Trip Overview
Upper Mustang is home to the forbidden kingdom Lo manthang and has attracted travelers for a long time. The Upper Mustang trek takes you on a road to adventure through this mystical landscape and leaves you yearning for more. This trek transcends the ordinary and weaves through arid valleys to reveal the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. You’ll find mud houses and monasteries which have withstood the test of time. Beyond the physical challenge, Upper Mustang offers a cultural adventure and invites you to witness vibrant prayer flags, hear the chants of monks, and experience the warm hospitality of the Tibetan-influenced locals. Unveil the secrets of this once-forbidden kingdom, where time seems suspended amid snow-capped peaks and unique geological formations. Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast or a cultural fanatic, Upper Mustang promises an immersive journey.
Arrive in TIA, Kathmandu
Once you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you’ll feel the city’s vibrant energy. Your journey’s first moments are met with the hustle and bustle of a city that beams with life. Head to the hotel and meet the team members and guides that will accompany you on the trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Namaste Kathmandu
Dedicate today to exploring the cultural aspect of Kathmandu. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, starting with the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Relish the ancient architecture and soak in panoramic views of the city. Dive deep into the heart of Kathmandu, navigating vibrant streets, bustling markets, and historic temples. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Fly/Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (914m)
Wake up early and take a flight or drive to Pokhara. The journey provides you with majestic glimpses of the nearby mountains, pristine rivers, and an outlook of what Nepal looks like. Upon arriving in Pokhara, interact with the team leader as he outlines the plan for the trek. Overnight in Pokhara.
Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2700m.) -trek to Kagbeni (2810 m.)
Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2700m.) -trek to Kagbeni (2810 m.)
Trek from Kagbeni to Chusang (2900m.)
The road to Chusang is a blend of high trails and scenic riverbank pathways. As the trail widens, you’ll discover an endless stretch of sandy terrain which adds excitement to your journey. Picture-perfect Chusang village awaits, just a 2-hour walk beyond Tangbe, which rests at the meeting point of the Narshing Khola and the Kali Gandaki River. Overnight in Chusang.
Trek from Chusang to Samar (3150m)
As the trail moves away from the valley, it leads you on a magical journey. Climb steeply through a rugged alley until you reach Chele. Keep ascending on this steep slope and after moving past a high pass, the descent takes you to Samar. This quaint village is beautifully decorated by poplar trees. Overnight in Samar.
Trek from Samar to Geling (3510 m.)
Move beyond Samar and after crossing a scenic ridge descend into a sprawling gorge adorned with prayer flags. After you cross a stream, head downwards along a ridge to Shyangmochen. Here, you can find calm tea shops. Finally, you make another descent to arrive ultimately at Geling where huge fields of barley await you. Overnight in Geling.
Trek from Geling to Ghami (3490 m.) via Ghami La (3520m.)
Gently ascend from Geling by walking through charming fields towards the valley’s center. Pass by Tama Gun and walk on a challenging ascent across the valley’s head Nyi La. The descent from this pass takes you to a crucial trail junction. To the right, the direct path to Charang awaits, while the left trail guides you to Ghami—a sizable village adorned in white, nestled under protective overhanging cliffs. We shall spend the night here. Overnight in Ghami.
Trek fram Ghami to Tsarang (36200 m.)
Embark on the driest part of Mustang which leads to Charang. This bustling village rests atop the Charang Chu canyon. There, discover a colossal dzong (fortress) and a vibrant red gompa which has an impressive collection of thangkas. Overnight in Tsarang.
Trek from Tsarang to Lo-Manthang [Mustang] (3730m.)
Dive into the charms of Tsarang and explore its wonderful monastery before heading out for Lo Manthang. Move gently above the valley, where a large chorten marks the journey to your first glimpse of the walled city of Lo Manthang. The city has only one entrance so you circumambulate the wall to the gate on the northeast corner. Overnight in Lo-manthang.
Rest at Lo-Manthang.
Explore the unique atmosphere of Lo-Manthang today! Take time to explore the old monastery and soak in the cultural richness. Overnight in Lo-manthang.
Trek from Lo-Manthang to Ghami (3490 m.)
Proceed down the highland route by crossing alpine meadows. Descend a steep, eroded alley to Dhakmar and have lunch there. Finally, climb to a ridge and descend back to Ghami, where your camp awaits. Overnight in Ghami.
Trek from Ghami to Samar
Wind your way along a narrow path to reach Gelin. After crossing a stream, you arrive at Samar. It is a small village decorated with Tibetan-style houses, mani walls, and a monastery. Overnight in Samar.
Trek from Samar to Kagbeni
Descend on a narrow path to Chusang by crossing a suspension bridge over the Kali Gandaki. Follow the riverbank and observe surreal views of natural vegetation and apple orchards. Overnight in Kagbeni.
Trek from Kagbeni to Jomsom (2713m.)
The trail for the day passes through the banks of the Kali Gandaki River and through Eklebhatti too. You arrive at Jomsom again. Do some last-minute shopping or visit the same sites again. Overnight in Jomsom.
Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
A scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara lasts approximately 35 minutes. Explore Pokhara’s enchanting lakeside and visit the mountaineering museum. Overnight in Pokhara.
Fly/Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
If you take the flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you will have enough time to explore Kathmandu. Do some last-minute shopping and take part in a farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Departure
Head to the airport two hours before your departure, and bid farewell to this amazing journey.
Cost includes
- Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to the Airport (in our vehicle)
- Transportation to and from the destination
- Meals throughout the trip (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and a cup of coffee or tea) and accommodations during the journey in hotels with a family environment
- Transportation, food, accommodation, and insurance for the guide during the trip
- Provision of a Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag, duffel bag, and trekking map (in case you don’t have your own; Down jacket, sleeping bag, and duffel bag must be returned after the trip’s completion)
- First Aid Medical Kit (Your guide will carry the Medical Kit, but we also advise bringing your own for personal use as much as possible)
- All the required permits and paperwork
Cost excludes
- International Airfare
- Visa Charges
- Hotel Expenses (In Kathmandu, some packages do include hotel expenses)
- Your travel and medical insurance
- Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot showers, telephone, laundry, titbits, etc.
- Food and accommodations in Kathmandu
- Services not mentioned or promised by the agent/agency
- Emergency expenses, such as costs for a chartered helicopter.
general queries
How fit do I need to be do this Upper Mustang trek?
As the Upper Mustang trek is a Grade B trek, you can expect it to be moderately difficult. Even if you do not have any previous experience, you can do this trek by preparing yourself physically and mentally.
How long do we walk every day when doing the Upper Mustang trek?
On average, you can expect to walk for about 4-6 hours per day. Depending on the location, this duration can either be more or less than that.
What is the highest altitude reached in this Upper Mustang trek?
The highest altitude reached is 3730m.
What about battery charging and hot shower facilities during Upper Mustang trek?
Battery charging and hot shower facilities are available in the trekking route but you may have to pay a certain amount ranging from $1-$2. You must bring your charger along with you though.
Are there ATMs on the way to Upper Mustang?
No. There are no ATMs on this trekking route. You will have to withdraw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
What about internet access during Upper Mustang trek?
Internet facilities are available in most places. However, you may run into some technical issues as the internet connection is not as fast as in other countries.
Is it necessary to hire guides/trekking agencies for Upper Mustang trekking?
It is not necessary to hire a guide/trekking agency and you can do the trek independently too. However, having a guide/trekking agency will make the trek completely hassle-free as they will take care of all the paperwork, accommodation, and food.
How much do guides and porters cost during Upper Mustang trek?
For the Annapurna region, pay for guides ranges from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.
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