Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek
- Explore the Ancient Tibetan Kingdom
- Hike Through the Traditional Tibetan Villages
- Explore the unique rock formations and their landscapes
- Visit/Explore the hidden gem-Lo-Manthang
- Opportunity to see the beautiful snow-capped views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Himchuli ranges
- Explore the Ancient Monasteries and Stupas
- Learn about the culture and traditions of the local community in the Manang district
- Observe and explore the traditional method of Farming in the Mustang
- Taste the local wine made of Organic Apple
- Visit and explore the Muktinath Temple-the holy temple for Hindu and Buddhist religion
- Explore and search the different Flora and Fauna found in the Region
Upper Mustang Trek Overview
Upper Mustang Trek is a Famous trekking destination that lies in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The Upper Mustang Trek takes you through the rough and remote landscapes of the Mustang District – which is famous for ancient Tibetan culture and its history. The Trek offers the trekkers the most beautiful barren landscapes, high-altitude deserts, and remote villages.
The Upper Mustang Trek starts from the magical city of Pokhara – and takes you to Jomsom which is around 20-30 minutes of flight and the Upper Mustang Trek begins.
The trail passes via the village of Kagbeni and the Holy Muktinath Temple before reaching the hidden gem Lo-man thang, which is the major highlight of the Upper Mustang trek. Lo-man thang is a walled city with rich culture and history and the home to many ancient monasteries which reflects the ancient culture and traditions in today’s world.
Along the trail to Upper Mustang Trek, you will get an opportunity to explore the beautiful snow-capped mountains such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, and the Kali Gandaki Gorge – which is the deepest gorge in the world.
You will also gain an opportunity to interact with the local ancient Tibetan people and explore in depth their lifestyle, traditions, and culture.
Along the trail, we will be passing through the stone-carved manis, stupas, and beautiful colored Tibetan flags which symbolize good wealth and welcome the trekkers for their success of the trek in the high altitude.
Trekking the Upper Mustang hike is a challenging trek that requires physical fitness and acclimatization at high altitudes.
The best season to trek in the Upper Mustang is late September to November and late March to April. During the season, the weather will be dry and the Himalayan ranges will open close to you with beautiful landscapes of the mountain ranges.
The trek to Upper Mustang is a once-in-a-lifetime trekking destination for all outdoor enthusiasts who wish to explore more about the Himalayan people’s lifestyle, culture, and traditions. Offering the beautiful majestic views of the Himalayan and the best hospitality of the local people and the barren landscapes makes your trek more worth to the Upper Mustang.
After having a pretty breakfast in the hotel we drive towards the magical city of Pokhara by tourist bus from Kathmandu which takes 7 to 8 hours. Passing the hills and getting down to the Trishuli river basin we will stop for Lunch.
On the drive to Pokhara, we will see the white water rafters enjoying the rafting and canyoning(your next trip if interested)to Pokhara. We will explore the beautiful landscapes and the beautiful terrain on the way to the magical city of Pokhara.
Reaching Pokhara, we will check in at the Hotel, and after a few hours of rest, we will again explore the phew lake and evening Aarati in front of Barahi Mata Temple.
Day 2: Fly to Jomsom(2,720M) and Trek to Kagbeni(2,800M/4-5 hours Trek)
This morning we will wake up quickly and take a short flight to Jomsom, around 20-30 minutes of flight. During the flight, you will witness the beautiful Himalayas and the gorge of the Mustang Valley.
Reaching Jomsom, we will commence our trek to the village of Kagbeni-which is a Tibetan village in the Mustang district. The trail passes through the gorge and beautiful desert landscapes. You will get a chance to explore the Apple Farm in Kagbeni and Overnight at Kagbeni.
With our breakfast in the tea house, our trail passes through the Kali-Gandaki River.
As following the river gorge the pressure of air increases. Passing the village of Tanabe, where all the houses are made up of mud with flat rooftops and white houses being built.
You will explore the local people working on a day-to-day routine working on the fields and the Monasteries.
Day 4: Trek to Syangmoche(3,475M/5-6 hours Trek)
The Trekking trail now becomes difficult as we will be passing via the Taklam La Pass(3,624M) and Darjori La Pass(3,375M). while crossing the pass you will explore the beautiful snow-capped Himalayas. Passing the two passes now the trail descends down to the Samar Village which the trail leading us to the Syangmoche overnight.
Day 5: Trek to Ghyami(3,520M/4-5 hours Trek)
Today, having a heavy breakfast in the morning, we will again cross the Yamada La Pass(3,850M) and Chotren (Stupas) along the route.
The trail passes through the forest of Flora and Fauna found in the Upper Mustang Trek. Crossing the Nyi Pass we will descend down and the trail takes us to the Village of Ghyami for an overnight stay. Ghyami is a beautiful village with breathtaking views surrounding around.
