Upper Mustang Trekking - 17 Days

Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek

• Discover Lo Manthang, an ancient city that served as the old kingdom of Mustang's capital. 
• Visit the stunning monasteries and temples in the area, such as the Thubchen Gompa from the 14th century and the Jhong Cave Monastery from the 15th. 
• Take a stroll through Upper Mustang's high-altitude desert habitat, which is home to numerous unusual flora and animals.
• Discover the customs of the residents of Mustang, who are renowned for their vibrant culture and distinctive Tibetan-style buildings. 
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountain range, which includes Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna South. 
• Discover the distinct hospitality and culture of the Mustang region, which is renowned for its kind and inviting inhabitants.

Introduction: Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang trek is one of the most popular exotic tours offered by Holiday Tours Nepal. The most convenient way to travel is by air from Pokhara to Jomsom (2700m) and from there begins the trek. Travelling to Jomsom from Pokhara is an adventure in itself where the flight passes through the deepest gorge in the world. 

As mentioned, Upper Mustang trekking can be a popular choice for travelers. This region showers fellow visitors with a scenic Himalayan landscape and a Tibetan feel.

The trek begins from Kagbeni the gateway of Upper Mustang which aids in exploring caverns, rock paintings, monasteries, and gompas to learn about the local culture. This exciting journey includes panoramic views of the Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other peaks.

A visit to Namgyal Gompa and Tingkhar, the area's last notable village, as well as the King's palace within Lo Manthang, provides a better cultural understanding of the region. The journey to Lo-Manthang (the walled capital) almost entirely consists of a treeless barren terrain, a steep rocky road, and a downhill.

There's also an amchi museum and school where visitors can learn about this ancient healing practice and how it's being modernized. Gyakar, with its famous Gompa, is around an hour's hike from Lo Manthang. The more than 1,200-year-old Ghar Gompa is dedicated to Guru Rinpoche, who visited these areas at the time.

The Gompa is well-known for its rock carvings and the belief that hoping here will result in a wish being granted. Make a wish at Ghar Gompa and hope to return someday. The trip is at a reasonably high altitude (3,000m to 3,800m), exacerbated by the dry air.

History of Upper Mustang

More myth and mythology than actual historical information form the foundation of Mustang's past. It is believed that the name “Mustang” is derived from a Tibetan word that means “Plain of Aspiration”. Similarly, history suggests that Ame Pal, who established the Kingdom of Lo in 1380, previously ruled Mustang as an independent kingdom in its own right.

Mustang is a district in Nepal that includes part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal's largest protected area. Jomsom, the capital of Mustang, has a land area of 3,573 square kilometers. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) is in charge of development projects and tourist management.

The Nepalese region of Upper Mustang was once a separate monarchy. Upper Mustang, located in the nation's northwest, is surrounded by Tibet and has an extensive cultural and historical past. The region is well-known for its distinctive Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions, as well as its high-altitude desert topography which makes it one of the most favored trekking destinations for tourists.

Major Attractions of Upper Mustang Trek

1. Lo Manthang – The Walled Capital

Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the former kingdom of Mustang, with its narrow alleys, traditional Tibetan-style houses, monasteries, and vibrant culture.

2. Tibetan Culture and Traditions

Experience the unique Tibetan-influenced lifestyle, local customs, and festivals that have remained unchanged for centuries.

3. Ancient Monasteries and Gompas

Visit centuries-old monasteries (gompas) such as Chhoser, Luri, and Thubchen, which showcase intricate murals, thangkas, and Buddhist rituals.

4. Colorful Caves of Mustang

Discover the ancient cliffside caves, used historically for meditation and burials, some of which are over a thousand years old.

5. Lo-Kharka and Charang Villages

Trek through remote villages where traditional stone houses, prayer flags, and chortens create a timeless Himalayan atmosphere.

6. Breathtaking Desert Landscapes

Witness high-altitude desert landscapes, barren plateaus, and deep gorges, offering panoramic views of Himalayan peaks like Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri.

7. Muktinath and Mustang Monastic Trails

Explore sacred trails and sites that combine spirituality, history, and adventure in one unique trekking experience.

8. Traditional Mustang Cuisine

Enjoy authentic local dishes, including buckwheat bread, yak cheese, and Tibetan-style noodles, giving you a taste of Mustang’s culinary heritage.

9. Rich Flora and Fauna

Spot Himalayan wildlife, including blue sheep, snow leopards (rarely), and a variety of birds adapted to the arid Mustang environment.

10. Stunning Sunrises and Sunsets

Capture breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and Mustang valleys at sunrise and sunset, especially from Lo Manthang or cliff viewpoints.

Why Choose the Upper Mustang Trek Nepal?

The Upper Mustang Trek Nepal offers a rare and unforgettable journey into one of Nepal’s most culturally rich and geographically unique regions. Often called the Last Forbidden Kingdom, Upper Mustang provides trekkers with an experience unlike any other in the Himalayas.

