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Upper Mustang trek

Upper Mustang Trek

Journey to the forbidden kingdom
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars Based on 6 Reviews

Group Size

Min 2 Max 15

Duration

18 Days

Grade

Moderate

Designed for active individuals, these trips involve moderate physical activity, typically including multi-day treks with daily walks of 4-6 hours on varied terrain. Expect gradual altitude gains but no technical challenges. Suitable for those with a basic fitness level. Perfect setting of introduction to trekking in Nepal. Expect ups and downs as well for there will be hills to climb as well and the well-known ‘Nepali flat’ – a little bit up and a little bit down.

Max. Altitude

3,840m/12,599ft

Activity

Trekking in Nepal

Meals Included

Meals Included

In Kathmandu, breakfast is included at the hotel, and during the trek, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided

Accomodation

Hotel / Lodge

Stay in hotels while in the city and in lodges during the trek

Best Season

Mar-Nov

Trip Overview

Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek

  • Mysterious hidden kingdom/Last Forbidden Kingdom
  • Remote Trans-Himalayan mountain area
  • Barren landscapes, deep canyons, moraine valleys
  • Panoramic views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and several other peak

Upper Mustang Trek takes us into the far-flung semi-independent Kingdom of Upper Mustang that sits north of Annapurna close to the Tibet border. On this trip, your mind is naturally invigorated with the mysteries & history that blend into the geographical wonders of this once strongly independent mountain kingdom…

Upper Mustang is perched north of Annapurna at a balanced altitude of 4,000m but is geologically and ethnically part of the Tibetan plateau. Our Upper Mustang Trek itinerary has been planned in a unique way that helps you discover lesser-known areas away from the new roadways that have reached this area. We move toward Lo Manthang on the west side of the Kali Gandaki and descend on the less used east side of this valley. We come across valleys that are parched and barren with colourful rock formations where many cave dwellings are seen right up, cut out into the cliffs, inciting the interest of archaeologists and anthropologists who seek to research on the existence of early human inhabitance in these areas.

The earliest trekking groups were first allowed into this secret kingdom only in 1992 and we still see fewer backpackers (something like 800 trekkers each year) hit the trails of Upper Mustang Trek which is wonderfully pleasant for those serious trekkers who ‘like the trails all to themselves’; and this also finds the kingdom in a unique league of its own where its ancient Tibetan culture is virtually untouched and not influenced by the contemporary times we live in.

Upper Mustang is remotely enveloped and semi-independent; its capital is hemmed in by a glistening white wall and famously known throughout the world as ‘Lo Manthang’. Upper Mustang traces its roots to Tibet and was a by-way for the salt caravans crossing the Himalaya into Nepal. Mustang became an independent kingdom in 1380 and the present royal family links their ancestry back to this period in time. In the ’60s Mustang’s geography became an ideal layout for a stronghold where Tibetan Khampa guerrillas were trained to fight invading Chinese forces. Highland Expeditions is one outfit that will escort you into this land of wonders for the trip of a lifetime.

Read here: Top reasons to visit Upper Mustang

Why trek with Highland Expeditions? 

At, Highland Expeditions it is our aim to provide a wonderful holiday in our part of the world and ensure that our clients enjoy the holiday as much as possible with minimized risks and the worry-free trip should it be monetary, physical or emotional. All the logistical arrangements required for the trip will be done prior to your arrival providing you with a hassle-free journey and on the trek, you will be led by experienced and medical trained guide/leader with high staff ratio. Considering the safety of our utmost priority, all our group are backed up with Supplementary oxygen system (In high altitude treks), oximeter and medical kit be it a group of 1 participant or 15 participants. On the trek, all meals and accommodation are included too and we provide you with an option of OPEN/CHOICE menu meaning you can choose your meal straight from the menu. Our itineraries are also devised keeping every aspect in mind such as acclimatization, good campsites, real-life experiences etc. We also provide a sleeping bag, down jacket and waterproof duffel bag to each participant. Last but not least, Highland Expeditions has been awarded as a trekking company of the year 2018/19 in Nepal by Travel and Hospitality Awards, USA.

Is this trek for you?

Duration for treks of this grade stretches up to two (2) weeks. Trails generally go above 4000 meters and on a daily basis, you can expect to be walking for about 5 – 7 hours. The perfect setting of introduction to moderate & challenging trekking in Nepal. Activity level/physical rating is slightly harder than leisure and involves occasional difficult days. Expect ups and downs as well for there will be hills to climb as well and the well-known ‘Nepali flat’ – a little bit up and a little bit down.

Important Note:

Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather or health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.

