The Upper Mustang Trek offers an opportunity to trek in a remote and culturally rich part of the Mustang Region, which is a restricted area in Nepal. The region has managed to preserve its unique heritage and traditions over the centuries. The region is surrounded by the Himalayan giants, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, and is said to be a hidden Buddhist kingdom due to its spiritual roots. The government has restricted this region to preserve its culture, monasteries, cave homes, and villages, making it one of the most authentic cultural trekking experiences in Nepal.
Until 1992, Upper Mustang was a restricted demilitarized zone, which helped to preserve the culture and environment of this region. Even today, the people in this region have managed to preserve their age-old traditions, and people speak in traditional Tibetan languages. The word “Mustang” is said to have originated from the word “Tibetan,” which means “Plain of Aspiration.” Since this region has been allowed to trek by foreigners, this region has become popular among trekkers, but it still feels remote and exclusive due to the permit policy.
This trek is a rare opportunity to explore the spectacular desert landscapes of the Himalayas, where colorful rock formations, deep canyons, and valleys create a striking contrast with the snow-capped peaks in the background. During the trek, trekkers pass through ancient walled cities like Lo Manthang, centuries-old monasteries, prayer flags, and chortens, which reflect the Buddhist influence in this region. Therefore, the Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most unique treks in the Himalayas.
Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek:
Welcome! To Kathmandu, Nepal. You will be welcomed by an Asian Heritage Travel representative with a nameplate upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, and you will then be taken to your hotel located within the busy tourist district known as Thamel in Kathmandu. You will see some of the highlights of the city while traveling to the hotel, including Pashupatinath Temple, Narayanhiti Royal Palace Museum, and the peaceful Garden of Dreams. Once you arrive at your hotel, a representative will meet you to discuss your itinerary and answer any questions you might have about it. After you check into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore the busy streets, cafés, and shops of Thamel or relax at your hotel.
Includes: Private transport and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Start your sightseeing tour by meeting your guide and climbing into your private vehicle. Your first stop will be Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you will walk among centuries-old royal palaces, intricate carvings on countless temples, and traditional courtyard-style buildings indicative of the venerable history of ancient Kathmandu.
Your next destination on your journey is Swayambhunath, commonly referred to as the Monkey Temple. Swayambhunath is a sacred stupa located atop a hill that contains both Buddhist and Hindu cultural influences, and provides fabulous views of the Kathmandu Valley and the distant peaks of the Himalayas.
The next stop on your tour is Pashupatinath Temple, one of the premier Hindu pilgrimage destinations in Southeast Asia. Pashupatinath Temple is built on the banks of the Bagmati River, where you will get a glimpse of the open-air cremation ceremonies and experience the spiritual practices surrounding the temple complex.
The last stop of the day is the incredible Boudhanath Stupa (another UNESCO World Heritage Site), which is one of the largest stupas in the world. The stupa dates back to approximately 600 A.D. and represents the center of Tibetan Buddhist culture, surrounded by local life, monasteries, and prayer wheels.
After an amazing day of cultural experiences, you will head back to your hotel to rest and relax.
Includes: Breakfast, Private Transport, English-speaking Tour guide, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites & Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
We start our journey through a beautiful drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. As we move through the twisting roadways, let us take in the sight of lush green fields, terraced farmland, and hills of Nepal.
This is what awaits you in Pokhara – a destination that is dear to all travel enthusiasts from all over the globe. This valley is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, peaceful environment, and striking Himalayan ranges. Think of the bliss of getting to see the stunning beauty of the Himalayas as its reflections are seen in Phewa Lake, accompanied by the refreshing beauty of the Pokhara valley.
Includes: Breakfast, Private Transport, and an overnight accommodation at Hotel Crystal Palace or a similar hotel in Pokhara.
In the morning, your day will start with a short 15-minute flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. This is a short but incredibly scenic flight that will provide breathtaking views of the Himalayas. On a clear day, you will even be able to witness the towering peaks of Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and other snow-capped mountains rising above the clouds.
After landing at Jomsom, you will have your breakfast before starting your trek to Kagbeni via the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. The trail is dry and rugged but is mostly flat, making it a relatively easy trek.
Kagbeni is a medieval-style village located at the confluence of two rivers. It is a windswept village that lies along the ancient Trans-Himalayan salt trade route that once connected Nepal to Tibet via the Upper Mustang region of Nepal. This is a historic and culturally significant region of Nepal that lies within the Mustang District. It is home to one of the oldest monasteries in the region that still has many stories and mysteries to be unraveled.