1. Explore the Ancient Kingdom of Lo Manthang

Upper Mustang was once an independent kingdom with its own monarchy, and its preserved heritage is still visible today. Trekking in this region feels like entering a living museum, where ancient traditions and architecture remain remarkably untouched. As you explore Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the former kingdom, you’ll encounter centuries-old royal palaces, intricately carved wooden windows, narrow alleyways, and fortified walls that protected the city for generations. Many homes and monasteries still follow original building styles, constructed with mud bricks, stone, and natural materials that blend harmoniously with the desert landscape.

2. Unique Tibetan-Inspired Culture

The region is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, and this spiritual influence is visible in every village, trail, and mountain pass you encounter. Upper Mustang is home to centuries-old monasteries (gompas) filled with ancient murals, sacred scriptures, and statues that reflect the area's profound religious history. Long lines of prayer wheels, colorful prayer flags, and impressive chortens and mani walls decorate the landscape, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere.

One of the cultural highlights of the region is the Tiji Festival, a vibrant three-day celebration featuring masked dances, ritual performances, and traditional music. Held in Lo Manthang, it attracts visitors and pilgrims from across Nepal and the Tibetan plateau. The festival reenacts ancient myths of good triumphing over evil and offers an unforgettable glimpse into Mustang’s living spiritual traditions.

The culture, clothing, and rituals of the Mustang people feel timeless. Traditional dress, handcrafted jewelry, and daily practices like chanting, butter lamp offerings, and communal gatherings have remained unchanged for generations. This strong preservation of heritage gives trekkers a rare opportunity to experience a culture that is both authentic and deeply connected to its roots.

3. Dramatic Desert-Like Landscapes

Unlike the lush green trails of many other Himalayan treks, Upper Mustang reveals a completely different side of Nepal—a land sculpted by wind, sand, and time. The region is filled with dramatic wind-carved cliffs, ancient cave dwellings perched high in the rock faces, and striking red and orange canyons that glow under the sun. Its vast barren deserts and wide-open valleys create a sense of space and silence that feels almost unreal, as if you’re walking through a natural masterpiece untouched for centuries.

The contrasting layers of color in the cliffs, the sweeping desert landscapes, and the unusual rock formations give Upper Mustang an otherworldly, almost Martian appearance. This raw, rugged terrain offers endless opportunities for photography and exploration, with every turn of the trail revealing a new and spectacular viewpoint.

Its beauty is raw, rugged, and breathtaking, making it one of the most visually unique trekking destinations in Nepal—perfect for trekkers seeking something beyond the typical alpine scenery.

4. Restricted Area = Fewer Crowds

As a restricted trekking zone, Upper Mustang requires trekkers to obtain a special permit before entering. This regulation helps control the number of visitors, preserving the region’s fragile environment and unique cultural heritage. Unlike popular trekking routes like Annapurna or Everest, Upper Mustang sees far fewer tourists, which means the trails are often quiet and peaceful, allowing for a more intimate and immersive experience.

The limited access also ensures that visitors can fully appreciate the ancient villages, monasteries, and desert landscapes without the crowds commonly found on other treks. For those seeking solitude, raw natural beauty, and a connection with the local culture, this restriction is a major advantage, making Upper Mustang feel like a hidden gem in the Himalayas.

5. Perfect for Monsoon Trekking

Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, which protects the region from the heavy monsoon rains that sweep across most of Nepal. This unique geographical feature makes Upper Mustang one of the few trekking destinations in the country suitable during the monsoon season (June–August). While the rest of the Himalayas experience wet, slippery trails and limited visibility, Upper Mustang enjoys clear skies, dry paths, and unobstructed mountain views, allowing trekkers to fully appreciate its dramatic landscapes and desert-like terrain.

The monsoon season also brings a subtle charm to the region: the skies are often bright and vibrant, the valleys feel more peaceful due to fewer trekkers, and the contrast of the red cliffs against the blue sky is particularly striking for photographers. This combination of reliable weather, spectacular scenery, and reduced crowding makes Upper Mustang an excellent choice for adventurous travelers even during the summer months.

6. Rich History and Mystical Caves

The Upper Mustang region is dotted with centuries-old cave systems carved into cliffs and hillsides, offering a glimpse into its mysterious past. These caves are believed to have been used by monks for meditation, traders for storage, and even by ancient civilizations for shelter and religious purposes. Many of the caves contain remnants of Buddhist paintings, inscriptions, and ritual artifacts, adding a fascinating historical and spiritual dimension to the trek.

Exploring these caves adds an adventurous and enigmatic element to the journey, as trekkers can imagine the lives of those who once inhabited them and the stories embedded in their walls. From hidden cliff-side meditation caves to expansive complexes carved into red rock canyons, these ancient structures create a sense of discovery and wonder, making Upper Mustang not just a trek through dramatic landscapes but also a journey through history and culture.

