Upper Mustang Trek

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At a Glance
  • Duration17 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Maximum Altitude5,215 m /17,105 ft
  • ActivityOff The Beaten Restricted Area Trekking
  • Group Size1
  • StartsKathmandu
  • EndsKathmandu
  • Best SeasonMarch, April, May And September, October, November
Upper Mustang Trek Highlights
  • Experience a trek through a captivating desert landscape. 
  • Immerse in the rich Tibetan culture, explore ancient Buddhist monasteries, delve into the mysteries of ancient caves, and witness the vibrant traditions of the region.
  • Step into the ancient Kingdom of Lo, also known as Mustang, and uncover its historical wonders, including the enchanting walled city of Lo-Manthang.
  • Marvel at the breathtaking views of majestic peaks, such as Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West, Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV.
  • Embark on a trek into the restricted regions of Nepal, covering parts of the renowned Annapurna Circuit and discovering hidden gems off the beaten path.
     

Off The Beaten Restricted Area Forbidden Kingdom Of Nepal Upper Mustang Trek in 2024/2025:


Embark on a journey of 16 nights and 17 Days  Upper Mustang Trek to the hidden kingdom of the Buddhist realm, Lo. Located in the trans-Himalayan region bordering Tibet, the trek offers a distinct Tibetan ambiance, both in its landscape and cultural heritage. While the Tiji Festival, a three-day grand festival celebrated during the springtime, is something you don’t want to miss, Bordering Tibet, you will cover the Annapurna Circuit and the Restricted Region beyond Kagbeni. The rain shadow region is assembled by the Dhaulagiri massif creating a stark and dry environment that stands in stark contrast to the lushness of other Nepal's territory. 


Traverse to arid and rugged terrain with towering cliffs and rock formations of unusual shapes. Taking a more leisurely pace and allowing time for your body to adjust to the high altitude ranging from 3,000m to 3,800m, enjoy the journey with the majestic view of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other magnificent Himalayas that dominate the horizon. 


Along with the striking nature, the culture that prevails in this region is remarkable. The profound cultural immersion in the Kingdom of Mustang takes you back to ancient times. Encounter traditional Tibetan-style architecture, intricately embellished monasteries, and the impressive royal palace, coupled with the warm hospitality of the locals, providing an immersive experience that transports you to a bygone era. 

 
The monasteries and gompas are repositories of centuries-old Buddhist teachings and practices and offer sacred sites to worship and contemplate taking you to the spiritual dimension. The region is eminent for ancient caves, and mesmerizing rock paintings, some dating back over a thousand years,  offering a fascinating insight into the region's artistic heritage, depicting the stories and traditions of the Mustang people.

Itinerary

Upon landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport, clear all the necessary immigration formalities claim your baggage, and head outside the airport.

Our representative will be waiting outside the airport with a placard. You will be assisted by our team and transferred to the hotel. 

Kathmandu is the first stop for those traveling to Nepal by air. The city is the capital of the country and a political and cultural hub. Once a medieval town ruled by the Mallas and Lichivi, Kathmandu displays the fine architecture of the Newari ethnic group. The city host 7 UNESCO Heritage site. The buzzing traffic and folks of birds in the sky, the fluttering prayer flags, monasteries within the Hindu temple, and the busy yet charming people make Kathmandu a surreal place to be. 

Upon arrival at the hotel, meet your guide and discuss the details of your journey towards the Himalayas. 

Make sure that you have all the necessary gear available with you. If you have missed anything, worry note, there are several stores where you can buy according to your needs.

 

    After breakfast, explore Kathmandu City. 

    Walk past the buzzing town and narrow street of Ason Bazaar with a mix of modern and ancient houses with the aroma of spices. Then explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, the live museum. 

    The UNESCO World Heritage Site is located at the heart of Kathmandu surrounded by ancient palaces, temples, courtyards, and other architectural marvels, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful stone sculptures. Kathmandu Durbar Square is a hub for festivals, religious ceremonies, and cultural events offering the vibrant traditions and rituals of the Nepalese people.

    Visit Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar - the House of the Living Goddess and catch a glimpse of the Kumari, a young girl revered as a living goddess, Taleju Temple, Jagannath Temple, and Kal Bhairav Temple, each showcasing unique architectural styles and religious significance.

