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Upper Mustang Trek

Duration

19 days

Starting City

Kathmandu

Ending City

Kathmandu

Trip Grading

Moderately easy

Accommodation

Hotel and Guest Houses

Meals

All meals during the trek

Attraction

Ancient culture of Lomanthang

Acctivities

Trekking and Exploration

Discover the Mystical Upper Mustang Trek: Your Gateway to the Ancient Buddhist Kingdom

Enjoy our Upper Mustang trek, the ultimate gateway to the enigmatic world of the old Buddhist kingdom of Mustang, also known as Lo. Once isolated from the rest of the world, this region has preserved a unique culture and rich traditions closely tied to Tibet. This moderate, lesser-known trek takes you through one of Nepal’s driest regions, offering breathtaking mountain scenery and a distinctive desert landscape.

Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek:

  • Explore the Ancient Kingdom of Lo Manthang: Step back in time as you visit this historical and culturally rich city.
  • Trek through Stark Desert Landscapes: Marvel at the dramatic spires and cliffs that characterize the arid terrain.
  • Escape the Summer Monsoon: Located in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, Upper Mustang is perfect for trekking during the monsoon season.

Fast Facts:

  • Duration: 14 days trek
  • Max Elevation: 3820m (Lo Manthang)
  • Start/Finish: Jomsom/Jomsom
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

About Upper Mustang trek:

Commonly referred to as ‘Upper Mustang,’ this arid river valley runs north-south off the upper corner of the Annapurna Circuit. With its own distinct geographical and cultural identity, it more closely resembles Tibet than Nepal. Historically, it was a kingdom with its capital at Lo Manthang, the focal point of your trek. Officially a restricted region of Nepal, Upper Mustang is renowned for its desert beauty and rugged landscapes.

Key Villages and Sites:

  • Chhuksang Village (2980m)
  • Kagbeni: The starting point of your trek
  • Ghame Village
  • Mustang Caves: Ancient caves carved into cliffs
  • Lomanthang

Quick Itinerary Overview:

  • Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu
  • Day 02: Guided tour of Kathmandu: Boudanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Bhaktapur city
  • Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (200 km – 6 hours) by tourist bus
  • Day 04: Fly to Jomsom; trek to Kagbeni (2847 m) – 3/4 hours
  • Day 05: Trek to Chele (3050 m) – 5/6 hours
  • Day 06: Trek to Syangmochen (3800m) – 5/6 hours
  • Day 07: Trek to Ghami (3520 m) – 7/8 hours
  • Day 08: Trek to Tsarang (3575 m) via Dhakmnar and Lo Gekar – 7/8 hours
  • Day 09: Trek to Lo Manthang (3820 m) – 5/6 hours
  • Day 10-11: Explore Lo Manthang (Namgyal Gompa, Thinggar Valley, Chosar Valley)
  • Day 12: Trek to Yara (3600 m) – 4/5 hours
  • Day 13: Trek to Tangye (3360 m) – 6/7 hours
  • Day 14: Trek to Chuksang (2950 m) – 8/9 hours
  • Day 15: Trek to Muktinath (3670 m) – 7/8 hours
  • Day 16: Trek to Jomsom (2750 m) – 4/5 hours
  • Day 17: Fly to Pokhara (853 m), then to Kathmandu
  • Day 18: Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
  • Day 19: Depart from Kathmandu

Note: This trip can be customized according to your requirements. Private departures are available on dates of your choice.

Best Season for Upper Mustang trek:

Upper Mustang, situated in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, is an excellent monsoon trek destination and is open for trekking year-round. The primary consideration is winter, when most residents leave to avoid the cold and snow. The optimal time to visit Upper Mustang is from March to early November.

Plan your trek to Upper Mustang and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and culture of this ancient Buddhist kingdom.

At Red Reach Himalaya, we don’t just sell treks; we curate unforgettable holiday experiences. Our mission is to provide you and your clients with adventures that will be cherished for a lifetime. Whether it’s an exhilarating trek, a challenging climb, an exploration of heritage sites, a cultural immersion, wildlife encounters, or simple tours and activities, we dedicate our hearts to every detail.

