Upper Mustang With Muktinath Trek - Nepal International Tours & Treks

Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most remarkable and adventurous treks of the Mustang regions in Nepal. The 17 days Upper Mustang treks begin with the sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage sites of Kathmandu valley. After that, you’ll drive to Pokhara, the beautiful city of Lake and start your trek from there. During the trekking journey, with Himalayans views, you’ll pass through some ancient villages of Kagbeni, Lo Manthang, Jomsom, Chhuksang, and Chele. All these villages are such remarkable places with beautiful landscapes and cultural diversity. This unique trek passes through the desert like landscapes, deep canyons, beautiful waterfalls, eroded cliffs, and mountain valley. While walking along the side of Kali Gandaki river you’ll get striking views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Nilgiri, and Mt. Annapurna. Upper Mustang is also known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom. It was once part of Tibet and salt caravans used to cross the Himalayas of Nepal. It lies in the rain shadow area of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges and thus turned this land into a barren desert. So, this place is also called as the “mountain desert”.

Upper Mustang trek will reward you with diverse landscapes combined with the authentic Nepali-Tibetan culture. Enroute you’ll encounter with Tamang, Gurung, Mustangi, and Tibetan inhabitants. During this wonderful trek, you’ll also walk along the Kali Gandaki gorge which is one of the deepest gorges in the world. Further, you’ll also visit Muktinath temple which is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Trek ends with the short scenic flight back to Pokhara from Jomson and followed by a drive to Kathmandu. Upper Mustang Trekking is the best options for those who want to explore the remote and untouched treasures of the Himalayas! The scenery along the entire trail is simply stunning. Come explore one of the hidden gems of Nepal with The Great Adventure Treks.

Upper Mustang Trekking Highlights

Enjoy the sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley
Explore the capital of Mustang- Lo Manthang
Visit the monasteries and the caves of Upper Mustang
Visit Muktinath Temple important pilgrimage sites of both Hindu and Buddhist
Explore the highly Tibetan influence culture and lifestyle of the remote place of Upper Mustang
An eye-catching view of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Annapurna
Explore the city of Lake, Pokhara
Scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom

Upper Mustang Trekking Difficulty

Upper Mustang Trekking difficulty is generally considered to be moderate to difficult. Although prior trekking experience is not necessary, the good level of fitness is essentially required. So, before embarking the trekking journey, you need to take part in physical activities like walking, running, swimming, hiking. Besides altitude sickness is also common among the trekkers especially above 3,000 meters which add a little difficulty during the trek. So, it is necessary to acclimatize well during the trek and prepared yourself beforehand.

Best Time for Upper Mustang Trekking

The best time for Upper Mustang Trekking is spring and autumn. The views are clear in this season and there is less chance of heavy snowfall or rain during this period. However, the summer is also considered as the best time for Upper Mustang trekking. Since the Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow area, it doesn’t experience monsoon. So, it is a great idea to see the vegetation of the Himalayan arid plateau. During the winter season, the trekking is quite impossible due to the heavy snowfall in the higher altitude above 3,500 meters. Lastly, if you want to be the part of Tiji festival in Upper Mustang then the best time is in May. Locals celebrate this festival for 3 days. This festival is basically held on the premises of the king’s palace of Lo Manthang.

Upper Mustang Trek Map

Outline Itinerary

Detail Itinerary

Cost Included

Cost Excluded

Day 01: Pick up from Airport and drive to your hotel (1,300 m/4,264 ft) Hotel Accommodation.

Day 02: Half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. Hotel Accommodation.

Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (827 m/ 2,712 ft) 7- 8 hrs by bus, Hotel Accommodation.

Day 04: Pokhara-Jomsom (2720 m/8922 ft) Flight/ Trek To Kagbeni (2800 m /9184 ft), Tea House Accommodation.

Day 05: Trek Kagbeni to Chaile, (3030 m /9938 ft) 4-5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 06: Trek to Chaile to Geling, (3440 m /11,283 ft) 7-8 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 07: Trek Geling to Dhakmar, (3800 m/ 12,464 ft) 5 -6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 08: Trek Dhakmar to Lo Manthang, (3730 m/12,234 ft) 5 – 6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 09: Explore Lo Manthang for a hike around and explore the beauty and communicate with the local people and learn their culture and ethnicity in detail. Tea House Accommodation.