    Then visit the monkey temple, Swayambunath. Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a UNESCO Heritage Site. Perched on a hill, it features a majestic white dome-shaped stupa adorned with Buddha's eyes and is one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist temples in the country. 

    "Swayambhunath" translates to "self-existent" in Sanskrit.

    Biggest Hindu Temple Of Lord Shiva Pashupatinath Temple Very famous for Hindu Death Rituals.

    Also, you will apply for a special permit to travel to Narphu. Later, explore Thamel to do some last-minute shopping.

     

      After breakfast, leave Kathmandu city and drive to Pokhara. This 6/7 hours drive passes through scenic landscapes, winding mountain roads, and picturesque valleys, offering travelers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. 

      Nestled amidst the Annapurna mountain range, Pokhara offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including the signature Mt.Machhapuchere, serene lakes, and lush greenery. It is a place to be for every adventure seeker for paragliding, trekking, and boating, while its relaxed atmosphere and vibrant lakeside make it a popular tourist destination. 

      Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in to the hotel, where the remaining day is at leisure, or walk around the lakeside on your own.

       

        After an early morning breakfast, you will be transferred to Pokhara Airport, for your flight to Jomsom. 

        The 25 mins flight offers stunning views of the Himalayas taking you to the Gateway to the Mustang Region.

        From Jomsom begin your trek. Today you will be trekking to Kagbeni. The trail is easy and short. Crossing a small bridge, continue following the path with the Kaligandki River passing beside you. 

        You will have enough time to explore Kagbeni. The village is located on the bank of two rivers, and with its walled passages and clay effigies decorating the walls, the village is calmingly beautiful. 

        If interested, you can go on a hike to a nearby hill offering a panoramic view of the village and the river. 

         

          After breakfast, begin your hike following the east bank of the Kali Gandaki. As you walk through the valley gorge, the strong wind challenges you. So make sure you are well covered. After climbing through some ridge, you will reach Tangbe village, a mesmerizing village surrounded by buckwheat, barley fields, and Apple orchards with white-washed houses. 

          With the view of Mt Nilgiri, you reach Chhusang and continue following the Kaligandaki River leading to Chele.

           

            After breakfast, make your way through a rather challenging route ascending steep barren land alongside the copper-red canyon and passing Darjori La pass, 3,735m. Make your way downhill through some Chortens, and you will reach Samar. 

            Make your way uphill on a ridge and descend into a gorge before making your way uphill to cross another pass Taklam La Pass, 3,624m. One final climb on a ridge and descend to Syangbochen.

             

              Begin your day with a gentle uphill followed by a downhill leading to Gelling. Walk through some fields and climb on rough terrain to Nyi La pass (3840m). 

              From the pass, descend till you reach a  junction. Take your left route leading you to Ghami. Surrounded by fields, Ghami is a clustered village with white-washed mud and a stone house with overhanding cliffs on its background.

               

                After breakfast, begin your trek over rough and slippery terrain as you descend to cross a suspension bridge over the Ghami Khola. From here, you will be trekking in the driest part of the Mustang.

                Following the Mani Walls, walk past the Charang La Pass (3,870m), and you will eventually reach Charang. The village is nestled at the top of the Charang Chu Canyon. This scenic village consists of a fortress and Gompa. You can explore the area - the Gompa has an ancient collection of statues and thangkas.

                 

                  After breakfast, we descend into a canyon and hike uphill to cross Lo La pass, 3,950m, from where you will see the first glimpse of Lo Mangthan. Descend slowly through Lo-Gekar, one of the oldest Gompa in Nepal and is older than the Samye Gompa of Tibet.

                  Continue following the trail, and you will enter the kingdom of Lo. The village was founded in 1380 by Ame Pal and is also known as the walled village. Today it consists of around 150 households residences by Lama gurus. 

                  Later afternoon, explore the ancient temples, and monasteries and around the palace, where the King and Queen of Lo- Lo-Manthang reside.

                   

                    After breakfast, enjoy a hike to Chhoser Cave. Explore the Jhong Caves known as the Sky Caves. 

                    The five-story-high caves are built within the giant hills and are assumed to be burial chambers, hiding places, places of meditation, and later, monasteries. No one knows who built these caves and why. Walk into the caves consisting of tiny rooms and admire the landscape that's lunar-like. 

                    Later hike back to  Lo Manthang.

