Upper Mustang Jeep Drive
The 16-day Upper Mustang Trek takes you deep into Nepal’s legendary former Kingdom of Lo, combining spectacular Himalayan scenery, ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, dramatic red cliffs, sacred monasteries and the medieval walled city of Lo Manthang. The journey begins with a private drive to Pokhara and a scenic flight to Jomsom, followed by trekking through Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami and Tsarang. After exploring Lo Manthang and the remarkable Chhoser caves, return by the quieter Dhakmar–Ghiling route before flying back to Pokhara and Kathmandu.
TOUR ITINERARY
A day-by-day breakdown of your journey through Upper Mustang Jeep Drive.
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will meet you and transfer you by private vehicle to your hotel. After check-in, relax and recover from your journey. Later, your trekking guide will conduct a trip briefing and check your equipment and documents. If necessary, we will assist with any last-minute shopping or trekking gear. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine and cultural performances. Overnight at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2
Kathmandu to Pokhara (820 m) – Private Jeep Drive
After breakfast, begin your scenic journey to Pokhara by private tourist jeep. The drive follows Nepal’s winding highways through green hills, river valleys, terraced farmland and traditional settlements. Enjoy views of the Trishuli and Seti river valleys along the way. After approximately 6–8 hours, arrive in Pokhara, Nepal’s beautiful lakeside city. Check into your hotel and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere around Phewa Lake. Depending on arrival time, you can explore Lakeside or enjoy an optional evening boat ride. Overnight in Pokhara.
COST DETAILS
What is Included
Airport arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle.
Three nights' hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
Two nights' hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast.
Accommodation in teahouses/basic lodges during the trek.
Not Included
International airfare to and from Nepal.
Nepal tourist visa fee.
Travel insurance, including helicopter evacuation and medical coverage.
Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls and internet.
Book Your Tour
This trip is available year-round — complete your details below and our team will contact you to confirm your preferred travel dates.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Explore the legendary Upper Mustang, one of Nepal’s most culturally distinctive Himalayan regions.
Walk through the historic villages of Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, Tsarang and Dhakmar.
Discover the medieval walled city of Lo Manthang, the cultural heart of Mustang.
Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, chortens, mani walls and traditional Tibetan-style villages.
Explore the spectacular Chhoser cave settlements and ancient monasteries.
Experience Mustang’s extraordinary rain-shadow desert landscape of red cliffs, canyons and high plateaus.
PRETRIP ESSENTIALS
Passport & Visa
Carry a passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned arrival date and obtain the appropriate Nepal tourist visa. Keep several passport-size photographs and digital copies of important documents.
Permits
Upper Mustang is a restricted trekking area. Your registered trekking agency will arrange the required restricted-area permit and other applicable conservation/trekking permits.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, including coverage for high-altitude trekking, medical treatment and emergency helicopter evacuation.
Physical Preparation
This is a moderate-to-challenging high-altitude trek. Prepare with regular walking, hiking, stair climbing and cardiovascular exercise before departure. You should be comfortable walking approximately 5–7 hours on trekking days.
Altitude Awareness
The trek reaches around 3,800 m and includes several high passes. Walk at a steady pace, stay hydrated and allow your guide to monitor your acclimatization. Do not ignore symptoms of altitude sickness. Nepal Tourism Board notes that Upper Mustang reaches roughly 3,800 m and that conditions can be difficult despite the moderate maximum altitude.
Clothing & Equipment
Bring layered clothing, a warm down jacket, fleece, waterproof jacket, trekking trousers, thermal layers, comfortable trekking boots, warm socks, gloves, sun hat, sunglasses and a warm sleeping bag.
Sun & Wind Protection
Mustang lies in a Himalayan rain-shadow environment and can be exceptionally dry, sunny and windy. Carry high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses and a reusable water bottle.
Money & Connectivity
Carry sufficient Nepalese cash for personal expenses. ATM and banking facilities are limited once you enter the remote Upper Mustang area.
Flights
Jomsom flights are highly dependent on morning weather conditions. Build flexibility into your travel plans and avoid scheduling important international connections immediately after your Jomsom flight.
Best Travel Period
Spring and autumn are generally the preferred trekking seasons. Upper Mustang's rain-shadow location also makes it unusually suitable for trekking during the monsoon, although winter brings cold and difficult conditions.
Responsible Travel
Upper Mustang is culturally and environmentally sensitive. Respect monasteries and local customs, ask permission before photographing people, avoid disturbing archaeological sites and caves, carry your rubbish out and use water responsibly.
Tour FAQs
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