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Upper Mustang Trek

Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration17 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeModerate
i
Maximum Altitude4,090m
Group SizeMin.2 Pax
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleLodge to Lodge Trek
Best TimeMarch to June and Aug to Nov

If you think you know the Himalayas, at least visually, trust us, you don't. The Upper Mustang Trek will totally change your outlook on the great Himalayan range and leave you in awe!

The Upper Mustang Trek is a 17-day trans-Himalayan journey in Nepal. On this trek, travelers get to experience the contrasting diversity in terrain, landscape, nature, and culture. Have you ever heard of the Himalayan desert? Well, you will get to see it during the Upper Mustang trekking. This trek will be incredibly full of surprises.

You might be wondering where the Upper Mustang is and how it is so different from the rest of the Himalayas in Nepal. So, the Upper Mustang is a trans-Himalayan region. It is situated under the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, thus, the region is semi-desert and does not receive rainfall.

Highlights

  • Get to know a very different part of the Himalayas, exploring the trans-Himalayan section
  • Trek through picturesque settlements, observing the daily life of the locals
  • The trail is offbeat and crosses many mountain passes (under 3,500 meters)
  • A perfect adventurous trek that explores sky caves, rocky gorges, canyons, semi-desert, and barren hills
  • Discover the last forbidden kingdom, Lo Manthang, and its centuries-old monasteries
  • The trek route is dotted with stupas, chortens, prayer flags, and mani walls
  • Witness stunning views of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Nilgiri, and Mt. Dhaulagiri

The terrain is much like the Tibetan plateau, and you will be traveling near the Nepal-Tibet border. During the Upper Mustang trek, you will explore canyons, sand deserts, mud houses, barren hills, sky caves, towering cliffs, and unique rock formations. The horizons along the trails are beautifully dotted with the Himalayan mountains.

Why will you love the Upper Mustang Trek?

The Upper Mustang Trek presents a lifetime odyssey and takes you to one of the old Buddhist kingdoms. The journey will take you back in time, where the lives and beliefs of the locals stand still. Lo Manthang, the last forbidden kingdom, is your ultimate destination on the Upper Mustang trek. It is also called the walled city because it is enclosed by mani walls.

Upper Mustang trekking was only opened in 1992, and before that, the region was prohibited from entering for travel purposes. Due to that, the Upper Mustang has independently evolved in its own nature, keeping its ancient cultural heritage at the forefront. Untouched by modernization, the Upper Mustang trek offers a breath of fresh air.

Trekking in this part of the Himalayas is a privilege. Being a restricted area in Nepal, only a handful of tourists are allowed to enter this region every year. The Upper Mustang trek permits are expensive, and the overall trek also costs more than the famous treks in Nepal. Solo trekking is not allowed, and you cannot go off the route, wandering wherever you want.

The mythical legends, centuries-old monasteries, and friendly locals stay at the core of the Upper Mustang trek. There's a reason why this trek is called a magical journey. Spirituality and adventure go hand in hand. The barren landscapes and views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and other peaks make the trip quite blissful.

Who can do the Upper Mustang trek, and what preparation is required for the Upper Mustang trek?

The Upper Mustang trek is for everyone. It is a once-in-a-lifetime trip that will stay in your heart forever. The trek is not that challenging in terms of high altitude, however, you will cross several mountain passes (under 3,500 meters) along the Upper Mustang trail. This demands decent fitness.

You can start preparing for the Upper Mustang trek by going on regular walks. Make a target to be able to walk 4 to 5 hours. If possible, go on day hikes. Do activities that will help you improve your stamina and endurance. Likewise, train your mind to adjust to the limited resources.

Book your Upper Mustang trek 2024 departure now and start preparing for the trek under the guidance of one of our friendly travel consultants!

Can't trek? Do an Upper Mustang Jeep tour with us

If you have ever wanted to explore the Himalayas without trekking or buying expensive helicopter tours, then the Upper Mustang jeep tour is the only option. Upper Mustang is the only area in the Himalayas of Nepal that you can explore in a vehicle. Moreover, if you are an adventure enthusiast, go for the Upper Mustang biking tour.

Immerse yourself in the biggest annual celebration of the Upper Mustang-Tiji festival trek

Out of all the trekking regions in Nepal, the Upper Mustang is the only place that will dive deep into its cultural heritage. The more you get to know the locals and their beliefs and practices, the more you will find yourself drawn toward their cultural values.

