The Upper Mustang Trek is a journey into one of Nepal’s most enigmatic and isolated regions. Known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Upper Mustang remains a hidden gem, tucked away from the mainstream trekking trails. For 14 unforgettable days, this trek takes you through ancient Tibetan culture, vast desert landscapes, and centuries-old monasteries, all framed by the dramatic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The Upper Mustang region, once a former kingdom, offers a glimpse into a way of life that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. Trekking here is not only about the landscapes but about experiencing a rich cultural heritage, where Buddhist traditions thrive amidst stunning beauty.
Best Season to Trek
Autumn (September to November): The weather is clear, dry, and the landscapes are at their best, making it the prime season for trekking in Upper Mustang.
Spring (March to May): The spring season offers moderate temperatures, fewer trekkers, and stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and colorful landscapes in full bloom.
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you’ll have a trek briefing session to prepare for the upcoming adventure.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Take a short, scenic flight to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city. Once you arrive, you’ll have free time to relax and explore the stunning Phewa Lake and the surrounding area.
Overnight stay in Pokhara.
The scenic flight over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges will take you to Jomsom, the gateway to Upper Mustang. After landing, start your trek to Kagbeni, the first village in the Upper Mustang region.
Overnight stay in Kagbeni.
Trek along the Kali Gandaki River, passing Tibetan-style villages with their iconic whitewashed houses and chortens. The path leads to the village of Chele, surrounded by stunning cliffs and desert landscapes.
Overnight stay in Chele.
Climb through the Samar village, passing chortens and the towering red cliffs of the region. The ascent to Syangboche offers panoramic views of the Mustang Valley.
Overnight stay in Syangboche.
Continue your trek with a visit to the longest Mani wall in Mustang. The vast landscapes around Ghami are mesmerizing, with its traditional Tibetan-style homes and unique desert atmosphere.
Overnight stay in Ghami.
Trek through Tsarang, a traditional Tibetan settlement. Explore the Tsarang Monastery, a majestic structure adorned with Tibetan artwork and ancient murals.
Overnight stay in Tsarang.
Arrive at the walled city of Lo Manthang, once the capital of Mustang. The city is a blend of ancient palaces, monasteries, and narrow streets filled with the timeless spirit of Tibetan Buddhism.
Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.
Take the day to explore the cultural heart of Lo Manthang. Visit the King’s Palace, the ancient Chhoser Cave, and the monasteries, which hold deep spiritual significance and centuries of history.
Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.
Descend from Lo Manthang towards Drakmar, passing through Ghar Gompa, an ancient monastery dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. This site is a significant pilgrimage point for Buddhists in the region.
Overnight stay in Drakmar.
Continue descending through the dramatic desert landscapes of Upper Mustang. The route to Ghiling offers scenic vistas and a peaceful atmosphere.
Overnight stay in Ghiling.
As you trek through dramatic cliffs and caves, the landscape of Upper Mustang continues to captivate. The path takes you to Chhusang, where you’ll have the chance to experience traditional Mustang life.
Overnight stay in Chhusang.
Begin your descent back to Jomsom, the gateway to the Mustang region. The trek back offers the chance to reflect on your incredible journey through this ancient kingdom.
Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Fly back to Pokhara in the morning, and then continue your journey to Kathmandu by flight. Once in Kathmandu, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore the city before your departure.
The Upper Mustang Trek typically spans 10 to 18 days, depending on your chosen itinerary and pace. This duration allows for proper acclimatization and exploration of the region.
The Upper Mustang Trek is considered a moderate trek. With proper preparation and a good level of physical fitness, trekkers of various ages can undertake this journey.
To trek in the Upper Mustang region, you need to obtain the following permits:
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit: This permit costs USD 500 for the first 10 days, with an additional USD 50 per person per day for each extra day.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required for the Annapurna region, including parts of the Upper Mustang trek.
The optimal periods for this trek are during the pre-monsoon (spring) months of March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) months of September to November. During these times, the weather is generally clear, offering excellent mountain views and comfortable trekking conditions.
Accommodation along the trek primarily consists of teahouses and guesthouses. These establishments offer basic amenities such as beds, meals, and communal areas. It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons.
The maximum elevation reached on this trek is approximately 3,840 meters at Lo Manthang. At this altitude, the risk of severe altitude sickness is minimal. However, it's essential to listen to your body and ascend at a comfortable pace to acclimatize properly.
At Trailblazers Nepal, we create mesmerizing packages for clients eager to explore the stunning high-altitude mountains of Nepal.
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