Upper Mustang Trek - 17 Days

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Upper Mustang
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At a Glance
Duration17 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeModerate
i
Maximum Altitude3950m
Group Size2+ Pax
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking
Meal(B/L/D)
AccomodationTea House accommodation in Mountain and 3 Star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Best TimeMar - May, Sep - Dec

Experience the Himalayas, unlike any other part of Nepal, during the Upper Mustang trek. Instead of lush valleys, verdant forests, and glacier moraines, you will trek through canyons, high cliffs, and sand deserts. Enjoy the offbeat adventure and discover a rich cultural heritage. The Upper Mustang trek is an unparalleled journey- a lifetime trip.

The Upper Mustang was long forbidden to enter. The entire region is shrouded in mysteries, myths, and legends. Locals live a very simple lifestyle, untouched by the modern world that we know. You will feel somewhat like you are traveling back in time. The terrain, climate, locals, delicacies, and traditions are heavily influenced by neighboring Tibet.

The Upper Mustang trek is not very demanding, but it will test your strength and endurance. Note that the Upper Mustang is not like the famous EBC, ABC, or Annapurna Circuit. This is a true adventurous trek in a rainshadow area. If you are looking for a unique voyage in Nepal and are open to pushing yourself, then we highly recommend you Upper Mustang trek 17 days trek.

Highlights

  • Explore an unbelievable trekking region in Nepal- Upper Mustang
  • Embark on an adventurous journey in a trans-Himalayan area
  • Trek through canyons, high cliffs, and sand deserts
  • Travel back in time to mystical Lo Manthang- the last forbidden kingdom
  • The trail is offbeat and crosses many passes
  • Discover hidden caves and ancient monasteries adorned with intricate carvings and colorful prayer flags
  • Get to see the Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage of the locals and their unique lifestyle
  • Witness stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Explore many canyons, ancient monasteries, and sky caves

What to expect during the Upper Mustang trek?

You will begin and end the Upper Mustang trek with a long scenic drive from/to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. You will have a full day in Kathmandu to prepare for the trek and visit some tourist sites. The trek starts from Kagbeni. You will trek through narrow alleys and pass by white-washed houses.

As you trek from one village to another, the landscapes get more and more dry and sandy with barren hills, rice paddies, meadows, and stone/mud houses. Along the trail, you will get to witness views of Nilgiri (7,061 m), Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), and many others. Landscapes are surreal throughout the trek.

Lo Manthang (3,840 m/12,598 ft) is the main highlight of the Upper Mustang trek in Nepal. It is the last forbidden kingdom of Nepal and is also known as the walled city. This town is literally surrounded by mani walls. It is the capital of Mustang. Here, you will visit many ancient monasteries like Namgyal Gompa, Tall Champa Lhakhang, Red Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, the King's Palace, and the Entrance Hall.

Similarly, you will explore the infamous sky caves here. These are believed to be man-made caves. They are highly unstable, so several of them are still undiscovered. The trek ends in Muktinath, a pilgrimage site in Nepal. From here, you will drive to Pokhara and spend a night here before returning to Kathmandu.

Who can do the Upper Mustang trekking?

The Upper Mustang is different from all other trekking regions in Nepal. You have to fulfill a certain requirement to trek here. Trekking without a guide in the Upper Mustang is prohibited. You must trek in a group of two travelers, and the trip must be organized by a registered local trekking company like us.

Even though the altitude gain is minimal on this trek, the terrain is challenging and crosses many passes. Therefore, participants must have a moderate level of fitness and endurance to do the Upper Mustang trek 17 days. Beginners can also do this trek if they are well prepared. You do not have to be super fit, a moderate level of fitness will be fine.

If you have any health conditions that may be affected because of high altitude, consider visiting your doctor and also inform us. All ages of trekkers can join us on the Upper Mustang trek 2024. If you are looking for something different in the Himalayas, then this is the trek for you.

How to prepare for the Upper Mustang trek 17 days?

To prepare for the Upper Mustang trek, you have to address your strength, stamina, endurance, and composure. Train for 2 to 3 months before embarking on the trek. Do activities like running, cycling, hiking, swimming, stair climbing, walking, etc. Start light and gradually increase the intensity of your workout.

You can do bodyweight strength training or go to the gym for it. Focus on making your core, upper body, and legs strong. Strength training will also help you improve stability. Likewise, make a stretching routine and train your mind to be okay with the limitations of the Upper Mustang trail.