Tiji festival is the biggest annual celebration for the locals of Upper Mustang. It is a three-day festival that is celebrated by making huge sand mandalas, puja ceremonies, and masked dances. If you are interested in participating in this event, you can do the Tiji festival trek or Tiji festival jeep tour.

In 2024, the Tiji festival is going to occur on 5th, 6th, and 7th May. You have to plan your trip as per this day. For more information, get in touch with us.

Why trek to the Upper Mustang with us?

You will get the best Upper Mustang trek price with us. The value, expertise, and service we provide have no match in the market. You will trek with an expert and experienced Upper Mustang trek guide. The trip will be thoroughly organized, so you won't come across any hassle.

Not only that, but you can also customize your Upper Mustang trek itinerary with us. Our team will design the best trek as per your requirements. If you have a concern or questions regarding the Upper Mustang trek package, feel free to write to us at info@regulusnepal.com.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all
01Day

On your arrival day, our team will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. For a smooth hotel transfer, we use a private four-wheeler as per the group size. Our representatives will help you with the luggage. Settle in the hotel. As your hotel is in Thamel, there are many cafes and restaurants in that area where you can grab a bite. In the late evening, we will meet for a welcome dinner.

Max. Altitude: 1400 mMeals: Welcome dinnerAccommodation: 3 Star Hotel
02Day

Start the day with a delicious breakfast, and after that, follow our tour guide to different UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Visit Swayambhunath, aka the Monkey Temple. From here, drive to Pashupatinath Temple and Bouddhanath Stupa. The tour ends at Kathmandu Durbar Square.

You will spend 4 to 5 hours of your morning exploring these places. Later in the day, meet the mountain guide, who will accompany you during the trek. There will be a short briefing, and you will pack the duffel bags. Do any last-minute shopping and make sure you are well-packed for the journey.

Max. Altitude: 1400 mMeals: Breakfast onlyAccommodation: 3 Star Hotel
03Day

Duration: 6 hours drive

You will leave Kathmandu early in the morning today. After getting out of the city, you will follow the rolling green hills and rivers to Pokhara. The ride will be comfortable and scenic. On the way, witness excellent scenery.

In Pokhara, you can see views of Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Fishtail from many parts of the city. Spend the evening enjoying the tranquility of Phewa Lake and exploring the bustling streets of Lakeside Market.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: 3 Star Hotel
04Day

Altitude: 2,800 m/9,500 ft

Duration: 25 minutes flight & 4 hours of trekking

The trek starts today. Take a short flight to Jomsom early in the morning. This flight will present you with jaw-dropping mountain views. From Jomsom, you will trek to Kagbeni. The trail gradually ascends along rough cliffsides, offering arid landscapes. You will witness a view of Dhaulagiri, Niligiri, and Tukuche Peaks on the way.

Max. Altitude: 2,800 mMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
05Day

Altitude: 3,050 m/10,006 ft

Duration: 5–6 hours

Register your permits at the police checkpost, and from here, continue trekking inside the Upper Mustang. Walk through the narrow alleys of Kagbeni and further follow the Kali Gandaki river. The trail goes up the valley. It's quite windy. You will reach Tangbe village, surrounded by fields of buckwheat and barley and apple orchards. From here, the trail ascends to Chele.

Max. Altitude: 3,050 mMeals: s: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
06Day

Altitude: 3,475 m/11,401 ft

Duration: 6 hours

On the way to Syanbochen, you will cross the Taklam La pass (3,624 m/11,890 ft) and the Darjori La pass (3,735 m/12,254 ft). These passes are not that high, but the route is steep and rocky. The stunning mountain views keep you motivated to walk. Further, the trail descends to Samar village. From here, you will walk to a ride and steeply descend to Syanbochen.

Max. Altitude: 3,475 mMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
07Day

Altitude: 3,500 m/11,483 ft

Duration: 5 hours

Leaving Syanbochen, the trail gradually ascends to Yamada La (3,850 m/12,631 ft). You will trek past small villages and chortens on the way. Likewise, you will see many barley fields while trekking. The later part of the trail crosses the Nyi La pass (4,010 m/13,156 ft) and descends to Ghami.

Max. Altitude: 3,500 mMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
08Day

Altitude: 3,560 m/11,680 ft

Duration: 4 hours

The day starts following a steep and rugged track that descends to Ghami Khola. Cross the khola via a suspension bridge and further trek, passing by mani walls. The trail gradually ascends to Tsarang La pass (3,870 m/12,697 ft). You will trek to the top of the Tsarang Chu canyon, where the Tsarang village is situated. In this village, you will explore a red gompa and an ancient fortress.

