Upper Mustang Trek -16 Days
Embark on a full 16-day journey through the Last Forbidden Kingdom of Lo Manthang. This trek combines high desert landscapes, ancient monasteries, sky caves, and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, offering a deep cultural immersion with moderate trekking, jeep support, and expert guides.
What to Expect
Fly or drive to Jomsom, then traverse Upper Mustang via Kagbeni, Chele, Samar, Ghiling, Ghami, Tsarang, and Lo Manthang, exploring caves, cliff-side gompas, red-walled monasteries, and panoramic viewpoints. Return via the same route or alternate paths. Daily treks range from short walks to moderate hikes, with jeep support throughout.
Best Time: Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov) are ideal for clear skies and pleasant weather. Summer (Jun–Aug) is possible due to the rain shadow, while winters are cold but offer striking landscapes.
Why This Trip?
- Extended Exploration: 16 days allow in-depth visits to Lo Manthang, Chhoser caves, Yara, and Thinggar monasteries.
- Cultural Immersion: Meet the Loba people, witness traditional lifestyle, and explore walled towns and palace quarters.
- Stunning Landscapes: Ochre cliffs, arid canyons, panoramic high desert vistas, and unique flora & fauna.
- Comfortable Support: Private 4×4 jeep ensures flexibility and ease, with short moderate trekking sections.
- Flexible Add-Ons: Optional trips to Luri Gompa, Namgyal, Thinggar, or helicopter sightseeing.
16-Day Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary
| Day |
Route / Location |
Highlights / Activities |
| Day 1 |
Kathmandu – Pokhara |
Fly or drive to Pokhara, prepare for trek briefing, explore lakeside |
| Day 2 |
Pokhara – Jomsom (Flight) |
Flight to Jomsom, short acclimatization hike, visit local market |
| Day 3 |
Jomsom – Kagbeni – Chele |
Jeep to Kagbeni, explore old village, trek to Chele, first high desert scenery |
| Day 4 |
Chele – Samar |
Visit cave dwellings, explore cliff-side monasteries, scenic desert landscapes |
| Day 5 |
Samar – Ghiling |
Trek through canyons, observe Loba villages, enjoy panoramic desert views |
| Day 6 |
Ghiling – Ghami |
Visit red-walled monasteries, traditional farms, and quaint villages |
| Day 7 |
Ghami – Tsarang |
Explore Tsarang monastery and fort, scenic desert trails, cultural interaction |
| Day 8 |
Tsarang – Lo Manthang |
Arrive at Lo Manthang, walled town exploration, visit palace and monasteries |
| Day 9 |
Lo Manthang (Sightseeing) |
Full day sightseeing, explore Chhoser caves, visit monasteries, cultural immersion |
| Day 10 |
Lo Manthang – Ghami |
Trek back to Ghami, sunset views, interact with locals |
| Day 11 |
Ghami – Ghiling |
Return trek, explore villages, observe traditional lifestyle |
| Day 12 |
Ghiling – Samar |
Trek through desert valleys, visit monasteries and cliff caves |
| Day 13 |
Samar – Chele – Kagbeni |
Return trek, jeep support available, photography opportunities |
| Day 14 |
Kagbeni – Jomsom |
Jeep to Jomsom, visit local bazaar, prepare for flight |
| Day 15 |
Jomsom – Pokhara (Flight) |
Flight to Pokhara, rest, explore Lakeside city, souvenir shopping |
| Day 16 |
Pokhara – Kathmandu |
Drive or fly to Kathmandu, end of trek, airport drop or hotel transfer |
Trip Facts & Info
- Duration: 16 Days
- Altitude: Up to 3,840 m (Lo Manthang)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tea houses, lodges, or guesthouses
- Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner available at lodges
- Permits: Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
- Best Seasons: Spring and Autumn
Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Jomsom–Kathmandu)
- Accommodation: Hotels in Kathmandu and guesthouses/tea houses along the trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Private jeep support where needed
- Experienced trekking guide and local porters
- Permits: Restricted Area Permit (RAP) & Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- First aid kit and emergency support
- Comprehensive pre-trek briefing and itinerary guidance
- Travel insurance for trek staff
Excludes
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Meals in Kathmandu or outside the trekking itinerary
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Sleeping bags (can be rented)
- Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
- Additional sightseeing or personal activities
- Travel insurance for clients (highly recommended)
- Visa fees for Nepal
- Phone, internet, laundry, or personal expenses
Optional Add-Ons
- Helicopter sightseeing in Upper Mustang
- Overnight stay in Lo Manthang palace guesthouse
- Extended photography excursions in desert landscapes
FAQs
- Is this trek suitable for beginners? Moderate fitness required; mostly short trekking with jeep support.