We are committed to showcasing the unique beauty and experiences our region has to offer. Discover what our clients have to say about our exceptional services by reading their reviews on TripAdvisor.

Tiji festival in 2024 falls on May 06, 07 and 08, therefore you can plan to arrive in Kathmandu around April 30th or May 01 to take part in this festival. Book early to make sure your participation. 

Detail Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu. In Kathmandu

When you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be picked up and get transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. You are free to explore on your own to your surroundings.

Day 02: Guided tour of Kathmandu: Boudanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Bhaktapur city. In Kathmandu

After breakfast at hotel, commence fabulous city tour. First visit to Bodanath Stupa. Boudhanath Stupa is one of the oldest monument in Kathmandu valley and one of the first monuments with a written history. One of the biggest pilgrimages for Tibetans the area around this stupa is also known as the little Tibet in Kathmandu. This was listed in the UNESCO’s world heritage site list in 1979 A.D. Next would be Pashupatinath temple, it is the most important shrine for Hindus in Kathmandu and the whole world. Although non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple premises, the cremation that takes place around the Pasupatinath temple area is interesting for travelers. Listed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1979 this area has a lot of Sadhus/Hindu holy men who are center of attraction for many travelers. Finally Bhaktapur locally known as Bhadgaun by driving toward the eastern side of the Kathmandu valley about 15 km to reach Bhaktapur, the city of devotees. Bhaktapur Durbar Square- Bhaktapur is one of the 3 ancient kingdoms in the Kathmandu valley. Situated about 15 kilometers from the city of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is the most well-preserved heritage site of Nepal. The 55 windows palace, the Nyatapol, 5 storied temple also the tallest pagoda style temple, the Royal Bath, Pottery square and Dattatreya temple are the major attraction in Bhaktapur. Evening we will do trek briefing and last minute equipment checking with you.

Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (200 km – 6 hours drive) by tourist bus

After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to tourist bus station. Drive to Pokhara. Pokhara is lovely city with lakes, numerous shops and restaurant. Fishtail peak is seen from everywhere. You may explore other interesting spots on your own. It would be over by two hours of exploring. Davies fall, Tibetan Refugee camp, Bat caves, KI Singh bridge to see the gorge caved by Seti river are few interesting spots.

Day 04: Fly to Jomsom; trek to Kagbeni (2847 m) 3/4 hours walk

We take the spectacular early morning flight to Jomsom (famous for its apples) where we will be met at the tiny airstrip by our trek crew. After some initial preparation of loads, we begin our trek to the pretty village of Kagbeni. Just out of Jomsom we cross a small suspension bridge and then walk along the riverbank of the Kali Gandaki. The trail is flat and quite barren, with craggy rocks and sand littering the trail. This makes it very easy going. We will get magnificent views of huge peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Tukuche and Nilgiri, whilst to the south can be seen the entire Annapurna massif. Kagbeni with its narrow alleyways and tunnels, irrigation canals, fields of wheat and barley and a large red Gompa, give us a preview of scenes that we would come across in Upper Mustang. At the north end of the village is the police check-post. Here we will complete our paperwork before entering this long forbidden region of Nepal.

Day 05: Trek to Chaile (3050 m) – 5/6 hours walk

Continue to follow the Kaligandaki river towards north to Chusang. It is a large village on the east bank of the river; on the west bank little further north is Chaile. Except for crossing the river in monsoon the trail to Chaile is easy.

Day 06: Trek to Syangmochen (3800m) 5/6 hours walk

From Chaile climb the steep path carved out of the mountain. On the ridge is a small village known as Sammar. Stop for rest, and walk on thee main trail that continually ascends to a ridge (3800), then descend to make another climb to a pass. Make a short descend to Syangboche. It is stopping place for traders and travelers. There is an alternative path that leads to a cave nestled deep in the valley where there are carvings of Many deities. The name of cave is Rongbyung Chorten. These cave is used by the Lamas (Buddhist priest) for meditation and prayer. From cave the walk to Syangbmochen is steep.

