14 Days Upper Mustang Trek
20 Reviews on Tripadvisor
Trip Duration
14 Days
Max. Altitude
4,298m. / 14,101ft.
Nature of Trip
Tea house
Trip Difficulty
Moderate
Group Size
1-20
Best Seasons
All over the Year
Activity
Trekking/
Start/End
Jomsom/Jomsom14 Days Upper Mustang Trek
20 Reviews on Tripadvisor
The Upper Mustang Trek is a journey back in time through a unique landscape and the mountains. It is located behind the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and it feels like stepping into a world that Nepal quietly kept secret for centuries. The landscapes of Upper Mustang are dry and wild, carved by wind and time, yet full of sacred meaning and beauty.
Upper Mustang is often called the last forbidden kingdom of Nepal, and it was closed to foreign travelers until 1992. Being so isolated helped preserve its pure Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, residential caves, and centuries-old traditions, which can still be seen today. When you walk through its desert-like valleys, whitewashed villages, and ochre cliffs, you can almost hear stories of ancient kings, monks, and traders who once walked the same paths.
The trek starts with a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, which offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From Jomsom, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki River into the heart of Mustang, passing through Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, Ghiling, Ghami, Tsarang, and finally reaching the walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the ancient Mustang Kingdom.
Unlike other Himalayan treks filled with greenery and forests, the Upper Mustang stands out for its raw, mystical beauty, colorful cliffs, open skies, and timeless villages where every corner feels sacred. You’ll share tea with locals, spin prayer wheels in centuries-old monasteries, and witness a culture that feels untouched by time.
Himalayan Peace Treks offers a fully organized 14 day Upper Mustang Trek that is comfortable, authentic, and full of insight. We travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by luxury tourist bus, then fly to Jomsom and begin the trek through the trans-Himalayan desert landscapes of Mustang.
If you’re looking for a trek that connects you with culture, spirit, and history, the Upper Mustang trek is a journey you’ll never forget. Feel free to connect with us regarding your trip to Nepal.
Upper Mustang Trek Highlights
- Enjoy breathtaking mountain views on the flight.
- Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, once the royal capital of the Mustang Kingdom.
- Witness the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions, and visit ancient monasteries.
- Hike along through colorful cliffs, through deep canyons, and cave settlements.
- Experience the contrast between barren desert landscapes and snow-capped peaks.
- Visit Chhoser Cave, an incredible man-made cave complex carved into a cliff.
- Meet the warm-hearted people of Mustang, known for their hospitality and spiritual way of life.
- Discover rare Himalayan fossils.
Why Trek With Himalayan Peace Treks?
We are a trusted trekking/climbing and tour company that facilitates incredible experiences in the Himalayas. You can feel good about choosing our company to guide you because of our genuinely excellent service and commitment to giving back to our communities and the environment.
Our ethical trekking approach means appropriate wages and working conditions for our wonderful team, community empowerment and support, and environmental consciousness. We are honest and thoughtful with our guests and everyone we do business with. We promise you transparency and enjoyment from start to finish, and we would be happy to customize your trip for you.
With decades of experience among the team, we would love the opportunity to share with you what we love about the Himalayas in the most peaceful way.
Photo/Video Gallery
Itinerary of 14 Days Upper Mustang Trek
We are happy to work with you to adjust this itinerary to create your own personalized experience.
*Times are estimated based on the average hiking pace and do not include breaks.
Day 00: Pre-Trek, Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal! Feel free to arrive in Kathmandu today or even a few days earlier to relax, recover from your journey, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Kathmandu Valley before the trek begins.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your pre-booked hotel in Thamel, the popular tourist center of Kathmandu. Thamel is full of restaurants, cafes, trekking shops, and lively streets, making it a great place to explore and prepare for your adventure.
Please share your flight details with us in advance so we can arrange your airport pick-up smoothly.
Depending on your arrival time, you may spend the rest of the day resting at the hotel or walking around the colorful streets of Kathmandu.
Distance: 7 km - Airport to Thamel
Overnight Altitude: 1345m./4,413ft. (Kathmandu)
Meal: n/a
Accommodation: n/a
Day 0: Trek Preparation and Final Day in Kathmandu
Today is an important preparation day before heading into the mountains. We will complete all the necessary trekking permits and hold a detailed trek briefing so you feel fully prepared and confident for the journey ahead.