Includes: Airfare, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Kagbeni.
Once our permits have been checked, we set off on our trek on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. The trek takes us along sandy tracks, often in the open and subject to strong winds, after which the route gradually ascends a hill. During this trek, we pass through the village of Tangbe, where you may want to visit the village, which has narrow streets, white-washed houses, and cultivated fields of barley, buckwheat, and apple groves.
Moving on, we pass through another village, cross a river, and then ascend to a ridge, after which the trek takes us to the village of Chele, where our day’s trek comes to an end.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Chele.
Today’s trekking is a bit tougher compared to the previous days, as we have to cross two high passes: Taklam La Pass (3,624 m) and Dajori La Pass (3,735 m). During the trek, we will get a chance to see the breathtaking views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawakang, and Damodar Danda, as well as the interesting Ramchung Cave.
After descending towards Samar Village, we will trek along a trail above the village, ascending towards a ridge. Then, our trekking route will descend sharply towards a stream, followed by trekking towards Syanboche, which marks the end of today’s trek.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Syangboche.
Our journey will start to ascend to Yamada La Pass (3,850 m) through tea houses, chortens, and picturesque villages along the way. Our journey will take us through poplar forests, barley fields, as we proceed to Nyi Pass (4,010 m).
As we descend from Nyi Pass, we will be heading to Ghami, which is said to be one of the largest villages within the Lo region.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Ghami.
Today’s trek begins with a descent down a rugged and sometimes slippery track. We will then cross a suspension bridge over the Ghami Khola River, followed by our ascent. The trek is a scenic one, with long stretches of Mani walls leading the way.
We will cross the Tsarang La Pass, which lies at an altitude of 3,870m, followed by our arrival at Tsarang Village. The Tsarang Village will offer a view of the Charang Chu Canyon, a large fortress, as well as a red-colored gompa located to the east of the village.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Tsarang.
The trek begins with a descent into a canyon and then a crossing of a river before we begin our climb to reach the Lo La Pass (3,950 m). Atop this pass, we are treated to an awe-inspiring sight of Lo Manthang.
We then descend into Lo Manthang, which is a breathtakingly beautiful village with walls and a rich history and cultural heritage. Here, you can take in the magnificent views of the Himalayas, including Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak, Annapurna I, Bhrikuti Peak, and Damodar Kunda.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Lo-Manthang.
Lo Manthang is an ancient fortified settlement situated deep within Upper Mustang. This location is famous for its rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Three important monasteries are situated within this location, namely Jhampa Monastery, Thupchen Monastery, and Chhoeda Monastery. These gompas have been well-restored over the last two decades, providing a glimpse into the rich Buddhist heritage that this region has to offer.
Tourists are also given a chance to go on a short trek to Tingkhar, which is a picturesque settlement situated to the northwest of Lo Manthang.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Lo Manthang.
On our return journey from Lo Manthang, we take a different route, which passes through Gyakar Village, where the ancient monastery of Ghar Gompa is situated. The monastery is said to have existed for centuries and is known for its beautiful rock paintings, with local people believing that any wish made here is sure to come true.
After visiting the monastery, we continue our trek to Drakmar, where we will stay overnight.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Drakmar.
Our trek starts early in the morning to avoid the strong winds, and we descend most of the day. The trek goes across a dry plateau and some cultivated fields, finally arriving at Ghiling.
The trek is quite challenging at times, especially when the strong winds are blowing across the trekking route. While the area around Ghiling is quite dry, it has some of the most spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, which include Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. In the evenings, you may choose to visit the village and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Ghiling.
After breakfast, we start our trek on the same route we took earlier to get to Lo Manthang. While on our way to Chhuksang, we get to enjoy the spectacular views of the Himalayas, as well as a glimpse of the small villages and settlements along the way.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Chhuksang.
Today is the final day of our trek, which is a long but rewarding journey. Finally, after trekking for some time, we arrive at the end of the Mustang trails, which are joined by the Annapurna Circuit. We will have our lunch at Kagbeni, followed by our onward journey to Jomsom, where we will stay overnight.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Jomsom.
An early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara takes 20 minutes. After arrival at Pokhara Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of your day can be used to explore Pokhara Valley. The natural beauty of Pokhara is indeed amazing. There are many places to visit.
Includes: Airfare, Breakfast, Private Transport, and an overnight accommodation at Hotel Crystal Palace or a similar hotel in Pokhara.