Upper Mustang trek packing

You have to pack according to the seasons you are doing the trek. Proper clothes, gear, and other essentials are needed for a successful and stress-free Upper Mustang trek experience. The below list will provide you with a general idea for Upper Mustang trek packing:

  • Clothes and gear: Underwear, breathable base layer, thermal layer, fleece jacket, down jacket, waterproof/windproof jacket/pant, trekking shirt/pants, dry tower, beanie, sun hat, gloves, socks, trekking boots, sandals, sunglasses with UV protection, scarf, flashlight, trekking poles, sleeping bag, rain cover, dry bags, duffel bag, day pack, etc
  • First aid and toiletries: Water bottle, water purification tablets, soap, toothpaste/brush, comb, pocket mirror, moisturizer, deodorant, wet tissues, toilet paper, lip balm, Diamox, band-aid, crack bandage, cotton, continent, general medicines, etc
  • Miscellaneous: Insect repellent, adapter, charger, power bank, journal/pen, trekking map, guide book, snacks, knee supporter (optional), passport, travel visa, travel insurance document, Nepali cash, permit, emergency fund, passport-sized photos, etc

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the mystical land of Upper Mustang?

The Upper Mustang trek is more than adventure. You will find yourself amidst rich cultural heritage, ancient monasteries, and sky caves. With adventure, you will also get immersed in the traditions, practices, and beliefs of the locals.

You will push your limits while crossing the mountain passes and test your strength, resilience, and determination. Learn new perspectives and philosophies. Embrace the simplicity of life, enjoy nature, and disconnect from the noise of the world.

Overall, the Upper Mustang trek is a soul-stirring experience that will change your life. Join the Upper Mustang trek in Nepal and embark on your lifetime adventure. Bookings are open for the Upper Mustang trek 2024.

Tiji festival trek 2024 and Upper Mustang jeep tour

The Tiji festival trek also takes you to Lo Manthang. The main highlight of this trek is the Tiji festival. You will spend three days in Lo Manthang observing and participating in the festival. In 2024, the Tiji festival is going to happen on the 5th, 6th, and 7th of May. Book your Tiji festival trek now and start preparing.

The Tiji festival is the biggest celebration for the locals of Upper Mustang. The festival marks victory over evil. As per the legend, when the demon was about to destroy the whole region, Dorje Jono protected the land by summoning gods. Locals celebrate this festival with colorful masked dances, huge sand mandalas, rituals, and mantras.

Likewise, the Upper Mustang is the only part of the Himalayas that you can explore in a jeep. Our Upper Mustang jeep tour is the perfect package for travelers who cannot trek but wish to witness stunning mountain views. Likewise, adventure enthusiasts also do the Upper Mustang bike tour.

Why do the Upper Mustang trek with Trekking Guide Team Adventure?

We, Trekking Guide Team Adventure, are your trusted companion in Nepal during any trek. Our more than 17 years of expertise in organizing treks in the Himalayas makes us a reliable local trekking partner. Our friendly and professional guide will accompany you during the trek. Likewise, porters will carry the duffel bags.

During the Upper Mustang trek 17 days, we adhere to high safety standards and provide our guests with a trained crew. Likewise, our itineraries are flexible, and cost is transparent. You can customize the Upper Mustang trek itinerary as per your budget and requirements. Our team will make the journey hassle-free for you.

We are also deeply committed to promoting ethical and sustainable tourism practices. During Upper Mustang trekking with us, you will not harm the environment in any way. With our time in the industry, we have successfully built a strong reputation along with a high customer satisfaction rate.

Whether you are doing the Upper Mustang trek in Nepal solo or with your loved ones, we promise you an unforgettable, life-changing journey at an affordable cost!

Itinerary
Tour PlanExpand All

Meet the representatives of the Trekking Guide Team at the Tribhuvan International Airport. They will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel in Thamel. We will use a private vehicle to travel from the airport to the hotel. The rest of the day is leisure. You can explore Thamel and nearby areas on your own.

Meals: Welcome dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

We will spend this day in Kathmandu, visiting tourist sites in the morning and preparing for the trek in the late afternoon. The tour guide will pick you up from the hotel after breakfast. You will visit places like Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanatu Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

These are some of the famous tourist sites in Kathmandu. After the tour, you will have 2-3 hours for lunch and rest. Later in the day, we will introduce you to your trek guide. After the trek briefing, do last-minute shopping and pack the duffel bags.

Meals: Breakfast onlyAccommodation: Hotel

We will leave Kathmandu early in the morning and drive to Pokhara. It is a beautiful 7 hours drive. By the time we reach Pokhara, it will be mid/late afternoon. We have the remaining day to rest and explore the city. We will enjoy boating on the Phewa Lake and explore the bustling Lakeside Market. Lakeside Market is like the Thamel of Pokhara.