Day 10: Lo Mantang to Charang, (3490 m/11,447 ft) 4-5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 11: Trek to Charang to Syangboche, (3800 m /12,464 ft) 6-7 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 12: Trek Syangboche to Chuksang, (2965 m /9725 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 13: Trek to Muktinath, (3700 m / 12,136 ft) 4-5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 14:Trek to Jomsom (2,730 m /8954 ft ) 4 – 5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 15: Fly to Pokhara from Jomsom, Tea House Accommodation.

Day 16: Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu on a comfortable tourist bus. 7 – 8 hrs, Hotel Accommodation.

Day 17: Final Departure

Day 01: Pick up from Airport and drive to your hotel (1,300 m/4,264 ft) Hotel Accommodation.

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal International Tours & Treks representative will receive you and transfer to the respective hotel in the private vehicle. Once you checked in the hotel you have a few options. Either you can rest in your room or explore the vibrant Kathmandu city on your own. You’ll spend overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. Hotel Accommodation.

Early in the morning, after having hearty breakfast you’ll start half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city. Our tour guide will accompany you with a comfortable private vehicle. The tour begins with a visit to one of the biggest and sacred Hindu temple of Nepal, Pashupatinath. From here, you’ll visit the biggest Buddhist Stupa of Nepal, Boudhanath. Continuing the tour, your next stop will be Swayambhunath Temple. It is also famous as Monkey Temple. This temple is one of the oldest temples in the Kathmandu valley and offers panoramic views of Kathmandu valley and surrounding Himalayas. At the end of the day, you’ll visit Kathmandu Durbar Square. This place was home of Nepal’s king till the late 19th century. In the evening, you can do shopping in Thamel. You can buy any equipment or gear and prepare yourself for the upcoming trek. You’ll spend a night in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (827 m/ 2,712 ft) 7- 8 hrs by Tourist Bus, Hotel Accommodation.

Today, after having a morning breakfast, you’ll head towards Pokhara via Prithvi Highway. After 6-7 hours of long scenic drive, you’ll reach Pokhara. Pokhara is the gateway to the several famous trekking destinations of the Annapurna region. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll check in to the hotel and get refreshed. In the evening, you can explore the beautiful lake city. The nightlife of Pokhara is quite happening at a local cafe, pub, and bars. If you have you can also do boating in the beautiful Phewa Lake and visit the Tal Barahi Temple on the lake. You’ll spend an overnight in one of the finest hotels of Pokhara.

Day 04: Pokhara-Jomsom (2720 m/8922 ft) Flight/ Trek To Kagbeni (2800 m /9184 ft), Tea House Accommodation.

Today, early in the morning you’ll head to the domestic terminal of the Pokhara airport and fly to Jomsom. The flight duration is less than 20 minutes. On the clear days, in this short flight, you’ll get an awesome view of the lofty snow-capped mountains. You’ll also get a close spectacular view of both Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain range. Jomsom is the district headquarter of the Mustang. From here you’ll begin your actual trek. As this is your first day of the trek, you’ll only walk uphill for 3 hours alongside Kali Gandaki river and reach scenic Kagebani village (2,800 m). This beautiful village is the gateway to the Upper Mustang. It lies in the bank of the two rivers. On the south side of Kagbeni village, you’ll get the majestic views of Mt. Nilgiri. You’ll spend an overnight at a local guesthouse in Kagbeni village.

Day 05: Trek Kagbeni to Chaile, (3030 m /9938 ft) 4-5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Today after having early morning breakfast you’ll start your trek via the eastern bank of Kaligandaki river. After climbing over several ridges on the north side you’ll reach beautiful mountainous hamlet Tangbe. It is a typical Gurung village of Mustang full of whitewashed houses. You’ll see apple orchards, barley and buckwheat fields which add the scenic beauty to this place. From the Tangbe village, the trek goes via Chhusang village. After exploring the Chhusang village you’ll continue your trek along the bank of the Kali Gandaki river and in some places you’ve to walk through the riverbed. Walking through the riverbed is easier path comparing to walking downhill and uphill. Finally, after crossing the steel bridge over Kali Gandaki river and short steep climb you’ll reach the destination for the day Chele village. The trekking hours from Kagbeni to Chele is 6-7 hours. Chele village lies at an elevation of 3050 meters above sea level. On the way, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking view of Mt. Nilgiri and Tukche. You’ll also get the views of the red cliff and mysterious cave. Most of the caves are inaccessible. Upon your arrival in Chele village, you’ll start to experience the Tibetan influence. During this trek, you’ll get an opportunity to explore highly Tibetan influenced culture, lifestyle, and traditions. You’ll spend an overnight at Chele village.