Max. Altitude: 3,560 mMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
09Day

Altitude: 3,840 m/12,598 ft

Duration: 5 hours

Follow a downhill route to Tsarang Chu Canyon. From here, the trail steeply ascends, crossing a river. The trail offers breathtaking views of Mt. Annapurna I, Tilicho Peak, Mt. Nilgiri, and Bhrikuti Peak. Following a steep track, ascend to the top of Lo La pass (3,950 m/12,959 ft). The view of Lo Manthang is fantastic from here. Further, trek past long mani walls and stupas to Lo Manthang village.

Max. Altitude: 3,840 mMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
10Day

On this day, you will hike around the Lo Manthang village and acclimatize. You will first visit the Namgyal Gompa, situated on a hilltop. It is a spiritual center for the locals and serves as a court of justice. From here, hike to Tingkhar. It is the last village in the northwest of Lo Manthang.

Likewise, you can also hike to Choser Cave, where you can see centuries-old sky caves. Explore the Tall Champa Lhakhang, Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, and the Entrance Hall later in Lo Manthang. Get to see the daily lifestyle of the locals and rest.

Max. Altitude: 3,840 mMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
11Day

Altitude: 3,810 m/12,500 ft

Duration: 6-7 hours

You will begin trekking back from Lo Manthang from today onwards. On this day, the trail descends to Dhakmar. On the way, you will trek past Gyakar, where you will visit the old Ghar Gompa. This monastery is more than 1,200 years old. From here, gradually walk to Dhakmar, exploring the region and witnessing surreal mountain views.

Max. Altitude: 3,810 mMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
12Day

Altitude: 3,860 m/12,664 ft

Duration: 6 hours

On the way from Dhakmar to Ghiling, you will face strong winds. To avoid it as much as possible, you will begin trekking quite early. The trail descends via a dry plateau. On the way, you will come across some farming fields. The view of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Nilgiri are superb along the trail.

Max. Altitude: 3,860 mMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
13Day

Altitude: 3,050 m/10,006 ft

Duration: 6 hours

The trail from Ghiling descends to Chhuksang village. You will trek past small villages, observing the locals living their lives. Likewise, witness beautiful mountain views across huge sand fields. The trail is uneven and steep in some places.

Max. Altitude: 3,050 mMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
14Day

Altitude: 2,715 m/8,907 ft

Duration: 5 hours

As you trek from Chhuksang to Jomsom, you will come out of the Upper Mustang and follow the trail in the Lower Mustang. Enjoying unique rock formations, cliffs, and snow-capped mountains, trek to Kagbeni. Walk via narrow alleys and pass by white-ashed hours. From Kagbeni, the trail descends to Jomsom, where the trek ends.

Max. Altitude: 2,715 mMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house
15Day

Altitude: 820 m/2,690 ft

Duration: 20 minutes

Take an early morning flight out of Jomsom to Pokhara. The guide will drop you at the hotel in Pokhara upon landing. You have a full day in this beautiful city. Rest and later visit nearby tourist sites like Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave. Have good food, shop, and enjoy your time in this city of lakes.

Max. Altitude: 820 mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 3 Star Hotel
16Day

Altitude: 1,400 m/4,600 ft

Duration: 6-7 hours

Today, you will drive back to Kathmandu following the same route. It will be mid-afternoon by the time you reach Kathmandu. Get some rest and freshen up. Spend the evening exploring the bustling streets of Thamel or visit Aosn Market. Buy souvenirs and meet us for farewell dinner in the late evening.

Max. Altitude: 1400 mMeals: Breakfast,Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
17Day

You will fly to your home or next destination on this day. Our team will drop you at the international airport three hours before your flight departure time.