Meals: Breakfast & lunchAccommodation: Hotel

From Pokhara, we will drive to Kagbeni. It is a long but very scenic ride. As we leave the hustle and bustle of Pokhara behind, we will drive, enjoying the spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The road gets offbeat and bumpy. We reach Jomsom and from here, continue the drive to Kagbeni.

Max Altitude: 2,800 m/9,500 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

From Kagbeni, we will trek uphill and downhill, following the Kali Gandaki river bed. The trail goes across fields of barley, wheat, buckwheat, etc. We will also come across apple orchards on the way. Trek past villages like Chusang before you arrive at Chele.

Max Altitude: 3,050 m/10,006 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

From Chele to Ghilling, we will ascend via beautiful villages. The barren landscapes and stunning mountain views are seen throughout the trail. On the way, we will go past Samar village and ascend to Yamda La pass. The mountain views are surreal from the top of the pass. The trail then descends from here to Ghilling .

Max Altitude: 3,540 m/11,614 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

Today, we will follow an old route between Ghilling and Tsarang. We will trek via villages like Tamagaon, Ghuling, Chhunggar, and Jhaite. On the way, witness semi-arid desert-like landscapes. Before reaching Tsarang, we will cross two passes- Nyi La and Choya La. Both passes are under 3,500 meters. We will also trek via barley and buckwheat fields.

We will reach Ghmai by crossing the Nyi La pass. From here, cross a bridge and ascend to Choya La. Enjoy fantastic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Nilgiri, Thorong Peak, and many more. Further, trek to Tsarang.

Max Altitude: 3,932 m/12,900 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

From Tsarang, the trail continues to Lo Manthang, offering stunning views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I, and Bhrikuti Peak on the way. The day starts with a downhill walk to Charang Chu Canyon. From here, we will ascend following a steep track and cross a river. The trail then continues to Lo La pas and descends to Lo Manthang for the night stay.

Max Altitude: 3,840 m/12,598 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

We have one more day in Lo Manthang. This is our acclimatization day. We will visit different ancient monasteries and the sky caves today. Our first stop is the Namgyal Gompa. It is a very important religious place and the court of justice for the locals. From here, we will hike to Tingkhar. It is the last village in the northwest of Lo-Manthang.

Then visit the Chose Cave, where we will explore many sky caves. Likewise, we will explore the Tall Champa Lhakhang, also known as the God house. Some other major places we will visit are the Red Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, the King's Palace, and the Entrance Hall.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

We will continue trekking from Lo Manthan to Dhakmar on this day. The trail goes via Gyakar, where we get to explore an ancient monastery called Ghar Gompa. It is more than 1,200 years old. From here, we will trek, enjoying beautiful mountain views. The trail goes past small settlements and follows rugged terrain.

Max Altitude: 3810 m/12,500 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

From Dhakmar, the trail crosses several small streams and villages. We will trek past Samar before reaching Syanbochen. On the way, we can see superb views of mountains like Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri. In Syanbochen village, we will visit an old monastery.

Max Altitude: 3,475 m/11,398 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

Descend from Syanbochen, crossing numerous streams on the way. The trail goes past villages and the Chungsi Cave. Here, we will get to see very traditional houses and the unique lifestyle of the locals. We will further trek, enjoying beautiful landscapes of high cliffs and rock formations.

Max Altitude: 2,980 m/9,777 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

Today is our last day of trekking. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki river and passes by settlements like Tangbe and Kagbeni. The highlight of the trail is white-washed houses and narrow alleys. We will trek via Jharkot before reaching Muktinath. Muktinath is a pilgrimage site in Nepal with significant importance to Hindus and Buddhists.

Max Altitude: 3,762 m/12,343 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

From Muktinath, we will drive to Tatopani. It is a long and bumpy ride with phenomenal landscapes. The road follows uneven cliff sides and passes by small villages. On the way, we will see beautiful orange and apple trees and the locals doing their daily chores. In Tatopani, we can enjoy natural hot springs by paying a few extra bucks.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse

After a big breakfast, we will leave Tatopani and drive back to Pokhara. We will be using a local jeep or bus. The rise will be bumpy at first and then get smooth. The wonderful scenery will keep us company. Upon reaching Pokhara, we will settle in our hotel and spend the remaining day resting.

Meals: Breakfast & lunchAccommodation: Hotel

We will drive back to Kathmandu on this day. It will be a scenic ride like the last time. We use a very comfortable, tourist standard bus. The guide will drop you at the hotel upon reaching Kathmandu. Spend the rest of the day as you wish. Explore local markets and buy souvenirs. Meet us for the farewell dinner in the late evening.

