Upper Mustang Trek
Unique trek through the forbidden kingdom
Trip Overview
The Upper Mustang Trek takes you to the remote "Forbidden Kingdom" of Mustang, a region that was closed to foreigners until 1992. This unique trek offers a glimpse into an ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The landscape is dramatically different from other Nepali treks, featuring desert-like terrain, eroded cliffs, and colorful rock formations.
Experience the rich Tibetan culture with its ancient monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags. The trek culminates in Lo Manthang, the medieval walled capital of the former Mustang kingdom. This trek requires a special restricted area permit, ensuring fewer crowds and an authentic cultural experience.
- Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu
- Day 2 : Fly to Pokhara
- Day 3 : Fly to Jomsom → Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m)
- Day 4 : Kagbeni → Chele (3,050m)
- Day 5 : Chele → Syangbochen (3,475m)
- Day 6 : Syangbochen → Ghami (3,520m)
- Day 7 : Ghami → Charang (3,560m)
- Day 8 : Charang → Lo Manthang (3,840m)
- Day 9 : Explore Lo Manthang
- Day 10 : Lo Manthang → Drakmar (3,810m)
- Day 11–14 : Return via Ghami, Samar, Kagbeni; Jomsom; Pokhara; Kathmandu
- Day 15 : Final Departure
Day 1–3: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Jomsom, Kagbeni
Arrival in Kathmandu, fly to Pokhara, then to Jomsom. Trek to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Day 4–8: Chele, Syangbochen, Ghami, Charang, Lo Manthang
Trek through dramatic desert landscapes to Lo Manthang, the walled city and ancient capital of Mustang. Visit monasteries and experience Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Day 9: Explore Lo Manthang
Full day to explore Lo Manthang. Visit Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, and Chhoedhe Gompa. Optional visit to the royal palace.
Day 10–15: Return via Drakmar, Ghami, Samar, Kagbeni; Jomsom; Pokhara; Kathmandu; Departure
Return journey via a different route. Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara and Kathmandu. Transfer to airport for departure.
Note: The trek itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice.
Essential Gear
- Trekking boots (well broken in), daypack (30-40 liters)
- Sleeping bag (-5°C rated), trekking poles, headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles (2-3 liters), sunglasses with UV protection, sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm
Clothing
- Base layers (thermal or synthetic), fleece jacket, lightweight down jacket
- Windproof jacket, trekking pants and shorts
- Warm hat and sun hat, gloves (lightweight), wool socks (multiple pairs)
Accessories & Essentials
- First aid kit, water purification tablets, personal medications
- Camera with extra batteries, power bank, toiletries and wet wipes
- Snacks (energy bars, chocolate), cash (Nepali rupees for tips/shopping)
Your trek cost includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1 night post-trek in Kathmandu
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on twin sharing basis
- All meals on full board basis (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- All permits and restricted area fees
- Porters; insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance; group medical kit
Your trek cost does NOT include
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (evacuation cover mandatory)
- Personal expenses (drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers, etc.)
- Meals unless specified; sightseeing; gratuities
- Charges due to delays beyond our control
