Upper Mustang Trek
US $590
speaking local trek guide
Guide
Langtang Region Expert Guide
Accommodations
Twin Sharing Mountain Lodges
Foods
Breakfast x8, Lunch x8, Dinner x8
All Permits
Langtang National Park permits & TIMS
All transfers
All needed ground transfers as per the itinerary.
Photos from the Upper Mustang Trek
Key Information
Close-up views of majestic Himalayan giants like Langtang Lirung.
Immerse yourself in the warmth and unique heritage of the Tamang communities nestled along the Langtang trail, experiencing their way of life firsthand.
Trek through rhododendron woodlands (flowering in late April), alpine pastures, and alongside rushing glacial streams, a visual treat at every turn.
Discover the beauty of Nepal on a Langtang trek that balances scenery with manageable difficulty and the convenience of cozy teahouse stays.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Kathmandu → Pokhara (820m / 2,690 ft) | 7-hour drive
Accommodation: 3★ Hotel | Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, we take a scenic drive to Pokhara, winding along the Trishuli River and through picturesque villages. Stop for lunch en route and enjoy glimpses of local life. As we near Pokhara, the towering Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) Peak comes into view. Check in to your lakeside hotel and take some time to relax, stroll by Phewa Lake, or enjoy a boat ride.
Optional: Private vehicle or scenic 30-minute flight to Pokhara.
Day 2: Pokhara → Jomsom (2,743m / 8,999 ft) → Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m / 9,219 ft) | 3–4 hours trek
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Fly to Jomsom over dramatic Himalayan landscapes. Begin trekking to Kagbeni, a charming village with narrow streets and clay chortens. A short hike nearby rewards you with panoramic views of the Kali Gandaki River and Upper Mustang trails.
Day 3: Kagbeni → Chele (3,050m / 10,007 ft) | 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Enter the restricted Upper Mustang region. Trek along the Kali Gandaki River, passing Tangbe Village with its whitewashed houses, barley fields, and apple orchards. Continue along scenic ridges to the quaint village of Chele.
Day 4: Chele → Syangboche (3,475m / 11,401 ft) | 6 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Today’s trail crosses Taklam La (3,624m) and Darjori La (3,735m) passes. Descend to Samar Village before climbing to Syangboche, enjoying stunning Himalayan vistas and occasional caves along the way.
Day 5: Syangboche → Ghami (3,520m / 11,549 ft) | 5 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Today’s trail crosses Taklam La (3,624m) and Darjori La (3,735m) passes. Descend to Samar Village before climbing to Syangboche, enjoying stunning Himalayan vistas and occasional caves along the way.
Day 6: Ghami → Charang (3,560m / 11,680 ft) | 4 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Descend to a suspension bridge over the Ghami Khola. Pass impressive mani walls and cross Charang La Pass (3,870m). Explore Charang village, its fortress, and the striking red gompa after lunch.
Day 7: Charang → Lo Manthang (3,810m / 12,500 ft) | 5 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Descend into a canyon, cross a river, and climb to Lo La Pass (3,950m). From here, the walled village of Lo Manthang unfolds, the historic seat of Mustang’s king. Enjoy views of peaks like Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I, and Bhrikuti.
Day 8: Lo Manthang → Chhoser Cave → Lo Manthang | 6 hours round trip
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Trek to the famous Jhong “Sky” Caves in Chhoser. These cliffside multi-story caves were used as burial chambers, monasteries, and hideouts. Explore the caves, enjoy a packed lunch, and return to Lo Manthang.
Day 9: Lo Manthang → Dhakmar (3,820m / 12,533 ft) via Ghar Gompa | 7 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Pass through Gyakar Village and visit Ghar Gompa, famed for its ancient rock paintings. Continue to Dhakmar, set against striking red cliffs, enjoying the dramatic Mustang landscapes along the way.
Day 10: Dhakmar → Ghiling (3,806m / 12,487 ft) | 6 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Pass through Gyakar Village and visit Ghar Gompa, famed for its ancient rock paintings. Continue to Dhakmar, set against striking red cliffs, enjoying the dramatic Mustang landscapes along the way.