*Note: If you want to have a full day in Kathmandu, you can opt for a short flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu by paying extra money.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Our airport team will take care of your departure. They will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport on time for your flight.

Meals: Breakfast only
Cost Details
Included
  • Hotel in Kathmandu at 3 stars (Nivas Boutique Home) with bed & breakfast 3 nights in twin sharing basis.
  • Hotel in Pokhara at 3 stars (Splendid View) with bed and breakfast 2 nights in twin sharing basis.
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu in tourist bus.
  • Pokhara to Kagbeni by private jeep.
  • Transportation cost for Muktinath to Tatopani and Tatopani to Pokhara by local sharing bus.
  • Your daily meal main course (Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner) during the trek.
  • One experience trekking guide & one porter for each two tourists.
  • Annapurna Conservation Permit.
  • Upper Mustang Special Permit.
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS).
  • Insurance for guide & porters.
  • All accommodation during the trek available lodge/tea houses.
  • Our service charge.
  • Farewell dinner.
Excluded
  • Personal equipment: Sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking shoes, personal towel, torch light, gloves, trekking stick, warm clothes, sun glass, sunscreen, socks, some medicine for headache, fever, handiplast, bandage, pain killer, stomach ache, diarrhea, dimox etc. (You can hire or buy sleeping bag easily in Kathmandu) for trekking/climbing.
  • Personal insurance for travel to Nepal.
  • Nepal Entry VISA 30 USD per person.
  • Kathmandu valley sightseeing 26 USD per person.
  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
  • Emergency Rescue evacuation.
  • Tipping (Tips) For guide & porter.
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. (Tea, Coffee, Mineral Water, hot water, soup)
  • Sweet things like chocolate and desert.
  • Hot shower and laundry during the trekking.
  • All that are not mentioned in cost include.
  • Wi-Fi, internet, phone calls, battery charging.
Add-ons & Options
  • Personal equipment: Sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking shoes, personal towel, torch light, gloves, trekking stick, warm clothes, sun glass, sunscreen, socks, some medicine for headache, fever, handiplast, bandage, pain killer, stomach ache, diarrhea, dimox etc. (You can hire or buy sleeping bag easily in Kathmandu) for trekking/climbing.
Dates & Availability
StartsApril 30, 2024
EndsMay 16, 2024
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$1700
Book Now
Additional Info

Upper Mustang trek permit

Upper Mustang is a restricted area in Nepal, so trekkers have to obtain a special restricted area permit to travel in this region. Now for your information, foreign trekkers can only obtain a restricted area permit with the help of a Nepali-registered trekking company like us. Apart from that, you will also need to get the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit.

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost: USD 2,000 per person
  • Upper Mustang restricted area permit cost: USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and USD 50 per day thereafter

Upper Mustang trek difficulty & altitude sickness

The Upper Mustang trek is difficult. This trek is recommended to trekkers with previous high-altitude experience and good fitness. It is an offbeat trek in a trans-Himalayan region. The terrain, climate, and weather in Upper Mustang are very different from the rest of the trekking region in Nepal.

The terrain is steep, sandy, and rocky. Upper Mustang is a semi-desert. You will cross many mountain passes during the trek, all under 3,500 meters. Strong stamina, leg muscles, and core are required. The trail involves rugged cliffs, rocky gorges, and canyons. Overall, you will trek 145 kilometers (90 miles) during the Upper Mustang trek.

The distance may differ as per your itinerary. Compared to the usual gain in elevation during the famous treks in Nepal, the Upper Mustang trek sees a low rise in altitude. The highest point is Nyi La pass (3,932 m/12,900 ft). You have to be aware of altitude sickness during the trek, even though the risk is comparatively low.

The trail gradually ascends, allowing your body to adapt to altitude and environment before you reach Lo Manthang. Here, you will spend time acclimatizing. Likewise, be cautious of your body and inform any discomfort to your guide. Keep yourself hydrated and maintain your pace to avoid altitude sickness.

Is travel insurance needed for the Upper Mustang trek?

Yes, travel insurance is required for the Upper Mustang trek. Upper Mustang is located far away from major cities, with almost no decent health facilities. Even with our best efforts, you may get injured, sick, or suffer from elevated altitude sickness.

Likewise, there could be natural distress or any other unforeseen circumstance that may require you to immediately leave the trail. In cases like these we need travel insurance with helicopter coverage for a prompt evacuation.

Without travel insurance, the rescue providers ask for payment first, which can delay the evacuation. So, buy a nice travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage for the Upper Mustang trek. You may also cover medical bills, trip cancellation, theft of personal belongings, etc, in your travel insurance.

