Upper Mustang Trek

Trek Description

The Upper Mustang Trek is a journey into the former Kingdom of Lo, a remote and restricted region of Nepal, known for its unique Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and striking desert-like landscapes. This trek offers breathtaking views of the Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges while passing through deep canyons, red-walled caves, and wind-swept plateaus. The Upper Mustang Trek follows the Kali Gandaki River, leading to the walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang. Due to its restricted status, the trek provides a rare opportunity to explore an untouched and mystical Himalayan region.

Destination

Upper Mustang

Duration

14-16 days

Trip Grade

Moderate-Difficult

Start/ End

Pokhara - Jomsom - Lo Manthang-Jomsom-Pokhara

Best Season

March-May, September-November

Max People

2-15 people (ideal group size)

Transportation

Flight (Pokhara-Jomsom)/ Jeep/ Trekking

Activities

Trekking/Tour/Hiking

Upper Mustang Trek feels like stepping into a remote, untouched world where ancient Tibetan culture thrives. With breathtaking desert landscapes, hidden monasteries, and stunning mountain views, trekkers will experience a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich heritage.

Upper Mustang Trek Facts

Title	Information
Trek Name	Upper Mustang Trek
Travel Budget	$1,200 -$1,500 per person
Standard Budget	$2,000 - $3,500 per person
Difficulty	Moderate-Difficult (High altitude & dry, windy terrain)
Best Time	Spring(March-May) and Autumn(September-November)
Permits	TIMS, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP) and Restricted Area Permit
Accommodation	Tea Houses and Lodges
Best ViewPoints	Lo Manthang, Dhakmar, Ghami, and the Kali Gandaki Valley

Day Wise Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Day 2: Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour

Day 3: Fly/Drive to Pokhara (822m)

Day 4: Flight to Jomsom(2720m) or Drive from Pokhara to Kagbeni (2,810m)

Option 1: Take an early morning 20-minute flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. Then, trek 3-4 hours along the Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni.
Option 2: Take a jeep drive from Pokhara to Kagbeni (8-10 hours) via Beni, Tatopani, and Jomsom, enjoying scenic views along the rugged mountain roads.
Explore the medieval village of Kagbeni, visit monasteries, and check trekking permits.
Overnight in Kagbeni

Day 5: Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m)

Day 6: Chele to Syangboche (3,800m)

Day 7: Syangboche to Lo Manthang (3,840m)

Day 8: Exploration Day in Lo Manthang

Day 9: Lo Manthang to Ghami (3,520m)

Day 10: Ghami to Jomsom (2,720m)

Day 11: Flight/Drive to Pokhara

Day 12: Return to Kathmandu

Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu

Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop service by private car.
Meals on full board during the trekking(Breakfast, lunch,dinner,soup,Tea or coffee)
Free Trekking map
An experienced Government licensed holder guide
Trekking porter /Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trekking
Ground transportation
All necessary paper works and Trekking entry permits

Unforeseen delay and emergency expenses
Personal accident insurance or Helicopter rescue
Any kind of Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks
All kind of Personal Expenses
Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section
Tips, gifts, souvenirs

Why Choose Uppar Mustang Trek ?

Breathtaking Mountain Views: Witness the stunning panorama of Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and Nilgiri as they tower over the arid landscapes of Upper Mustang.
Diverse Landscapes: Trek through lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys.
Rich Cultural Experience: Interact with the Gurung and Magar communities and experience their traditions and hospitality.
Annapurna Sanctuary: Reach the heart of the Annapurna Massif, a natural amphitheater of towering peaks.
Moderate-Difficulty Trek: Suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers with a gradual altitude gain.
Relaxing Hot Springs: Soak in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda after days of trekking.
Wildlife & Biodiversity: Walk through the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to Himalayan Tahrs, Langurs, and rare birds.
Well-Established Teahouse Route: Comfortable lodging and meals available along the trail for a smooth trekking experience.
A Lifetime Journey to the Last Forbidden Kingdom:Once a restricted kingdom, Upper Mustang remains a hidden gem with untouched culture, ancient monasteries, and stunning landscapes. It’s a rare blend of history, adventure, and Himalayan beauty.

“Upper Mustang: Where Ancient Mystique Meets the Rooftop of the World!”

Best Time For Upper Mustang Trek

Spring (March-May): Best for clear skies, rhododendron blooms, and pleasant weather.
Autumn (September-November): Another best season with clear skies, stable weather, and breathtaking mountain views, though it’s the busiest.
Summer (June-August): Ideal for trekking as Upper Mustang lies in a rain shadow, but flights may be delayed due to monsoon in lower regions
Winter (December-February): Not recommended due to extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and closed lodges, making trekking difficult.

Cost and Planning Facts for Upper Mustang Trek

Budget: Expect to spend around $1,800-$2,500 per person, covering permits, transport, food, and guides. The cost varies based on accommodation choices and travel style.
Permits: To trek in Upper Mustang, you need three essential permits. The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) costs $500-$550. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) costs $30-$50. Additionally, the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, costing $20 per person, ensures safety and proper trekking records. These permits are mandatory and must be obtained before entering the restricted region.
Accommodation: Basic tea houses with simple beds, blankets, and shared toilets are available. Higher-end lodges in some areas offer better comfort at an extra cost.
Meals: Meals mainly include Dal Bhat, noodles, Tibetan bread, and tea, providing energy for long trekking days. Options are limited due to the region’s remoteness.
Guide/Porter: Hiring a guide costs between $28 to $35 per day. The cost of hiring a porter ranges from $20 to $25 per day.
Transportation: A one-way flight ticket costs approximately $100 to $106. Bus tickets are priced between $10 to $20. Renting a jeep for transportation can cost anywhere from $120 to $150.

Packing Tips for Upper Mustang Trek

Warm hat & cap.
Sunglasses with UV protection.
Headlight.
Face Mask or Balaclava

Trekking shoes
Hiking boots
Warm Hiking socks
Gaiters

Base Layers
Warm and Waterproof jacket
Thermal Gloves
Trekking Trousers and Shorts
Personal Hygiene Items
Fleece Jacket
Thermal Shirts and Pants

Sleeping bag
First aid kit
Trekking poles & Duffel bag
Water Bottles and Hydration Bladder
High-energy snacks
Maps & Compass/GPS

Upper Mustang Trek By Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition

A mesmerizing journey to Nepal’s hidden Tibetan kingdom, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and an adventure of a lifetime. This trek takes you beyond the Himalayas into an ancient land with dramatic desert terrain. Experience Mustang’s untouched beauty and immerse yourself in the centuries-old Buddhist traditions.

Gallery Section

FAQ's Section

1. What language do they speak in Upper Mustang?

The people of Upper Mustang primarily speak Loba (Mustang Tibetan dialect), which is closely related to the Tibetan language. Nepali is also spoken, especially in trade and tourism, while some locals understand basic English due to increasing trekking activities.

2. Why is the Upper Mustang a restricted area?

Upper Mustang is a restricted area to preserve its unique Tibetan culture, fragile environment, and heritage. Its proximity to the Tibet (China) border also makes controlled access essential for security. To enter, trekkers need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) costing $500 for 10 days and must be accompanied by a licensed guide.

3. What type of permit is required for Upper Mustang Trek?

For Upper Mustang Trek, you need three permits: the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for access, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for conservation, and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card for safety tracking. These permits ensure security and protect the area’s cultural and natural heritage.