SKILL LEVEL
moderate
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The Upper Mustang trek is the ultimate gateway to the mysterious world of the old Buddhist kingdom of Mustang, also called Lo. Once forbidden and isolated from the rest of the world for decades, the area was able to evolve within its own distinctive culture and rich traditions closely tied to Tibet. If that’s not enough, this moderate, lesser-known trek passes through one of the driest regions of Nepal so the treeless, barren landscape is often windy in the afternoon, subsiding at night. As everywhere in the Himalayas, this area provides spectacular mountain scenery with dozens of high-altitude peaks including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I.
11 Days Trekking / (SKILL LEVEL: moderate)
Day 1:
Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. A trip briefing will be provided.
Day 2:
Fly to Pokhara, a scenic 25-minute flight. Upon arrival, explore the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara.
Day 3:
Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720m) and drive to Kagbeni, with a stop to visit the sacred site of Muktinath. The drive will take about 2-3 hours.
Day 4:
Drive from Kagbeni to Tsarang (3,500m), a 6-7 hour journey via the historic Dhakmar route.
Day 5:
Travel from Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3,840m) by horseback, a journey of 6-7 hours.
Day 6:
Explore Lo Manthang, including a visit to the Chhosar Valley with its ancient monasteries and the historic palace of the former king.
Day 7:
Travel to Yara village and visit the Luri Gompa and Tashi Kabum, either by horseback or by driving.
Day 8:
Drive to Chhusang, and make a visit to the Tetang Monastery along the way.
Day 9:
Drive to Jomsom, approximately 3-4 hours.
Day 10:
Fly back to Pokhara and enjoy a free, relaxing day by the lakeside. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
Day 11:
Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu and explore the capital city.
Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu Upon arrival in Kathmandu, a dedicated representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you via private jeep or taxi to your comfortable hotel. After settling in, take time to relax or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, filled with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and trekking gear stores. In the evening, join us for a special welcome dinner where you’ll meet the team and hear more about the journey ahead. Overnight at a well-appointed hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Fly to Pokhara and Explore Lakeside After breakfast, enjoy a scenic flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your lakeside hotel, where the serene views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna Range await. Spend the day exploring Pokhara’s peaceful ambiance—stroll along the lake, visit the International Mountain Museum, or simply enjoy a relaxed boat ride. Overnight in a premium hotel in Pokhara.
Day 3: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, drive to Kagbeni (2,858m) This morning, take a breathtaking flight to Jomsom, the gateway to the Upper Mustang. From there, we’ll drive to Kagbeni through the rugged Mustang landscape. Kagbeni, a beautiful medieval village, offers a blend of Tibetan culture and spectacular views. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in this unique location before settling into a charming lodge for the night.
Visiting Muktinath temple on the way
Muktinath is an ancient temple located in Mustang, Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Known as ‘the Lord of Liberation,’ it serves as a sacred site for Hindus, honoring the deity Vishnu, and for Buddhists, who worship Avalokiteśvara. Nestled in the Muktinath Valley at the foot of the Thorong La mountain pass, this temple is one of the highest in the world, standing at an impressive altitude of 3,800 meters. Its spiritual significance and stunning location make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and travelers alike.
Day 4: Drive from Kagbeni to Charang Today, embark on a scenic drive through the wide-open landscapes of Upper Mustang as we make our way to Charang. Surrounded by barley fields and traditional Tibetan houses, Charang is a culturally rich village known for its ancient monastery. Overnight in a comfortable, well-equipped lodge.
Charang village, the second-largest settlement in Mustang, is home to about 750 people and 135 houses. The locals practice Tibetan Buddhism and Bon Po, with a culture and lifestyle closely resembling that of Tibet. Visitors are drawn to its Buddhist chortens, mani walls, monasteries, palace, traditional flat-roofed houses, and narrow stone alleyways. The village’s main highlight is the 14th-century Red Gompa monastery, famous for its inner walls adorned with frescoes, mandalas, and statues depicting the life of Buddha. Another must-see is the 16th-century Tsarang Palace, an architectural gem featuring intricate wooden carvings and colorful murals, showcasing the traditional Tibetan style.
Day 5: Ride to Lo-Manthang via Horse Enjoy a unique experience as we travel from Charang to Lo-Manthang on horseback, a traditional mode of transport in this region. Arrive at Lo-Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang, known for its royal palaces and monasteries. Spend the night in a cozy guesthouse, surrounded by the fascinating history and culture of the Mustang region.
