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Upper Mustang Trek

13 Days

The Upper Mustang Trek offers spectacular trekking experiences in the Himalayan country of Nepal. The 12-14 day trip to Upper Mustang begins in Kathmandu with a short sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Before embarking on the trip, our professional instructors and guides thoroughly check trekking gear and clothing. 

The trek proper starts from Jomsom, a small town in Mustang, accessible by road transportation from Pokhara (6-7 hours) or a 25-minute flight from Pokhara. Pokhara serves as the gateway to several trekking routes, including Annapurna, Ghorepani Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, and Upper Mustang.

Upper Mustang is also known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom because it remained closed to foreigners until the 1990s. Since its opening to tourists, it has become one of the lesser-traveled trekking trails in Nepal. For those with less trekking experience, Jeep Safaris to Upper Mustang are available. During the trek, one can admire the uniqueness of the treeless landscape, ancient trails, and panoramic views of majestic mountains such as Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other Himalayan peaks. Some travelers liken Upper Mustang to the Grand Canyon of America due to the similarity in terrain.

Spring and autumn seasons are considered the best times for undertaking the Upper Mustang Trek. However, some prefer to trek during the summer months. Altitude and freezing cold present major challenges on this trek, so we highly recommend proper trekking attire to ensure comfort. Additionally, there’s no need to worry about acclimatization, as our itinerary allows ample time for it.

Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
Day 2:
Fly to Pokhara (827m / 2,713ft)
Day 3:
Fly to Jomsom (2,720m / 8,923ft), trek to Kagbeni (2,810m / 9,219ft)
Day 4:
Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m / 10,007ft)
Day 5:
Chele to Syanbochen (3,800m / 12,467ft)
Day 6:
Syanbochen to Ghemi (3,520m / 11,548ft)
Day 7:
Ghemi to Tsarang (3,560m / 11,680ft)
Day 8:
Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3,840m / 12,598ft)
Day 9:
Explore Lo Manthang (3,840m / 12,598ft)
Day 10:
Lo Manthang to Drakmar (3,810m / 12,500ft)
Day 11:
Drakmar to Ghiling (3,806m / 12,484ft)
Day 12:
Ghiling to Chhuksang (2,980m / 9,777ft)
Day 13:
Chhuksang to Jomsom (2,720m / 8,923ft)
Day 14:
Fly to Pokhara (827m / 2,713ft), then to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
Day 15:
Departure from Kathmandu

Includes/Excludes

Service Includes

  • Ground Transportation: All necessary ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Kathmandu Hotel: Three nights Kathmandu hotel accommodation with B&B mode
  • Kathmandu Sightseeing: A day sightseeing at Kathmandu, visit some of the popular UNESCO World heritage sites
  • Welcome dinner: Welcome dinner with the presence of trekking staffs and admin team
  • Permit: Necessary trekking permit including national park, Restricted area permit, TIMS card and local permits
  • Guide: A professional and experienced trekking guide, fluent in English and first aid trained too.
  • Trekking mode services: Accommodation in local tea house and lodge, three course of meals in each day with hot water, tea and coffee as needed
  • Trekking map: A trekking map
  • Medical kit: A group medical kit box

Cost Excludes

  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Meals, during your stay in Kathmandu
  • Alcoholic beverage
  • Bottled water and cold drinks
  • Internet card (wifi)
  • Laundry services
  • Extra services that not mentioned in the above included list
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What is the best time to trek to Upper Mustang?

The best time to trek to Upper Mustang is from late March to early November. The region lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, making it a suitable destination even during the monsoon season. However, the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) periods offer the best weather conditions and clear views.

Do I need a special permit for the Upper Mustang Trek?

Yes, trekkers need a special restricted area permit to enter Upper Mustang. The permit costs USD 500 for the first 10 days and USD 50 for each additional day. This permit is in addition to the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

How difficult is the Upper Mustang Trek?

The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderately difficult. It involves trekking through rugged terrain at high altitudes, with elevations reaching up to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). While it doesn’t require technical climbing skills, good physical fitness and acclimatization are essential for a successful trek.

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