Today’s trek trail takes us through the beautiful Tibetan stone carved with mani, Chortens, and beautiful Tibetan flags. The trail will be more slippery as we descend down to the suspension bridge of Ghami Khola.
Crossing the Charang La pass(3,870M) we head towards the Charang for our overnight stay in the Himalayas. The village is rich in culture to explore more in-depth about the local communities.
After breakfast, we will commence our trek to the descending down to the river and again will ascend the Cho La Pass (3,950M). We will see the beautiful hidden gem of Lo-Manthang crossing the Cho La Pass.
The village of Lo-Manthang is an ancient Tibetan Village with beautiful landscapes and many interesting colorful flags. Explore the village with beautiful mountain ranges around.
Waking up in the Himalayas, near the border to Tibet and Nepal. After breakfast, we will explore the Upper Mustang in more depth about the history and culture, traditions of the local communities.
We will hike to the Chhoser Cave and explore the surroundings. Around we will explore more about the caves built within nature. You may also take some time to meditate inside the cave and connect yourself with nature in the Himalayas.
The caves are also known as the place to meditate for the priest and monks in the ancient time while in the present time also the local people and minsk keep on meditation inside the cave.
After exploring the cave and the beautiful Himalayas view for overnight we hike back to the Hotel.
Day 9: Trek to Dhamkar(3,820M/6-7 hours Trek)
Today’s trail will be our longest trekking trail which offers beautiful views of the Himalayas and passes via the villages along the trail to Dhamkar. we will explore the Ghyakar village which is mainly known for the old-ancient gumba having rock paintings.
After exploring we head back to the Dhamkar for our overnight stay in the Himalayas.
Day 10: Trek back to Giling(3,570/5-6 hours)
Will start our trek early in the morning as the strong wind increases along the trail crossing via the plateau and different agricultural lands leading us to the village of Giling.
The day will be more tiring and challenging as of the strong wind. while it offers beautiful views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.
Having our breakfast, we will trek passing the small villages and explore the stupas and chorten along the trail leading us to Chussang. Our overnight stay will be at Chussang village.
Today, with our heavy hearts we will say goodbye to the Upper Mustang Trek and enter the Lower Mustang Trail.
We will have our Lunch at Kagbeni and will explore the village and visit the Monastery for a few hours and trek back along the Kali-Gandaki Gorge to the Jomsom for our overnight stay in the Himalayas
Day 13: Fly to Pokhara from Jomsom ( 25-30 Minutes)
Today, getting up early in the morning will have our breakfast and fly to the magical city of Pokhara. The flight takes 25-30 minutes. Along the flight, you may see the majestic view of Kali-Gandaki Gorge and Mountain ranges.
Reaching the Hotel and having a few hours of rest. You may explore Pokhara city as per your own way of Interest. Visit the Lakeside and buy the goods for your loved and dearest ones.
And we will enjoy the success of our trek and have drinks and enjoy the time all together with the travel mates.
Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus. 7-8 Hours
Betting farewell to the Mountain ranges in the magical city of Pokhara. We will drive to Kathmandu. Reaching Kathmandu you may explore the Thamel city and enjoy the hot coffees and do some shopping for your loved ones.
Cost Included in Upper Mustang Trek
What's Included?
- Kathmandu- Pokhara- Kathmandu by tourist bus with A/C
- Two Nights’ Accommodation Tourist standard Hotel with Attached bath with A/C in Pokhara ( Breakfast Included )
- Pokhara Hotel to Domestic Airport by Private Vehicle
- Pokhara Airport to Hotel by Private Vehicle
- Pokhara- Jomsom – Pokhara flight Ticket
- Best available lodge accommodation during the trek twin sharing
- All standard meals full board with tea/ coffee (Lunches, Dinners, and Breakfasts) during the trek
- Government licensed holder Blue Lake Adventure experienced trek Guide and porter ( Every two trekkers 1 Porter Carry 12 kg Baggage
- Guide and porter include their salary, meals, lodging, and insurance
- guide, Porter Transportation from Pokhara- Jomsom- Pokhara
- Water purification tablets for safe drinking water during the
- Restricted Permit for Upper Mustang Trek
- (TIMS) card Trekkers Information Management System
- Everyday Seasonal Fruits
- Down Jackets, Sleeping Bag, Blue Lake Adventure T-Shirt, and Annapurna Base camp map ( Down jacket and Sleeping bag to be returned after the trek )
- Medical Kits
- All Nepal Government taxes and office expenses
- Rescue operations in case of complicated in funded by travel insurance
- Blue Lake Adventure Certificate after the successful trek
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu
- Airport drop
What's Excluded?