Day 11: Ghiling → Chuksang (3,050m / 10,007 ft) | 6 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Descend gradually through smaller villages, experiencing local culture and farming life. Arrive at Chuksang, situated at the meeting point of Narshing Khola and Kali Gandaki River.
Day 12: Chuksang → Jomsom (2,743m / 8,999 ft) | 5 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Guesthouse | Meals: B/L/D
Descend to Jomsom, retracing part of the Annapurna Circuit. Stop in Kagbeni for lunch and a last glimpse of the Kali Gandaki gorge and the “Kingdom of Lo.”
Day 13: Jomsom → Pokhara | 20-minute flight
Accommodation: 3★ Hotel | Meals: Breakfast
Early morning flight back to Pokhara. Enjoy aerial views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Afternoon free to relax by Phewa Lake, shop, or explore Lakeside.
Day 14: Pokhara → Kathmandu | 8-hour drive
Accommodation: 3★ Hotel | Meals: B/D
Drive back to Kathmandu, soaking in the last Himalayan panoramas. Spend the afternoon in Thamel or enjoy a farewell dinner.
Optional: Short flight to Kathmandu for a faster, more comfortable return
HOW TO GET THERE ?
Start: Kathmandu Airport (KTM) – Please arrive by 4:00 PM on Day 0
End: Kathmandu Airport (KTM) – Any time on Day 15
No matter when you land or if you’ve booked extra nights, we provide free airport transfers once you share your flight details with us in advance.
Your Transportation Overview
Kathmandu → Pokhara:
Travel comfortably by tourist bus for 6–8 hours along scenic roads. Prefer faster travel? A 30-minute domestic flight or a private vehicle can be arranged at an extra cost—just let us know.
Pokhara → Jomsom:
Hop on a short 20-minute flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Flights may be affected by weather, so we stay flexible.
Jomsom → Upper Mustang:
From Jomsom onward, the adventure is on foot. Follow well-marked trekking trails through awe-inspiring landscapes, villages, and Himalayan panoramas all the way through Upper Mustang.
MAPS And ELEVATION
FOOD & ACCOMODATION
Day 1: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2–13: Teahouse/Guesthouse – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meals on the Journey
In Pokhara:
Start your day with a hearty hotel breakfast. The city has a great mix of dining options, from traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat and momos to Indian, Continental, and other international cuisine. Plenty of cafes and rooftop restaurants are perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner.
On the Trek:
Along the trail, teahouses serve simple, wholesome meals to keep you energized:
- Nepali favorites: Dal bhat (rice and lentils), vegetable curries, noodles, momos
- International options: Fried rice, pasta, omelets, sandwiches (menu varies by location)
- Drinks: Tea, coffee, soft drinks, and boiled water (carrying a water filter or purification tablets is recommended)
Where You’ll Stay
Pokhara:
Stay in comfortable 3-star hotels with private rooms and attached bathrooms. Upgrades are available on request for added comfort.
On the Trek:
Teahouses or local guesthouses provide basic but clean accommodation. Most rooms are twin-sharing, with shared toilets and showers (hot water may be extra). Single rooms are sometimes available but not guaranteed. These lodges offer a cozy, local experience and a chance to connect with fellow trekkers.
DIFFICULTY RATING
Day 1: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2–13: Teahouse/Guesthouse – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meals on the Journey
In Pokhara:
Start your day with a hearty hotel breakfast. The city has a great mix of dining options, from traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat and momos to Indian, Continental, and other international cuisine. Plenty of cafes and rooftop restaurants are perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner.
On the Trek:
Along the trail, teahouses serve simple, wholesome meals to keep you energized:
- Nepali favorites: Dal bhat (rice and lentils), vegetable curries, noodles, momos
- International options: Fried rice, pasta, omelets, sandwiches (menu varies by location)
- Drinks: Tea, coffee, soft drinks, and boiled water (carrying a water filter or purification tablets is recommended)
Where You’ll Stay
Pokhara:
Stay in comfortable 3-star hotels with private rooms and attached bathrooms. Upgrades are available on request for added comfort.
