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Upper Mustang Trek Overview
The Upper Mustang area opened for trekking and tours in 1992. Historically, Mustang was the last forbidden kingdom in Nepal, isolated for centuries. This isolation helped the region develop its own distinct culture and traditions.
This area is rich in historical and religious monuments, with geography that differs from other parts of Nepal due to its location in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. Geographically, it is part of the Tibetan plateau, and its culture is more closely aligned with Tibetan rather than Nepali traditions.
In Upper Mustang, you’ll encounter ancient caves, holy fossil rocks, arid land, and cliffs. Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of Upper Mustang, is a small town with around 150 houses, a palace, and a monastery called Lhakhang, which dates back about 200 years.
Upper Mustang lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area. As you trek through the region, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of mountain ranges, including Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), and Manaslu (8,163m).
Journey Through Upper Mustang
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, where you can enjoy views of mountains, traditional villages, terraced fields, and the roaring Trishuli and Marsyandi rivers. Pokhara, known as the tourist capital of Nepal, offers breathtaking views of lakes and Himalayan peaks, including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal. The reflections of these mountains can often be seen in the lakes.
The following day, you’ll fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, the headquarters of Mustang. During the flight, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, both towering above 8,000 meters. Upon landing in Jomsom, your trek begins towards Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.
After spending a night in Kagbeni, you’ll continue to Chele. To avoid the strong afternoon winds, you’ll trek early in the morning. The region is often windy and dusty, so be sure to bring sunglasses and a face mask. Along the way, you’ll pass through Tangbe village before reaching Chele.
From Chele, the trek continues to Syangboche, passing through a settlement called Eklo Bhatti and the Taklam High Pass (3,625m / 11,940ft). This challenging stretch will see you ascend by about 800 meters. You’ll also pass through Samar, a village known for its stunning views of Nilgiri Mountain.
The next phase of your trek takes you from Syangboche to Ghami, crossing Yamda La Pass (3,845m / 12,655ft). The path traverses a desert-like landscape and leads you through Geling and Tamagaun before reaching Ghami.
Exploring Lo Manthang and Beyond
Your next destination is Tsarang, a town with around 1,000 inhabitants. This area lies in the driest part of Mustang, but the panoramic views of the countryside are spectacular.
From Tsarang, you’ll continue your trek to Lo Manthang, passing through landscapes offering views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I, and Brikuti Peak. The trail ascends to Lo La Pass before descending to Lo Manthang. After a day of rest and exploration in Lo Manthang, you’ll discover gompas, palaces, old temples, and more.
The Return Journey
On the ninth day, your return journey begins. You’ll leave Lo Manthang and head back to Ghami. On the way to Darkmar, you’ll visit the famous Ghar Monastery. After departing Ghami, the trek continues towards Samar, descending to Geling, and passing through Jaite and Chhukungkah to reach Samar.
From Samar, your journey leads you to Chhusang, where you’ll encounter a sacred site believed to be where the Tantric Buddhist master Padmasambhava meditated.
The next destination after Chhusang is Muktinath, a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Here, you’ll cross Gyu La Pass (4,077m) and join the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Muktinath is famous for its 108 bathing spouts and an eternal flame burning in the temple.
From Muktinath, you’ll trek back to Jomsom, marking the final day of your trail. The route descends through Jahrkot and Khingar before reaching Jomsom, situated at the base of the Kali Gandaki River Valley.
Return to Pokhara and Kathmandu
After spending a night in Jomsom, you’ll catch an early morning flight to Pokhara. You may choose to explore Pokhara for a day or fly directly back to Kathmandu. If you decide to stay in Pokhara, you’ll return to Kathmandu the following day by tourist bus.
Cultural and Scenic Highlights
Upper Mustang Trek is a unique adventure through a once-forbidden kingdom, combining cultural richness with stunning natural beauty. This remote region, nestled in the Himalayas, features an arid landscape with dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and vibrant rock formations. The trek takes you past ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and caves, each revealing centuries-old secrets. Starting from Jomsom, the trek follows the Kali Gandaki River, passing through traditional villages like Kagbeni and Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Mustang.
Throughout the trek, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri peaks. Upper Mustang, which was restricted until the early 1990s, still retains its distinct Tibetan culture, and the Tiji Festival offers a unique glimpse into the region’s vibrant traditions. This trek, requiring a special permit, is perfect for those seeking a combination of adventure, cultural immersion, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Upper Mustang, where vibrant Tibetan culture, breathtaking landscapes, and centuries-old monasteries await. Secure your special permit, lace up your boots, and immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Upper Mustang.
Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek
Day 1:
Drive to Pokhara (820m) west of the Kathmandu Valley
Maximum Altitude: (1,400m/4,592ft)/(800m/2,624ft)
Trekking duration: 6 to 7 hours
Day 2:
Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720m) Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)
Maximum Altitude: (2,700m/8,856ft)/(2,810m/9,217ft)
Trekking duration: 4 hours
Day 3:
Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,055m)
Maximum Altitude: (3,050m/10,004ft)
Trekking duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 4:
Trek from Chele to Syangboche (3,930m)
Maximum Altitude: (3,475m/11,398ft)
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 5:
Trek from Syangboche to Ghami (3,520m)
Maximum Altitude: (3,520m/11,546ft)
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
DAY 6:
Trek from Ghami to Tsarang (3505m)
Maximum Altitude: (3,620m/11,874ft)
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
DAY 7:
Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3810m)
Maximum Altitude: (3,840m/12,596ft)
Trekking Duration: 5 hours
DAY 8:
Rest and exploration day in Lo Manthang
DAY 9:
Trek from Lo Manthang to Ghami (3,520m)
Maximum Altitude: (3,838m/12,589ft)
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours
DAY 10:
Trek from Ghami to Samar (3,700m)
Maximum Altitude: (3,340m/10,958ft)
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours
DAY 11:
Trek from Samar to Chhusang (2,980m)
Maximum Altitude: (2,980m/9,775ft)
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
DAY 12:
Trek from Chhusang to Muktinath (3,760m)
Maximum Altitude: (3,800m/12,464ft)
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours
DAY 13:
Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m)
Maximum Altitude: (2,700m/8,856ft)
Trekking Duration: 5 hours
DAY 14:
Early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (820m)
Maximum Altitude: (800m/2,625ft)
Flight Time: 25 minutes flight
DAY 15:
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350m)
Maximum Altitude: (1,400m/4,592ft)
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Clothing and footwear