During the briefing, we will discuss the itinerary, weather conditions, altitude, accommodation, packing recommendations, and other useful information about trekking in Upper Mustang.
You will also have free time today for any final trekking preparations or sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley.
If you are interested, we can arrange visits to some of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, or Kathmandu Durbar Square. You may also enjoy activities such as a Himalayan singing bowl session, yoga class, or relaxing cafe time around Thamel.
In the evening, we would like to invite you for a welcome dinner, which is included in your package. It is a great opportunity to meet your guide, enjoy traditional Nepali food, and get excited for the adventure ahead.
Distance: 0 km
Overnight Altitude: 1345m./4,413ft. (Kathmandu)
Meal: n/a
Accommodation: n/a
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (827 m)
After breakfast, we begin our journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a comfortable tourist bus.
The drive follows winding highways alongside beautiful rivers, terraced farms, green hills, and small local villages. Throughout the journey, you will experience the changing landscapes of Nepal while slowly leaving the busy city behind.
There will be several stops along the way for tea, lunch, and short breaks to relax and enjoy the scenery.
After reaching Pokhara, you can immediately feel the peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful lakeside city. Surrounded by mountains and calm lakes, Pokhara is the perfect place to unwind before entering the remote landscapes of Upper Mustang.
If the weather is clear, you may also catch beautiful views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna, and other Himalayan peaks reflecting over Phewa Lake.
In the evening, you can enjoy a relaxing walk around Lakeside Pokhara, explore shops and restaurants, or simply rest before tomorrow’s flight to Jomsom.
Distance: 200 Km - Drive
Overnight Altitude: 820m./2,690ft. (Pokhara)
Meal: n/a
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Day 2: Fly to Jomsom (2720 m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2810 m) – 3 to 4 Hours
Early in the morning, we take a short but spectacular flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. This flight is considered one of the most scenic mountain flights in Nepal, offering breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the deep Kali Gandaki Gorge below.
After landing in Jomsom, we begin our trek toward Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.
The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River through wide, windy valleys and dry mountain landscapes. Compared to the green hills of lower Nepal, the scenery here already starts to feel more barren and dramatic.
As we walk, we pass prayer flags, chortens, and traditional villages surrounded by towering cliffs and snow-capped mountains in the distance.
After a few hours of walking, we arrive at Kagbeni, one of the most beautiful and culturally rich villages in the Mustang region. The village has narrow stone alleys, ancient mud-brick houses, old monasteries, and traditional Tibetan-style architecture that gives a glimpse into the unique culture of Upper Mustang.
Kagbeni sits at the junction of the Kali Gandaki and Jhong rivers and has long been an important trading village between Nepal and Tibet.
In the evening, we can explore the peaceful village, visit the monastery, and enjoy the calm atmosphere before officially entering Upper Mustang tomorrow.
Distance: 10 km - Trek from Jomsom
Overnight Altitude: 2810m./9,219ft. (Kagbeni)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 3: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3050 m) – 5 to 6 Hours
Today begins with a warm breakfast in Kagbeni before we officially enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang. After checking our permits, we start walking along the Kali Gandaki River, surrounded by dry hills, dramatic cliffs, and wide open landscapes. The scenery slowly changes as we move deeper into Mustang.
Along the way, we pass through the small settlement of Tangbe, a beautiful village filled with whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, apple orchards, and green fields of barley and buckwheat. The contrast between the green fields and the dry desert-like landscape makes this area especially beautiful.
Continuing further, we reach Chhusang, a peaceful village located beside the river, where we stop for lunch and a short rest. After lunch, the trail continues through rocky terrain and crosses the Kali Gandaki River before gradually climbing toward Chele.
This area is also known for Himalayan fossils that can sometimes be seen along the trail. As we ascend, you’ll see caves carved into the cliffs behind us, adding even more mystery to the landscape.
Chele is a small and picturesque village perched high above the river gorge and surrounded by striking red cliffs.