                     

                      From today, you will be making your way back to Jomsom. Leaving Lo-Manthang, take the upper-hand trail offering a mesmerizing view of  Lo-Manthang and the Charang Valley, with the Himalayas in the background. 

                      Continuing the trail, walk past the Dhi La pass, 4,100m,  and make your way to Dhamkar.

                       

                        Begin your trek early, as part of the trail is windy through some dry plateaus.  On the way, enjoy the view of Mt Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. 

                        After walking through the dry region, you will be welcomed by some green agricultural fields in Ghiling. 

                          After breakfast, retrace your way to Chele. Walk past the same old route through Syangboche, Samar, and Ghyakar, leading you to  Chele. 

                            On the final day of the trek, walk past Chuksang and a bit of farewell to Upper Mustang. Following the Kaligandaki River, walk to Kagbeni and retrace your way back to Jomsom.

                            Once in Jomsom, spend your day at leisure, or explore the vibrant city.

                             

                             

                              Enjoy breakfast with the view. Walk to the airport for your flight back to Pokhara. 

                              Once you land in Pokhara, you will be transferred to the hotel. The remaining day is at leisure.
                              After such a long trek, a good body massage or spa is well deserved and since Pokhara is a city for tourists, you have quite an option.

                              Evening, relax by the lakeside restaurant with a chill beer or drink of your choice and celebrate your successful trek. 

                                Leisurely breakfast at the hotel. 

                                Today you will drive back to Kathmandu. Drive along the busy Arniko highway. Halfway through, you will retrace the same way where you first drove to Besisahar. 

                                Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check in to the hotel, and the remaining day is at leisure. On the last day of your trip to Nepal, you can stroll around and celebrate your successful trip.

                                 

                                  Breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight, you will be transferred to the airport for your final departure.

                                   

                                    NOTE: All information in this itinerary is accurate to the best of our knowledge, considering the current situation of the itinerary. But please note that the changes might occur at any time despite our best efforts to improve our program or due to logistical regions such as traffic jams, flight schedules, weather conditions, governmental policies, or any external reasons.  

                                    If you are not satisfied with the above itinerary please you can customize it yourself and follow the below Customize Link.


                                    B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner 

                                    What's Included
                                    • Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private tourist vehicle.
                                    • 02 Nights Twin sharing 3-Star accommodation in Kathmandu And 3-Star accommodation in Pokhara twin Sharing.); Breakfast included.
                                    • All your standard Meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
                                    • Standard Guest House accommodation while trekking time on a twin-sharing basis.
                                    • Both-way transportation for Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by Tourist Bus.
                                    • Well-English speaking Government License Holder  Experienced Trek leader/Guide.
                                    • Porters to carry your bags(1 porter for 2 guests).
                                    • Food, Accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment are for all staff.
                                    • Free Mount Glory  Duffel, and T-shirt.
                                    • Upper Mustang Special Permits and TIMS  for trekking.
                                    • All government, hotel, and other applicable taxes.
                                    • Farewell dinner in a typical Nepali Restaurant with a cultural dance show.
                                    • Trip Completion Certificate And Token Of Love.
                                    • Official expenses.
                                    What's not Included
                                    • International Airfare and taxes.
                                    • Travel insurance covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
                                    • Nepal entry visa(visa is obtained in Nepal Airport immigration on arrival.USD 25 per visa for 15 days, USD 40 per visa for 30 days, and USD 100 per visa for 90 days. All the visas are multiple entry *visas. please carry 02 passport-sized photographs for the visa.
                                    • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
                                    • All items of personal expenses.
                                    • Tipping for guides, porters, and drivers( Tipping is expected).
                                    • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the 'Price Include' section.

                                    Note: Please bring 4 Passport size photos, a copy of your passport, and travel insurance at Our First Meeting In Our Office.

                                    Dates & Availability

                                    Select a Departure Month
                                    Starts: SaturdayNov 04, 2023
                                    Ends: MondayNov 20, 2023
                                    PriceUS$2250
                                    StatusAvailable

                                    Useful Information

                                    Travel during the Grand Tiji Festival In the Upper Mustang Region:

                                    Travelling during the Tiji Festival provides a rare opportunity to witness ancient traditions of the rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage in the Upper Mustang region.

                                    Also known as the Tenchi Festival, the Tiji Festival is a grand and auspicious festival celebrated in the Upper Mustang. This annual sacred festival is a three-day-long celebration in the capital of the kingdom of Lo, Lo Manthang. The festival date varies somewhere between the late spring,  as it follows the Tibetan Lunar calendar. 