On the Trek:
Teahouses or local guesthouses provide basic but clean accommodation. Most rooms are twin-sharing, with shared toilets and showers (hot water may be extra). Single rooms are sometimes available but not guaranteed. These lodges offer a cozy, local experience and a chance to connect with fellow trekkers.
Moderate – Mostly dry, windy terrain; some altitude gain
WEATHER
Upper Mustang’s climate changes with the seasons, so packing smart and planning ahead is key.
- Spring (March – May): One of the best times to trek! Expect dry, sunny days with temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F) and cooler nights at 0–5°C (32–41°F). The hills and valleys burst into color with blooming flowers, making it perfect for photography and sightseeing.
- Summer / Monsoon (June – August): Thanks to the rain-shadow effect, Upper Mustang stays mostly dry even when much of Nepal is wet. Occasional showers may occur in lower areas, but daytime temperatures hover around 15–25°C (59–77°F), with mild nights at 5–10°C (41–50°F). Fewer crowds make this a peaceful time to explore.
- Autumn (September – November): Another prime trekking season, with clear skies, crisp air, and stunning mountain views. Days are 10–20°C (50–68°F), and nights drop to 0–5°C (32–41°F)—perfect for trekking and photography.
- Winter (December – February): Cold and quiet. Temperatures often fall below freezing, and snowfall is common at higher elevations. Many teahouses may close, so trekking is tougher and not recommended for first-timers.
Tip: Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Always carry layers, rain protection, and be ready for sudden changes, no matter the season.
Best: March–May, September–November
Dry, sunny days; cold nights
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu.
- Twin-sharing hotel in Pokhara with breakfast, as per the itinerary.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
- Domestic flights between Pokhara and Jomsom.
- Tourist bus transfers: Kathmandu ↔ Pokhara.
- Upper Mustang Restricted Area permit and all other trekking permits.
- Experienced, licensed English-speaking trekking guide.
- Porters to carry luggage (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 20 kg each).
- All ground transportation mentioned in the itinerary.
- Accommodation in teahouses during the trek.
- Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with entrance fees included.
- Farewell dinner.
- All government and local taxes.
- First aid kit for emergencies.
NOT INCLUDED
Lunch, drinks
Airfare, personal gear, insurance
Tips
HOW TO GET FIT ?
- Hotel stays in Kathmandu before or after the trek.
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (unless specified).
- Travel insurance covering trekking and emergency evacuation (mandatory).
- Nepal visa fee.
- Personal expenses like drinks, souvenirs, or laundry.
- Tips for guides and porters.
- Emergency evacuation or medical costs.
- Any extra expenses caused by unforeseen events (flight delays, landslides, weather, etc.).
TREKKING GEAR
Trekking in Upper Mustang is easier and more enjoyable if your body is well-prepared. Focus on building stamina, strength, and trekking endurance over the weeks leading up to your adventure.
Key Focus Areas
Cardio:
Boost your endurance with running, cycling, swimming, or brisk hiking 3–4 times a week for 45+ minutes.
Leg & Core Strength:
Prepare your legs for long climbs with squats, lunges, step-ups, and core exercises 2–3 times a week.
Practice Hikes:
Train on trails with a loaded daypack to simulate trek conditions. Gradually increase distance and elevation. Don’t forget to break in your trekking boots!
Altitude Tips:
Good fitness helps, but it won’t prevent altitude sickness. Stay hydrated, pace yourself, and listen to your body.
For a tailored training plan or expert advice, reach out to us before your trek—we’re happy to guide you!
Upper Mustang Trek Gear Guide
Packing smart makes your trek comfortable, safe, and more enjoyable. Here’s everything you need for a smooth journey.
Luggage & Porter Service
What’s Provided:
- Duffel Bag: 50–60L (weather-resistant)
- Porter Service: 1 porter for every 2 trekkers, carrying up to 10 kg per person
Optional Upgrade:
- Single porter (up to 20 kg) – must book in advance
You Carry:
- Your daypack with essentials like water, snacks, a jacket, and valuables
Tips:
- Respect porter limits and pack light.
- Keep personal items handy in your daypack.
Packing Tips
- Layer Smart: Use base, insulation, and shell layers for changing temperatures.