- International Flights ticket
- Nepal Entry visa fee
- Visa Cost on Arrival in International Airport Kathmandu (15 Days, $ 25- $30 30 Days – $40-50, and 90 days- $100-110)
- Extra luggage (limit is 12 kg per trekker)
- All Accommodation and meals before and after the journey in Kathmandu
- Lunch and dinner in Pokhara and Kathmandu
- Personal Expenses (Snacks, ( tea/ Coffee) cold drinks, Alcohol, Boil water Wi-Fi, hot shower, battery re- Charge, telephone call, and extra porter
- Personal Gear and clothes
- Personal Trekking equipment
- Tips, Guide, Porter, restaurant, Driver
- Additional Costs like delays caused due to circumstances beyond our control, for example- itinerary modification, change of government policy, Strikes, illness landslide, etc
Accommodation in Upper Mustang Trek
Accommodation during the Upper Mustang Trek is typically in local teahouses and lodges along the route or in small villages.
Your tea house on the walk will have nice, comfortable rooms, some of which will have private bathrooms and others that will share restrooms. When you’re on the Upper Mustang Trek, stop by the tea house for some food, a place to sleep, and a hot shower.
The amenities and services available to travelers on their way to Upper Mustang vary. Better accommodations, including private bathrooms, are available at the trek’s starting point in Upper Mustang compared to what you would find in the Himalayas or at higher altitudes.
Most tea houses provide clean, comfortable rooms, helpful hosts, tasty food, steaming hot showers, and sometimes even Wi-Fi, but a strong signal in the high Himalayas might be difficult to come across.
The People and The Culture
The people in Upper Mustang are mainly Ancient Tibetan Buddhists. They do have their own way of celebrating the festivals and have preserved their unique culture, traditions, and culture.
Typically the architecture in Upper Mustang is influenced by the Tibetan style and is also characterized by flat roofs with mud and houses made up of stones. The Monasteries and Stupas (Chortens) are of particular interest with paintings of Buddha and Thanka with adoring Interior designs.
The Religious and festival ceremonies play a vital role in the life/community of Upper Mustang people. Tiji and Lhosar festivals are mainly celebrated festivals in the Upper Mustang.
The People of Upper Mustang are well known for their better hospitality and friendliness nature with the trekkers. It is more important for all the trekkers to respect the local communities’ culture, and tradition and be mindful of their actions.
Altitude and Terrain
Upper Mustang Trek is a Popular trekking destination for all outdoor lovers and nature lovers who wish to explore more in-depth the geographical structure and the desert landscapes in the high Himalayas of Nepal. Knowledge about the altitude, terrain, and geography of the Upper Mustang Trek will help you more to explore the destination.
Altitude: The Upper Mustang Trek typically ranges from 3,800 m to 4,300 m above sea level. At such high altitudes in the Himalayas, the air pressure and the Oxygen level are lower which makes it challenging for all the people to adapt to the environment. So, to adapt to the high Himalayas environment it is recommended to acclimatize and drink plenty of water to get rid of Altitude Sickness.
Terrain: Usually, the Upper Mustang Trek is rocky and has different stone fragmentation with beautiful unique landscapes that can’t be found in the next trekking destination.
Along the trail, you will be passing via the gorge, waterfall, streams, and suspension bridges. You will be walking on the rocky and rough trails which make you descend and ascend the trails making it worth it with beautiful views.
Gears and Equipment
Trekking in the Upper Mustang is the most challenging and classic trek in the Annapurna region which passes the Muktinath Temple at an altitude of 3,800 m above sea level. While to maintain a good trekking environment in the High altitude good gear is required.
The following gears and equipment are most important for the Upper Mustang trek:
- Backpack: A well-fit and comfortable backpack is best during the trek to Upper Mustang around 40-50 liters capacity.Which should have enough space to put all your gear and additional pockets on the bags for the comfort carrying of water bottles.
- Sleeping Bag: The night in the Himalayas may be cold, so be sure to carry -10 degrees of sleeping bag which can be ideal for the Upper Mustang Trek.
- Sleeping Pad: A sleeping pad is more necessary for comfortable sleeping during the nighttime. Which will help you avoid changes in terrain while carrying the lightweight sleeping pad for the trek.
- Warm Clothing: Layers are key in the Mountains while putting on all thermals and jackets.
- Headlamp: Put on a headlamp to walk outside during the night time.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: Skin gets dry at high altitude so put on sunscreen and have sunglasses for trekking during sunny
Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek
A trip to the Annapurna region is a must for any outdoor enthusiast. While there are numerous exciting treks to choose from in the Annapurna region, the Upper Mustang Trek is by far the most well-known and beloved among explorers from all over the world.