From here, the scenery becomes dry and more barren, while the culture feels more traditional and deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. It is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
Distance: 15 km
Overnight Altitude: 3100m./10,171ft. (Chele)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 4: Trek from Chele to Syangboche (3800 m) – 6 to 7 Hours
The morning in Chele feels calm, peaceful, and refreshing. Today’s trek is one of the most exciting parts of the journey, filled with dramatic landscapes, deep canyons, steep climbs, and beautiful mountain passes.
We begin with a gradual ascent and continue through rugged terrain toward the village of Samar. Along the way, we cross Dajong La Pass (3660 m), where we are rewarded with beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Samar is a charming village surrounded by poplar trees, making it feel like a green oasis in the middle of the dry Mustang landscape. We stop here for tea or lunch and take some time to rest.
After Samar, the trail continues through several ups and downs, crossing a suspension bridge and passing through forests of juniper trees.
On the way, we make a side trip to the famous Chungsi Cave Monastery, a sacred cave built into the cliffside. The monastery is peaceful and spiritually important to the local people, and the setting itself feels magical and hidden away from the world.
After exploring the cave, we continue our final ascent to Syangboche, a beautiful village surrounded by barren hills and mountain scenery. From here, you can enjoy distant views of Dhaulagiri and other snow-capped peaks.
The landscape today feels almost unreal, dry, colorful, and dramatic, like walking through another planet.
Distance: 15 km
Overnight Altitude: 3800m./12,467ft. (Syangboche)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 5: Trek from Syangboche to Ghami (3510 m) – 6 to 7 Hours
Today begins with a gentle climb toward Syangboche La Pass (3850 m). Along the trail, we pass ancient mani walls, prayer flags, and small chortens that reflect the strong Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region.
As we continue higher, the air feels thin and the quiet surroundings. From here, we can see the beautiful village of Ghiling below, surrounded by green fields and traditional Tibetan-style houses.
We descend gradually to Ghiling and spend some time exploring the village and its monastery. It is a peaceful place where we can enjoy a tea break while observing the local lifestyle.
After leaving Ghiling, the trail climbs gradually again toward Nyi La Pass (4010 m), one of the highest points of today’s trek. From the top, we are rewarded with wide panoramic views of the Mustang landscape before descending toward Ghami village. In some sections, the trail follows the road as well.
Ghami is one of the largest villages in Upper Mustang, surrounded by red cliffs and beautiful agricultural fields filled with potatoes, barley, and beans. After reaching the teahouse and taking some rest, we explore around the village, visiting mani walls, chortens, and carved stones inscribed with Tibetan Buddhist mantras.
Walking through Ghami feels peaceful and timeless. Even the wind here seems to whisper ancient stories from the mountains.
Distance: 11 km
Overnight Altitude: 3510m./11,516ft. (Ghami)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 6: Trek from Ghami to Tsarang (3560 m) – 4 to 5 Hours
Today’s walk is short and gentle, allowing us to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Upper Mustang at a slow pace.
We begin by descending toward the Ghami Khola, passing through beautiful village surroundings. After crossing the river, we walk beside one of the longest mani walls in Upper Mustang. The trail then gradually climbs through open landscapes with clear views of the valley and surrounding cliffs.
Before reaching Tsarang, we pass through a large traditional chorten gate that welcomes us into the village.
Tsarang is another major settlement in Upper Mustang and one of the most culturally rich villages in the region. Once we arrive, we explore the village, visit the ancient monastery, and discover the old royal palace that still carries the history of Mustang’s past.
The village is filled with narrow alleys, traditional mud-brick houses, prayer flags, and peaceful local life. Every corner of Tsarang feels authentic, and every wall seems to hold stories from centuries ago.
Today’s trek is relaxing, scenic, and deeply cultural.
Distance: 10 km
Overnight Altitude: 3560m./11,680ft. (Tsarang)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 7: Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3840 m) – 4 to 5 Hours
Today is one of the most exciting and memorable days of the trek as we finally reach the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang, the ancient kingdom of Upper Mustang.
After breakfast, we begin our journey with beautiful views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri mountain ranges in the distance. The trail first descends toward the river before crossing a bridge and gradually climbing again through the dry and windy landscapes of Mustang.