- Protect Against Dust & Wind: Buffs, gaiters, and sunglasses are a must.
- Break in Boots: Avoid blisters by wearing them well before your trek.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry purified water; Mustang is dry at higher altitudes.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm are essential.
- Cultural Respect: Dress modestly in villages and monasteries.
- Eco-Friendly: Bring a reusable bag and water container.
Essential Trekking Gear
- Duffel Bag: 50–60L, waterproof (provided)
- Daypack: 20–30L with chest and hip straps
- Sleeping Bag: 0 °C or lower (rental available)
- Hydration: 2 L bottle or bladder + purification tablets/filter
- Headlamp: With extra batteries
Clothing
Head & Face:
- Sun hat or cap
- Beanie or warm hat
- Buff/neck gaiter
- UV sunglasses
Upper Body:
- 2–3 moisture-wicking base layers
- 1–2 long-sleeve shirts
- Fleece or softshell jacket
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- Waterproof shell jacket
Lower Body:
- 2 trekking pants (zip-off optional)
- 1 fleece/insulated pants
- Waterproof shell pants
- Optional: shorts for warm days
Feet & Hands:
- Trekking boots (waterproof, broken-in)
- Camp shoes or sandals
- 3–4 pairs of trekking socks
- Lightweight gloves + insulated gloves/mittens
Toiletries & Hygiene
- Biodegradable soap/shampoo
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Toilet paper in a ziplock bag
- Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
- Quick-dry towel
- Nail clippers & small mirror
Medical Kit
- Personal meds + prescriptions
- Blister care: Compeed, tape, antiseptic
- Pain relief: paracetamol/ibuprofen
- Rehydration salts
- Altitude meds (consult your doctor)
- Anti-diarrheal tablets
- Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, scissors
Extras & Practical Items
- Trekking poles
- Binoculars (optional)
- Notebook & pen
- Solar charger or power bank
- Extra camera batteries & memory cards
- Small repair/sewing kit
- Ziplock/dry bags for waterproofing
- Reusable shopping bag
- Reading material, cards, or small games
- Small padlock
Pro Tip:
Packing efficiently lets you enjoy Mustang’s stunning landscapes and rich culture without extra hassle or discomfort.
For gear rentals or more prep advice, Places Nepal Treks can help you get ready for an unforgettable Upper Mustang adventure.
REVIEWS
Fly to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
From Kathmandu, take a short flight to Lukla (trail start)
Flights depend on weather, so stay flexible
TRIP OVERVIEW
Step into the hidden kingdom of Upper Mustang, a mystical corner of Nepal where desert-like valleys meet towering Himalayan peaks. This 16-day trek by Places Nepal blends adventure, culture, and stunning scenery in one unforgettable journey.
Once a secretive kingdom closed to foreigners, Upper Mustang still preserves its ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions, walled villages, and timeless landscapes. The trek begins with a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, the gateway to Mustang, and follows the Kali Gandaki River through wind-swept valleys, high passes, and villages perched on ochre cliffs.
You’ll visit charming settlements like Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, Ghami, Charang, and finally the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang, the former capital. Along the way, discover cliff-side cave dwellings, ancient gompas, and the stark, photogenic landscapes of the trans-Himalayan region.
Thanks to its location in the Himalayan rain shadow, Upper Mustang offers dry and stable trekking conditions—even during Nepal’s monsoon season. The itinerary is designed for gradual acclimatization, making it suitable for trekkers with moderate experience seeking a mix of culture, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.
Why Upper Mustang?
- Explore a Hidden Kingdom: Step into a region frozen in time until 1992.
- Tibetan Buddhist Culture: Visit monasteries, prayer flags, and traditional villages.
- Lo Manthang: Explore a walled city with royal palaces and sacred gompas.
- Monsoon-Friendly Trek: Dry trails while other regions are wet.
- Ancient Caves: See the sky caves of Chhoser and Gompa Ghar.
- Himalayan Views: Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and more.