7. Warm Mustang Hospitality

The Mustang people (Lopa) are renowned for their warm hospitality, rich traditions, and unique way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Visitors are often welcomed into family-run tea houses, where they can enjoy freshly prepared meals, listen to local stories, and observe daily routines. Traditional Mustang cuisine, such as tsampa (roasted barley flour), yak cheese, butter tea, and momo dumplings, offers trekkers a flavorful insight into local food culture.

Staying in these tea houses also provides a rare opportunity to experience Lopa customs firsthand—from observing prayer rituals and local festivals to learning about their agricultural practices and trade with neighboring regions. The friendly interaction with hosts and fellow travelers creates a homely, immersive trekking experience, allowing visitors to connect deeply with the culture and spirit of Upper Mustang.

8. A Journey Back in Time

Upper Mustang feels like stepping into a preserved world, where ancient traditions, architecture, and daily life have remained virtually unchanged for centuries. Walking through its walled villages, monasteries, and desert valleys is like exploring a living museum of Himalayan culture. Every stone wall, prayer flag, and cave tells a story of a people who have maintained their heritage despite the passage of time.

Trekkers have the rare opportunity to immerse themselves in this timeless culture, witnessing centuries-old rituals, traditional dress, and community life that are often lost in more modernized regions. The combination of stunning landscapes, historical architecture, and enduring cultural practices makes Upper Mustang not just a trek, but a journey into the heart of Nepal’s ancient past.

How does the Upper Mustang Trekking start and end?

The trip begins as we take a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom through the world’s biggest gorge which is known as Kali Gandaki Gorge which lies between Annapurna (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m). After arrival, collect your gear and supplies and travel for 3 hours to Kagbeni, along the Kali Gandaki River with a spectacular mountain panorama.

The major entrance to this journey is Kagbeni, and the trail today begins with a half-hour ascent, leaving the Kali-Gandaki River back for a moment. As the trek proceeds to Tangbe, the trail leads to the harsh, arid terrain, with an infrequent halt, passing through a few tiny villages. Chussang is reached after another hour of fine walking from Tangbe.

After crossing the stream, go towards Chele town via the shattered canyons and old castle walls on the surrounding cliffs. Across the river near Chussang, there are some spectacular red eroded cliffs that tower over the mouths of inaccessible caves. After crossing the small bridge, it's a 45-minute uphill climb to Chele Village. The climb from Chele Hamlet becomes more difficult for an hour as it ascends to the peak at 3,130m, from which you can view Gyagar across a massive gorge. The trek continues with a continuous ascent across windy terrain until the pass at 3,540m is reached. From here, the route gradually ascends to Samar.

The hike continues after a brief ascent beyond Samar Village to a ridge and southward going to a broad canyon past a chorten, the journey continues into another valley with juniper trees. Following the brook, the path ascends to a ridge at 3,800 meters. Before descending to Shyangmochen, a little settlement with a few tea shops, the trail climbs another pass.

From Geling to the valley's center, the road gradually ascends through the fields, passing beneath the towns. The journey continues with a strong elevation through the valley's head to the route's highest point, the Nyi La pass (3,950 m). The key also serves as Lo's southern border. After a half-hour slog, you'll reach a crossroads; the right road leads directly to Tsarang, while the left leads to Ghami village, one of the Lo region's significant cities. The last ascent leads to a 3,600-meter pass. After the last welcome, a gentle incline leads to Tsarang, a lovely settlement.

The road climbs and descends past a number of lovely villages, passing by a river and a big Chorten. You will be treated to spectacular mountain scenery and a vast, windswept landscape as you traverse multiple passes. Finally, you will arrive in Lo Manthang.

The people of Lo Manthang are kind and exciting. The main town on this journey has about 160 dwellings and several lamas. The school, health post, police station, and other important chortens are located outside the walls, north of the gate and east of the monastic area.

Later descend and make a less difficult ascent to Ghami, going via a couple of passes with wonderful valley and mountain vistas. After you arrive, you must investigate and discover the Ghami. There are many interesting things to see.

Trace your steps back to Kagbeni, descending more and ascending less. Return to Jomsom by taking a leisurely stroll across the Kali-Gandaki Valley. This walk offers breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri Mountains.

Distance & Altitude Coverage of Upper Mustang Trekking

Outline Upper Mustang Trekking Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Full Day in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Drive to Pokhara 

Day 04: Fly to Jomsom in about 25 minutes and trek to Kagbeni 

Day 05: Trek to Chussang.

Day 06: Trek to Samar.

Day 07: Trek to Geling.

Day 08: Trek to Tsarang.

Day 09: Trek to Lo-Manthang.

Day 10: A full day of local excursions in Lo-Manthang.

Day 11: Trek to Ghami.

Day 12: Trek to samar.

Day 13: Trek to Kagbeni.

Day 14: Trek to Jomsom.

Day 15: Fly back to Pokhara.

Day 16: Drive back to Kathmandu.

Day 17: Final Departure.

The itinerary can be fully customized to suit your schedule and interests.

Contact us today to personalize your trek!