Registration No: 214869/75/076
Email: info@idealnepaltours.com
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After check-in, you can relax or explore nearby Thamel, a bustling tourist hub filled with shops, cafes, and cultural charm. In the evening, there will be a brief orientation session regarding the trek.
Early in the morning, you'll board a short but spectacular flight to Jomsom, the administrative hub of the Mustang region. From here, the trek begins along the Kali Gandaki River to the medieval village of Kagbeni. This gateway to Upper Mustang retains ancient Tibetan architecture and cultural ambiance.
After completing the necessary permits at the check-post, you’ll head north and begin the actual Upper Mustang trail. The trek passes through dramatic landscapes, canyons, and remote villages like Tangbe. Eventually, you’ll reach Chele, where the Tibetan-influenced culture becomes more prominent.
Today's trek involves ascending rugged terrain, crossing the Taklam La and Dajori La passes, and enjoying views of Nilgiri and Tilicho peaks. After crossing several ridges and small settlements like Samar, you’ll reach Syangmoche, a quaint village with stone houses and a serene atmosphere.
You continue your trek through barren yet beautiful landscapes, passing the famous Chungsi Cave and the Nyi La pass. The trail descends to Ghami, one of the largest villages in Upper Mustang, known for its ancient mani walls and traditional lifestyle.
Leaving Ghami behind, you trek through picturesque terrain featuring chortens and dry fields. You’ll soon reach Charang, a historically rich village with whitewashed houses, an impressive red monastery (Charang Monastery), and a palace that reflects the former kingdom's grandeur.
Today’s trail leads to the walled city of Lo Manthang, the cultural and political heart of Upper Mustang. As you approach this ancient capital, you’ll be greeted by expansive views and the sight of the towering city walls enclosing monasteries, palaces, and homes.
Explore the northern outskirts of Lo Manthang with a day excursion to Chhoser, home to the fascinating Jhong cave—a multi-storied structure carved into the cliffs. You'll visit monasteries, caves, and enjoy a glimpse into the deeply spiritual and resilient lifestyle of Mustang's inhabitants.
The return journey begins along a different route via Lo Gekar and the Ghar Gompa—one of the oldest active monasteries in Nepal. The trail ascends and descends dramatically before reaching the red cliffs and traditional homes of Dhakmar.
Today’s descent offers expansive views of the arid landscapes and unique rock formations. You’ll pass through remote highland meadows before reaching Ghiling, a peaceful village where you can observe traditional farming practices and local culture.
Continuing southward, you revisit several familiar villages but experience the terrain from a different perspective. The trail gradually descends, and the air becomes warmer as you arrive at Chuksang, nestled along the banks of the Kali Gandaki.
On the final day of trekking, you’ll retrace your steps to Kagbeni and then walk along the windswept valley to Jomsom. Here, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved rest, a hot shower, and a celebratory dinner to mark the end of your Upper Mustang adventure.
A short morning flight takes you back to Pokhara, offering one last aerial glimpse of the Himalayan ranges. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to relax or explore Pokhara’s tranquil lakeside setting, caves, and viewpoints.
After breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you can do some last-minute shopping, visit heritage sites, or enjoy a farewell dinner hosted by Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels to commemorate your journey.
A representative from Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. As you depart Nepal, you carry with you unforgettable memories of the remote Mustang kingdom, its people, and its timeless beauty.
The Upper Mustang Trek is a remarkable journey into one of Nepal’s most preserved and culturally rich regions. Located in the trans-Himalayan zone of the Mustang District, this trek leads you into the once-forbidden kingdom of Lo, a Tibetan-influenced area that was restricted to outsiders until the early 1990s. Unlike other treks in Nepal, Upper Mustang offers a truly unique experience with its arid landscapes, ancient monasteries, cave dwellings, and the walled city of Lo Manthang. Trekking in this region allows travelers to witness Tibetan culture, untouched for centuries, against the backdrop of breathtaking Himalayan views. Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels is proud to offer this exclusive and deeply cultural adventure to those seeking an off-the-beaten-path trekking experience.
The best times to trek in Upper Mustang are from late March to early November, with the most favorable conditions occurring in spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November). Interestingly, unlike many other trekking regions in Nepal, Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, making it possible to trek even during the monsoon months of July and August. This makes it one of the few treks in Nepal that is ideal almost year-round. Our team at Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels carefully plans the itinerary to align with optimal weather conditions and local festivals, such as Tiji Festival, a major cultural highlight in Lo Manthang.
Yes, Upper Mustang is a restricted area and requires a special trekking permit. Trekkers must obtain both the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The RAP costs USD 500 for the first 10 days, and USD 50 per additional day. These permits can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency like Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels, and you must be in a group of at least two trekkers. We handle all permit arrangements on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.
The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. The terrain is not overly steep or high, with the maximum altitude reaching around 3,840 meters (12,600 feet) at Lo Manthang. However, the dry climate and strong sun at higher altitudes can be physically demanding. The daily walking duration ranges from 5 to 7 hours, which is manageable for trekkers with a decent level of fitness. Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels provides detailed preparation guidance and recommends a few weeks of light cardiovascular training before the trek for optimal enjoyment.
Accommodation on the Upper Mustang Trek consists mainly of local teahouses and lodges. These are basic but comfortable, offering clean beds, warm blankets, and hearty home-cooked meals. Food includes a mix of Nepali staples such as dal bhat, Tibetan-inspired dishes like thukpa and momos, and some international items like pasta and pancakes. Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels ensures that you stay at reliable and hospitable teahouses with the best available services in each village.
Yes, Upper Mustang is generally very safe for trekking. It is one of the most peaceful regions of Nepal, with low crime rates and welcoming local communities. The trail is less crowded than other popular treks, which adds to the tranquility of the experience. Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels employs experienced, trained guides and porters who prioritize your safety and comfort throughout the journey. We also carry a first aid kit and monitor altitude-related symptoms daily to ensure your wellbeing.
Due to government regulations, solo trekking is not permitted in Upper Mustang. A minimum of two trekkers is required to obtain the restricted area permit, and all groups must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels can help match solo travelers with others looking to join a group, making it easier and more affordable to embark on this unforgettable journey.
Packing wisely is essential for a comfortable trek. We recommend layered clothing for varying temperatures, a good quality sleeping bag, trekking boots, sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and basic toiletries. Since Upper Mustang is windy and dry, lip balm, moisturizer, and a buff or scarf are also useful. Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels provides a detailed packing list once you book your trek with us, ensuring you're fully prepared.
The trek typically starts from Jomsom, which is accessible via a short scenic flight from Pokhara. You can reach Pokhara by domestic flight or bus from Kathmandu. Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels takes care of all domestic transport logistics, including flights, airport pickups, and hotel bookings, making your journey seamless from beginning to end.
With over a decade of experience in Himalayan adventures, Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels is committed to providing high-quality, personalized trekking experiences. Our team of knowledgeable guides, responsive customer service, and attention to safety make us a trusted choice for travelers from around the world. We take pride in offering culturally immersive, eco-conscious, and unforgettable treks in Upper Mustang and beyond.