Much of today’s route follows open trails and roads with wide views of the valley. As we continue higher, we eventually reach a viewpoint from where the magnificent walled city of Lo Manthang appears in the distance. Seeing the ancient town for the first time is truly a special moment.
From there, we descend slightly before making the final ascent into the city.
After arriving in Lo Manthang and enjoying lunch, we spend the afternoon exploring this ancient kingdom. We visit important monasteries such as Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, and Chode Gompa, each filled with ancient Buddhist paintings, statues, and centuries-old murals.
We also explore the old royal palace and walk through the narrow alleys lined with whitewashed houses, colorful prayer flags, mani walls, and traditional Tibetan-style architecture.
Lo Manthang feels untouched by modern times. The culture, traditions, and lifestyle here remain deeply connected to Tibetan heritage, making this place one of the most unique destinations in the Himalayas.
Distance: 13 km
Overnight Altitude: 3840m./12,598ft. (Lo Manthang)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 8: Explore Lo Manthang and Visit Chhoser Cave (3840 m)
Today is a special exploration day in the ancient kingdom of Lo Manthang and the nearby villages. We explore the day, discovering the hidden history, culture, and mysterious landscapes of the region.
After breakfast, we begin our hike toward Chhoser, a traditional village located north of Lo Manthang. The walk itself is beautiful, passing open valleys, dry cliffs, and unique Mustang landscapes.
One of today’s highlights is the famous Chhoser Cave, a remarkable five-story man-made cave carved directly into massive cliffs. These ancient caves remain one of the greatest mysteries of Upper Mustang. Local people believe they were once used for meditation, storage, shelter, and even burial purposes, but nobody knows their exact origin or true age.
Standing inside the caves and looking at the surrounding cliffs feels like stepping into another world.
We also visit nearby monasteries and explore the peaceful village of Chhoser, where traditional Tibetan culture is still strongly preserved. Along the way, we can see local people working in the fields, herding animals, and continuing their traditional mountain lifestyle.
After lunch in Chhoser, we return to Lo Manthang following the same scenic route.
Back in Lo Manthang, you may continue exploring the remaining corners of the ancient town, relax at the teahouse, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this hidden Himalayan kingdom.
Distance: 14 km; Lo Manthang - Chhoser - Lo Manthang
Overnight Altitude: 3840m./12,598ft. (Lo Manthang)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 9: Trek from Lo Manthang to Dhakmar (3820 m) – 6 to 7 Hours
Today, we say goodbye to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang and begin our return journey through the remote, green landscapes of Upper Mustang, crossing the highest point of the journey at Choku La pass, 4298 m.
The trail leads through wide valleys, open meadows, and beautiful high-altitude pastures where yaks, sheep, and horses can often be seen grazing peacefully.
Along the way, we visit Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in Upper Mustang, built around the 8th century. This sacred monastery is deeply respected by local people, and many believe that wishes made here with a pure heart may come true.
The monastery itself feels peaceful and spiritual, surrounded by dramatic, colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
We stop here for lunch and some time to explore the monastery before continuing toward Dhakmar.
The trail includes several gentle ascents and descents through rugged landscapes and rocky hills. As we approach Dhakmar, the scenery becomes even more dramatic, with massive red cliffs towering above the village.
Dhakmar is a quiet and beautiful settlement known for its stunning red rock formations and mysterious caves built into the cliffs. The peaceful atmosphere here makes it one of the most memorable overnight stops of the trek.
Distance: 16 km
Overnight Altitude: 3820m./12,533ft. (Dhakmar)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 10: Trek from Dhakmar to Ghiling (3570 m) – 5 to 6 Hours
Morning winds are common in Mustang, so we begin our trek early while the weather is calm and clear.
Today’s trail crosses open ridges and dry mountain landscapes with beautiful panoramic views of the valleys below. The colors of Mustang constantly change throughout the day, creating shades of red, orange, brown, and grey across the cliffs and hills.
As we continue descending, the trail passes traditional villages such as Ghami, ancient Mani walls, and peaceful landscapes.
Eventually, we arrive in Ghiling, following the same route. It is a quiet, traditional village surrounded by fields and barren hills. The village has a peaceful atmosphere and offers another opportunity to experience the authentic culture and lifestyle of Upper Mustang.
