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Upper Mustang Trek In 16 Days

Kathmandu
Start atKathmandu
Moderate
DifficultyModerate
Kathmandu
Ends atKathmandu
Trekking
ActivityTrekking
Private Vehicle & Domestic Flight
TransporationPrivate Vehicle & Domestic Flight
3-Star Hotels & Tea Houses
Accomodation3-Star Hotels & Tea Houses
16 Days
Duration16 Days
Full Board
MealsFull Board
3,840 meters (Lo Manthang)
Max Altititude3,840 meters (Lo Manthang)
Sep-Nov, Mar-May, Jun-Aug
Best SeasonsSep-Nov, Mar-May, Jun-Aug

The Upper Mustang Trek is a truly extraordinary journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally preserved regions, offering trekkers a rare glimpse into an ancient Himalayan kingdom that remained closed to outsiders for decades. Often referred to as the Last Forbidden Kingdom, Upper Mustang lies beyond the main Himalayan range in the rain shadow of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, resulting in a dramatic arid landscape characterized by wind-carved cliffs, deep ravines, colorful rock formations and vast high-altitude plateaus.

This 16-day trek begins in Kathmandu with guided sightseeing of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, allowing travelers to explore Nepal’s rich historical and religious heritage before heading west to Pokhara. From there, a scenic flight to Jomsom marks the start of the trekking adventure. The trail follows the ancient salt trade route along the Kali Gandaki River, gradually ascending through stark yet mesmerizing terrain dotted with caves, chortens, prayer flags and centuries-old monasteries.

As the trek progresses, trekkers pass through culturally significant villages such as Kagbeni, Chhuksang, Chele, Samar and Ghami, each offering a unique insight into traditional Tibetan-influenced architecture, farming practices, and daily life. The highlight of the journey is reaching Lo Manthang, the historic walled capital of Upper Mustang. This remarkable settlement is home to royal palaces, ancient monasteries, and sacred caves adorned with centuries-old murals and artworks that reflect the deep-rooted Buddhist traditions of the region.

Throughout the trek, trekkers are rewarded with magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna I and surrounding Himalayan peaks. Despite its high altitude, Upper Mustang is less affected by monsoon rains, making it an excellent trekking destination even during summer months. The unique geography and climate set it apart from other trekking regions in Nepal, offering a landscape that feels more like Tibet than the central Himalayas.

A spiritually enriching aspect of the trek is the visit to Muktinath Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. This sacred site symbolizes religious harmony and adds profound cultural and spiritual depth to the journey. The trek concludes with a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, followed by a comfortable drive back to Kathmandu.

The Upper Mustang Trek requires a special restricted area permit, which helps preserve the region’s fragile culture and environment. Accommodation is primarily in traditional teahouses, offering simple comfort and warm hospitality. The trek is suitable for trekkers with good physical fitness who are eager to explore remote landscapes and experience authentic Himalayan culture.

Ideal trekking seasons include spring, summer, and autumn, when weather conditions are stable and visibility is excellent. For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with ancient history, dramatic desert landscapes, and deep cultural immersion, the Upper Mustang Trek with Conqueri Treks Nepal offers a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience that is both enriching and unforgettable.

 

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport Kathmandu one of our representatives will warmly welcome you and arrange a private transfer to your hotel. Our staff will assist you with hotel check-in. After your long journey you may choose to rest at the hotel or explore nearby attractions in Kathmandu. In the evening a detailed trek briefing will be conducted where you will meet your guide review the itinerary and check any required trekking equipment.

 

Day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822 m) | 200 km | 6–8 hours

After breakfast your Upper Mustang trekking journey begins with a drive to Pokhara by tourist bus or private vehicle depending on your preference. The scenic drive takes approximately 6 to 8 hours and follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. Along the way you will enjoy views of lush hills rocky landscapes river confluences and rural settlements. Pokhara Valley is famous for its lakes including Phewa Begnas Rupa and others and offers views of Annapurna Machhapuchhre Dhaulagiri Manaslu and Lamjung Himal. After hotel check-in you may enjoy a relaxed walk along Lakeside or simply unwind.