Meals: Breakfast
Route Map
Upper Mustang Trek Map, Varitation, Trekking route
Cost Details
Included
  • 2 nights of accommodation in Kathmandu & 2 nights in Pokhara (BB plan).
  • 11 nights of accommodation on mountain while trekking in a basic lodge/hotel , includes 3 meals a day ( B L D ).
  • Hot drinks (Tea / Coffee).
  • An experienced, licensed, English speaking guide for sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • A government registered trekking guide (English speaking with license) & a local porter (1 porter with 2 trekkers).
  • Fooding, lodging, Salaries & insurance of the staffs.
  • Both way domestic flights (Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara).
  • Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu transport by tourist bus.
  • Transportation fees during ground-travel (airport pick up & drop).
  • Government taxes, entry fees and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permit & 
  • All applicable fees.
  • One cultural show and farewell dinner.
  • Trip Completion Certificate.
  • First Aid Kit.     
Excluded
  • International flights.
  • Nepal entry visa.
  • Airport departure tax.
  • Entrance fees to monuments.
  • Extra showers, Battery recharge costs, laundry, etc.
  • Personal clothing and gears.
  • Food in Kathmandu (also if earlier return to Kathmandu from Mountains due to any reason than the scheduled Itinerary).
  • Extra night accommodation/s in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled Itinerary.
  • Unforeseen cost due to flight cancellation, weather conditions etc.
  • Tips to guide and porter.
  • Cancellation fees, if any from your side.
  • Hot shower.
  • Boiled water.
  • Wi -Fi.
  • Costs raised by conditions that are not under our control such as landslides, weather conditions, political unrest, illness, etc.
  • Travel Insurance.
Dates & Availability
US$3300
Starts: Sep 02, 2024Ends: Sep 18, 2024
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US$3300
Starts: Sep 17, 2024Ends: Oct 03, 2024
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Below is our trek cancellation/refund policy:

  • If the company has to cancel the trip due to unforeseen circumstances, you will receive a full refund.
  • After deducting the cancellation fee, you will receive a refund if you cancel the trek. Check out our terms and conditions for more information.
  • If you fail to join the trek, inform us within 48 hours to claim a refund. You will get the refund after deducting all the incurred expenses

For this trekking, you will be given an English-speaking guide-cum porter if your reservation is made for a lone traveler. On the other hand, we accept your reservations for this trekking's daily departure all year round. For ABC, we offer trekking for individuals, small groups, or mixed groups. Only during the year's major seasons is group membership feasible.

Additional Info

Upper Mustang trek permit

The Upper Mustang is a restricted area, so requires a special permit, which is quite costly. This trek also needs the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit. Both permit fees are covered in our Upper Mustang trek package, so you do not have to pay them. For your information, we have mentioned the price of both permits below:

  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area permit cost: USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and USD 50 per person each day thereafter
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit cost: USD 30 per person

Guide and porter during the trek

Because the Upper Mustang is a restricted area in Nepal, it is mandatory to trek with a guide. You cannot do the Upper Mustang trek without a guide. Our Upper Mustang trek package includes an expert native guide and porter. They will accompany you during the trek.

Their presence will make the journey very immersive, safe, and manageable for you. Our guides and porters are friendly and reliable. You can talk to them when you are bored, ask questions if something intrigues you, and customize the itinerary if you want to explore further.

What is the best time to do the Upper Mustang trek?

You can do the Upper Mustang trek from March to November. March, April, May, September, October, and November are the best times for trekking because of the mild climate and stable weather. These are the peak months for doing any trek in Nepal.

In June, July, and August, there is no rainfall in the Upper Mustang, so you can trek. However, until you enter the Upper Mustang, you will face unstable weather, probably rainfall, and a not-so-good road/trail condition.

December, January, and February are the coldest times of the year. The villagers from the high settlements leave their homes and descend to lower elevations to spend the winter. So, many tea houses are closed in this season. The temperature falls below -20 °C.

Upper Mustang trek travel insurance

Because of the remoteness of the Himalayas and the lack of transportation and medical infrastructure, travel insurance is necessary. You will get immediate helicopter rescue in an emergency if you have travel insurance that covers it.

We assure you of a safe Upper Mustang trek, but we cannot predict the unseen circumstances. So, travel insurance with helicopter evacuation and medical assistance coverage is a must if you are traveling in the Himalayas.

Upper Mustang trek difficulty level

Upper Mustang is a difficult trek in Nepal. It is an offbeat trek with low elevation gain (under 4,000 meters) and demands good fitness. The trekking region is arid and barren instead of lush and thriving with vegetation.

If you have trekked other parts of the Himalayas in Nepal, then do note that the Upper Mustang is entirely different in terms of climate, weather, terrain, and environment. It is not a super challenging trek in Nepal, but the trekker has to be well prepared.

Previous trekking experience is not compulsory for the Upper Mustang trek, however, strong fitness is needed. If you can walk 6 hours a day and adjust to limited services, you can do the Upper Mustang trek in Nepal.