In the evening, we can relax at the teahouse, walk around the village, and enjoy the calm mountain surroundings.
Distance: 13 km
Overnight Altitude: 3570m./11,713ft. (Ghiling)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 11: Trek from Ghiling to Chhusang (2080 m) – 5 to 6 Hours
Today, we continue descending through the dry, rugged landscapes of Mustang, following the same trails and villages, including Syangboche, Samar, and Chele.
As the sunlight changes throughout the day, the hills and cliffs display different shades of red, brown, orange, and grey, creating a truly unique Himalayan landscape.
Eventually, we arrive at Chhusang, a peaceful village located beside the Kali Gandaki River. Compared to the higher regions of Mustang, Chhusang feels warmer and more fertile, with apple orchards, small streams, and cultivated fields bringing life to the valley.
The evening here is peaceful and relaxing after another beautiful day on the trail.
Distance: 20 km
Overnight Altitude: 2980m./9,777ft. (Chhusang)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 12: Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom (2720 m) – 6 to 7 Hours
Today is our final trekking day in the Mustang region.
After breakfast, we follow the trail back toward Kagbeni before continuing through the wide Kali Gandaki Valley toward Jomsom.
The route is mostly gradual and offers beautiful final views of the dry Mustang landscapes mixed with the snow-capped peaks of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and the Annapurna range.
As we descend lower, the well-known, strong Mustang winds return, adding one last adventurous touch to the journey.
After reaching Jomsom, we celebrate the successful completion of our Upper Mustang adventure together with the team.
The evening is a perfect time to relax, reflect on the journey, and enjoy the final night in the mountains.
Distance: 21 km
Overnight Altitude: 2720m./8,924ft. (Jomsom)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 13: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara – 20-Minute Flight
Early in the morning, we take a scenic flight back to Pokhara.
Leaving behind the dramatic landscapes of Mustang, the short flight once again offers breathtaking mountain views before landing in the peaceful lakeside city.
After arriving in Pokhara, you will have free time to relax and enjoy the city at your own pace.
You may choose to explore some of Pokhara’s popular attractions, including Pumdikot Shiva Statue, World Peace Pagoda, Devi’s Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Tal Barahi Temple, or enjoy boating on Phewa Lake.
Pokhara is also a wonderful place to enjoy cafes, restaurants, massage therapy, or simply relax by the lakeside after many days of trekking in the mountains.
Distance: 20 Minutes Flight
Overnight Altitude: 820m./2,690ft. (Pokhara)
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Day 14: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350 m) – 6 to 8 Hours
After breakfast, we begin our drive back to Kathmandu on a comfortable tourist bus.
As we leave Pokhara behind, we say goodbye to the beautiful mountain views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range that have accompanied us throughout the journey.
The drive follows rivers, green hills, and traditional villages, giving us one final chance to enjoy Nepal’s beautiful countryside.
After arriving in Kathmandu, you will have some time to relax or explore the city around Thamel before our farewell dinner in the evening.
This is the time to celebrate the completion of this unforgettable Upper Mustang adventure, a journey filled with culture, history, breathtaking landscapes, and lifelong memories.
Distance: 200 km Drive
Overnight Altitude: 1345m./4,413ft. (Kathmandu)
Meal: n/a
Accommodation: n/a (we can arrange upon request)
Includes/Excludes
What is included?
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Two nights’ accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast included
- Standard itinerary includes one night pre-trek and one night post-trek
- We can arrange for additional nights upon request
- All necessary trekking permits
- Upper Mustang restricted area permit
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit
- A luxury tourist bus for Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu
- Flights for Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara
- All accommodation while trekking
- Three meals a day (unless otherwise listed).
- Daily fresh fruit whenever available
- Trekking map
- First-aid kit carried by guide
- One experienced and professional local guide who speaks English
- Guide fees include their insurance, livable wages, transportation, food, and accommodation
- Assistant guides might be added with larger groups
- If needed, our team will arrange an emergency rescue with your insurance company
- Company fees, administration fees, and government tax (VAT)
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
What is not included?
- International flights to and from Nepal
- Tourist visa to enter Nepal (can be obtained on arrival at the airport)
- US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days, US$125 for 90 days
- Any personal sightseeing costs and meals in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Temples, monastery entrance fees, souvenirs, lunches, etc.
