Upper Mustang Trek

Duration: 14 Days   |   Based on 1 Review   |   Trip Photos  |   Trip Map
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Transport: Aeroplane / Tourist Bus
  • Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge to lodge
  • Max Elevation: 4230m
  • Group Size: Min 2 pax

Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang is often called an isolated region of Nepal - located in the Himalayan region in the north-western part of the country. This region is widely praised for its unique culture, striking mountain views, and diverse wildlife, which has been the key to successful tourism prospects throughout the decade. Upper Mustang trek is a rewarding experience, and for travelers looking for a true Himalayan adventure and who are daring, Upper Mustang is the ultimate destination.

Upper Mustang is part of the trans-Himalayan region, which shares its border with Tibet. As it shares a border with Tibet, the culture and religion are somehow immersed in the autonomous region, giving its unique character. It is home to the famous Buddhist pilgrimage site of Muktinath lies, so it has great significance from a religious point of view.

The Upper Mustang trek is a great way to explore Nepal's remote and magical part of the Himalayas. You can also experience the traditional lifestyle, culture, and traditions of people and the community. Along with them, one of the main attractions of Upper Mustang is its outstanding scenery. The trekking route trails up to the ancient capital, Lo Manthang, where you can view white-washed buildings and surroundings in the picturesque scenery. This place is well known for its beautiful insights, from the snow-capped peaks in the north and barren hills to vast plains to clean blue rivers.

What Can You Expect In Upper Mustang Trek?

Upper Mustang is very rich in its history and culture. You can find many ancient monasteries and traditional villages in this region. The people around here are mostly of Tibetan traditions; for example, you can visit the Thakali community, which has its distinct culture, language, and practices. Their cuisine, Thakali Khana Set is one of the most renowned cuisines in the world.

Since most of the community is based on Tibetan culture, Buddhism is the main religion here. Monasteries, chortens, prayer flags, prayer wheels, and mani walls are some of the religious perks you can find. With all this richness in Upper Mustang, the region has become one of the popular destinations for trekkers worldwide.

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Highlights

  • Explore Pokhara city and its tourist destinations like Phewa Lake, Mountain Museum, Sarangkot Hill, Mahendra Gufa, and many more.
  • Visit one of the windiest places in Nepal, Jomsom.
  • Explore Rain-Shadow area in the Mustang region.
  • Visit Buddhist monasteries around the Upper Mustang region.
  • Explore Lo Manthang and visit the community rich in Thakali people, culture, and traditions.
  • Flight To Jomsom - Aerial view of the surrounding

Day to Day Itinerary

  • Day 1 Drive to Pokhara (820m)

    It is the first day of your Upper Mustang Trek - you will drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu after landing at Tribhuvan International Airport. Our agents will escort you to the transporting bus, bringing you to Pokhara in around 6 to 7 hours. You will be led toward your hotel for an overnight stay. The basic amenities of the hotels in Pokhara include an attached bathroom, hot showers, electricity, and internet services.

    Pokhara is a beautiful city of lakes in the mid-western part of Nepal. It is one of the major destinations for tourists all around the world.

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Pokhara
    • Altitude: 820 Meters
  • Day 2 Fly to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)

    Location: Jomsom | Kagbeni

    Jomsom Altitude: 2,743 Meters

    On the second day of your Upper Mustang trek, you will fly to Jomsom, a beautiful place in northern Nepal. You will catch a flight from Pokhara airport and land at Jomsom airport - it only takes around 20 minutes to reach Jomsom.

    Jomsom is one of Nepal's windiest places and has a beautiful view of the surroundings and the snow-capped mountains.

    After reaching Jomsom, the headquarters of Mustang, you will start a hike to Kagbeni at 2800 meters. You will take an uphill walk through Kali Gandaki river to reach Kagbeni. It takes around 3 hours of walking from Jomsom. Kagbeni is also called the Gateway to Upper Mustang and is a beautiful destination. The local Nepali apple and the wine 'Marpha' are very popular nationwide.

    You will stay at a tea house after reaching Kagbeni.

    • Accommodation: Tea House
    • Place: Kagbeni
    • Altitude: 2800 Meters
  • Day 3 Trek to Chele (3050m)

    Once you wake up the following day after reaching Kagbeni, you will prepare to kick off your next hike. Your next destination is Chele, 3050 meters above sea level. It would be best to climb uphill from Kagbeni from the east bank of Kali Gandaki river.

