Upper Mustang Trek
The forbidden kingdom beyond the Himalayas
Upper Mustang was closed to foreigners until 1992 and remains one of Nepal's most restricted and culturally preserved areas. This 12-day trek takes you beyond the Himalayan rain shadow into a landscape more Tibetan than Nepali — red desert canyons, ancient cave dwellings, sky burials, and the walled medieval city of Lo Manthang. The capital of the former Kingdom of Lo, it still has a functioning king. This is Nepal's most culturally unique trek.
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Day-by-Day Itinerary
A detailed look at each day of your Upper Mustang Trek adventure. Every itinerary is crafted to balance trekking, acclimatization, and cultural experiences.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara
Drive or fly to Pokhara. Trek briefing, permit verification (Upper Mustang requires a special restricted area permit of $500 for the first 10 days).
Day 2: Fly Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720m) — Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)
25-minute mountain flight to Jomsom in the Kali Gandaki valley. Trek north along the river to Kagbeni — the checkpoint and gateway to Upper Mustang. Walking time: 3-4 hours.
Day 3: Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m)
Cross the restricted area checkpoint. The landscape changes immediately — arid red and grey cliffs, cave dwellings, and prayer flags. Trek through Tangbe and Chhusang to Chele. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 4: Chele to Samar (3,660m)
Cross two high passes as the trail climbs through eroded canyons and colorful rock formations. Arrive at Samar, a small village surrounded by fields and orchards. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 5: Samar to Ghiling (3,570m)
Trek through juniper forest and across a high plateau. Pass ancient chortens and mani walls. Ghiling has a beautiful old gompa (monastery) worth visiting. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 6: Ghiling to Charang (3,620m)
Cross the Nyi La (3,950m) and descend into the Charang valley. Charang has a dramatic clifftop monastery with ancient murals and a collection of medieval weapons. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 7: Charang to Lo Manthang (3,840m)
The culmination of the trek. Cross the Lo La (3,950m) and descend to Lo Manthang — the walled capital of the Kingdom of Lo. The medieval city has four monasteries, a palace, and narrow mud-brick alleys. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 8: Lo Manthang — Exploration Day
Full day exploring Lo Manthang. Visit the Jhampa Gompa (15th-century monastery), Thubchen Gompa with its restored murals, and the King's Palace. Optional excursion to Chosar caves or the sky caves of Upper Mustang.
Day 9: Lo Manthang to Ghami (3,520m)
Begin the return journey via an alternate route. Trek to Ghami, passing the longest mani wall in Nepal. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 10: Ghami to Samar (3,660m)
Continue south through the canyon landscape. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 11: Samar to Jomsom (2,720m)
Long descent back to Jomsom via Kagbeni. Farewell dinner. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 12: Fly Jomsom to Pokhara — Transfer to Kathmandu
Morning flight to Pokhara. Connect to Kathmandu by flight or drive. Departure.
What Is Included
Included in Your Trip
- Restricted Area Access
We handle the special Upper Mustang permit ($500, included in price) — one of Nepal's most exclusive trekking permits.
- Tibetan Culture Immersion
Experience living Tibetan Buddhist culture — monasteries, sky caves, prayer wheels, and a functioning medieval kingdom.
- Unique Landscape
Unlike any other trek in Nepal — red desert canyons, eroded cliffs, and rain shadow terrain beyond the Himalayan barrier.
- All Inclusive
Special permits, flights, guide, porters, meals, and accommodation included.
Not Included
- International flights to and from the destination
- Travel insurance (required, purchased separately)
- Personal gear and equipment
- Tips for guides and support staff (recommended)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
Difficulty: Moderate
Understanding what to expect helps you prepare properly and enjoy your trek to the fullest.
Fitness Requirements
- Interested in Tibetan culture and history more than pure mountain scenery
- Want a trek that feels truly remote and off the beaten path
- Comfortable walking 5-7 hours per day at moderate altitude (3,000-4,000m)
- Budget includes the restricted area permit premium
Upper Mustang Trek — Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Upper Mustang so expensive compared to other treks?
Ready to Book Upper Mustang Trek?
Secure your spot on this incredible adventure. 12 days of expert-guided trekking from $1,500. Contact us today to check availability.