Upper Mustang Trek

Overview

Highlights

• Walled city of Lo Manthang
• Ancient cave monasteries and Chhoser caves
• Trekkable during the monsoon
• Tiji festival departures (May)

Day-by-day itinerary

1. Day 1

   Arrival in Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport) and Transfer to Hotel

   Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu, where you can rest and prepare for the adventure that lies ahead.

2. Day 2

   Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara (By Bus or Flight)

   Scenic Drive or Short Flight to the Lakeside City Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, either by a scenic 6-7 hour drive or a quick 25-minute flight. Pokhara, known for its beautiful lakes and stunning mountain views, is a perfect starting point for your trek.

3. Day 3

   Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni (2,847m)

   Entering the Mustang Region Take a 30-minute flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, where the trek begins. Enjoy a 3-hour trek through rugged terrain to the charming village of Kagbeni, an entry point to Upper Mustang.

   Max altitude: 2,847 m

4. Day 4

   Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m)

   Following the Kali Gandaki River Begin a 5-6 hour trek, following the Kali Gandaki River as you pass through barren landscapes and scenic views, reaching the small village of Chele by the evening.

   Max altitude: 3,050 m

5. Day 5

   Trek from Chele to Zhaite (3,730m)

   Ascend to Higher Altitudes A longer trek of 7-8 hours takes you through rugged paths and steep ascents to Zhaite. The landscape becomes more desolate, revealing the unique beauty of the Mustang region.

   Max altitude: 3,730 m

6. Day 6

   Trek from Zhaite to Charang via Dhakmar and Lo Gekar (3,575m)

   Discovering Ancient Sites Trek for 5-6 hours to Charang, passing through the red cliffs of Dhakmar and the ancient Lo Gekar Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the region.

   Max altitude: 3,575 m

7. Day 7

   Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang (3,820m)

   Exploring the Walled City of Lo Manthang After a 5-6 hour trek, arrive at Lo Manthang, an ancient walled city rich in culture and history. Spend the evening exploring the unique architecture and local lifestyle.

   Max altitude: 3,820 m

8. Day 8

   Rest Day in Lo Manthang (Visit Namgyal Gompa and Thinggar Valley)

   Explore Sacred Sites and Scenic Valleys Spend the day visiting Namgyal Gompa, a spiritual center for the locals, and Thinggar Valley, enjoying the serene beauty and traditional Tibetan-Buddhist culture.

9. Day 9

   Rest Day in Lo Manthang (The Chosar Valley)

   Further Exploration of Lo Manthang’s Surroundings On this additional rest day, explore the Chosar Valley, home to fascinating caves and monasteries, including the famous Jhong Cave and the Nyphu Monastery.

10. Day 10

    Trek from Lo Manthang to Dhakmar via Lo Gekar (3,730m)

    Retracing Steps through Sacred Sites Begin the return journey with a 6-7 hour trek to Dhakmar, revisiting the sacred Lo Gekar Monastery and taking in the striking red cliffs and expansive views.

    Max altitude: 3,730 m

11. Day 11

    Trek from Dhakmar to Geling (3,570m)

    Scenic Descent to Geling A 4-5 hour trek brings you to Geling, a small settlement with traditional mud-brick houses and breathtaking scenery.

    Max altitude: 3,570 m

12. Day 12

    Trek from Geling to Chaksang (2,950m)

    Descending Further into Lower Mustang Descend over 7-8 hours through scenic landscapes, following ancient trade routes as you make your way to Chaksang, with views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge along the way.

    Max altitude: 2,950 m

13. Day 13

    Trek from Chaksang to Jomsom (2,750m)

    Final Day of Trekking On the last day of trekking, walk for 5-6 hours to reach Jomsom, where you can celebrate the completion of your adventure through Mustang.

    Max altitude: 2,750 m

14. Day 14

    Return to Pokhara by Flight or Drive to Tatopani (Hot Springs)

    Relax in the Natural Hot Springs Either fly back to Pokhara from Jomsom or drive to Tatopani (5-6 hours), where you can enjoy the natural hot springs and relax after the trek.

15. Day 15

    Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara

    Back to the Lakeside City A scenic 4-5 hour drive returns you to Pokhara, where you can relax by the lakeside and reflect on the incredible journey through Upper Mustang.

Permits we arrange

• Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Permit fees are set by the Government of Nepal and may change. More about permits.

Fixed group departures

Private departures available on any date.

FAQs