    First, you will reach Chussang village after a short trek and then climb via the substantial red mass of Conglomerate. You will leave Kali Gandaki Valley behind and then reach Ghyakar Khola valley. You will pass across the rocky terrain before you step into Chele. You will stay at a tea house at Chele.

    • Accommodation: Tea House
    • Place: Chele
    • Altitude: 3050 Meters
  • Day 4 Trek to Syangbochen (3475m)

    On the fourth day of the Upper Mustang trek, you will start your hike early in the morning at Chele and head towards Syangbochen village. On this day, you will elevate around 400 meters in altitude - Syangbochen village is located at a height of 3475 meters.

    You will have to walk through the steep landscapes and copper red canyon. Here, you can find a glimpse of Buddhism as you can see chortens and mani walls in the route. After passing the giant gorge, rocky terrains, and valley with green terrace fields, you will finally reach Syangbochen village.

    • Accommodation: Tea House
    • Place: Syangbochen
    • Altitude: 3475 Meters
  • Day 5 Trek to Ghaymi (3,520m)

    Your next destination on the fifth day of the Upper Mustang Trek will be Ghaymi, at 3520 meters. First, you will reach Geling, from where you will climb uphill through the rugged routes through the valley's center.

    From there, you will reach the Nyi La pass at 3,840 meters after a few hours of trekking. Similarly, you will be reaching Ghaymi within a matter of hours from there. Ghaymi is a famous village in a white-washed town. You can also view the overhanging cliffs in this village, where you will take shelter.

    • Accommodation: Tea House
    • Place: Ghaymi
    • Altitude: 3520 Meters
  • Day 6 Trek to Charang (3,560m)

    On the sixth day of your Upper Mustang Trek, you will leave Ghaymi early in the morning and set off for Charang village at 3560 meters. Remember, this is a high-altitude trek over 3500 meters, so you better be prepared with all you have.

    Charang is considered the driest part of the Mustang district, and most of the part has a rocky terrain. Your trek to Charang will be physically challenging, so use your fitness, sturdy hiking boots, and other kits.

    During the trek, you will reach Charang Chu Canyon and get to red Gompas in its east part. The Gompa features one of the artistic Thangka Paintings and statues around, which portrays the Buddhism of the region. You can get to Charang within a few hours of walking.

    • Accommodation: Tea House
    • Place: Charang
    • Altitude: 3560 Meters
  • Day 7 Trek to Lo-Manthang (3,840m)

    The major attraction of Upper Mustang is Lo-Manthang, and you will be hiking to this beautiful place on the seventh day of our trek. You will begin your journey from Charang Village and walk for 6 to 7 hours to reach Lo-Manthang village.

    Lo-Manthang is a trendy village that is rich in Buddhism and Tibetan culture. It features around 150 households. You can also see the habitats for the Buddhist Lama Guru (monks). Lo-Manthang was a Kingdom once, and to this date, you can find several ancient temples and monasteries around this region that carry great significance and reflect the ancient culture.

    • Accommodation: Tea House
    • Place: Lo-Manthang
    • Altitude: 3840 Meters
  • Day 8 Rest and Exploration at Lo-Manthang

    Activity: Rest And Explore

    On the eighth day of your Upper Mustang Trek, you will take a full day's rest and acclimatize to the altitude. Since you will already be at 3840 meters above sea level, your body needs rest, and you need to acclimatize to avoid any health hazards like altitude sickness and other related illnesses.

    It is recommended to make proper preparations for this trek. Eat healthy and nutritious food, stay hydrated, and take enough rest so that your body will retain energy and stamina for a successful hike.

    Besides rest, you can also explore the Lo-Manthang valley - you can visit the ancient monasteries and monuments and study Buddhism and its significance around the region.

    • Place: Lo-Manthang
    • Altitude: 3840 Meters
  • Day 9 Trek to Dhamkar (3,820m)

    Your next trekking destination will be Dhamkar, 3820 meters above sea level. Dhamkar is located in the upper highland of the Upper Mustang region, which offers a mystic view of Lo-Manthang and Charang Valley. Similarly, the views of snow-capped mountains around the area are breathtaking.