Day 07: Trek to Ghami (3520 m) - 7-8 hours walk

Next day descend to Ghilling. The trail becomes broader as you approach Ghilling. Ghilling village is about an hour walk from the main trail marked by a big chorten (Stupa). The wide path now becomes wider as you approach Nyi La-pass (3950m) and descend to Ghami (3440m). The pass is the highest elevation on this trek. At Ghami there are health and agriculture office of the government and a police check -post.

Day 08: Trek to Tsarang (via Dhakmnar and Lo Gekar) (3575 m) – 7/8 hours walk

A quick start to visit these two lovely places today before we head to Tsarang. Trek to Lo Gekar Monastery, was built in the 8th century by the famous Tibetan magician Guru Rinpoche. He had to kill a powerful demon first and the blood of the demon has painted the rocks around Dhakmar bright red. This is one of the best part in the trek and ofcourse Dhakmar village, return to Ghami. Cross the bridge over a small river and continue the journey through a spectacular long stretch of Mani Stone, about 244 meter long. The trail gradually climbs to a ridge and descends to a relatively large and prosperous village. The marooned color structure of the monastery is visible as you reach Tsarang. Visit the monastery at Tsarang. There are several thanka painting hanging on the ceiling and pillars of the monastery. Fresco painting of Thousand-Buddha and large collection of Buddha and large collection of Buddhist text staked in the corner.

Day 09: Trek to Lo Manthang (explore the ancient city) (3820 m) – 5/6 hours

Make a short descend to a small river that flows below Tsarang, and climb the short and steep trail that becomes leveled and brad as you approached Lo Manthang in the scorching heat. It is about 4 hours walk to the final destination. En- route stop to see caves high above the steep wall.

Day 10: In Lo Manthang (Namgyal Gompa and Thinggar Valley) 3,780 m

Inside the fortress there are 3 monasteries. One of them has image of a hue sitting-Buddha in meditation and the other has several statues of various deities including Buddha. Old and beautifully painted thanka paintings are hanging from the ceiling and pillars of the monastery. Inside walls are painted with stories of Buddha and other epics and beliefs. The Gompa appears old and in original shape. The Lamas uses the third monastery located in the center. This is Thugchen-gompa. The monks use this monastery for prayer and other functions. People in Lo Manthang believe that this monastery came into existence because of tantric power of a various Gods of Hindu mythology with different name but similar connotation. Inside the monastery, in addition to living quarters of the monks, there is a separate chamber that store masks and costumes. If you visiting in May or June you get to see Lama-dance festival that takes place at Lomanthang. This festival continues for 3 days. King of Mustang attends this festival in his ceremonial dress. The story of Lama Dance is based on tantric legend.In Lomanthang – visit surrounding villages like Namgyal Gompa and Thinggar valley.

Day 11: In Lo Manthang (the Chosar Valley) (3780m)

Visit to the Chosar caves in Upper Mustang in Nepal, near the Tibetan border is the high light of this trek. Visit the Choser valley, famous for it's cave culture. Some of the villagers are still living in those caves today. The highlight is visit of a monastery that is situated within the Jhong cave. With more than 40 rooms it stretches over 5 floors and is embedded in a marvelous mountain panorama. Back to Lo-Mantang.

Day 12: Trek to Yara (3600 m) - 4-5 hours walk

Lo Manthang to Yara trek distance is 16.6 kilometers / 10.3 miles. It takes 5 hours to reach Yara Gaont. Yara village situated at the elevation of 3607 meters above sea level. As soon as leaving Lo-manthang you will cross Lo la 3960 meters pass. The village is about three hours walk from Tsarang via Dhee. Special Features:
Beautiful landscape with numerous caves. Spectacular canyons. Occasional sighting of blue-sheeps.

Day 13: Trek to Tangge (3360 m) 6-7 hours walk

The village is about One hour walk from Yara. Special Features: Luri Gompa, a Nyigma Pa monastery situated inside the cave and with numerous delicate frescoes
Dramatic landscape. The village Tangya is about five hours walk from Yara. Special Features: Dramatic landscape. Several wonderful chhorten on the trail.

