Upper Mustang Trek
The forbidden kingdom — Tibetan culture beyond the Himalayas
The Upper Mustang trek takes you into one of the most isolated and culturally preserved regions in the world. For centuries, the Kingdom of Lo was a forbidden territory, closed to outsiders until 1992. Over 12 days, you will trek through a surreal landscape of wind-carved cliffs, ancient cave dwellings, and red-walled monasteries to reach Lo Manthang (3,840m), the walled capital of this former Tibetan kingdom. This is not a mountain-scenery trek — it is a journey into a living medieval culture where Tibetan Buddhism thrives unchanged by modernity.
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Day-by-Day Itinerary
A detailed look at each day of your Upper Mustang Trek adventure. Every itinerary is crafted to balance trekking, acclimatization, and cultural experiences.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara — Flight to Jomsom (2,720m)
Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (25 min), then connect to Jomsom through the Kali Gandaki gorge — one of the world's most spectacular short flights. Settle into Jomsom and acclimatize. Briefing with your guide.
Day 2: Jomsom to Kagbeni (2,810m)
Short trek along the Kali Gandaki riverbed to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. This medieval village with its narrow alleys and ancient Buddhist temple marks the boundary of the restricted area. Permit checkpoint. Walking time: 3-4 hours.
Day 3: Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m)
Enter the restricted zone. The landscape changes dramatically — green valleys give way to arid, wind-sculpted canyons. Trek along the Kali Gandaki and climb to Chele, a village perched on red cliffs. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 4: Chele to Syangboche (3,475m)
Cross two high passes — Chele La (3,630m) and Samar La (3,800m). The terrain is otherworldly: eroded red and ochre cliffs, wind-carved pillars, and vast open plains. Pass through the village of Samar. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 5: Syangboche to Ghami (3,520m)
Trek across the high plateau. Pass the longest mani wall in Nepal (over 500m of prayer-carved stones) near Ghami. The wind is constant at this altitude, and the landscape feels like the Tibetan Plateau. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 6: Ghami to Tsarang (3,560m)
Cross the Nyi La pass (4,010m) with views of the Damodar Himal. Descend to Tsarang (Charang), the second-largest settlement in Upper Mustang. Visit the Tsarang Dzong (fort) and the ancient monastery with remarkable murals. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 7: Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3,840m)
The culmination of the trek. Cross the Lo La pass (3,950m) and see the walled city of Lo Manthang appear across the plateau. Enter through the ancient gates into a medieval Tibetan town of 150 houses, four monasteries, and the Royal Palace of the King of Mustang. Walking time: 4-5 hours.
Day 8: Explore Lo Manthang
Full day exploring the walled city. Visit the Champa Lhakhang (God House), Thubchen Gompa with its extraordinary 15th-century murals, and the Choede Monastery. Meet local artisans and, schedule permitting, the royal family. Optional excursion to the Chhoser caves.
Day 9: Lo Manthang to Ghami (3,520m)
Begin the return journey via a different route where possible. Retrace the path across the plateau with new perspectives on the landscape. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 10: Ghami to Samar (3,620m)
Continue south through the canyon country. The return journey often reveals details missed on the way up — cave dwellings, hidden chortens, and eagle nests in the cliff faces. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 11: Samar to Kagbeni (2,810m)
Descend back through the dramatic landscape to Kagbeni. The greenery of the Kali Gandaki valley is a stark contrast to the arid upper region. Farewell dinner with the team. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 12: Kagbeni to Jomsom — Fly to Pokhara/Kathmandu
Short walk to Jomsom and morning flight to Pokhara, connecting to Kathmandu. Alternatively, spend an extra night in Pokhara by the lake. Airport transfer for departure.
What Is Included
Included in Your Trip
- Restricted Area Permit
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit ($500 per person for 10 days), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and TIMS card all included.
- Experienced Cultural Guide
An English-speaking guide with deep knowledge of Tibetan Buddhist culture, Mustang history, and the local Loba community.
- Lodge Accommodation
Best available lodges throughout the trek. Lo Manthang has improved accommodation in recent years. Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- All Meals on Trek
Three meals per day throughout. Upper Mustang cuisine includes Tibetan staples like thukpa, momos, and tsampa alongside standard Nepali fare.
- Internal Flights
Kathmandu-Pokhara-Jomsom flights (round trip) including all airport taxes.
- Porter/Pack Animal Support
Horses or mules carry your main luggage through the arid terrain. You trek with only a daypack.
Not Included
- International flights to and from the destination
- Travel insurance (required, purchased separately)
- Personal gear and equipment
- Tips for guides and support staff (recommended)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
Difficulty: Moderate
Understanding what to expect helps you prepare properly and enjoy your trek to the fullest.
Fitness Requirements
- Fascinated by Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and preserved medieval traditions
- Prefer cultural immersion over extreme altitude — Upper Mustang's max altitude is about 4,010m
- Comfortable with arid, wind-swept landscapes (this is not a lush forest trek)
- Able to walk 5-7 hours per day on generally moderate terrain with some pass crossings
- Willing to invest in a premium trek experience — the restricted area permit adds significant cost
Upper Mustang Trek — Frequently Asked Questions
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Secure your spot on this incredible adventure. 12 days of expert-guided trekking from $1,500. Contact us today to check availability.