Upper Mustang Trek is not just a walk – it's a journey into Nepal's history. Beyond the mighty Himalayas, Upper Mustang was once a Tibetan kingdom. Cut off from the outside world until 1992, it retained its old monasteries, caves, and unique culture. Trekkers on this route will feel like they are in a time machine as they walk through this historic land.
You begin in to-be-frantic Kathmandu, Nepal's capital, flying from there to Pokhara and then on to Jomsom. Your trek in earnest starts here, certainly. There will be a number of villages along the route, including Kagbeni, Chele, Gheling, and Charang, all of which are snapshots into bygone Mustang. Your trek is all about one major highlight – the walled town of Lo-Manthang that was formerly the capital of the kingdom. Here, you’ll explore ancient monasteries like Namgyal Gompa and walk through narrow streets that are rich with history.
On the return journey, you’ll visit places like Drakmar, Shyangbochen, Chhusang, and Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. As the scenery changes, you’ll see everything from dry cliffs to lush valleys, finishing the trek in the lively town of Jomsom before flying back to Pokhara. Tidy Himalaya makes sure your trek is smooth and unforgettable, blending adventure and culture in every step.
Detailed Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu Airport
- Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).
- A representative from Tidy Himalaya will transfer you to your hotel.
- Explore Thamel, a lively hub with shops, cafes, and cultural charm.
- Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing
Spend a day in Kathmandu before you leave for Upper Mustang.
- Visit iconic heritage sites: Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- Meet your trekking guide and have a pre-trek briefing.
- Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 03: Drive or Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
- Scenic 6-7 hour drive or a short 25-minute flight to Pokhara.
- Relax by Phewa Lake or explore the vibrant city.
- Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Day 04: Fly to Jomsom & Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)
- Early morning flight to Jomsom, offering stunning views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge.
- Begin trekking towards Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.
- Explore the ancient Tibetan-style village and monastery.
- Overnight stay in Kagbeni.
Day 05: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m)
- Enter the restricted area of Upper Mustang.
- Pass through Tangbe and Chhusang villages, crossing the Kali Gandaki River.
- Trek uphill to Chele, surrounded by red cliffs and stunning landscapes.
- Overnight stay in Chele.
Day 06: Trek from Chele to Gheling (3,570m)
- Ascend to Taklam La Pass (3,624m), enjoying panoramic views.
- Pass through Samar village and lush barley fields.
- Arrive at Gheling, a beautiful Mustang village with traditional houses.
- Overnight stay in Gheling.
Day 07: Trek from Gheling to Charang (3,560m)
- Cross Nyi La Pass (4,020m) and descend towards Charang.
- Explore the ancient dzong (fort) and red monastery.
- Stunning views of Mustang’s rugged terrain.
- Overnight stay in Charang.
Day 08: Trek from Charang to Lo-Manthang (3,840m)
- Pass through Lo La Pass (3,950m) for the first view of Lo-Manthang.
- Arrive at the walled capital of the ancient Mustang kingdom.
- Explore royal palaces, monasteries, and Tibetan-influenced culture.
- Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.
Day 09: Explore Lo-Manthang & Visit Namgyal Gompa
- Hike to Namgyal Gompa, a significant Buddhist monastery.
- Visit Tingkhar, the last village in Upper Mustang.
- Explore Thubchen, Jampa, and Chode Gompas.
- Overnight stay in Lo-Manthang.
Day 10: Trek from Lo-Manthang to Drakmar (3,810m)
- Follow a different trail back via Gyakar village.
- Visit Ghar Gompa, known for its ancient rock paintings.
- Pass through striking red cliffs and hidden caves.
- Overnight stay in Drakmar.
Day 11: Trek from Drakmar to Shyangbochen (3,850m)
- Walk through remote villages where Tibetan culture thrives.
- Trek through barley fields and rolling hills.
- Overnight stay in Shyangbochen.
Day 12: Trek from Shyangbochen to Chhusang (2,980m)
- Descend gradually, enjoying a change in scenery.
- Encounter ancient caves and monasteries.
- Overnight stay in Chhusang.
Day 13: Trek from Chhusang to Muktinath (3,800m)
- Trek to Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists.
- Visit Muktinath Temple, known for its eternal flame and 108 water spouts.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri peaks.
- Overnight stay in Muktinath.
Day 14: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m)
- Descend along the Kali Gandaki River valley.
- Enjoy scenic landscapes with barren cliffs and ammonite fossils.
- Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Day 15: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
- Early morning scenic flight back to Pokhara.
- Relax by Phewa Lake or explore Davis Falls and local markets.
- Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Day 16: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Return to Kathmandu via a 6-7 hour drive or a short flight.
- Free time for last-minute shopping or a farewell dinner.
- Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 17: Departure – Farewell from the Himalayas
- Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure.
- Take home unforgettable memories of Upper Mustang.