Day 3

Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720 m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2,810 m) | 3–4 hours | 11.4 km

This morning you take a scenic 25-minute mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom offering stunning views of the Himalayas. From Jomsom the trek begins along the Kali Gandaki River valley toward Kagbeni. Kagbeni is a historic village with a Buddhist monastery and ancient trading significance and lies just south of the restricted Upper Mustang region. Along the trail you will observe pilgrims traveling toward Muktinath which adds spiritual significance to the journey.

Day 4

Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,055 m) | 5–6 hours | 11.2 km

You will start trekking early to avoid the strong afternoon winds. After completing permit formalities at the Kagbeni checkpoint the trail follows the eastern bank of the Kali Gandaki River. You will enjoy beautiful views of Mt. Nilgiri glowing in the morning light. The route passes through Tangbe Village known for its apple orchards barley fields and whitewashed houses. Continuing through narrow canyons and eroded red sandstone formations you will reach Chele a small settlement perched on a ridge.

Day 5

Trek from Chele to Syanboche (3,930 m) | 5–6 hours | 11.5 km

Today the trek becomes slightly more challenging with an altitude gain of nearly 800 meters. The trail ascends steeply through ridges and canyons to reach Taklam La Pass (3,625 m). Along the way you will enjoy panoramic views of Tilicho Peak Damodar Danda and Yaskawa Kang. After descending to Samar the trail continues past the colorful Rangchyung Chorten and through juniper forests to reach Syanboche near the famous Ramchung Cave.

Day 6

Trek from Syanboche to Ghami (3,520 m) | 4–5 hours | 9.3 km

The trek begins with an ascent to Yamada La Pass (3,845 m) through dramatic desert landscapes and scattered settlements. You will enjoy expansive views of the Kali Gandaki canyon and surrounding peaks. The trail continues through traditional villages including Tamagaon and Chhunggar and later ascends to Nyi Pass (4,010 m). From here the path descends gradually to Ghami passing poplar trees and barley fields.

Day 7

Trek from Ghami to Charang (3,560 m) | 5–6 hours | 11.2 km

After breakfast you continue through one of the driest regions of Mustang. The trail crosses the Ghami Khola and climbs to a plateau featuring one of the longest Mani walls in the region measuring approximately 250 meters. After crossing Tsarang La Pass (3,870 m) you descend toward Charang. The village features a large medieval fortress and an impressive red monastery containing ancient statues and scriptures.

Day 8

Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang (3,810 m) | 5–6 hours | 11.5 km

Today you reach the walled capital of Upper Mustang. The trail descends into the Charang Chu Canyon and gradually ascends through vast open landscapes. Passing Sungda Chorten you climb to Lo Pass (3,850 m) which offers stunning views of Nilgiri Annapurna I Bhrikuti and Tilicho Peak. Lo Manthang once served as the capital of the Kingdom of Lo and remains a culturally rich settlement surrounded by ancient walls.

Day 9

Acclimatization and Exploration Day in Lo Manthang (3,810 m)

This day is reserved for acclimatization and exploration. Lo Manthang lies approximately 50 km from the Tibetan border and was historically an important trade center between Nepal and Tibet. You will visit key cultural landmarks including Thubchen Monastery Jampa Monastery local museums and traditional Thangka painting centers. After exploration you return to your lodge for overnight stay.

Day 10

Trek from Lo Manthang to Yara (3,650 m) | 6–7 hours | 16 km

Leaving Lo Manthang the trail crosses Lo La Pass and descends toward Dhi Village along the Kali Gandaki River. After lunch in Dhi the trek continues uphill to Yara Village which sits high above the river. Yara features terraced fields traditional houses and local women selling handmade ornaments.