Day 06: Trek to Chaile to Geling, (3440 m /11,283 ft) 7-8 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Today after having breakfast, you’ll continue your trek climbing uphill and downhill through huge sides of Kali Gandaki valley. After a few hours of walk, you’ll cross a high suspension bridge over Ghyakar Khola and reach Ghyakar. Further, you’ll continue your walk to the side of a steep canyon and reach the Chele La at an altitude of 3,630 meters. From the top of the pass, you’ll get awesome views of Tilicho Peak, Yakwakang (north shoulder of Thorung La) and the Damodar Himal’s range above 6,000 meters peaks. After enjoying the fabulous views, you’ll descend to the village of Samar which is famous for a horse caravan watering point. Again after 3 hours of walk leads you to the village of Syhangmohen and then trail gently rises to the Shyangmoche La at an altitude of 3,850 meters. Finally, after passing many colorful red, white, and black chortens you’ll reach a fabulous village of Gelling. Today’s after total 6-7 hours of walk you’ll reach Gelling village (3,570 m) for an overnight stay.

Day 07: Trek Geling to Dhakmar, (3800 m/ 12,464 ft) 5 -6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Today you’ll start your trek in the windy and dusty trail towards Drakmar. The trekking hours between Gelling to Drakmar is 5-6 hours. The Drakmar lies at an elevation of 3,800 meters above the sea level. The trail passes through the arid plateau and rice fields in between. The walk might not be pleasant specially in the noontime as the wind will hit on your face in the Kali Gandaki Wind Valley. However, this windy valley offers you a majestic view of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Nilgiri. At the late afternoon, you’ll reach Drakmar village. You can explore the village and enjoy the surrounding view and spend overnight at Drakmar village.

Day 08: Trek Dhakmar to Lo Manthang, (3730 m/12,234 ft) 5 – 6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Today you’ll leave the village and start your trek through the steep ascent and pass some alpine meadows. After climbing a ridge you’ll descend until you reach Ghar Gompa. It is also known as Lo Gyaker which means “Pure virtue of Lo”. It is more than 1200 years old and also you can meet Guru Rimpoche. This Gompa is also famous for its rock paintings and there is also a belief that if anyone makes a wish at Ghar Gompa, their wish is fulfilled. After exploring the ancient Ghar Gompa you’ll again descend a large cairn and reach a small ridge from where you’ll get the first view of Lo-Manthang city. Finally, after 5-6 hours of walk, you’ll reach Lo Manthang (3,730 meters), a medieval ancient wall city of Mustang. You’ll spend a night at Lo Manthang.

Day 09: Explore Lo Manthang for a hike around and explore the beauty and communicate with the local people and learn their culture and ethnicity in detail. Tea House Accommodation.

Today you’ll explore the Lo Manthang the capital city of the former kingdom of Lo. It lies on the ancient trade route that runs along the Kali Gandaki River that cuts through the Himalayas. The settlement is beautifully surrounded by a 6-meter high earthen wall with square towers or dzong on the corners. You can go small hike to the north of Lo Manthang Jhong and explore the Chosar Caves. Here you may also hire a horse and the cost will be approximately US$20 per day. Ascetics used these caves for meditation and locals as a home. You can also explore 15th century Champa Lakhang and the red Thubchen Gompa. Similarly, you’ll visit two main Gompa’s of 18th Century i.e, Chodi Gompa in the monastic quarter of town plus and the nearby new Choprang Gompa. Further, you can also visit the Namgyal Gompa situated at the nearby hilltop. This one is very special for the local community as it acts as a court. In the northwest of the city, there is a small beautiful village of Tingkhar where you can visit three Gompas and the Raja’s summer palace. After exploring the hidden kingdom of Upper Mustang you’ll return back to the lodge in Lo Manthang for an overnight stay.

