Upper Mustang Trek - 17 days
Highlight
● Trek through picturesque villages of Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Charang.
● Explore Lo Manthang.
● Go on a short hike to Namgyal Gompa.
● Visit Tingkhar.
● Explore Ghar Gompa.
● Visit Muktinath Temple.
● Witness stunning views of Annapurna range, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Ganggpurna, etc.
Upper Mustang Trek will take you to the ancient kingdom of Mustang region, Lo Manthang. This is one of the most famous treks of Nepal to one of the most isolated regions. As the region us untouched by any modernization, you will get to experience raw nature and the unique lifestyle of the locals. Known as the forbidden kingdom, trekking to Mustang was closed for a long period and opened to foreigners not so long ago. However, the entire region comes under the restricted area of Nepal and to travel here, one needs to take special permission from the government of Nepal. Because of this and expensive permit, only handful trekkers get to visit Mustang every year.
Himalayan Penchant
Upper Mustang Trek presents barren and dry landscape. Located in the rain shadow region of Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Dhaulagiri, the Mustang region is similar to Tibetan plateau. From alluring villages of Mustang to the cultural richness, Upper Mustang is one of the most exotic destinations in Nepal. During the Upper Mustang Trekking, you will get to witness stunning views of dry hills and unique rocks along with Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Annapurna range (8,091 m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), etc.
Upper Mustang Trek landmark
Jomsom
Jomsom is one of the most gorgeous places in Nepal. Located in the trans-Himalayan region of Annapurna, Jomsom sits at the base of Mt.Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. Here, you will find many facilities from the nice lodge to wifi and airstrip.
Lo-Manthang
Lo Manthang is a beautiful village, also known as the forbidden kingdom. You will find the palace of the king here. There are so many things to explore in this village and nearby it.
Muktinath
Muktinath temple is one of the pilgrimage sites of Hindus. Every year hundreds of pilgrims visit this temple to worship. The temple boat thousands of year old tradition and history.
Culture
Upper Mustang is extremely rich in culture. The region includes many artistic and ancient monasteries that will present you hundreds of years of old traditions and beliefs to you. The region is highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhist culture and lifestyle. Likewise, during the Upper Mustang Trek, you will also visit Muktinath Temple, one of the holiest temples of Hindus.
Ethnic Diversity
The people in Upper Mustang are said to be the descendants of Tibetans people. Back in time, people from Tibet traveled to this place for trading and some of them settled here as well. The locals here follow lifestyle as they used to have hundreds of years back. Upper Mustang Trek is the best way to travel back in time and be part of one of the most intriguing community.
Natural Aptitude
Upper Mustang boasts a dry and arid landscape. The region doesn't have any vegetation except for a few plants that are grown in dry regions. However, you will get to witness breath-taking barren nature along with the huge formation of rocks, dry hills, caves, and canyons. In the lower altitude, you will find subtropical vegetation along with dense forests. Similarly, the trail also passes by beautiful forests of rhododendrons.
Upper Mustang Trek difficulty
Upper Mustang Trek is a difficult trek. As the region is dry and barren, it gets windy during the afternoon, which makes the trek more difficult. Plus, there is no great variety of food available like other trails and you have to adjust to what you get. Likewise, the trail also involves many ups & downs on a steep and rugged path. Therefore, to go on Upper Mustang trek 17-days, you have to be in good shape and health.
Altitude Sickness and Prevention
Upper Mustang Trek is a high elevation trek that means you will be trekking 3,500 meters, and high elevation trekking always brings altitude sickness with itself. Also known as AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), altitude sickness is a common illness trekker get while traveling in the higher elevation. To avoid this, add enough acclimatization day in the trek and drink plenty of water.
Transportation and Bag Pack
Upper Mustang Trek 17-days begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Jomsom. From here, you will ascend to Lo Manthang village and descend to Muktinath Temple crossing challenging Thorong La Pass. The trail then drops down to Jomsom from where you will fly back to Pokhara.
Food and Accommodation during Upper Mustang Trek
During your time in the Upper Mustang Trek, you will spend the night in the teahouse. There are no fancy lodges here, so you need to suffice with the local teahouses. However, in the main cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can reside in 3-star to 5-star hotels. Your budget will be a major deciding factor.
In the trail, you’ll mostly dine on dal bhat whereas, in the city, you can choose from a variety of cuisines. While on the trail, you won’t eat anything fancy. You can expect to find Tibetan and Nepali dishes on the high altitude. Where in the lower region, you can find dishes like noodles, momo, rice, curries, flatbread, sandwich, and the egg will be available.
