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The Upper Mustang Trek, often known as Mustang Trek, is one of the most popular, mysterious, interesting, and charming destinations in Nepal. Mustang is an ancient Himalayan Kingdom that lies in the northern central part of Nepal at the top of the Kaligandaki River bordering with Tibet. The northern village of Kagbeni is known as Upper Mustang and has significant Tibetan influences. The major attractions of Mustang trekking are ancient Tibetan villages, rare medieval Buddhist arts, the exotic culture, traditions, languages, architecture, unique beauty of the vast high valley.
Your Upper Mustang Trek adventure begins in the City of Arts & Architecture, Kathmandu. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from NTB Treks and Expeditions, who will escort you to your hotel. This day is dedicated to resting or exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel, which is also a popular starting point for trekkers heading to the Annapurna region, including the Mardi Himal Trek.
Before heading to the mountains, spend the day exploring the cultural treasures of Kathmandu, including Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. These sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and provide an introduction to the region’s rich culture and heritage, setting the stage for your trek to Mardi Himal.
Enjoy a 6-7 hour scenic drive to Pokhara, passing through terraced fields, rivers, and villages. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and explore the lakeside area, with an option to take a boat ride on Phewa Lake. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Take a 20-minute scenic flight to Jomsom, the headquarters of Mustang. After breakfast, start trekking along the Kali Gandaki River towards Kagbeni, a medieval village with Tibetan influences. If time allows, visit Muktinath Temple (3,710m), a sacred Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site. Overnight stay in Kagbeni.
Start your trek towards Chele, leaving behind the lush green valleys and entering the dry, desert-like landscapes of Mustang. Pass through Tangbe village, known for its white-washed houses and barley fields. Cross the Kali Gandaki River and reach Chele. Overnight stay in Chele.
Today’s trek involves steep ascents and descents. Cross the Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and descend to Samar village (3,600m). Continue through lush juniper forests and reach Geling, an ancient settlement with red-walled monasteries. Overnight stay in Geling.
Start trekking towards Charang, passing through Nyi La Pass (4,020m). The route offers stunning views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri peaks. Charang is famous for its 5-story monastery and Buddhist murals. Overnight stay in Charang.
A relatively short trek today takes us to Lo-Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang. As you enter the walled city, you’ll notice ancient palaces, monasteries, and mud-brick houses. Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.
Spend the day resting and exploring Lo-Manthang at a relaxed pace. Visit the local monasteries, interact with the locals, and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas. Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.
Visit Mustang Royal Palace, ancient Buddhist monasteries (Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa), and cave dwellings of the region. Take a short hike to the Chhoser Cave Monastery, which is centuries old and carved into the cliffs. Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.
Retrace your steps and descend to Ghami, one of the largest villages in Mustang. Pass by the longest Mani Wall (Buddhist prayer wall) in Nepal. Overnight stay in Ghami.
Continue trekking back through Syangboche Pass (3,850m) and descend towards Samar, passing by beautiful chortens (Buddhist shrines). Overnight stay in Samar.
Trek towards the famous Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site where 108 water spouts flow with holy water. Hindu and Buddhist devotees believe that taking a bath here cleanses sins. Alternatively, you can descend to Kagbeni for a relaxing evening. Overnight stay in Muktinath or Kagbeni.
Descend towards Jomsom, marking the end of our Upper Mustang trek. Spend the evening celebrating with your trekking team and exploring Jomsom Bazaar. Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Take a scenic morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, followed by a connecting flight to Kathmandu. After arrival, check into the hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
This is the last day of your visit. You can enjoy shopping and buying souvenirs for friends and relatives. We will drop you off at the airport 3 hours before the departure time. The memories that you have shared with us matter a lot. Waving hands and goodbye hugs are just not enough; we tell our beloved guests to stay in touch with us, and this is how we feel satisfied by us.
Upper Mustang is located in the northern central part of Nepal, along the Kaligandaki River, bordering Tibet. It is a remote, restricted region known for its unique Tibetan culture and ancient Himalayan kingdom heritage.
Yes, Upper Mustang is a restricted area. You will need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) in addition to the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card.
The best time to trek Upper Mustang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is stable, and the skies are clear for mountain views.
The trek is considered moderate in difficulty, with some high-altitude trekking up to 3,840 meters at Lo-Manthang. Proper acclimatization and fitness are important.
Accommodation is mainly in traditional tea houses offering basic but comfortable facilities including meals. In towns like Lo-Manthang, facilities may be simpler and more rustic.
Yes, altitude sickness can occur, especially as you reach higher elevations like Lo-Manthang (3840m). Proper acclimatization days and hydration are crucial.
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