- Do I need a special permit? Yes, a Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang and an ACAP permit are required.
- What should I pack? Warm layers, trekking shoes, hat, gloves, sunscreen, and camera.
Ready for the Journey?
Book your 16-day Upper Mustang Trek today and explore the Last Forbidden Kingdom with Great Vision Treks.
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Details
The Upper Mustang Trek is a 16-day adventure through one of Nepal's most isolated and culturally rich regions. Starting from Jomsom, the trek takes you through rugged landscapes, traditional Tibetan villages, and the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. This area, known as the "last forbidden kingdom," is rich in Tibetan culture, featuring monasteries, chortens, and mani walls.
As you trek, you’ll experience stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, with unique desert landscapes and high cliffs. The trek offers an immersive cultural experience, with opportunities to learn about local traditions, visit ancient spiritual sites like Ghar Gumba, and meet the warm, welcoming locals.
The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is ideal for trekking. The trek is relatively moderate, making it suitable for adventurous trekkers looking for a unique and culturally immersive experience.
Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital. You’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and adjusting to the time zone. You can also explore the local area or rest before your trek begins.
On this day, you'll embark on a guided tour of Kathmandu. Visit iconic landmarks like the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and the Durbar Square. Afterward, prepare for the trek with a briefing from your guide and finalize all necessary arrangements for the journey ahead.
Travel by tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city. The journey takes about 6-7 hours, and you'll pass through scenic landscapes. Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time by the serene Phewa Lake or visit Devis Fall.
Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, a popular stop in the Mustang region. The flight offers a stunning view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival in Jomsom, begin your trek to Kagbeni, a village with Tibetan influences, known for its traditional culture and breathtaking views. The trek is about 3-4 hours.
From Kagbeni, continue trekking to Chele. The route offers stunning views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains. The trek takes about 5-6 hours, passing through beautiful landscapes and traditional villages. Chele is a quaint settlement with strong Tibetan influence and scenic surroundings.
Trek from Chele to Syanbochen, a picturesque village nestled at the foot of towering mountains. The trek takes about 6-7 hours, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The journey passes through a variety of landscapes, including traditional villages, dry hills, and lush forests.
On this day, trek from Syanbochen to Ghami/Ghemi, which is known for its ancient monasteries and scenic beauty. The trek will take around 5-6 hours and you’ll pass through several small villages and winding trails that provide views of the dramatic terrain.
Trek from Ghami to Charang in 4-5 hours. Charang offers a peaceful environment with traditional Tibetan houses, and you'll have the chance to visit a monastery and explore the local culture. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of high desert landscapes and distant snow-capped peaks.
Today, trek to Lo-Manthang, the ancient walled city and capital of the Upper Mustang region. It will take about 5-6 hours, and as you get closer, you’ll notice the distinctive architecture and rich history of the region. Lo-Manthang is a spiritual and cultural center, with monasteries, temples, and Tibetan-influenced traditions.
Take a rest day to explore Lo-Manthang. Visit its ancient monasteries, such as Chodey Monastery and Jhong Monastery, and stroll through the narrow alleys of the city. You'll learn about the local culture, the Mustangi people, and their way of life. Explore ancient caves and fortresses around Lo-Manthang.
Leave Lo-Manthang and trek to Drakmar. This will take 6-7 hours, passing through unique desert terrain and rocky paths, with views of the majestic mountain ranges. Drakmar is a small village surrounded by barren hills and lush vegetation. It's also a great place to witness the traditional life of the Mustang people.
Trek from Drakmar to Ghilling in 5-6 hours. Ghilling is a traditional village with Tibetan-style homes and monasteries. This village offers a great spot to rest, take in the beautiful landscapes, and interact with the locals. It is known for its spiritual and serene atmosphere.
Today, trek from Ghilling to Chhuksang, a village located on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. The trek takes 5-6 hours, and you’ll pass through terraced fields, cliffs, and high desert landscapes. Chhuksang is a scenic village and a perfect place to rest after a long day of trekking.
On this day, trek back to Jomsom, retracing your steps. The trek will take 6-7 hours and follow the Kali Gandaki River. The route is primarily downhill, and as you approach Jomsom, you’ll enjoy views of the majestic mountains that surround the valley.
Travel back to Pokhara and then take a tourist bus back to Kathmandu. The journey takes 6-7 hours. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Spend the evening at leisure, shopping for souvenirs or visiting some of the famous landmarks you may have missed earlier.
Your Upper Mustang trek ends today. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your final departure, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal.
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