- Any extra costs while trekking
- Snacks, all kinds of drinks, hot showers, laundry, battery charging, Wi-Fi at some tea houses, monastery fees, donations, etc.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu
- We can arrange accommodation in Kathmandu upon request
- Any Foods and drinks in the city (Kathmandu & Pokhara)
- Local porters to carry the items for your trek
- Porter fees include their insurance, livable wages, transportation, food, accommodation, and an optional duffle bag to carry your items
- The number of porters depends on the number of trekkers: one porter carries the items for two people (maximum 20 kg)
- Drinking water
- You need to have a water filtration system or plan to buy boiled water
- Sleeping bag and puffy jacket rentals are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara if needed
- Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
- You need medical travel insurance that covers trekking to over 5000 m elevation, then send the information to us, please
- Staff tips: Many trekking guides and porters rely on tips to supplement a lower wage. With Himalayan Peace Treks, you will be able to travel knowing that the team is being paid fairly and that any tip you want to give is a reflection of your experience rather than an expectation
US$ 1862
Standard trek price (per person)
-
1 person
US$ 2528
-
2 people
US$ 2154
-
3 -
4 people
US$ 1998
-
5 -
6 people
US$ 1919
-
7 -
8 people
US$ 1874
-
9 + people
9999
US$ 1862
Total Cost:
US$ 2528
Trip Information
Culture and Religions of Upper Mustang
The moment you step into Upper Mustang, you feel the air is different, calm, and sacred. Life here flows at its own rhythm, guided by Buddhist beliefs passed down for centuries. Prayer flags flutter across mountain passes, and every turn in the trail reveals a stupa or mani wall whispering ancient prayers.
The people of Mustang are descendants of Tibetan settlers, and their culture remains deeply tied to Tibetan Buddhism. Villages like Lo Manthang, Tsarang, and Ghami are home to centuries-old monasteries filled with intricate wall paintings, statues of deities, and butter lamps flickering softly in the dim light.
Locals live simple lives, farming barley, herding yaks, and spinning prayer wheels as they walk to fields. What stands out most is their spiritual warmth and hospitality. Even in harsh weather, they’ll invite you in for tea and a smile.
Festivals here are colorful and meaningful. The most famous festival here is the Tiji Festival, which celebrates the victory of good over evil. For three days, monks perform masked dances, ancient rituals, and chants in Lo Manthang’s courtyard. It’s not just a show, it’s a living piece of history that connects past and present.
For trekkers, this cultural depth adds a new layer to the journey. You don’t just walk through mountains, you walk through centuries of faith, stories, and traditions that still live strong in every village.
Nature and Beauty of the Upper Mustang Trek
If you think of Nepal as green forests and snowy peaks, Upper Mustang will surprise you. It’s like a different planet, a high-altitude desert shaped by wind, time, and silence. The landscape is full of color: red cliffs, yellow canyons, grey rock faces, and soft brown valleys glowing in golden light.
You’ll walk through deep gorges, natural caves, and eroded cliffs that look like giant sculptures. The Kali Gandaki River cuts through the valley, and the snow peaks of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri shine on the horizon. The contrast between barren land and snow mountains is stunning, harsh, and beautiful at once.
The trek also brings rare wildlife sightings: blue sheep grazing on cliffs, Himalayan vultures circling above, and if you’re lucky, a shy snow leopard, also known as the ghost of the mountain in the distance.
But Mustang’s real beauty isn’t just what you see, it’s what you feel. The silence, the vastness, and the play of light across the land leave you with a deep sense of peace. Every day on the trail feels different, as if the mountains are quietly telling their own story.
Best Time to Do the Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek can be done year-round; However, the best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
In the spring, the weather is mild, the skies are bright, and the trail is lively. Flowers bloom around lower villages, and you will meet friendly locals preparing for the growing season. The Tiji Festival usually takes place in May, which makes spring an even more exciting time to visit.
Autumn brings clear skies, cool weather, and stunning mountain views. After the monsoon, the air feels fresh, and the landscapes glow with warm colors. The days are pleasant for walking, and nights are cool but comfortable.