Trip Itinerary

Day 01-

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggages in the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Your trip leader will await you just outside the arrival hall and will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard of Highland Expeditions at the exit of arrival hall. Welcome drinks will be served and after you’ve refreshed, your trek leader will brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

1,350m/4,430ft

O/N Elevation:

1,350m/4,430ft

Day 02-

Exploration of Kathmandu and trek preparation

After an early breakfast, we set out on a guided tour to the primary historical spots in Kathmandu. We will tour symbolic monuments, temples, monasteries, palaces and UNESCO World Heritage Sites that include: Boudhanath, and the temples of Pashupatinath. As we stroll along the exotic locales of Kathmandu, more diversified cultural settings in the valley welcome us with warm hospitality. At Boudhanath, one of the biggest stupas in Asia, we get deep insights into Buddhism. This may invoke your spiritual senses. There will be a brief orientation followed by trek preparation during late afternoon at the hotel lobby.

Meals:

Breakfast

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

1,350m/4,430ft

O/N Elevation:

1,350m/4,430ft

Day 03-

Drive to Pokhara

After breakfast, we start our journey with a 7-8 hrs drive to Pokhara. From Kathmandu, Pokhara lies 200 km west of Kathmandu. We reach our hotel by late afternoon, refresh & get familiar with our surroundings.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

827m/2,714ft

O/N Elevation:

827m/2,714ft

Day 04-

Fly to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni

After touchdown at Jomsom, we hit the trail to the Kaligandaki plains. The road diverts to the right bank of the river plain, and our hike is pretty easy going with few ups and downs most of the way to a place called Ekali Bhatti (lonely inn) where there are three or four tea-houses at present. Earlier, it used to be the only teahouse in the area when it got its namesake, ‘Ekali –Bhatti’. From here, the path splits into two ways, the one higher up leads to Muktinath and the other route takes us to upper Mustang and Tibet via Kagbeni.
Our trail heads past Eklai-bhatti towards North West and the walking gets much easier on a gradual winding route as the road widens and we walk further on the river bed towards the windswept village of Kagbeni for the overnight. The famous film ‘Caravan’ was shot in this area some years ago.

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

3-4 hrs

Max Elevation:

2,810m9,217ft

O/N Elevation:

2,810m9,217ft

Day 05-

Trek to Chele

Our day pans out with a special permit checkup and we proceed from here on to the riverbank of Kaligandaki up stream. During the walk we come across scenic quaint places to stop through the sandy and windy trails. This trail fluctuates up and downhill. We first reach Tangbe village with narrow alleys amongst white washed houses, fields of buckwheat, barley, wheat and apple orchards. From there we trek forward to Chhusang and after crossing the river head up to the huge red chunk of conglomerate that has fallen from the cliff above, forming a tunnel through which the Kaligandaki follows. We head on to small ridges before we reach the village of Chele and our teahouse lodge for the night.

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,050m/10,007ft

O/N Elevation:

3,050m/10,007ft

Day 06-

Trek to Syangboche

Today, we begin our trek further to Ekle Bhatti. We climb to Taklam La Pass at (3,624m) through plateaus and narrow stretches with views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kang and Damodar Danda. We then descend a little to the village of Samar. And then climb the trail that goes above Samar village to the ridge which descends steeply to a stream. Another 3 hrs of continuous hiking brings us to Syangboche. On the way, we relax along the surrounding of cool streams and juniper trees. Locals hereabouts use the dried leaves of junipers as incenses to invite deities and start any auspicious work. We also pass by a cave famously known as Ramchung Cave. After exploring the cave, we go to our lodge for the night.

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,860m/12,661ft

O/N Elevation:

3,800m/12,465ft

Day 07-

Trek to Ghami

Today’s journey is pretty more or less of a descent with a few short climbs all the way to Ghami, once outside the walled Lo Manthang village-town the path leads to a steady climb to a pass which offers the last glimpse of Lo Manthang.
The walk then from hereabouts on is more or less gradual on downhill slopes most of the way to the village of Ghami. Ghami is another important village in this once upon-a-time thriving region. We get set for the night in our teahouse lodge.