Day 11

Trek from Yara to Tangge (3,340 m) | 7–8 hours | 16 km

The trail ascends and descends across dramatic cliffs and wide plateaus passing through the Dhechyang Khola valley. Along the riverbanks you may find Shaligram fossils. Tangge Village is nestled beneath striking granite cliffs and is known for its colorful chortens Mani walls friendly locals and magnificent Mustang horses.

Day 12

Trek from Tangge to Chhusang (2,960 m) | 9–10 hours | 24 km

This is the longest trekking day and requires an early start. The route passes Pa Village and remarkable rock formations with sharp pinnacles. Along the way you will enjoy distant views of Dhaulagiri Nilgiri and Tukuche peaks. The trail continues via Chhomnang and Siyarko Tangk Danda before reaching Chhusang. You may also observe Himalayan salt mining along the route.

Day 13

Trek from Chhusang to Muktinath (3,750 m) | 6–7 hours | 14.5 km

You trek through Tetang and cross Gyu Lo Pass before reaching Muktinath. From the pass you can see peaks extending toward Tibet and the Annapurna range. Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists featuring 108 water spouts an eternal flame monasteries and temples.

Day 14

Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,750 m) | 7–8 hours | 22 km

The descent from Muktinath to Jomsom is long but relatively easier. The trail passes through Thakali villages such as Ranipauwa Jharkot and Lupra. In Lupra you may visit a Bonpo monastery. The route follows the Panda River and joins the main trail to Jomsom located in the windy Kali Gandaki Valley.
Note: From Muktinath a direct drive to Pokhara can be arranged upon request instead of flying from Jomsom.

Day 15

Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (822 m)

After an early breakfast you take a scenic 25-minute flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival you may explore attractions such as Phewa Lake World Peace Stupa Devi’s Fall and the International Mountain Museum or relax in the Lakeside area and celebrate the successful completion of your trek.

Day 16

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400 m) | 200 km

This morning you travel back to Kathmandu by tourist bus following the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers. The drive passes through market towns such as Damauli Dumre and Mugling and offers scenic views of hills rivers and distant snow-capped peaks. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel.
Note: A flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu can be arranged upon request.

Day 17

Final Departure from Kathmandu

On your final day our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport approximately three hours before your scheduled departure. If you wish to extend your stay Conqueri Trek and Expedition Pvt. Ltd. will be happy to assist with additional arrangements.

Includes/Excludes

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off at Tribhuvan International Airport by private vehicle
  • Two night's accommodation with breakfast at standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with tea and coffee during the Upper Mustang Trek with Muktinath
  • Accommodation in the best available tea houses during the trek
  • Services of an experienced licensed trekking guide and porter, including their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and transportation
  • Domestic flights: Pokhara–Jomsom and Jomsom–Pokhara, or vehicle transfer from Muktinath to Pokhara
  • Ground transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara by tourist vehicle (or as per client preference); optional vehicle arrangement to Jomsom/Kagbeni upon request
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card
  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit
  • Note: The Upper Mustang Trek can also be arranged entirely by private jeep from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. Costs vary depending on selected services. Please contact us for detailed information.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Travel insurance, including emergency rescue and evacuation coverage International airfare
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa (available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu)
  • Alcoholic, hot, and cold beverages
  • Personal expenses, including phone calls, battery charging, laundry, bottled or boiled water, and personal trekking equipment
  • Tips for trekking staff and drivers
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned in the ‘Price Includes’ section

Photo Gallery

FAQs

The Upper Mustang Trek is a 16-day journey, including arrival, departure, sightseeing in Kathmandu, trekking days, and travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

This trek is classified as moderate. Trekkers should be able to walk 5–7 hours per day on varied terrain. No technical climbing skills are required, but good physical fitness and a positive mindset are essential.

Yes. The trek requires an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and a TIMS Card. All permits are arranged by Conqueri Treks Nepal.

The best seasons are Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November). The trek is also possible during the monsoon season (June–August) due to the region’s rain-shadow location.

The Upper Mustang is a restricted region, and a minimum of two trekkers is required by government regulations.

Map

Kathmandu to Upper Mustang Trek Route Map

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