Day 14: Trek to Chuksang (2950 m) 8-9 hours walk

Today is a long walk but interesting and otherside of Mustang that not many trekkers follow. We have to push a little bit harder for uphill until Pha, followed by 4 to 5 hours of single track which undulates along the ridgeline, before an epic descent down to Chuksang. The scenery on this day is also epic. It's a ridgeline descent, with some short climbs and amazing views. Some of the best views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri can be had on this day.

Day 15: Trek to Muktinath (3670 m) 7-8 hours walk

Today we start early, trekking from Chuksang to Muktinath which takes around 7 hours. Muktinath is one of the most important pilgrimage sights for Hindus. Holy water flows from the 108 carved spouts surrounding the Vishnu temple in a grove of poplars. Muktinath is also home to many ethnic Tibetans and holy Buddhists, who come here for the temple in which fire miraculously burns in a stream of water inside a small but very holy temple.

Day 16: Trek to Jomsom 2,750 m - 4-5 hours walk

Descend gradually through fields and poplar groves, then into the Kali Gandaki river valley. Follow the valley southwards to Jomsom. The Kali Gandaki valley here is called the Thak Khola, from the ethnic group the Thakalis, the main inhabitants of this area.

Day 17: Fly to Pokhara (853 m) - 25 minute flight, fly to Kathmandu (30 minutes) Transfer to Hotel. In Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Pokhara, connect flight to Kathmandu. Pickup and transfer to Hotel. In Kathmandu on your own.

Day 18: In Kathmandu – Sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swyambhunath Stupa and Patan city

After breakfast visit Kahmandu Durbar Square which was the historic seat of Shah Dynasty. The Durbar Square, with its old temples and places, epitomizes the religious and cultural life of the people. It is here that Kings of Nepal are crowned and their coronations solemnized. Interesting things to seek here are; Taleju Temple built by King Mahendra Malla in 1549 A.D., Kal Bhairav, the God of destruction, Nautalle Durbar, Coronation Nasal Chowk, the Gaddi Baithak, the statue of King Pratap Malla, the Big Bell, Drum and the Jagannath Temple.

Next is the tour of Swoyambhunath Stupa, a top the hillock is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal enlisted in the World Heritage Site.

Finally visit to Patan. Patan Durbar Square, unlike most of other cities in Nepal Patan has majority of Buddhist population. The Patan city has more than 136 Buddhist monasteries and only 50 Hindu temples. Patan Durbar Square is famous for the south Indian style, Krishna temple, the sunken bath, the tall temple of Taleju and the golden temple. Patan Durbar Square is also famous for carvings done in metal, wood and stone.

Day 19: Depart Kathmandu

Free time until departure, transfer to airport, Depart Kathmandu hoping to see you next time again.

Min - Max (Persons) Adult Price
2 - 3 $2,100.00
4 - 5 $1,900.00
6 - 9 $1,800.00
10 - 15 $1,700.00
Single - Supplement $150.00

Included

  • 01. Arrival and departure transfers.
  • 02. All meals and standard accommodation in lodge during the trek
  • 03. Service of trek guide and Sharpe assistant for bigger group above 6 person
  • 04. Porters to carry personal baggage (each 15 kg.)
  • 05. Accident insurance for staffs and porters
  • 06. Flight Jomsom/Pokhara/Jomsom, Pokhara to Kathmandu
  • 07. Tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara
  • 08. Mustang special trek permit and ACAP permit and TIMS
  • 09. Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara using centrally located hotel on BB as per programme
  • 10. Free use of trekking equipment like sleeping bag, duffle bag, first aid kit
  • 11. Sightseeing tour as per itinerary with tour guide and entrnace fees

Excluded

  • 01. Personal clothing personal nature expenses
  • 02. Personal accident and health insurance
  • 03. Emergency evacuation and medical expense
  • 04. Alcoholic and bottled beverage, mineral water, laundry, and tips
  • 05. Any other services and expenses that are not specifically mentioned
  • 06. Expenses due to flight delay, sickness other contingencies

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