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

4,010m13,153ft

O/N Elevation:

3,520m/11,546ft

Day 08-

Trek to Tsarang

From Ghami, the route climbs slowly through fields up the centre of the valley, passing below the Tama Gung settlements, our hike continues along a climb across the head of the valley to the Nyi La pass at 3,950m, the highest point of this trek. The pass itself happens to be the southern boundary of Lo. From here a gradual descent for half an hour brings us to a junction; the right path leads direct to Tsarang while the left goes to Ghami village, one of the main areas of the Lo region we passed through previously. Our route drops below the blue, grey and red cliffs across the valley to a steel bridge across the Tangmarchu River, the path then climbs past to the long and magnificent stretch of a Mani wall, probably the longest one in Nepal. From hereabouts, the final climb of the day brings us to a 3,600m pass, after the last pass a gentle descent leads to our overnight halt at Tsarang, an interesting village with a maze of fields, willow trees and a huge five storey white Dzong with a red gompa perched on the edge of the Kali Gandaki gorge. Tsarang has its own electricity system. This is an interesting area to spend the night

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,870m/12,694ft

O/N Elevation:

3,560m/11,677ft

Day 09-

Trek to Lo Manthang

This is an interesting day because we trek to Lo-Manthang with superb views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I and Bhrikuti peak. The trail first descends to Charang Chu Canyon and then climbs steeply after crossing the river. Further the trail ascends gently to the 3,850m windy pass of Lo, from where you can see the Lo-Manthang Valley. While descending to Lo-Manthang, views of the walled city appear outstanding with its hills on the Tibetan Border. We stay at a hotel in this ancient capital for our overnight stop.

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,950m/12,957ft

O/N Elevation:

3,810m/12,497ft

Day 10-

Explore Lo-Manthang

Spend the day immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Mustang. The morning begins with a warm breakfast before exploring Jampa Gompa and Thubchen Gompa, two centuries-old monasteries adorned with intricate murals and Tibetan architecture. A stroll through the narrow alleys of Lo Manthang reveals its medieval charm, traditional homes, and prayer wheels.

In the afternoon, embark on a short hike or horseback ride to the Chhoser Cave Dwellings, a network of ancient sky caves used as meditation chambers and burial sites. After returning to Lo Manthang for lunch, enjoy a breathtaking sunset view over the Nilgiri and Annapurna ranges. The day ends with cultural interactions with locals and a cozy dinner, preparing for the next leg of the Upper Mustang trek.

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/lodge

Duration:

6 hrs

Max Elevation:

4,000m/13,120ft

O/N Elevation:

3,810m/12,497ft

Day 11-

Trek to Dhakmar

While returning from Lo-Manthang, we head down a dissimilar route to the one we came by. We trek to Dhakmar via Gyakar with more than 1200 years old Ghar Gompa with Guru Rinpoche as its central figure. The Gompa is also famous for its rock paintings. According to a mythical legend, anyone who makes one wish at the Ghar Gompa will have their wishes fulfilled. We explore the local area with the likelihood of dusty wind, so its suggested we do the hike in the morning.

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,950m12,956ft

O/N Elevation:

3,820m12,530ft

Day 12-

Trek to Geiling

Today we head back to Geiling as our journey for our overnight stay after a long walk takes about 5-6 hrs. After arrival we enjoy lunch and use the rest of the day exploring the area, but we reckon it will be dusty and windy in the afternoon, so it’s better to walk in the evening time. We do an overnight halt at the village of Geiling.

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

4,010m/13,153ft

O/N Elevation:

3,570m/11,710ft

Day 13-

Trek to Chuksang

From Geiling onwards, it will be one of the most pleasant walks as we will loose altitude day by day. The trek follows an easy descent towards the Kaligandaki River Valley passing through the old villages. Overnight at Chuksang

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,860m/12,661ft

O/N Elevation:

2,980m/9,775ft

Day 14-

Trek to Jomsom

On reaching the river bed at Ekale-bhatti, we reach a small settlement with about 3-4 teahouses, where we can take a breather for some time. From here onwards, it can get very windy in the afternoon time, as our walk follows a gentle trail for another two hours till the large town of Jomsom is reached for our overnight camp. Jomsom, a large village town is the headquarters of the Mustang region with a small airstrip just above by the river Kaligandaki. Here, we will have sufficient time to celebrate with the local apple products like cider, brandy and pure apple juice. This area from Kagbeni to Larjung is famous for its delicious apples and its by-products. A few swigs of the apple brandy could set our moods on a high after a wonderful memorable trip we just completed.

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

5-6 hrs

O/N Elevation:

2,720m/8,922ft

Day 15-

Fly back to Pokhara

After morning breakfast we check in the airport to fly back to Pokhara. This dramatic 15 minutes flight to Pokhara between the gorge of the two huge mountains of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri is a nervy tingling experience we will enjoy. On arrival at Pokhara airport our guide will transfer us to the lakeside hotel. We use the rest of our time exploring the lake and then spend our overnight at our hotel down by the lake.

