guideaunepal

Upper Mustang

17 days | altitude 3810m

trip details

Duration

17 Days

Starting point

kathmandu

end point

pokhara

activiteis

treking

Pickup Point

TIA Airport

altitude

3810m

Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek is a 17-day adventure that takes you through the remote and culturally rich region of Upper Mustang in Nepal. Starting from Kathmandu, the journey includes a scenic drive to Pokhara, a flight to Jomsom, and a trek through the arid, desert-like landscapes of Mustang.

Trek include visits to ancient monasteries, Tibetan-influenced villages, and stunning views of mountain peaks such as Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Tilicho. The trek also offers an exploration of Lo-Manthang, the historic walled capital of the Mustang region. The trip concludes with a return flight to Pokhara and a drive back to Kathmandu. Ideal for trekkers seeking cultural immersion and off-the-beaten-path landscapes.

Trip Highlights

  • Cultural Exploration: Immerse yourself in the unique Tibetan culture as you visit ancient monasteries, chortens, and traditional villages like Lo-Manthang, known for its rich history and heritage.
  • Breathtaking Landscapes: Experience the stunning vistas of the Mustang region, including panoramic views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri mountain ranges, as well as the dramatic desert landscapes and colorful rock formations.
  • Historic Sites: Discover significant historical sites, such as Ghar Gompa (over 1200 years old) and Namgyal Gompa, where you can learn about local spiritual practices and the region’s history.
  • Acclimatization Day: Spend a day in Lo-Manthang for acclimatization while exploring nearby areas, allowing you to adjust to the altitude and engage with local traditions.
  • Unique Wildlife: Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including blue sheep and other Himalayan species, as you traverse through varied terrains.
  • Tibetan Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Tibetan meals during your trek, staying in local teahouses and homestays that offer a glimpse into the daily life and hospitality of the Mustang people.
  • Adventure and Serenity: Experience a blend of adventure and tranquility as you trek through the serene landscapes, dotted with ancient cultural markers, and connect with nature in a remote setting.
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Program Itenary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Hotel Transfer

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), our guide will extend a warm welcome. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, our guide will meet with you to discuss the details of your Upper Mustang trek, followed by a delightful dinner.

Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing

Spend the second day exploring the cultural and historical treasures of Kathmandu Valley. The tour includes visits to Pashupatinath, the sacred temple of Lord Shiva; Bauddhanath, also called Little Tibet; and Swayambhunath, the renowned Monkey Temple. You’ll also explore the ancient Basantpur Durbar Square before returning to the hotel to prepare for the trek.

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (7-8 Hours)

The trekking adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes about 7 to 8 hours. Along the way, enjoy views of countryside homes and forests. After reaching Pokhara, you can relax and explore the picturesque Lakeside area at your leisure.

Day 4: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,700m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2,858m) – 4 Hours

Catch an early morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, offering stunning views of snow-capped mountain ranges. Once in Jomsom, the trek begins, leading to Kagbeni, known as the gateway to Upper Mustang and often referred to as Nepal’s desert.

Day 5: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m) – 6 Hours

After verifying the special trekking permit at Kagbeni, you will trek toward Chele. The trail takes you through the desert-like valleys of Nepal, with a mix of sandy and windy paths, along with some uphill and downhill sections. Upon reaching Chele, a village perched on a ridge, you’ll rest for the night.

Day 6: Trek from Chele to Syangboche (3,475m) – 7 Hours

Continue the trek from Chele to Syangboche, passing through Ekle Bhatti and crossing the Taklam La pass (3,624m). The day involves walking on plateaus and narrow paths, with panoramic views of Tilicho Peak, Damodar Danda, and Yaskawa Kang before arriving in Syangboche for the night.

Day 7: Trek from Syangboche to Ghaymi (3,520m) – 6 Hours

After breakfast, begin the trek to Ghaymi. The route takes you uphill to the Yamada La pass (3,850m), passing several teahouses and Tibetan-influenced villages along the way. You will also cross the Nyi Pass (4,010m) before descending to reach the village of Ghaymi, where you will stay overnight.

Day 8: Trek from Ghaymi to Charang (3,500m) – 5 Hours

The day starts with a crossing of the Ghaymi Khola. The trek involves walking along a plateau and passing a long Mani wall, a sacred structure in Buddhism. After a pleasant walk, you will reach Charang, a charming village with a maze of fields, where you’ll spend the night.

Day 9: Trek from Charang to Lo-Manthang (3,700m) – 6 Hours

Following breakfast, you will head towards Lo-Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang. The main trail offers splendid views of Tilicho Peak, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Bhrikuti Peak. Upon reaching Lo-Manthang, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the valley.

Day 10: Acclimatization at Lo-Manthang

Spend a day acclimatizing and exploring Lo-Manthang. Highlights include a visit to Namgyal Gompa, a significant hilltop monastery, and Tingkhar, the last major village to the northwest of Lo-Manthang. The day will be spent exploring and absorbing the local culture.

Day 11: Trek from Lo-Manthang to Drakmar (3,810m) – 7 Hours

Begin your return journey with a trek to Drakmar, taking a different route. Along the way, visit Ghar Gompa, a 1,200-year-old monastery dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. After some exploration, you’ll continue toward Drakmar, where you’ll spend the night

Day 12: Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling (3,806m) – 6 Hours

After breakfast, continue trekking to Ghiling. The day offers ample time to explore the local area, but it’s advisable to avoid walking in the afternoon due to dusty winds. After some exploration, return to your accommodation for the night.

Day 13: Trek from Ghiling to Chhuksang (3,050m) – 6 Hours

The journey continues as you trek toward Chhuksang, following the main trail. Enjoy the beautiful and impressive scenery along the way. After a leisurely walk, you will arrive in Chhuksang and settle into a lodge for the night.

Day 14: Trek from Chhuksang to Jomsom (2,700m) – 7 Hours

The day involves trekking from Chhuksang back to Jomsom. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning mountain views and the majestic Himalayan scenery. Once in Jomsom, you’ll settle in for your final night in the Mustang region.

Day 15: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

Take an early morning flight back to Pokhara, where you’ll once again enjoy aerial views of the snow-capped mountains. Upon arrival in Pokhara, the rest of the day is free for you to explore Lakeside and the local market.

Day 16: Drive back to Kathmandu

After breakfast, embark on the drive back to Kathmandu, which takes about 7 to 8 hours. Once in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax after the long journey.

Day 17: Departure from Kathmandu

Transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Take with you unforgettable memories of the trek and the cultural richness of Nepal.

Costs

  • Accommodation in mountain tea houses during the trek
  • Two nights’ stay in Pokhara at  hotel
  • Experienced guide for trekking
  • Tourist bus transport between Kathmandu and Pokhara (round trip)
  • Flights between Pokhara and Jomsom (round trip)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area permit
  • Restricted area trekking permit
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) provided during the trek
  • Porter services  during the trek
  • Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
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