                                    The festival showcases the unique Tibetan Buddhist traditions that revolve around the re-enactment of an ancient mythological myth symbolizing the achievement of good over evil. The mythology recounts the story of Dorje Jono, a deity who battles against his demon father to protect the kingdom and its people from destruction.

                                    With elaborate rituals and colourful performances, the festival ends with masked dances on the third day of the festival, which is the main highlight. Known as Chaam, the monks from the Chhyode Gumba monastery perform sacred dances wearing intricately designed masks portraying various deities and demons accompanied by traditional music, chanting, and the rhythmic beating of drums and cymbals.

                                    The local community gathers in the central courtyard of the royal palace in their traditional attire, expresses their devotion, seeks blessings, and prays for peace and prosperity. The festival portrays the vibrant Tibetan Culture and brings the community together, fostering a sense of unity and pride in their heritage and creating a mystical atmosphere.


                                    Accommodation and Facilities During 17 Days of Upper Mustang Trekking In Nepal:

                                    With the roadway all the way to Lo, there are descent teahouses available throughout the trek. Jomsom and Lo Manthang even have decent hotels. 

                                    Most of the teahouses have the option of both attached and shared bathrooms with hot and cold showers, being hot showers subject to additional cost. Wi-Fi and electricity are available but might cost you extra. Though charging points are available at your rooms in the teahouse in Jomsom, Kagbeni, other remaining places have a common charging area in the main dining hall. While, Dining hall is usually where the wooden heaters are, and a great place to gather. 

                                    Since you are travelling to the rain shadow area, there is a scarcity of drinking water. Usually, hot water will cost you additional, and we highly recommend taking hot water having your own sterilisation tablets/ life straw would be ideal.

                                    There are quite a few options for food, and just like other facilities, you will find a comprehensive menu in Jomsom, Kagbeni and even in Lo. Don't be surprised if you get such options at other places, since the roadway has made it easy.  But Dal Bhat with seasonal vegetables, Chatni for lunch and dinner, Tibetan bread with Salt tea for breakfast and a hot vegetable soup for snack time is the best for your diet while hiking at high altitude. 

                                    Overall, you will be served decent facilities with the warm hospitality of the locals during the trek to Upper Mustang. 


                                    Who can join this trek Upper Mustang Trek In 2024/2025:

                                    The Upper Mustang trek is a moderate-level trek. Unlike the typical trekking trail in Nepal, the route does not have a winding path with steep ascending and descending steps. It takes you through a dry yet cold climate with less vegetation at altitudes ranging from 3,000 m to 3800 m, making travellers catch out of breath pretty quickly. 

                                    So, if you are active in daily life, a light preparation indulging in running, cycling, and swimming will be enough, and if you have issues regarding joints and breathing, we recommend consulting with your doctor before joining the trek. 


                                    Guide & Potters for the Upper Mustang Trekking:

                                    It is compulsory to hire a guide during the Upper Mustang Trekking, and you will be trekking in a Restricted Region where solo travellers are not allowed. 

                                    Besides, it's always best to have one that will help you show you the proper route, educate you about the place, and make arrangements according to your needs and for your safety and security. The guide also acts as your mediator to remove the cultural and language barrier while travelling. 

                                    While hiring a potter will allow you to hike freely and comfortably. Not to forget that since you will be trekking in the dry & low vegetation region, travellers tend to catch out of breath pretty quickly. So having a pottery carry your loads will surely make your trip more leisurely. 


                                    Safety and Security During Upper Mustang Trek:

                                    Friendly and helpful community, a guide by your side - it's all safe to travel to Upper Mustang.  Also, since you are travelling to the Restricted Region, the region is guarded by friendly local officials.   

                                    The route is well connected by the roadways, so you can also opt for a vehicle, just in case you need to. Make sure you have your personal medication and travel insurance, and you are good to go on a mystical journey to Upper Mustang. 

                                    Clients Reviews

                                    • rating starTrek To Upper Mustang

                                      Upper Mustang Trek was unforgettable, one of the amazing trekking routes. The package provided by Mount Glory Treks was very organized and helpful for trekkers. It makes our trekking trip more enjoyable and easy too.

                                      A
                                      Adam KorsailDenmark,July 13, 2022