Upper Mustang
Into the last forbidden kingdom
Trek Details
The Upper Mustang trek is a journey through one of Nepal’s most fascinating and remote regions, combining ancient Tibetan culture and dramatic landscapes. Starting from Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang, you immediately enter a world of arid cliffs and traditional villages that feel suspended in time. The trek takes you through Chele and Syangboche, with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges along the way. As you ascend, the scenery grows more rugged, leading to the red cliffs of Dhakmar and the historic walled city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Mustang. This ancient city, rich with monasteries, palaces, and Tibetan Buddhist culture, offers a window into the region’s past.
You will encounter breathtaking views of several famous Himalayan peaks, such as Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), the seventh-highest mountain in the world, dominating the skyline on several sections of the trek, but also Annapurna I (8,091 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m) and Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), among others. The trek concludes with a visit to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Duration from Kathmandu to Kathmandu : 14 days
Trek level : moderate 2/4
You may hike an estimated 6 hours and you should be able to climb 800 m (2,600 ft) a day. You may be able to cope with consecutive days’ walking. You are in good health and we recommend that you maintain your fitness before departure by participating regularly in physical activities and walking.
Altitude : 2,839 m - 4,286 m
Distance : 136 km
Accommodation : Guesthouses
Ascent : 7,190 m
Descent : 7,206 m
Travel tips : Everything you need to know before trekking with us HERE
Cost : From 1,770 EUR per person (rate based on 4 people minimum).
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Airport transfers - pick up and drop upon arrival and departure
Transportation until the trekking departure point
Trekking permit and TIMS fee
Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara if needed
English or French speaking trekking guide as well as his necessary insurance, accommodation, meals allowance and salary
Supporting staff (porters), as well as their necessary insurance, and accommodation, meals allowance and salary
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner - 3 meals per day, tea-coffee, seasonal fruits, and overnight in double rooms in local lodge along the trek
First aid kit box
You can hire our services for your stay in Kathmandu (accommodation, cultural guide and excursions).
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International flight ticket and airport tax
Lunch and dinner during the Kathmandu and other cities’ stay
Travel / medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
Tips for guide and porter
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks (including cold drinks and mineral water) during the trek
Additional costs due to extra days stay, in case of flight cancellation due to the natural calamities, bad weather and other unforeseen circumstances
Personal trekking gear for the trip
Itinerary
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Early travel to Pokhara from Kathmandu by private jeep, local bus or flight that offers a great panorama of central Nepal region and Himalayas. Approx. 6 to 8 hours trip by jeep or 30 minutes by flight.
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Travel to Kagbeni (2,800 m) from Pokhara by private jeep or flight to Jomosom that offers a great panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, following the Kali Gandaki River. Kagbeni is the gateway to Upper Mustang, with Tibetan-style homes and a stunning monastery. Approx. 7 hours trip by jeep or 30 minutes by flight.
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The trail enters Upper Mustang, crossing the windswept landscapes and following the river to Chele (3,050 m). Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque villages like Tangbe and Chhusang, with views of red cliffs and the Annapurna range. Approx. 5/6 hours hike, ascending 740 m and descending 520 m.
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The day involves ascending through steep ridges and crossing passes like Taklam La (3,624 m) and Dajori La (3,735 m), with spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. You will arrive at Syangboche (3,800 m), a small but beautiful village offering panoramic mountain views. Approx. 6/7 hours hike, ascending 1,570 m and descending 860 m.
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The trail continues through arid landscapes with stunning rock formations, passing through the traditional village of Ghami. The trail leads to Dhakmar (3,820 m), known for its striking red cliffs and historical caves. The area is peaceful and offers a glimpse of Mustang’s unique landscape. Approx 5/6 hours hike, ascending 810 m and descending 790 m.
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After crossing the Tsarang La Pass (3,850m), follow the descent into the Lo Manthang Valley and walled city (3,800 m). The views along this trail are spectacular, with sweeping panoramas of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Lo Manthang, with its impressive mud-brick walls and monasteries, is visible from a distance, inviting you to explore its rich history and culture. Approx 6/7 hours hike, ascending 740 m and descending 790 m.
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Explore Lo Manthang and surroundings: visit the Royal Palace of Lo Manthang and the Chogo and Thubchen Monasteries, known for their impressive architecture and vibrant prayer flags and take a stroll through the walled city. We also propose hikes to nearby villages (Chosar and Jharkot villages) and explore the cave dwellings around Lo Manthang. These ancient structures offer insight into the historical lifestyle of the region's inhabitants.
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From Lo Manthang, descend into the remote village of Yara Gaun (3,650 m), known for its amazing canyon-like landscape and ancient cave settlements. The path offers beautiful views of Mustang’s stark beauty. Approx 5/6 hours hike, ascending 660 m and descending 800 m.
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The trail follows a succession of canyons and isolated plateaus, in an almost Martian landscape. It leads to Tange (3,240 m), a typical Tibetan settlement with red mystical chortens which rise up from the brownstone streets. Tange is more than just mystical but magical. Approx 5/6 hours hike, ascending 750 m and descending 1,000 m.
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A long and challenging day to Chusang (3,040 m), along the Kali Gandaki river and through the Pa Pass (4,200 m). The slopes on the side of the trail are quite steep and a little dangerous, with views of 1000m-deep canyons as you approach the descent to Tetang from Tange, but the view on the valley and Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges are spectacular. Approx 8/9 hours hike, ascending 1,240 m and descending 1,570 m.
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The trail from Chusang to Kagbeni follows the Kali Gandaki River. It is also possible to complete this last part of the trek by jeep. You will complete this majestic trek in Kagbeni (2,800 m), a Gurung and Thakali village known for its ancient monastery and its rich Tibetan Buddhism culture and history. Approx 5/6 hours hike, ascending 590 m and descending 790 m.
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Return to Pokhara by local jeep, with a stop in Tatopani to enjoy the natural hot springs. 6/7 hours trip. It is also possible to reach Pokhara by plane from Jomosom, giving more time to visit Pokhara. (Phewa Lake, Peace Pagoda, Pumdikot, Gupteshwor Cave…).
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Back to Kathmandu by private jeep or local bus. Approx. 6 to 8 hours trip (or morning flight).
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