Upper Mustang Trek – 17 Days

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in the heart of Thamel. After check-in, you can rest or explore the vibrant streets. In the evening, you'll have a detailed trek briefing with your guide, complete a final gear check, and prepare for your adventure.

After breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. This cultural introduction helps you understand Nepal's rich heritage. In the afternoon, complete any last-minute gear shopping and finalize permits with your guide.

After breakfast, we begin our scenic drive to Pokhara, Nepal's adventure capital. The journey follows the Trishuli River through beautiful rural landscapes, offering views of terraced fields and distant hills. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you'll be transferred to your hotel. The evening is free to explore the Lakeside area and relax by Phewa Lake.

An early morning 25-minute flight takes you to Jomsom, the district headquarters, offering stunning aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After landing, we begin our trek with a gentle 3-4 hour walk along the Kali Gandaki River to the historic village of Kagbeni. This village, with its medieval castle-like houses, marks the official entrance to the restricted Upper Mustang area. Explore its narrow alleys and ancient monastery.

Today we officially enter the restricted zone after a permit check. The trail winds through the dramatic Kali Gandaki gorge, passing through the charming village of Tangbe, known for its narrow alleys and apple orchards. We continue to Chhusang, where the river has carved a tunnel through a massive red conglomerate cliff. The day ends with a climb to the village of Chele, perched on a hillside.

A challenging but rewarding day with several ascents and descents. We cross the Taklam La pass (3,624m) with views of Tilicho Peak and Damodar Danda, descend to Samar village, and then climb again. The trail passes the Ramchung Cave and offers stunning views of the canyons. We finally arrive at the small settlement of Syangboche, nestled among juniper trees.

From Syangboche, the trail descends gradually to the valley floor and then makes a steady climb to a pass offering a last glimpse of Lo Manthang. The walk continues through a wide valley with views of the surrounding red cliffs. We arrive at Ghami, one of the larger villages in the region, passing a long mani wall and chortens.

We start with a climb to the Nyi La pass (4,010m), the trek's highest point so far, offering panoramic views of the Mustang landscape. We then descend into the Tsarang valley, passing the longest mani wall in Nepal. Tsarang is a fascinating village with a large, five-story white dzong (fortress) and a red gompa perched on the edge of the Kali Gandaki gorge.

Today we trek to the fabled walled city of Lo Manthang. The trail descends to the Tsarang Chu river, crosses it, and then climbs gently towards the Lo La pass (3,950m). From the pass, the first breathtaking view of the walled city and its surrounding hills appears, a truly magical moment. We descend into the plain and enter Lo Manthang through its southern gate.

A full day to immerse in the history and culture of Lo Manthang. In the morning, explore the city's two main monasteries, Jampa Lhakhang and Thubchen Gompa, both dating back to the 15th century and containing exquisite Buddhist murals. Wander through the narrow alleys, visit the King's Palace (with permission), and observe the daily life within the city walls. In the afternoon, you can hike or ride a horse to the nearby Chhoser Caves, a vast complex of ancient cave dwellings carved into the cliffsides.

We leave Lo Manthang via a different route, heading towards Ghar Gompa (Lo Gekar), said to be one of the oldest monasteries in Nepal, predating Buddhism in Tibet. The trail climbs over the Chogo La pass (approx. 4,200m), the trek's highest point, offering spectacular views. We then descend to the village of Dhakmar, set in a stunning area of red, black, and yellow striped cliffs.

Today's trek continues through dramatic and colorful badland scenery. The trail descends through the village of Ghiling, which has been rebuilt since the 2015 earthquake. We pass by more chortens and mani walls, with views of the Nilgiri and Annapurna ranges now visible to the south. Overnight in a teahouse in Geling.

We retrace part of our route, descending through the villages of Ghami and Samar. The landscape gradually changes as we lose altitude, with the valley becoming more verdant. The walking is easier, with mostly downhill terrain. We arrive back at the village of Chhusang for the night.

Our final day of trekking takes us back along the Kali Gandaki. We pass through Kagbeni and follow the river all the way to Jomsom. The trail is easy and offers a final chance to enjoy the unique Mustang landscape. Upon arrival in Jomsom, we check into a teahouse and celebrate the completion of our circuit.

We take an early morning flight back to Pokhara, retracing our spectacular aerial route over the Himalayas. The flight is often most reliable in the morning before winds pick up. Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax by the lake, have a hot shower, and reflect on your incredible journey.

After breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu (6-7 hours) via the scenic Prithvi Highway. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. In the evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate your successful trek, featuring authentic Nepali cuisine and cultural entertainment.

Your unforgettable Upper Mustang adventure ends today. Our team will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. You'll leave Nepal with profound memories of a forbidden kingdom, ancient monasteries, and the stark, beautiful landscapes of the trans-Himalayan desert. If your flight is the following day, we can arrange an extra night's accommodation.