Day 6: Explore Lo-Manthang Today, immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of Lo-Manthang. Visit the historic monasteries, the royal palace, and ancient caves, all while soaking in the deep Tibetan heritage that defines this region. After a full day of exploration, return to your guesthouse for a restful night.
What exactly awaits us here?
Lo Manthang
Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Lo, was constructed in the 15th century on a plateau at an altitude of 3,800 meters. Positioned along the ancient trade route of the Kali Gandaki River, it served as a key stop for traders crossing the Himalayas. The settlement is enclosed by a 6-meter high earthen wall, fortified with square towers (dzongs) at each corner. Inside this walled city are compact earthen structures, including the royal palace and historic monasteries: Jampa Lakhang and Thupchen Lakhang from the 15th century, and Choede Lakhang from the 18th century. Rows of chhortens and mane walls line the streets within the settlement and the circumambulatory path outside the walls, preserving the area’s deep spiritual and cultural significance.
Sky Caves
The Sky Caves of Mustang, with over 10,000 man-made caves estimated to be 2,000 to 3,000 years old, remain a mystery. Some contain mummified remains and ancient Buddhist relics. The most famous are the Shija Jhong Caves near Lo Manthang, dating back to around 800 B.C. This five-story cave system, perched on a cliff edge, has over 35 rooms and ladders connecting the higher levels, making it an adventurous site to explore
King’s Palace
The Lo Manthang Royal Palace, also known as the King’s Palace, is a prominent historical site in the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang. This five-story palace was built in the 15th century and served as the residence of the former kings of the Kingdom of Lo. It reflects traditional Tibetan-Buddhist architecture, with intricate woodwork, beautiful murals, and decorative motifs that showcase the region’s cultural richness. The palace is part of a complex featuring interconnected buildings and courtyards, standing as a reminder of Lo Manthang’s significance as a cultural and political center. Visitors can also explore its vibrant history, including the role it played in maintaining Mustang’s unique identity for centuries, even during periods of external influence.
Day 7: Travel to Luri Gompa Leaving Lo-Manthang, we head to Yara village and Luri Gompa, an important Buddhist monastery nestled in the scenic Mustang landscape. The drive or horse ride to this spiritual site is a peaceful journey, and once there, you’ll have time to explore the monastery before staying overnight in a nearby lodge.
Yara Village, located at 3,607 meters (11,834 feet), is a hidden gem known for its ancient caves, hamlets, and monastery. Surrounded by stunning Himalayan landscapes, this remote village offers a glimpse into traditional culture and history. The caves, carved into the mountainside, were once used as dwellings, while nearby monasteries like Yara, Ghara, and Luri Gumba preserve centuries-old Buddhist heritage. Visitors can explore ancient artifacts, and paintings, and witness daily rituals performed by the monks, making Yara a must-visit for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.
Luri Gomba, dating back to the 14th century, is one of the most renowned monasteries in the Mustang region. Perched on a sandstone pillar about 100 meters above the ground, the monastery features two interconnecting chambers. The outer chamber houses shrines, while the inner chamber holds the true treasure of Luri Gompa—mural paintings of Mahasiddhas, enlightened saints who achieved Siddhi. This hidden gem is a remarkable site for both its spiritual significance and unique location.
Day 8: Drive or Ride to Chhusang Village Enjoy another scenic drive or horse ride to Chhusang Village, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Tetang Monastery. After an exciting day of exploration, rest and enjoy the calm ambiance of this traditional village.
Day 9: Return to Jomsom We’ll drive back to Jomsom today, retracing our path along the Kali Gandaki Valley, with stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Enjoy your final evening in the mountains at a comfortable lodge in Jomsom.
Day 10: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara After breakfast, fly back to Pokhara for a relaxed day by the lakeside. You can choose to explore the town further, indulge in a spa treatment, or simply unwind by the lake. Overnight in your lakeside hotel.
Day 11: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu and Evening Exploration
After a scenic 25-minute flight back to Kathmandu, you’ll have time to relax before an unforgettable evening experience. As the day winds down, we’ll take you to the iconic Swoyambhu Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched atop a hill, this ancient stupa offers breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley, and the sunset from here is a sight to behold as the city is bathed in golden light.
After sunset, we’ll head to a special viewpoint that provides a magical night view of the glowing Boudha Stupa and the lights of Kathmandu spread out beneath the Himalayan foothills. It’s the perfect way to cap off your journey, offering both serenity and a stunning visual experience.
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or a final tour of Kathmandu’s highlights. A jeep or taxi will transfer you to the airport for your departure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your Mustang adventure.
Bodywear (Clothing/Layering)
Handwear
Footwear
Personal Kit
First Aid Kit
Miscellaneous