Is there an altitude sickness risk during the Upper Mustang trek?

Yes, there is altitude sickness risk during the Upper Mustang trek. During the trek, you will climb higher every day until you reach Lo Manthang. However, given the comparatively low altitude gain on this trek, you do not have to worry much about altitude sickness.

Unlike the other trekking routes in Nepal, the Upper Mustang trail crosses several mid-range mountain passes (under 3,500 meters). So, you will be climbing higher and sleeping low in most parts of the trek, which allows for acclimatization.

Similarly, our Upper Mustang trek itinerary has an acclimatization day in Lo Manthang. By keeping yourself hydrated, nourishing yourself with good food, getting ample sleep daily, and maintaining your pace, you can further lower the risk of altitude sickness.

Accommodation and meals during the Upper Mustang Trekking

The accommodation during the Upper Mustang trek is a tea house. You will get both lodging and food in the tea house. The trail is dotted with ample tea houses to cater to the trekkers. Tea houses provide basic rooms that are usually shared between two trekkers.

Washrooms may have Western-style toilets or squat-style toilets. You will get blankets, but a high-quality sleeping bag is recommended for more warmth and comfort. Like most of the accommodations in the Himalayas, you may have to pay an additional few bucks for charging, hot shower, and WiFi.

You will have breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a day. Apart from these main meals, you can buy additional food and beverages on your own. Nepali and Tibetan dishes are mostly found everywhere, but there are also options such as burgers, pizza, pasta, steak, etc.

Dal bhat,thukpa, momo, Tibetan bread, thenduk, etc, are some of the main foods we will have during the trek. They are very delicious, fresh, and nourishing. Boiled drinking water is available. Do not drink alcohol or smoke during the trek, especially if you are ascending.

FAQs

The Upper Mustang trek is a challenging journey. In terms of altitude, this trek does not gain that much elevation, but the trekking route is steep and rugged and crosses many mountain passes. The Upper Mustang trek best suits trekkers who are fit and have previous trekking experience.

The Upper Mustang trek costs USD 1,650 to USD 3,500 per person. The cost of the package varies as per the services included in it and because of the itinerary. Likewise, the Upper Mustang trek restricted area permit is expensive, which also results in high costs.

The highest point you will touch during the Upper Mustang trek is Nyi La pass. It is located 4,010 meters (13,156 ft) above sea level. Likewise, the highest point you will spend the night during this trek is Lo Manthang, situated at 3,840 meters (12,598 ft).

The Upper Mustang Trek offers very distinct landscapes and trekking experiences from the rest of the trekking regions in Nepal. If you have traveled to Annapurna, Everest, or the Langtang region, you will be surprised to see the Upper Mustang. This trek is a must-do and 100% worth it.

The Upper Mustang has a border with Tibet. Likewise, this region has many undiscovered sky caves and ancient monasteries. To maintain border security and preserve archeological and cultural values, Upper Mustang has made a restricted area.

Upper Mustang is a rain shadow area, so you can travel here in the monsoon season. This makes it quite famous. Likewise, you can also explore the Upper Mustang on a bike or car, which make this region very appealing to travelers who cannot trek for whatever reason.

No, you cannot go to Upper Mustang by bus, but you can use a local jeep or bike.

The temperature in Upper Mustang ranges from 18°C to 28°C during the daytime in spring and autumn. Likewise, the temperature drops to -2°C in the nights and mornings.

Yes, Upper Mustang is safe to travel for both local and foreign tourists. The trekking route is dotted with tea houses. Likewise, the locals are welcoming and friendly. Moreover, you will trek with a reliable and trustworthy native guide, so there is nothing to worry about during the Upper Mustang trekking.

From Kathmandu, Upper Mustang is approximately 422.5 kilometers (262.5) away. This is the road distance.

Muktinath temple is located in the lower Mustang. You do not have to get the restricted area permit if you are only visiting Muktinath temple.

Yes, a beginner trekker can do the Upper Mustang trek, but he/she should have good physical fitness. It is better to have some previous high-altitude experience before doing this trek.

What our Clients Say?
Recommended on:
S
26 Jul, 2023
The lost kingdom of Nepal

I came to Nepal to explore the lost kingdom of Nepal. My trip to Nepal for 17 days was fully prepared by Regulus treks. The majestic views of mount Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and mount Nilgiri was so fascinating to watch it in clear weather. The meditation caves were good to explore...

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Sofia Johansson
Sweden
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