Upper Mustang Trek

Embark on an extraordinary journey to the mystical land of Upper Mustang, where ancient Tibetan culture and breathtaking Himalayan vistas await. Formerly known as the Kingdom of Lo, Upper Mustang is nestled in the northern reaches of the Mustang District of Gandaki Province, Nepal, bordering Tibet. Steeped in rich history and secluded from the outside world until 1992, this hidden gem offers a rare glimpse into a bygone era. Now accessible with a special permit issued by the Nepal government, this region promises an unparalleled adventure for the intrepid traveler.

Black and white photo of rugged canyon landscape with distant snow-capped mountains and rocky terrain, under a clear sky.
Two hikers walking on a rocky mountain trail under a clear blue sky.
Herd of black goats with blue collars walking down a rural dirt path lined with stone walls and old buildings in a village setting.
Sign for Ghami Village trekking trail to Lomanthang with a map and legend, showing settlements, roads, and attractions like Dhakmar's red cliffs and Tsarang's summer royal palace.
A scenic view of a Himalayan village with snow-capped mountains in the background, green terraced fields in the foreground, and a river flowing through the valley.
Navigation Bar
Overview Itinerary Trip Details FAQ Reviews

Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m)

  • Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our Himalayan Zen team and transferred to your hotel.

  • Evening: Trek briefing by guide Moti and welcome dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine.

  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2 | Rest Day and Equipment Preparation

  • Morning: Relax and acclimatize to Kathmandu’s altitude.

  • Afternoon: Equipment check with guide Moti, ensuring you have all necessary gear. Any last-minute purchases can be made at local trekking shops.

  • Optional sightseeing to historical sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or Durbar Square.

  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3 | Kathmandu to Pokhara (900m/2,953 ft)

  • Option to fly (25 minutes) or drive (6-7 hours) to Pokhara.

  • Afternoon: Sightseeing in Pokhara, visit Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, and the serene Phewa Lake.

  • Accommodation: Lakeside hotel in Pokhara.

Day 4 | Pokhara to Jomsom (2743m/8,999 ft)

  • Fly (20 minutes) or drive via jeep (8-9 hours) to Jomsom.

  • Explore the unique landscapes of the Kali Gandaki Valley.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Jomsom.

Day 5 | Trek to Kagbeni (2800m/9,199 ft, 3 hours)

  • Begin trekking through arid landscapes and windy trails to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.

  • Enjoy views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Kagbeni.

Day 6 | Trek to Chuksang (2950m/9,678 ft, 4 hours)

  • Pass through narrow valleys, ancient caves, and stone villages.

  • Witness the stunning red cliffs of Chuksang.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Chuksang.

Day 7 | Trek to Chele (3050m/10,006 ft, 4 hours)

  • Ascend through steep ridges and cross suspension bridges.

  • Experience Tibetan-influenced culture and architecture.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Chele.

Day 8 | Trek to Syanboche (3475m/11,400 ft, 4 hours)

  • Trek through picturesque valleys with stunning mountain views.

  • Pass by traditional villages and ancient Buddhist stupas.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Syanboche.

Day 9 | Trek to Ghemi (3520m/11,548 ft, 4-5 hours)

  • Cross the Yamda La Pass (3,850m) and encounter chortens and barley fields.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Ghemi.

Day 10 | Trek to Tsarang (3560m/11,680 ft, 3-4 hours)

  • Enjoy scenic views of the Mustang region.

  • Visit the Tsarang Monastery and explore the village.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Tsarang.

Day 11 | Trek to Lo Manthang (3840m/12,598 ft, 3 hours)

  • Reach the walled city of Lo Manthang, the cultural heart of Upper Mustang.

  • Explore ancient monasteries and the royal palace.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Lo Manthang.

Day 12 | Day Trip to Choser Cave Region (3438m/11,280 ft, 6-7 hours)

  • Travel by jeep to explore the stunning Choser Cave system and villages.

  • Learn about the region’s history from guide Moti.

  • Return to Lo Manthang for an overnight stay.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Lo Manthang.

Day 13 | Trek to Drakmar (3820m/12,532 ft, 6-7 hours)

  • Descend through high-altitude trails and beautiful landscapes.

  • Visit ancient monasteries and red cliffs.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Drakmar.

Day 14 | Trek to Chuksang (2950m/9,678 ft, 6-7 hours)

  • Retrace your steps, descending gradually.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Chuksang.

Day 15 | Trek to Kagbeni (2800m/9,199 ft, 3-4 hours)

  • Reach Kagbeni and choose between two options for returning to Pokhara:

    • Option 1: Take a jeep to Jomsom, fly to Pokhara the next morning.

    • Option 2: Take a direct jeep from Kagbeni to Pokhara.

  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Kagbeni.

Day 16 | Arrival in Pokhara

  • Morning: Enjoy Pokhara's serene ambiance with optional sightseeing.

  • Afternoon: Relax and unwind at your lakeside hotel.

  • Accommodation: Lakeside hotel in Pokhara.

Day 17 | Fly or Drive to Kathmandu

  • Return to Kathmandu via flight or jeep.

  • Evening: Farewell dinner with the Himalayan Zen team.

  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 18 | Departure for Home

  • Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.