Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal
Explore the Forbidden Kingdom of Lo Manthang
Trip Overview
The Upper Mustang Short Trek is one of Nepal’s most unique and culturally rich trekking adventures, taking travelers into the ancient “Forbidden Kingdom” of Lo. Located in the rain-shadow region of the Himalayas, Upper Mustang offers dramatic desert landscapes, ancient cave dwellings, medieval monasteries, and preserved Tibetan culture that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Organized by Nepal Tour & Treks Pvt. Ltd., this trek follows the Kali Gandaki Valley and enters the restricted Upper Mustang region, leading to the historic walled city of Lo Manthang (3,840m), the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang.
Unlike other trekking routes in Nepal, Upper Mustang is dry, windy, and desert-like, with colorful cliffs, deep canyons, and unique rock formations. The region was opened to foreigners only in 1992, making it one of the most exclusive trekking destinations in Nepal.
Upper Mustang Trek Highlights
- Explore the ancient Kingdom of Lo Manthang (3,840m)
- Experience Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions
- Visit ancient monasteries and cave settlements
- Scenic flight to Jomsom
- Trek through Kali Gandaki Valley
- Unique desert-like Himalayan landscapes
- Restricted and less-crowded trekking region
- Visit historic villages like Kagbeni and Ghami
- Stunning views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna ranges
- Authentic Himalayan cultural experience
Why Choose Nepal Tour & Treks Pvt. Ltd.?
Nepal Tour & Treks Pvt. Ltd. specializes in restricted and remote trekking regions, providing safe, legal, and well-organized Himalayan adventures.
We provide:
- Licensed and experienced trekking guides
- Restricted area permit arrangements
- Flight and transport coordination
- Tea house accommodation management
- Safety and altitude support
- Flexible itinerary customization
- Responsible and sustainable tourism
Detailed Trek Route
The journey begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then to Jomsom, the gateway to Mustang. From Jomsom, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki River passing through Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, and Tsarang before reaching Lo Manthang.
After exploring Lo Manthang and nearby monasteries, the trek returns via the same route or an alternative trail depending on weather and time conditions.
Detailed Itinerary (10 Days)
Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and transfer to hotel. Rest and prepare for the Mustang journey.
Elevation: 822m | Walking Hours: No Trekking | Accommodation: Hotel | Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni
Early morning flight to Jomsom with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Trek along Kali Gandaki Valley to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Elevation: 2,800m | Walking Hours: 3–4 Hours | Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Kagbeni to Chele
Enter the restricted Upper Mustang region and trek through dry cliffs and windy trails to Chele.
Elevation: 3,050m | Walking Hours: 5–6 Hours | Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Chele to Syangboche
Trek through rugged terrain, crossing passes and canyon landscapes with dramatic views.
Elevation: 3,800m | Walking Hours: 5–6 Hours | Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Syangboche to Ghami
Walk through ancient villages, mani walls, and colorful cliffs before reaching Ghami.
Elevation: 3,520m | Walking Hours: 5–6 Hours | Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Ghami to Tsarang
Trek through dry landscapes and visit ancient monasteries along the route.
Elevation: 3,620m | Walking Hours: 4–5 Hours | Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Tsarang to Lo Manthang
Reach the walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang. Explore ancient palaces and monasteries.
Elevation: 3,840m | Walking Hours: 4–5 Hours | Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Explore Lo Manthang
Full day exploration of Lo Manthang, including monasteries, caves, and optional hikes to surrounding viewpoints.
Elevation: 3,840m | Walking Hours: 3–5 Hours | Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9: Lo Manthang to Ghami
Begin return journey through the same scenic route back toward Ghami.
Elevation: 3,520m | Walking Hours: 6–7 Hours | Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10: Ghami to Jomsom and Fly Back
Trek back to Jomsom and take a flight to Pokhara and Kathmandu depending on weather conditions.
Elevation: 2,720m | Walking Hours: 6–7 Hours | Accommodation: Not Included | Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation During the Trek
Accommodation is provided in simple tea houses and local lodges along the Upper Mustang route. Rooms are basic but comfortable, offering warm hospitality in remote Himalayan villages.
Meals During the Trek
Typical meals include:
- Dal Bhat
- Fried Rice
- Noodles
- Pasta
- Potatoes
- Eggs
- Tibetan Bread
- Soups
- Tea and Coffee
Dal Bhat is the most common and energy-rich meal during the trek.
Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek
Spring (March–May)
- Clear skies
- Pleasant temperatures
- Best visibility
Summer (June–August)
- Best time for Upper Mustang (rain-shadow region)
- Dry conditions
- Cultural festivals like Tiji Festival
Autumn (September–November)
- Stable weather
- Excellent mountain views
- Ideal trekking conditions
Winter (December–February)
- Very cold
- Some lodges closed
- Not ideal for trekking
Difficulty Level
Moderate
- Moderate altitude trekking
- Long walking days
- Dry and windy terrain
- Requires good fitness
- No technical climbing required
Altitude Information
The highest point is Lo Manthang (3,840m). The gradual ascent allows good acclimatization throughout the trek.
Permits Required
- Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS Card (as per regulations)
✔ All permits arranged by Nepal Tour & Treks Pvt. Ltd.
Cost Includes
- Kathmandu–Pokhara flights
- Pokhara–Jomsom flights
- Licensed trekking guide
- Restricted area permits
- Tea house accommodation
- Three meals per day
- Guide insurance and salary
- First aid kit support
- Government taxes
Cost Excludes
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fee
- Personal expenses
- Hot showers and Wi-Fi charges
- Porter service (optional)
- Tips for guide/porter
- Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu/Pokhara
Book Your Upper Mustang Trek with Nepal Tour & Treks Pvt. Ltd.
The Upper Mustang Short Trek is one of Nepal’s most extraordinary journeys, offering a rare glimpse into a preserved Tibetan kingdom, dramatic desert landscapes, and ancient Himalayan culture. It is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for travelers seeking something truly unique.
Join Nepal Tour & Treks Pvt. Ltd. for a safe and professional trekking experience in Upper Mustang.
Contact us today and begin your journey to the Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal.