Best time to go on Upper Mustang Trek
When all parts of Nepal is receiving heavy rainfall making the trail slippery and dangerous, Upper Mustang receives little to no rainfall. As the region falls under rain shadow, you can go on this trek during monsoon. Besides that, Spring and Autumn are also a good time to trek in the Upper Mustang region.
Upper Mustang Trek Cost
Upper Mustang Trek depends on the travel agency you are traveling with. The cost can be budget-friendly too expensive as per your requirements. Usually, the trek cost includes all ground transportation as per itinerary, permits, accommodation, meals, guide, and porters. However, things like travel insurance, visa fees, trekking equipment, personal expenses, tips are not included in the cost. You can check our cost includes and excludes section for detailed information.
Miscellaneous
● Carry insect repellents and table salts.
● Collect adequate information on the weather and temperature.
● Get yourself a good map.
● Pack light.
● Maintain body hydration.
● Walk slow.
● Carry hand cash.
● Do not get obsessed over network and internet.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu via respective airlines
You will arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, where one of the members of our team will greet you. He will take you to the hotel in a private tourist bus/van. In the evening, you will explore the bustling streets of Thamel, and end your day enjoying delicious welcome dinner.
Day 02: In Kathmandu with an optional tour and trek preparation
Today, you will visit different landmarks in Kathmandu Valley like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Later, in the day, you will prepare for the trip and arrange all the required gears.
Day 03: Drive or fly to Pokhara (950 m); 30 mins flight & 6 hrs drive
After a quick breakfast, you will hop on a private tourist bus/van and drive to Pokhara. The drive will be long and scenic. Upon reaching Pokhara, you will head to the hotel. In the evening, you can explore around Lakeside market and do boating on Fewa Lake.
Day 04: Morning Flight to Jomsom (2,700 m) and trek to Kagbeni; 4 hrs
An early morning flight will take you to Jomsom, one of the most beautiful places in Nepal. From Jomsom, you will begin ascending towards Kagbeni. The trail passes by small settlements areas.
Day 05: Trek to Chele (3,050 m); 6 hrs
After getting your permits checked, you will begin trekking along Kali Gandaki River. Facing strong winds, you will ascend on a hill and reach Tangbe village. Here, you will get to see amazing narrow alleys, barley & buckwheat fields, white-washed houses, and beautiful apple orchards. From here, you will pass by another village and cross a river before reaching Chele.
Day 06: Trek to Geling (3,540 m); 5 hrs
Walking along the side of a steep canyon, you will ascend on a treeless terrain. The trail descends to Samar village and ascends to a ridge. On the way, you will get to witness views of Mt. Nilgiri. Further, descend to a large gorge, you will cross a stream and climb to a ridge. You will soon reach Shyangmochen and ascend and descend towards Geling village.
Day 07: Trek to Charang (3,560 m); 6 hrs
Leaving Geling behind, you will gradually climb up to NYI La Pass and descend. Crossing a steel bridge over Tangmar Chu (river), you reach the longest Mani wall of Mustang. From here, the trail ascends to one more pass and descend to Charang village.
Day 08: Trek to Lo-Manthang (3,700 m); 4 hrs
You will ascend to Lo Gekar where you will visit Gekar gompa, which is said to be older than Samye Gompa in Tibet. Further, you will trek on a nice path, which includes a few ascends and take you to Lo Manthang, the walled city.
Day 09: In Lo-Manthang for acclimatization and local hike
Today, you will go on a short hike to Namgyal Gompa situated on a hilltop. After that, you will go on tour to Tingkhar, the last village in the northwest of Lo Manthang. After exploring around, you get back to Lo Manthang for night stay.
Day 10: Trek to Drakmar (3,810 m); 6 hrs
Enjoying the last views of Lo Manthang, you will ascend to a ridge. You will reach Choho La (4,210 m), the highest point of Upper Mustang Trek. From here, the trail descends steeply and crosses Charang river. You will then ascend to Lo Geker and reach Ghar Gompa. Further, climb on a ridge and cross a valley. Trekking on an alpine meadow, you will descend on the steep path and reach Drakmar.
Day 11: Trek to Ghiling (3,806 m); 6 hrs
You will wake up early and begin trekking as soon as possible to avoid strong winds. Most of the trail descends. Passing through a dry plateau, you will shortly reach Ghiling. From Ghiling, you will get to see excellent views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Nilgiri.
Day 12: Trek to Chusang (2,980 m); 6 hrs
After having a warm breakfast, you will retrace the trail and reach Chusang village. The trail will accompany you will beautiful views of Himalayan mountains and small scattered villages.