Interestingly, Upper Mustang is also one of the few treks possible during the monsoon (June to August). Since it lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, therefore rainfall is minimal here. The monsoon season brings greener fields and fewer crowds, though trails can be more windy.
Winter (December to February) is very cold and not ideal for most trekkers, as snow can block passes and many locals migrate to lower areas.
So, if you want the best balance of weather, culture, and scenery, spring and autumn are unbeatable.
Food and Accommodation on the Upper Mustang Trek
Food in Upper Mustang is simple but hearty, made to keep you warm and energized. You’ll find a mix of traditional Nepali and Tibetan dishes, along with some Western options.
Common meals include Dal Bhat, Thukpa, Thenduk, Noodles, Momo, Pasta, Tibetan Bread and different tea items.
Teahouses along the route are small, family-run lodges. They offer clean rooms with twin beds, warm blankets, and shared bathrooms. Don’t expect luxury, expect warmth. You’ll sit in the dining room with the wooden heater on, talking with locals and other trekkers while your meals are cooked.
Electricity is available in most villages, though solar power is common. The Internet is limited, and hot showers sometimes cost extra. But these minor adjustments are part of Mustang’s charm; life feels slow, simple, and real.
Weather and Temperature in the Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang lies in the Trans-Himalayan region, so its weather is quite different from most parts of Nepal. It’s dry and windy for much of the year.
Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- Spring (March–May): Daytime 10–20°C, nights around 0–5°C. Perfect for trekking in mild weather.
- Summer/Monsoon (June–August): 13–22°C in the day, 5–10°C at night. Dry skies due to the rain shadow effect.
- Autumn (September–November): 10–18°C in the day, -5–5°C at night. Clear skies and stable weather.
- Winter (December–February): Cold and harsh. Daytime temperatures are 0–10°C; night temperatures can drop below -10°C.
The region is windy, especially in the afternoons, so starting early each day is best. Sun protection is a must; the air is dry, and the UV rays are intense at the altitude.
Requirements for the Upper Mustang Trek
Due to restricted areas, trekking to Upper Mustang requires special permits and a registered guide. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 50 per day per person (previously USD 500 for the first 10 days, plus USD 50 per additional day). But the rule has now been changed.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 per person.
A registered guide and an authorized trekking company, such as ‘Himalayan Peace Treks’, are required; solo trekking is also allowed now to visit the Upper Mustang. Feel free to contact us.
You’ll also need:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity.
- Passport-size photos for permits.
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and evacuation.
It’s best to let your trekking company handle all the permits and logistics; we’ll manage it smoothly while you focus on preparing for the journey.
What to Pack for the Upper Mustang Trek
Packing smart makes your trek much more comfortable. Since the weather in Mustang can shift quickly from warm days to freezing nights, layering is key.
Here’s a detailed recommended packing list:
Travel light but prepared; every item should serve a purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, beginners can join with proper preparation and guidance. Having a positive mindset, good walking stamina, and a helpful guide makes all the difference.
If you hire a porter. They will carry your main luggage (up to 16-18 kg). You just have a small daypack with water, snacks, and essentials.
No. The last ATMs are in Pokhara or Jomsom. It would be helpful to bring enough Nepali rupees in cash for personal expenses before leaving Pokhara.
Yes, in most villages, but power is sometimes limited and often solar. We recommend bringing a power bank or solar charger just in case.
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on the Upper Mustang Trek for a small fee, but it can be slow and unreliable at times.
The highest point is around 4298 meters, at Choku La Pass, after leaving Lo Manthang.
It’s a historic walled city that once served as the capital of the Mustang Kingdom. You’ll find monasteries over 500 years old, the royal palace, and the incredible Chhoser Caves nearby.
Yes, absolutely. The Tiji Festival (in mid-May) is one of the best times to visit. Witnessing the masked dances, music, and rituals is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Its landscape and culture. Unlike green trekking routes, Mustang is dry, dramatic, and deeply spiritual; it is more about culture and history than just altitude.
Yes. Teahouses provide blankets, but a warm sleeping bag (rated to -10°C) ensures comfort on cold nights.
Most of the trekkers say, “It feels like another world.” The peace, the people, and the raw beauty stay with you long after you leave Mustang.
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9 Days 
Moderate 