Day 10: Lo Mantang to Charang, (3490 m/11,447 ft) 4-5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Today after having morning breakfast, you’ll leave Lo Manthang and trek towards Tsarang, the “Land of Chortens”. You’ll be walking mostly on a flat and wide trail. Thus, today’s walk is comparably easy than another day. The trekking route from Lo Manthang to Tsarang is full of adventure and scenic beauty. Crossing several plateaus and villages you’ll cross the Tsarang Chu. Also, you’ll cross another windy pass of Lo La at an altitude of 3,950 meters. From the top of the pass, you’ll get a mesmerizing view of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Annapurna. After complete 4-5 hours of walk, you’ll reach Tsarang village at an altitude of 3,490 meters. You’ll find Tsarang village little quiet place than Lo Manthang.

Day 11: Trek to Charang to Syangboche, (3800 m /12,464 ft) 6-7 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

After enjoying the hearty breakfast, you’ll head towards the tiny settlement of Syangbcohe (3,880 meters). Today’s walk is about and you’ll explore some of the best scenery of this trip. 6-7 hours. On the way to the Syangboche, you’ll pass 1000 m long Mani wall beautifully decorated with simple cravings. This is well-known as Chinggel La, the longest Mani Wall of Mustang. After passing the Ghami village you’ll rejoin the Gelling trail. After passing the small pass you’ll descend to Syangboche for an overnight stay.

Day 12: Trek Syangboche to Chuksang, (2965 m /9725 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Today’s trek from Syangboche to Chuksang (2,965 meters) is about 6-7 hours. Passing through from big canyons you’ll reach Tsaile. After that, you’ll take a steep descent to the Kali Gandaki River and cross the iron bridge and reach Chuksang village for an overnight stay.

Day 13: Trek to Muktinath, (3700 m / 12,136 ft) 4-5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Today you’ll trek to Muktinath through the main trail of the Annapurna region. This is the second last day of your trek where you’ll be following the village trails. Descending from Chuksang village, you’ll leave the restricted trekking area of Mustang. After 4-5 hours of walk, you’ll reach the Kani gate, the main entrance to Muktinath temple (3,700 meters). Muktinath temple holds a great religious significance. It is a holy place where you can wash your all sins and make your way towards heaven. In the temple surroundings, there are 108 holy springs where you can take bath. There is a belief that taking a bath here gives you salvation. You’ll also explore the surroundings and visit the Buddhist Gompas. Today you’ll spend a night in the lodge of Muktinath.

Day 14: Trek to Jomsom (2,730 m /8954 ft ) 4 – 5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.

Early in the morning, you’ll visit the main temple and explore the surroundings. Muktinath is an important pilgrimage site for both Buddhist and Hindu people. After admiring the natural beauty and visiting a Buddhist monastery nearby you’ll retrace your steps back to Jomsom. Enroute you’ll enjoy the good views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and after 4-5 hours of walk you’ll reach Jomsom (2,713 meters) for an overnight stay.

Day 15: Fly to Pokhara.

Today you’ll take an early morning flight back to Pokhara. Upon arrival at the Pokhara airport, you’ll drive to the respective hotel in Pokhara. The rest of the day is free you can take around tour of Pokhara Valley. The main attraction is Fewa Lake, Peace Pagoda Stupa, Davis Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, and so on. Furthermore, you’ll also have an option of paragliding, zip-flying, cycling, boating, and kayaking. After exploring the Pokhara, you can also experience the best nightlife at the lakeside of Pokhara. You can celebrate your trek accomplishment in one of the good cafes or pubs. Undoubtedly, you’ll find plenty of great places to enjoy and relax. Overnight stay at one of the finest hotels in Pokhara.

Day 16: Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu on a comfortable tourist bus. 7 – 8 hrs, Hotel Accommodation.

After having a great day at Pokhara, today you’ll return back to Kathmandu. Remember two options are available i.e you can take a scenic drive or short flight. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you can go shopping or go for a small excursion. And in the evening, you can go to clubs or traditional restaurants and enjoy some authentic Nepalese dishes. Overnight stay at Kathmandu.

Day 17: Final Departure.

Depending on your flight schedule, our representative will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport. Finally, your wonderful trips in the land of the Himalayas will end. Wishing you a safe journey we’ll see you off and hope to meet you soon for another adventure trip.