    You will pass across Dhila Pass at 4100 meters above sea level and then reach Dhamkar. The trek is physically challenging as it features rocky ridges and landscapes - similarly, you have to pass through the high altitude pass, Dhila Pass, which can be challenging to conquer. It's better to prepare well and acclimatize before starting the hike.

    • Accommodation: Tea House
    • Place: Dhamkar
    • Altitude: 3820 Meters
  • Day 10 Trek down to Syangbochen

    This is the tenth day of your trek, and you will descend back to Syangbochen on this phase of your Upper Mustang trek. You will be walking downhill and declining your altitude by 400 meters today. Stay hydrated and healthy since you must walk for hours to reach Syangbochen from Dhamkar.

    You will stay overnight at a tea house in Syangbochen.

    • Accommodation: Tea House
    • Place: Syangbochen
    • Altitude: 3475 Meters
  • Day 11 Trek to Chussang (2,980m)

    On the eleventh day of your Upper Mustang Trek, you will return to Chussang village at 2980 meters from Syangbochen. You will walk through the rugged terrains, rocky landscapes, valleys, and green forests to reach Chussang Village.

    At Chussang village, you can find many tea houses and guest houses to stay. You can get basic amenities like shared bedrooms, bathrooms, hot showers, and traditional Nepali cuisine.

    • Accommodation: Tea House
    • Place: Chussang
    • Altitude: 2980 Meters
  • Day 12 Trek to Jomsom (2,720m)

    To reach Jomsom, you will follow a different route than you used to ascend. Instead, you will go through Jharkot village and visit Jharkot Monastery in this area, reflecting Buddhism and its significance.

    You will walk through the seasonal route as you ascend to Jomsom, enjoying the Kali Gandaki Valley and Kagbeni Village views. After 5 to 6 hours, you will finally reach Jomsom, where you will stay at a tea house.

    • Accommodation: Tea House
    • Place: Jomsom
    • Altitude: 2720 Meters
  • Day 13 Fly to Pokhara from Jomsom and take a sightseeing tour

    Activity: Sightseeing

    On the thirteenth day of your Upper Mustang trek, you will fly back to Pokhara from Jomsom airport. After 20 minutes, you will reach Pokhara airport and move to your hotel. After resting for some time, you will enjoy sightseeing activities around the beautiful city.

    Some must-visit places in Pokhara are Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Mahendra Gufa, Chamero Gufa, Mountain Museum, White Pagoda, and Sarangkot Hill. If you are interested, you can get involved in adventurous activities like bungee jumping, paragliding, and cycling. Besides that, you can go out clubbing in the evening and enjoy the vibrant lifestyle of Pokhara with live music and drinks.

    Tonight, you will stay at a hotel in Pokhara.

    • Place: Pokhara
    • Altitude: 820 Meters
  • Day 14 Drive back to Kathmandu

    This is the last day of your Upper Mustang Trek - you will drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara on this day. You will sum up the Upper Mustang Trek, take a bus, and then head towards the capital city of Nepal. You will pass across the beautiful districts and landmarks around Tanahun and Dhading, which features the Marsyangdi River, Trishuli River, waterfalls, bridges, green terraced fields, and vibrant towns and villages.

    • Place: Kathmandu
    • Altitude: 1,400 Meters

What to Expect

  • Airport pick-up and drop service
  • Standard meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Professional guide with local knowledge and experience 
  • Strong and helpful porter with proper equipment (1 porter for 2 people)
  • Salary, food, accommodation and insurance for guide and porters 
  • Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek
  • All land transportation as per itinerary
  • Flight ticket ( Pokhara - Jomsom - Pokhara) along with airport taxes
  • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit
  • Special permit for Upper Mustang
  • Two nights standard Hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
  • Comprehensive first aid kit with oximeter
  • Government taxes and official expenses
  • International Airfare and taxes
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Your Travel Insurance (compulsory)
  • Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
  • All the expenses of pa ersonal nature
  • Any kind of drinks and desserts during the trek
  • Tips for guide and porter (Tipping is expected)

PRICES & DATES

Trip DatesAvailabilityPrice  
24 Dec, 2024 - 06 Jan, 2025GuaranteedUSD 1750
27 Dec, 2024 - 09 Jan, 2025GuaranteedUSD 1750
Request a Private Date

Group Discount Price (Per Person):

  • 2 Pax - 5 Pax = US$ 1750
  • 6 Pax - 9 Pax = US$ 1725
  • 10 Pax + = US$ 1675
  • If there is only one person for the trip, there will be USD 300 +  500 (Permits for 2 people required) additional cost.

