(3,930m)

Trek Distance: 14 km. Trek Duration: 6 - 7 hours. Elevation Gain/Loss: +440m at Chogo La Pass, +90m at Ghar Gompa and -320m. at Dhakmar. Leaving the mystical city of Lo Manthang your trek begins from a more remote and spiritual part of your journey. Instead of retracing your steps, you take a more scenic and culturally rich route toward Dhakmar , passing through the sacred Ghar Gompa -one of the oldest and most revered monasteries in Upper Mustang . As you trek out of Lo Manthang , the trail climbs steadily, offering panoramic views back over the walled city and the vast Mustang Plateau . You'll cross the Chogo La Pass(4,280m) -the highest point of your entire trek. The climb is challenging, but when you reach the top, the silence, prayer flags fluttering in the wind and views of snow-dusted peaks make the effort worthwhile. After the pass, you descend along a high trail through a barren yet beautiful valley to reach Ghar Gompa . This 8th-century monastery is believed to have been founded by Guru Rinpoche(Padmasambhava) and is still a site of active pilgrimage . Take your time to explore the sacred space-legend says that if you make a wish here with pure heart, it will come true(faith). From Ghar Gompa , you continue your trek through a dramatic landscape of eroded cliffs , hidden caves and high desert terrain . Eventually, you descend into Dhakmar , a striking village known for its deep red cliffs, colored by iron oxide and believed to be spiritually significant. After about 6-7 hours of trekking, you will reach in Dhakmar , where you can rest in a peaceful teahouse, surrounded by silence, high cliffs and timeless beauty .     

Day 11

Trek From Dhakmar To Syanbochen(3,800m)

Trek Distance: 12 km. Trek Duration: 6 - 7 hours. Elevation Gain: +490m at Nyi La Pass and +280m. at Syangbochen. As you leave the dramatic red cliffs of Dhakmar behind, you retrace your steps along a less-traveled trail, immersing yourself once again in the quiet, surreal beauty of Upper Mustang . The day starts with a gradual descent through dusty trails and windswept hills , passing through fields of barley and herds of yaks grazing on dry slopes. Soon, you'll rejoin the main Upper Mustang trail , walking past familiar landscapes of mani walls , chortens and windswept plateaus . Along the way, you'll cross the Nyi La Pass(4,010m) for the second time-but from the opposite direction-offering you new angles of the vast Mustang terrain . The descent from the pass brings you through open valleys and remote settlements like Geling , where you may stop for lunch or a short rest . You'll continue on gentle ups and downs along dusty ridges, with occasional views of snow-capped Annapurna ranges far to the south. After about 6-7 hours of trekking, you arrive back at Syangbochen , a small settlement surrounded by rock walls , with stunning views of the surrounding hills and cliffs . Here, you can rest in a cozy teahouse , reflect on the high passes you've crossed and enjoy a quiet evening under the Mustang sky .

Day 12

Trek From Syangbochen To Chhusang (2,980m)

Trek Distance: 13 km. Trek Duration: 6 - 7 hours. Elevation Loss: -820m.   Your trek begins descending toward the lower Mustang trails , retracing the path you once climbed. The journey starts with a gentle ascent to the Yamada La Pass(3,850m) , where you pause for one last look at the rugged highlands of Upper Mustang . Prayer flags flutter in the breeze as you soak in panoramic views of jagged ridgelines and barren plateaus . From here, the trail gradually descends through remote valleys and wind-carved hills , passing villages like Geling and Samar . You walk through ancient trails bordered by mani walls, chortens and maybe even a few curious mountain goats watching form the rocks above. if you have time, you can take  short detour to Rangchyung Chorten , a sacred cave-site nestled into the cliffside near Samar . As you move lower, you'll notice the landscape slowly shift-the air becomes a bit warmer, the trails more rugged with loose gravel and the wind picks up through the narrow sections of the Kali Gandaki Gorge . Eventually, after about 6-7 hours of trekking, you'll reach Chhusang(2,980m) , a village where the red cliffs tower above you, carved with ancient caves and hidden Buddhist relics. You'll spend the night in a traditional Mustang teahouse , surrounded by the e arthy colors of the cliffs , the sound of the river and quiet sense of being deep in the heart of the Himalayas .

Day 13

Trek From Chhusang To Jomsom(2,720m)

Trek Distance: 14 km. Trek Duration: 5 - 6 hours. Elevation Loss: -260m.   Today marks the final leg of your Upper Mustang trek , as you leave Chhusang and make your way back to Jomsom . You start your day early to avoid the strong afternoon winds that sweep through the Kali Gandaki Valley . As you walk, the trail leads you through familiar terrain-rocky riverbeds , wind-eroded cliffs and views of the Niligiri and Dhaulagiri massifs in the distance. You'll pass the village of Tangbe , with its whitewashed homes , narrow alleys and surrounding apple orchards . It's a peaceful place to pause and take in the last glimpses of traditional Mustang life . From here, you follow the dusty trail along the Kali Gandaki River . The wind begins to pick up by late morning and you'll feel it pushing through the gorge as you get closer to Jomsom . The wide valley opens up, and you begin to spot aircraft flying overhead and small buildings marking the outskirts of town. Walking for about 5-6 hours you arrive in Jomsom , the bustling hub of the Mustang region . Here, you can enjoy a warm shower, relax in a teahouse or hotel and celebrate the successful completion of your incredible journey through the ancient Kingdom of Lo .

Day 14

Fly From Jomsom To Pokhara(823m).

Flight Duration: 20 - 25 minutes. Elevation Loss: -1,897m.   After completing your incredible journey through Upper Mustang , you'll board an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara -a short but unforgettable ride that lasts around 20 minutes . As you take off, you'll look down on the Kali Gandaki Valley , with its deep gorges and barren cliffs and glance one last time at the trails you trekked on foot. Almost immediately, the massive peaks of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Annapurna rise beside you, offering stunning close-up views that feel almost surreal from the air . The flight path follows the deepest gorge in the world , with the Himalayas towering on either side-making it one of the most scenic short flights in Nepal. The aircraft is small and the ride can be bumpy , so you have to fly early in the morning before strong winds develop. Once you land in Pokhara , you'll step into a more humid, green, and vibrant environment-a sharp contrast to Mustang's high desert landscape. Now you can relax by Phewa lake, enjoy a real meal or just celebrate the success of your Himalayan adventure . 

Day 15

Flight From Pokhara To Kathmandu (1,350m)

Flight Duration: 25 - 30 minutes. Elevation Gain: +527m. After having a beautiful exploration of Pokhara you'll have a scenic flight to Kathmandu. Free time in Kathmandu. Farewell dinner with traditional culture dance at 7pm in Kathmandu.  Explore: Thamel's vibrant streets, traditional markets, visit Boudhanath/Swayambhunath if you arrived in time. Vibe: Buzzing cultural atmosphere, pre-trek excitement. Overnight at a 3 star hotel at Thamel in Kathmandu.

Day 16

Departure, Fly Back To Home Country.

GMA will transfer you to airport by a private car. Final departure having a wonderful lifetime experience of Himalayan adventure. If you have extra days GMA will assist you to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu like; Swayambhunath, Patan, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Darbar Square etc.)

Summit

Day 1