Day 13: Trek to Muktinath (3,800 m); 4 hrs
Following a stream, you will ascend on a steep path onto the valley floor. You will ascend until you reach a small pass from where Muktinath can be seen. The trail then descends to a stream that you will cross via a suspension bridge. Further, you will climb up and pass by small villages to reach Muktinath.
Day 14: Morning enjoy the views and visit holy Muktinath and drive to Jomsom
Today, the day begins early. You will visit Muktinath temple, one of the most important holy sites of Hindus. After that, you will have breakfast and hop on the jeep to drive back to Jomsom. On the way, you will visit Jharkot monastery. The spectacular view of Kali Gandaki Valley along the way will make the journey even more joyful.
Day 15: From Jomsom morning fly back to Pokhara
An early morning flight will take you back to Pokhara. You will move to the hotel. You will have to rest of the day to explore around or you can just rest and dine delicious food in one of the beautiful cafes/restaurants of Lakeside.
Day 16: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu
After having breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu. The route will be scenic and long. You can also fly to Kathmandu as per your convenient. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you will head to the hotel. Again, the rest of the day is free to explore around and do some shopping. In the evening, you will have a farewell dinner organized by the company.
Day 17: Transfer to International airport for flight homeward bound
Today, you will head back to your home. One of the members of our team will take you to the airport as per your flight time and bid you our last goodbye. Meals include breakfast only
What is Include ?
Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private tourist vehicle.
Standard twin sharing accommodation in a three star hotel in Kathmandu; Breakfast included.
All your standard Meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner - one menu item) with a cup of tea/coffee per day.
Lodges, Guesthouses accommodation during the trek.
Licensed English speaking guide.
The required number of local staff and porters to carry your luggage during the trek (We assign one porter for every two guests).
Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all staff.
All Necessary permits for trekking (Restricted area permit ,Mustang ,Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS Permit etc).
Surface transfer from and to Kathmandu.
Kathmandu - flight domestic.
Farewell dinner in typical Nepali Restaurant on second last day.
Trekking duffel bag.
Trekking Map.
All our government taxes, vat, tourist service charges.
Rescue service arrangement only (covered by your travel insurance).
Official expenses.
What is Exclude ?
Air travel to/from Nepal,
Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara.
Soft/hard drinks, laundry, postage, telephone bills, all items of personal nature,
Personal clothing, insurance against accidental, medical and emergency rescue evacuations,
Respective expenses if one returns earlier from the trip due to sickness or emergency purpose.
Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley.
Travel Insurance.
Emergency helicopter rescue evacuation arrangements will be covered by travel insurance.
● T-shirts and Pants (Innerwear)
● Thermal Wears
● Lightweight woolen jumper/sweater
● Down jacket or down vest
● Fleece or wool trousers
● Breathable Underwears
● Trekking Pants/Shoes/Socks
● Casual Sandals
● Insulating Jacket
● Rain jacket
● Gloves/Scarves
● Sleeping bag
● Trekking Pole
● Toiletries (sunscreen, Multipurpose Soap, Shampoo, Hand sanitizer, Toilet Paper, Sanitary pads, Lip guard, moisturizers, etc)
● Miscellaneous (Binoculars, eye mask, camera, extra batteries, journal, cards, bars, snacks, water purification tablets, etc)
● Documents (passport, visa, travel insurance, voucher, passport-sized photos)
Group Joining Trips
| Depature Date | Price | Trip Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
May 3 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
May 5 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
May 9 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
May 15 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
May 19 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Oct 2 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Oct 7 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Oct 9 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Oct 12 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Oct 15 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Oct 19 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Oct 25 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Nov 1 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Nov 7 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Nov 15 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Nov 19 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Nov 23 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Nov 29 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Mar 5 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Mar 9 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Mar 15 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Mar 21 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Mar 27 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Mar 29 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Apr 3 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Apr 7 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Apr 11 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
1 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Apr 17 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Apr 23 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Apr 27 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
Apr 29 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
1 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed | |
1 | 2799 $ | Guaranteed |
Group Discount
| Person | Price ( USD $) |
|---|---|
5 Paxes | 2499$ |
10 Paxes | 2409$ |
Package Review
Trip Duration :
17Days
Difficulty :
Moderate
Max Altitude :
3810m
Meals :
Berakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Best Season :
Spring and Autumn
We offer group discount
| Person | Price ( USD $) |
|---|---|
5 paxes | 2499$ |
10 paxes | 2409$ |