Our return flight to Kathmandu is scheduled between 6:30 A.M. and 8:00 P.M., though this may vary depending on the weather. After arriving in Kathmandu, you will be dropped off at your hotel, where you may relax and have time to think about your amazing adventure.
Includes: Airfare, Private Transport, Breakfast, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites & Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Today’s journey takes you just outside Kathmandu to explore two of the valley’s most historic and culturally vibrant cities: Patan and Bhaktapur. The overall historical and cultural history of this valley includes many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As you begin your visit to Patan, you will have the opportunity to see several of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, especially the Krishna Temple and Patan Durbar Square, which feature beautiful examples of Newari craftsmanship. After visiting the Krishna Temple and Patan Durbar Square, you will visit the Patan Museum for an in-depth look at the art, culture and royal history of the Malla dynasty, as well as see the Golden Temple, a sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists and the Banglamukhi Temple, which is a well-known site for pilgrims.
Your next stop will be Bhaktapur, a living museum where you can see beautifully preserved architecture and experience the traditional way of life. Additionally, the intricate wood carvings add to the rich cultural experience of Bhaktapur. Stroll through Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see ancient palaces, stone temples, and artisan workshops on the cobblestone streets of this historic centre. Be sure to visit the Nyatapola Temple, which is one of the highest and most magnificent pagoda-style temples in Nepal, towering over Taumadhi Square.
After a day filled with cultural discovery, you will return to Kathmandu, check into your hotel, and relax for another enjoyable evening.
Includes: Private Transport, Breakfast, English-speaking Tour guide, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites & Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Today is the last day of your journey. Three hours before your scheduled departure back to your home or another location, our representative will pick you up in a private vehicle after breakfast and drop you off at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport.
We hope you travel safely and look forward to seeing you again soon.
Includes: Breakfast and private Transport.
Getting to Nepal as an international visitor is easy with the availability of an easy-to-use Visa on Arrival service at Tribhuvan International Airport and almost all the land border crossings into Nepal. Upon arrival at the airport, you will complete the visa form, submit the necessary documents, pay the applicable visa fee online, and then you will be given your visa within a very short time.
With several different types of Nepali visas available for various duration periods, visitors have the choice of whether they want to stay for a few days or months; however, some nationalities must obtain their visa in advance of travelling, so you must check the current visa requirements.
Learn more about visa guidelines and requirements: Tourist Visa Information
Nepal offers a wide variety of accommodation to meet the varying requirements of travelers at every budget level and personal comfort preferences.
Luxury Accommodation
Enjoy the luxury and the comfort of a highly rated hotel, and are looking for a high-end experience. You will find many luxury hotels in Nepal with an array of modern conveniences, such as spa treatments, fine dining, beautiful locations, breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and individual attention from the staff. These types of hotels are perfect for people who want to relax, unwind, and experience luxurious facilities while traveling throughout Nepal.
Budget Accommodation
Travelers who want to experience Nepal without breaking the bank will be happy to know that there are also many inexpensive accommodation options, including guesthouses, boutique lodges, and homestays, which are all clean, friendly, and very good value. Budget accommodation allows a traveler to stay within their budget while experiencing the generosity of local hospitality.
We ensure that your accommodation matches your preference, whether you seek luxury or convenience.
Explore available accommodation categories: Accommodations in Nepal.
Nepal has a lot to offer with its incredible natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Travelling can also come with risks, which is why anyone visiting Nepal needs to consider purchasing travel insurance, particularly those involved in adventure activities or trekking, as well as those who will be travelling to remote areas of Nepal. A well-rounded insurance policy can provide peace of mind through protection against the following:
Many trekking routes in Nepal are over 3000 meters (9842 ft); therefore, your policy should specifically state that high altitude travel is part of your Insurance plan, as well as the option to be evacuated in the event of an emergency. Choosing the right policy will help you receive the best possible care in your time of need.
Find out more about travel insurance for Nepal: Travel Insurance in Nepal
For hikers traveling to the Nepalese Himalayas, it’s essential to have the correct trekking equipment. Depending on what elevation you’re at, the weather might change drastically, so it’s crucial to use and carry the proper clothing and equipment in order to enjoy a safe and comfortable trip.
If you don’t want to travel with your own equipment, there are plenty of places in Nepal where you can rent or purchase what you need (particularly in Thamel, Kathmandu’s main shopping district). There are also locations within the city where you can find stores that offer a variety of high-quality trekking apparel and equipment at very reasonable prices.
See the complete trekking gear guide: Trekking Gear