Altitude & Route Highlights
- Jomsom (2,743 m): Trek start after a short Pokhara flight
- Kagbeni (2,810 m): Entry checkpoint and historic village
- Chele (3,050 m) & Syangboche (3,475 m): Stone-built villages and narrow canyons
- Taklam La (3,624 m) & Darjori La (3,735 m): Windswept passes with epic views
- Ghami (3,520 m) & Charang (3,560 m): Ancient gompas and mani walls
- Nyi La Pass (4,010 m): Highest point with panoramic vistas
- Lo Manthang (3,810 m): Walled capital with Tibetan architecture
- Dhakmar & Ghiling: Scenic return through red cliffs and high-altitude farmland
- Back to Jomsom: Fly to Pokhara, concluding your trek
Himalayan Views
Witness towering peaks like:
- Annapurna I (8,091 m)
- Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m)
- Nilgiri North & South (7,061 m)
- Tukuche, Thorong, and more
The snowy summits contrast beautifully with Mustang’s ochre deserts, offering spectacular photo opportunities.
Cultural Highlights
- Meet the Lopa people and experience authentic Tibetan life.
- Explore centuries-old gompas: Thubchen, Jampa, Chode.
- Watch traditional farming, weaving, and spinning.
- Attend festivals like Tiji, a three-day ritual in Lo Manthang (May).
Permits Needed
Upper Mustang is a Restricted Area, so special permits are required:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 500 for 10 days, USD 50/day extra
- ACAP Permit: USD 20 per person
- Solo trekking is not allowed; permits are processed via registered agencies. Places Nepal handles all logistics.
Best Time to Trek
- Spring (Mar–May): Warm, clear skies, and Tiji Festival
- Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Dry trails, avoiding the wet season elsewhere
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Crisp weather and great visibility
Who Is This Trek For?
- Trekkers seeking a less-traveled, culturally rich route
- Adventure and history enthusiasts interested in Tibetan culture
- Photographers craving unique landscapes
- Moderate fitness required for 6–7 hours of daily walking at altitude
Join Us for an Unforgettable Journey
Step into Upper Mustang with Places Nepal, where centuries-old traditions, dramatic landscapes, and Himalayan majesty meet. We take care of flights, permits, accommodations, and guides—so you can fully enjoy this extraordinary adventure.
October 2025
NOVEMBER 2025
DECEMBER 2025
Know Before Booking
Langtang Valley Trek
What to eat on the langtang trek ?
On the Langtang Valley Trek, eat hearty meals like dal bhat, momos, fried rice, soups, and Tibetan bread, with vegetarian and vegan-friendly options widely available at local teahouses.Foods on the Langtang Valley Trek are fresh, home-cooked at teahouses.
What to Expect in a Teahouse on the Langtang Trek
On the Langtang Valley Trek, eat hearty meals like dal bhat, momos, fried rice, soups, and Tibetan bread, with vegetarian and vegan-friendly options widely available at local teahouses.Foods on the Langtang Valley Trek are fresh, home-cooked at teahouses.
Best Time to Trek Langtang Valley
On the Langtang Valley Trek, eat hearty meals like dal bhat, momos, fried rice, soups, and Tibetan bread, with vegetarian and vegan-friendly options widely available at local teahouses.Foods on the Langtang Valley Trek are fresh, home-cooked at teahouses.
Typical Day on the Langtang Trek
On the Langtang Valley Trek, eat hearty meals like dal bhat, momos, fried rice, soups, and Tibetan bread, with vegetarian and vegan-friendly options widely available at local teahouses.Foods on the Langtang Valley Trek are fresh, home-cooked at teahouses.
Environmental Responsibility on the Langtang Trek
On the Langtang Valley Trek, eat hearty meals like dal bhat, momos, fried rice, soups, and Tibetan bread, with vegetarian and vegan-friendly options widely available at local teahouses.Foods on the Langtang Valley Trek are fresh, home-cooked at teahouses.
Langtang Trek Costs: Daily Expenses, Budget, and Currency
On the Langtang Valley Trek, eat hearty meals like dal bhat, momos, fried rice, soups, and Tibetan bread, with vegetarian and vegan-friendly options widely available at local teahouses.Foods on the Langtang Valley Trek are fresh, home-cooked at teahouses.
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