It doesn’t matter what time of year you choose to embark on the famous Upper Mustang Trek so long as you’re in good physical shape and have a well-thought-out itinerary. Visit Nepal between the end of September and the beginning of November for the best weather.
The sun will be bright and warm at that time, and the sky will be clear. which is useful information for hikers making their way to Upper Mustang Trek. Views of the Mountains will expand and deepen as you look at them.
Autumn consists of the months of March, April, and May. At this time, the Himalayas are secure enough for mountaineering expeditions. Expect to see many great friends and walkers along the trail.
Upper Mustang Trek can be reached in the winter, however, it may be more difficult due to the high elevation and potential for snowfall.
It’s the best time of year to embark on a snow adventure with your crew in the Himalayas, whether you plan on skiing, ice climbing, or skating. Hiring a team of experienced guides with access to the latest information is crucial if you plan on doing the Upper Mustang Valley Trek during the winter.
Permits
Upper Mustang Trekking is a popular location in the Annapurna region, but visitors need a special permit to enter the area. Funds from the sale of permits would be put toward conservation efforts in the Annapurna area.
It is necessary to obtain the following permits before beginning the Upper Mustang Trek:
Permits for the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permits are required for entry into the ACAP, and these are collected by ACAP staff at the entrances to the ACAP. Permits for the Annapurna Conservation Area ACAP) can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board and this office can put you in touch with Blue Lake Adventure Pvt Ltd which can help you have a more secure and enjoyable high-altitude trek.
The Trekkers Management System (TIMS Card)
To enter any trekking destination in Nepal, you must first obtain a Trekkers Information Management System Card. Thus, before setting out on your Himalayan journey, you should obtain a TIMS card. Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) cards can be purchased in both Kathmandu (Home | Nepal Tourism Board -) and Pokhara (at the Tourist Information Center).
In order to Trek in a restricted area, special permits are required.
A special permit must be issued in order to hike in restricted areas of the Annapurna region, including the Thorong -La Pass, the Nar Phu Valley, and the Upper Mustang.
A special permit is required because this destination is near the Tibetan border so special Permits are required to trek. To hike in protected areas, you’ll need special permission from the Department of Immigration, the price of which varies according to the number of days you plan to spend in the wilderness.
Upper Mustang Trek Cost
For the most part, the price of an Upper Mustang Trek depends on the number of days you plan to spend on the trail, the season in which you plan to travel, the type of lodging and services you’d like to take advantage of, and whether or not you plan to hire a guide and porter to help you traverse the Himalayas.
Your primary expenses for the Upper Mustang Trek will be as follows:
- Permits: Upper Mustang trek permits cost between USD $20 and $30 per person and include a TIMS card, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and a Special Restricted Area Permit. Special Permits for Restricted Regions, which cost $500, are required for entry into restricted areas in the Annapurna region, including the Thorong La pass, Upper Mustang, and Nar Phu.
- Guide/Porter: If you plan on hiking to a high altitude in the Annapurna region, hiring a guide is preferable to hiring a porter. Hiring a guide and porter can make your walk safer and more convenient for only USD $25-$30 per day for the guide and USD $20-$25 per day for the porter.
- Transportation: Upper Mustang Trekking transport options from Kathmandu include flying to Pokhara or taking the bus. Make sure the Upper Mustang Trek goes off without a hitch by reserving flights and transportation well in advance.
Vehicle costs grow proportionally with your form of transportation while traveling to the Upper Mustang. - Accommodation: Tea houses are the only option for overnight stays on the Upper Mustang Trek, and a night there can cost anywhere from $10 to $25 although the cost of lodging is influenced by factors such as its location, altitude, conveniences, etc.
- Food and Drinks: Depending on what you get, food and drink on the Upper Mustang Trek won’t cost you more than USD $5 to USD $15.
FAQ-Upper Mustang Trek
The highest point/altitude of the Upper Mustang Trek is 3,840 m above sea level.
The Upper Mustang Trek is considered a moderate trekking destination offering the beautiful vistas of the Himalayan ranges.
The accommodation during your trek to Upper Mustang will be all in the tea house and lodges along the trail or in the villages.
The People living in the Upper Mustang mainly do follow the Buddhist religion and you may explore the Monasteries and the local culture and traditions during your trek.
Yes, you may charge the device accessories during your trek to Upper Mustang. While in high altitudes, they may charge some amount to charge the device.
The upper Mustang offers beautiful landscapes of desert, Monasteries and the Lo-Mathang, and also the Holy Muktinath Temple.
Reviews on Upper Mustang Trek
Be first to post a review in this trip.
- 15 Years of Experinces in Himalayas trekking and tours
- Owner operated trekking company
- Easy and secure online booking
- Best price guaranteed
- Private trip departures everyday
16 Days 