Useful Information

How to Prepare for the Trek?

Before embarking on the Upper Mustang Trek, you have to be prepared well from your end to ensure your safe and successful trek around the region. Being physically and mentally prepared is essential since this trek requires strength and stamina. Here are some of the things you should know before taking on the Upper Mustang Trek:

What to Pack for Upper Mustang Trek?

Trekking Gears

You will need several trekking gears like hiking boots, poles, sleeping bags, backpacks, and others to support you throughout the Upper Mustang Trek. You should have a quality and durable product that will withstand the rugged and rocky landscapes and terrain on the route.

Clothing

The Upper Mustang trek takes you to the Himalayan region of Nepal, which features very cold temperatures and weather conditions. That's why you should pack layers of clothing that include waterproof and windproof jackets, inner and outer thermal wearables, hiking pants, warm socks, gloves, and moisture-wicking T-shirts.

Sun Protection

The sun in the afternoon can be very harsh. So it's wise to bring sunglasses and sunscreen creams to avoid sunburn during the Upper Mustang Trek. By doing this, you can protect yourself from intense sunlight and UV rays.

First-Aid Kit

You never know what happens on the trek - you might get injured or something else. So be prepared with first aid kits with essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, Diamox (altitude sickness) and any other prescription medication you may need.

Water Treatment

First, carry water bottles since you will need water throughout the trek. Water Treatments such as water filtration systems or tablets should be on the priority list since they can help to purify drinking water. It allows you to drink clean and safe drinking water, which is good for your health and hygiene.

Personal Items

If you need other personal items, you can bring hand sanitizers, headlamps, a camera, toiletries, and others, making your trekking experience easier and handier.

Cash

You should know that there are no ATM services in the Upper Mustang, so you have to carry enough cash to cover the expenses. Allocate a sufficient budget for the trek and always keep the quota a bit more since it will be easier to get involved in extra activities that cost money.

Physical And Mental Preparations

Physical Fitness: Like other high-altitude treks, the Upper Mustang Trek is also physically challenging, requiring good physical fitness to complete it successfully. During the tour, you have to walk for several hours at high altitudes, cross passes, and walk through the rugged and rocky terrains around the region. This is the reason why you have to be in good physical condition.

You should prepare well by practicing short treks, including aerobic and strength training, to hone yourself in good shape with physical fitness. If you have never been exposed to high altitudes before, you can train your lungs. A good fitness level will help you cope with the physical demands of the trek and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Altitude Training: Altitude Sickness is the major problem of the Upper Mustang Trek. Since you will reach an altitude of over 3800 meters above sea level, altitude sickness can be a concern. You need to do some altitude training before your trek. Before going on the Upper Mustang Trek, you can prepare by exposing yourself to high altitudes.

Mental Preparation: The Upper Mustang trek also brings mental challenges. Since you will be on unusual trekking routes, in unfamiliar terrain, and dealing with unpredictable weather conditions, you can be mentally exhausted while taking on the trek. But you should have a strong mental mindset to overcome any challenges you may face during the hike. Do not let your mind go through the negative side of the trek, always be optimistic about the result, and do not panic in the case of emergencies or injury.

Acclimatization: Acclimatization is essential while taking a high-altitude trek like the Upper Mustang Trek. Set your plan to ascend through the elevation very slowly and gradually. Do not rush during the trek; rest enough, eat nutritious and healthy food, and stay hydrated throughout the journey. This will help you to complete the Upper Mustang Trek successfully and easily.

Best Time to Trek in Upper Mustang: Tips and Recommendations

What can be more advantageous than Spring and Autumn Seasons if you are looking for a good time to trek in the Upper Mustang region? Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons have excellent tourism prospects in Nepal as they have several benefits regarding nature's favor.

Spring Season

During the Spring Season, you can experience pleasant weather with mild temperatures. This is what makes Spring the ideal time for the Upper Mustang Trek. If you notice, the forests of Nepal are in full bloom during this time, making the landscapes more beautiful to view and travel. There is only one drawback of trekking in Spring, which is overcrowding. But with prior bookings and preparations, you can tackle it.

Autumn Season

The Autumn Season also shares the same environment and weather conditions as the Spring. The weather is favorable, the skies are clear, and the temperature is moderate. It will allow you to view the surrounding beauty without any hassle.

