Upper Mustang Trek
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 Trek.
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 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.
Day 3
Fly Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720 m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2,810 m)
Take an early morning scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, flying between the magnificent Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After meeting the trekking crew and preparing your bags, begin walking along the Kali Gandaki Valley toward Kagbeni. The trail is relatively gentle and provides spectacular views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Kagbeni is an ancient settlement with narrow alleys, traditional houses, irrigation channels and an impressive monastery. It is the historic gateway to Upper Mustang. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge.
Day 4
Kagbeni to Chele (3,050 m) – 5–6 Hours
Today you officially enter the restricted Upper Mustang region and begin following the historic trail along the Kali Gandaki. The landscape gradually becomes drier and more dramatic as you pass through traditional villages and colorful chortens. Continue toward Tangbe, known for its narrow lanes, whitewashed houses and apple orchards, before reaching Chhusang. From here, the trail climbs away from the river toward Chele, surrounded by spectacular cliffs and barren mountain scenery. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge in Chele.
Day 5
Chele to Syangboche (3,800 m) – 5–6 Hours
The trail climbs steadily from Chele through striking high-desert landscapes. Cross several mountain passes and walk through narrow valleys decorated with prayer flags, chortens and traditional Tibetan-style settlements. The changing scenery provides excellent views across Mustang’s rugged terrain. As you gain altitude, the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse, emphasizing the region’s unique Himalayan rain-shadow environment. Continue toward Syangboche, a small settlement surrounded by dramatic cliffs and barren slopes. Take time to rest and acclimatize after today’s gradual ascent. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge.
Day 6
Syangboche to Ghami (3,520 m) – 5–6 Hours
Today’s trail takes you through some of Upper Mustang’s most beautiful landscapes. After leaving Syangboche, cross high passes and follow a winding trail through dry valleys and colorful rock formations. The route eventually descends toward Ghami, one of Mustang’s largest traditional villages. Explore its whitewashed houses, ancient monastery and impressive mani wall, where hundreds of carved prayer stones line the trail. The surrounding red cliffs create a spectacular backdrop. Ghami offers an excellent opportunity to experience traditional Mustang village life. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge.
Day 7
Ghami to Tsarang (3,560 m) – 4–5 Hours
Leave Ghami and continue through the spectacular dry landscape of Upper Mustang. The trail crosses rugged terrain and follows the Ghami Khola before gradually approaching Tsarang. Along the way, enjoy expansive views of eroded cliffs, deep canyons and distant Himalayan peaks. Tsarang is an important historic settlement with traditional whitewashed houses, an ancient fortress or dzong and a remarkable red monastery containing valuable Buddhist artwork. Spend the afternoon exploring the village and its cultural heritage. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge in Tsarang.
Day 8
Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3,770–3,840 m) – 4–5 Hours
Today is one of the most anticipated days of the trek as you make your way toward legendary Lo Manthang. The trail climbs gently across a high plateau and crosses the Lo La before descending toward the impressive walled city. As the ancient settlement appears in the distance, you will understand why Lo Manthang is considered the cultural heart of Upper Mustang. Enter through its historic gateway and explore its narrow lanes and traditional architecture. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge in Lo Manthang.
Day 9
Explore Lo Manthang
Enjoy a full day exploring the historic walled city of Lo Manthang. Visit its ancient monasteries, including Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa and Chode Monastery, and discover the traditional architecture and narrow lanes of the former royal capital. Your guide will introduce you to the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture, history and traditions of the region. The relaxed schedule also provides valuable acclimatization at high altitude. You may have time to visit local handicraft shops and interact with residents. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge.
Day 10
Chhoser Cave and Monastery Excursion
Today, take an unforgettable excursion to the Chhoser Valley, famous for its extraordinary cliffside cave settlements and ancient monasteries. A private local jeep can be used where appropriate, reducing unnecessary walking and allowing more time for exploration. Visit remarkable cave complexes, including the famous Jhong Cave area, and discover monasteries and ancient dwellings carved into the surrounding cliffs. The landscape here is exceptionally dramatic, with red and ochre rock formations stretching toward the Tibetan borderlands. Return to Lo Manthang for another night.
Day 11
Lo Manthang to Dhakmar (3,800 m) – 6–7 Hours
Leave Lo Manthang and take an alternative trail toward Dhakmar, avoiding a simple retracing of your outward journey. The route crosses high Himalayan terrain, open plateaus and remote valleys before descending toward the spectacular red cliffs of Dhakmar. This is one of the more challenging but rewarding days of the trek, offering a quieter experience away from the main route. Dhakmar is a small traditional settlement surrounded by striking crimson rock formations and dramatic desert scenery. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge.
Day 12
Dhakmar to Ghiling (3,800 m) – 5–6 Hours
Continue south through the remote landscapes of Upper Mustang. The trail follows high ridges and dry valleys, with views of colorful cliffs, barren mountains and traditional settlements. Along the way, pass ancient chortens, mani walls and fields carefully cultivated by local communities despite the harsh environment. Gradually descend toward Ghiling, a beautiful village known for its traditional houses, monastery and terraced fields. This quieter section provides an authentic perspective of Mustang’s rural lifestyle. Enjoy a relaxing evening in the village. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge.
Day 13
Ghiling to Chhusang / Jomsom by Trek and Private Jeep
After breakfast, begin the journey south toward Chhusang through the changing landscapes of Mustang. Depending on trail and road conditions, trek part of the route and use a private 4WD jeep for the longer road section toward Jomsom. This flexible arrangement avoids an unnecessarily long final trekking day while preserving the best walking sections. Continue through traditional villages and along the Kali Gandaki Valley before reaching Jomsom. Enjoy your final evening in Mustang and celebrate the completion of your trek. Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 14
Fly Jomsom to Pokhara (820 m)
Take an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, subject to weather and airport operating conditions. The short flight offers magnificent aerial views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri ranges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel by private vehicle and enjoy a well-earned day of relaxation. You can stroll around Lakeside, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake or simply relax at your hotel. The evening is free to enjoy Pokhara at your own pace. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 15
Pokhara to Kathmandu – Private Jeep Drive
After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu by private tourist jeep. The journey follows the scenic highway through river valleys, terraced hills and traditional settlements. Depending on traffic and road conditions, the drive takes approximately 6–8 hours. After arriving in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy some free time for shopping or sightseeing. In the evening, join a farewell dinner and celebrate the completion of your Upper Mustang adventure with your trekking team. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 16
Final Departure from Nepal
Your remarkable journey through Upper Mustang comes to an end today. Depending on your international flight schedule, enjoy breakfast at the hotel and use your remaining free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. Our representative will transfer you by private vehicle to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your flight. Take home unforgettable memories of the ancient Kingdom of Lo, its spectacular Himalayan landscapes, sacred monasteries, fascinating cave settlements and welcoming mountain communities. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey home.
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.
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