Meals:

B,L,D

Accommodation:

Hotel

O/N Elevation:

827m/2,714ft

Day 16-

Drive back to Kathmandu

We will return to Kathmandu on this day. Kathmandu is separated from Pokhara by 200km. Prithvi Highway links Pokhara with Kathmandu. It takes 6 hrs to reach Kathmandu from Pokhara by bus. You will be transferred to the hotel where you will have a pleasant stay.

Meals:

B,L

Accommodation:

Hotel

O/N Elevation:

1,350m/4,428ft

Day 17-

Free day in Kathmandu

Free and easy day to spend, perhaps doing shopping or rest at hotel’s beautiful court-yard.

Meals:

B

Accommodation:

Hotel

O/N Elevation:

1,350m/4,428ft

Day 18-

International departure

Thank you for joining us on this trek and it has been a pleasure getting to know you during this time. We hope this venture has enriched your experience with happy memories. Keep in touch and hope to hear from you soon. Bon voyage for a safe and pleasant trip home.

Meals:

B

Availability

Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.

If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.

If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.

DATES

PRICE

DEPOSIT

AVAILABILITY

18 Days

10 Apr, 2025 - 27 Apr, 2025

USD 2,399

20% Deposit

USD 479.80

12 in a group

Available

Upper Mustang Trek

18 Days

24 Apr, 2025 - 11 May, 2025

USD 2,399

20% Deposit

USD 479.80

12 in a group

Available

Upper Mustang Trek

18 Days

1 May, 2025 - 18 May, 2025

USD 2,399

20% Deposit

USD 479.80

12 in a group

Available

Upper Mustang Trek

18 Days

15 May, 2025 - 1 Jun, 2025

USD 2,399

20% Deposit

USD 479.80

12 in a group

Available

Upper Mustang Trek

18 Days

5 Jun, 2025 - 22 Jun, 2025

USD 2,399

20% Deposit

USD 479.80

12 in a group

Available

Upper Mustang Trek

18 Days

19 Jun, 2025 - 6 Jul, 2025

USD 2,399

20% Deposit

USD 479.80

12 in a group

Available

Upper Mustang Trek

18 Days

3 Jul, 2025 - 20 Jul, 2025

USD 2,399

20% Deposit

USD 479.80

12 in a group

Available

Upper Mustang Trek

18 Days

17 Jul, 2025 - 3 Aug, 2025

USD 2,399

20% Deposit

USD 479.80

12 in a group

Available

Upper Mustang Trek

18 Days

4 Sep, 2025 - 21 Sep, 2025

USD 2,399

20% Deposit

USD 479.80

12 in a group

Available

Upper Mustang Trek

18 Days

18 Sep, 2025 - 5 Oct, 2025

USD 2,399

20% Deposit

USD 479.80

12 in a group

Available

Upper Mustang Trek

Have a big group? We’re here to assist! Contact us to discuss availability and group pricing options.

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Cost Inclusion

  • All meals (B,L,D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on trek with tea & coffee.
  • Twin sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 4 nights with breakfast
  • Twin sharing accommodation at 3 star hotel in Pokhara for 2 nights
  • Internal flights (PKR-Jomsom-PKR)
  • All required permits for trek  (USD 520)
  • Accommodation at clean and cozy teahouses/lodges on trek
  • All ground transfers as per mentioned in the itinerary
  • Experienced local trek leader with 1:4 assistant guide to client ratio
  • Full support crew with 1 porter for every 2 trekkers
  • Sightseeing of Kathmandu including guide and entrance fees
  • Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts
  • All ground transportation as per mentioned in the itinerary on private vehicle
  • Comprehensive first aid kit.
  • Duffel bag, Sleeping bag with liner and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of trek)
  • Staff insurances and allowances
  • Trek completion certificate (Upon request)

Cost Exclusion

  • International airfare, Visa and travel insurance
  • Meals at Kathmandu
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason)
  • Personal expenses – Drinks & Souvenirs
  • Gratuities for staff

Essential Information

Reviews

See what our travelers are saying! Our reviews highlight the memorable experiences and exceptional service we offer. Read their stories to find out why our adventures are so highly praised. Write a review.

Unforgettable First Trek

My friends and I, 3 brave ladies from Malaysia did the Upper Mustang Trek with Highland Expeditions in mid-Oct 2019. Our guide Kunga and 2 porters were very friendly and…
Highland Expeditions is a reliable and responsible trekking company. I had a wonderful time and felt safe during my recent trekking trip . The trip leader, Dawa, briefed the group…
Totally satisfied with the service provided by Highland Expeditions and i will recommend them to all my friends. I will be back soon for another trek.

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