Upper Mustang Trek During Off Season

During the off-season trek to Upper Mustang, you might need help to view the significant scenery of the area. If you trek during monsoon times, natural calamities like landslides are prone in this region. There is a high chance of rainfall, and the trails can be slippery and muddy during this time. Similarly, during the winter, heavy snowfall and avalanches might bring you some issues accessing the region. Despite these hassles, off-season treks are considered budget-friendly, and there are fewer crowds in the Upper Mustang region.

Permit and Fees:

There are two types of permits needed for trekking Upper Mustang. They are Restricted Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.

The restricted Permit Cost is around $500 per person for ten days, and if you want to add extra days to your itineraries, you will have to pay $50 per day. This license is required once you trek upwards from Kagbeni. Similarly, you must pay around 30 dollars for Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.

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Safety Tips for Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang trek can be a memorable experience, but what you should know about this trek is that you will be at a high altitude throughout the hike. Hence, safety and security come on the priority list. So what are the things you should consider for your safety? Here are some tips:

Choose a Reputable Trekking Company

Choosing a reliable trekking company for your trek can take time and effort. It is crucial to book your trek through a reputable one like Marvel Adventure. We offer licensed and experienced guides, 24/7 customer care services, and several other amenities regarding the hike. When it comes to the Upper Mustang Trek, you can get valuable guidance and assistance throughout the trek, ensuring your safety.

Get a Thorough Medical Check-up

Before taking on the Upper Mustang trek, it is advised to go through a thorough medical check-up from a certified physician. It lets you know whether you are fit to go on this trek. If you have any health issues, it is wise to inform your trekking agency and guide so they can plan your itineraries and activities accordingly.

Acclimatize

It would be best to acclimate to avoid altitude sickness and other related health hazards in the high altitude of Upper Mustang. Get enough rest, hydrate your body, and ascend slowly - it will help your body adjust to the altitude.

Follow the Advice of Your Guide

Listen to the instructions provided by your guide - your guide has experience and knowledge of the landscapes and the weather conditions of Upper Mustang. So going through their advice will help you ensure your safety during the trek.

Carry a First-Aid Kit

First-aid kits are essential during the trek - they help to tackle the injury and ensure your safety. It would be best to pack basic medical supplies such as band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic creams, and other prescribed forms of medication.

These are just some of the safety tips around Upper Mustang. By following these, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. To ensure your utmost safety, you must follow your guide's advice and knowledge, be respectful around the region, and prepare well.

Food And Accommodation in Upper Mustang

Regarding food in the Upper Mustang region, you can experience traditional Nepali dishes, including Dal, Bhaat, and Tarkari. Besides, you can taste Dhindo, Gundruk, and other supplements. One of the famous cuisines of this region is Thakali Khana Set, prepared by the Thakali people.

Similarly, accommodation during the Upper Mustang Trek can be either basic lodges or camping. You can find many tea houses around the route to Upper Mustang, where you can stay with basic amenities and food. You can also set up your tent camps to stay, but you must bring your equipment.

Besides, carrying energy bars and snacks alone is recommended, as they are needed during your hike.

Conclusion

Overall, Upper Mustang is a unique destination for trekkers. To those who want to explore the northern Himalayas of Nepal and delve into the traditional Thakali and Sherpa settlements, the Upper Mustang Trek is one of the best choices they can make. The region is full of natural and cultural richness, and it offers spectacular scenery and a chance to explore a culture that is different from anywhere else in the world.

Upper Mustang should be on your bucket list as it takes you through the bustling city of Pokhara to the high Himalayan culture. From the ancient Tibetan monasteries and temples to the stunning mountain views, the Upper Mustang Trek will shower you with unforgettable experiences for your life.

Testimonials

  • Ross Dean
    Ross Dean, New Zealand

    Upper Mustang trek

    I recently completed a trek to Upper Mustang with Nir as our guide. Nir organised the whole trip from arrival in Kathmadu until the time we left. Nothing was overlooked. Our hotels and tea houses were all of a high standard and meals provided were excellent. Nir always responded to our queries and requests within hours and his knowledge of the area and Nepal was excellent. He quickly assessed our fitness and ability and there was flexibility in the itinerary at all times. I would highly recommend Marvel Adventure to organise and guide you through any treks in Nepal.

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