Accommodation and meals during the trek

Upper Mustang is a tea house trek. Our package includes basic teahouses with twin shared rooms. However, you have the option to upgrade the accommodation to luxury lodges available in a handful of villages along the trail. As per the changes made, the Upper Mustang trek cost will differ as well. Likewise, you can also get a single room by paying a few extra bucks.

The rooms in the tea houses are small but clean and cozy. You will get to rest after a long day trek and socialize with other trekkers and locals. Washrooms are mostly shared and have either Western or squat-style toilets. Running water is not available everywhere. You can buy a bucket of hot water to freshen up. Similarly, charging and WiFi also cost a few extra bucks.

We highly recommend getting a solar charger or a solar power bank and a sleeping bag for the Upper Mustang trek. In food, you will mostly get Nepali or Tibetan dishes. Flavors will be different than in the city, but you will enjoy the meals. Ranging from dal bhat, Tibetan bread, thukpa, stew, and momos to porridge, pancakes, eggs, toast, and soups, the options will be decent.

Indulge in local specialties like apple pie, rice pudding, slaty Tibetan tea, ginger tea, Nepali spiced tea, dhido, etc. Boiled drinking water is available everywhere. You can buy it at a very minimal cost. Use water purification for added safety. If you have any special dietary requirements, let us know. We will see what we can do.

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

You can do the Upper Mustang trek from March to November. Yes, you can do this trek in summer/monsoon season as well. As Upper Mustang is a rain shadow area, there is no rainfall in this region, so the trail is all dry, but you may face scorching heat. Similarly, winter trekking is only recommended to travelers who can handle extreme cold.

Overall, the best time to do the Upper Mustang trek is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The climate and weather are excellent in these months. Trekking is pleasant because of the mild temperatures, and the mountain views are wonderful.

Guide and porter during the Upper Mustang trek

During the Upper Mustang trek, a licensed guide and porter will be traveling with you. Both will be native to the Upper Mustang, so you can expect lots of information, stories, and myths, revolving around the region. We will assign you a guide who can communicate in your language to eliminate the communication barrier.

You can trust the guide. He will be responsible for your safety and satisfaction in the mountains. Likewise, the porter will support you by carrying your luggage. Pack all the clothing and gear in the duffel bag. Porters carry them. Likewise, keep the essentials in the daypack with you.

FAQs

The highest point touched during the Upper Mustang trek is Nyi La pass. It is situated 3,932 meters (12,900 ft) above sea level. The highest settlement is Lo Manthang. It is located at 3,840 meters (12,598 ft) above sea level.

The Upper Mustang trek is an offbeat, high-altitude trek in Nepal. This trek's difficulty is considered challenging. Both beginner and experienced trekkers can do the Upper Mustang trek, but mostly recommended to experienced trekkers.

Our Upper Mustang trek itinerary is 17 days long. You can customize the itinerary as per your wish. You at least need two weeks to complete the Upper Mustang trek.

The Upper Mustang trek cost ranges from USD 1,850 to USD 3,500 per person. We provide the best Upper Mustang trek cost in the market and also organize budget-friendly Upper Mustang trek on special request. For more information, kindly contact us.

Yes, the Upper Mustang trek is worth it. You will get to experience a trans-Himalayan environment on this trek and arid landscape, which is unlike any part of the Himalayas in Nepal. The trek route is not crowded like the famous treks in Nepal and takes you to the last forbidden kingdom, Lo Manthang.

The Upper Mustang is restricted because this area shares a border with Tibet. Likewise, there are also many undiscovered sky caves in Upper Mustang. Not only that, but to also protect the rich cultural heritage of the locals, the Upper Mustang is made a restricted area in Nepal.

You can do the Upper Mustang trekking in these months- March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November. While trekking from June to August, plan well, as the lower part of the trail is disturbed with heavy rainfall and bad weather.

No, you cannot travel the Upper Mustang in a bus. However, you can explore it via jeep. Check out our Upper Mustang jeep tour package for more details.

The Upper Mustang starts from Kagbeni onwards. This is where the restricted areas begin. You can reach the starting point of the Upper Mustang trail either by driving or taking a domestic flight.

The Upper Mustang has long been forbidden to enter and houses ancient Tibetan Buddhism cultural heritage. This part of Nepal always stood as a separate kingdom. Even after democracy was established in the nation, Lo Manthang is considered as the last kingdom.

From Kathmandu, the Upper Mustang is located around 423 kilometers (263 miles) away.

Expert Consultation
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