Upper Mustang Trek
Tibet's lost kingdom — a restricted desert landscape of ancient monasteries and the walled city of Lo Manthang.
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Kathmandu-direct pricing — no middleman markup.
Upper Mustang is one of the last places in the Himalayas where ancient Tibetan culture survives largely unchanged. Accessible only with a special restricted area permit and a licensed guide, the trek winds through an otherworldly landscape of eroded cliffs, cave monasteries, and apple orchards to the magnificent 15th-century walled city of Lo Manthang — the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang.
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Itinerary
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive Kathmandu (1,350 m)
▲ 1,350 m
Overnight: Kathmandu
Fly Kathmandu → Pokhara (822 m)
▲ 822 m
Overnight: Pokhara
Fly Pokhara → Jomsom (2,720 m); trek to Kagbeni (2,800 m)
▲ 2,800 m
A scenic mountain flight lands at Jomsom in the Kali Gandaki gorge. Trek north to the atmospheric gateway village of Kagbeni — the border of the Upper Mustang restricted zone.
Overnight: Kagbeni
Trek Kagbeni → Chele (3,050 m)
▲ 3,050 m
Enter the restricted zone. The landscape changes dramatically: eroded cliffs, ochre earth, and the silence of the Tibetan plateau. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Chele
Trek Chele → Syanbochen (3,800 m)
▲ 3,800 m
Climb over a high ridge with views of the Nilgiri and Tilicho peaks, then descend to the valley village of Syanbochen. 6–7 hrs.
Overnight: Syanbochen
Trek Syanbochen → Ghami (3,520 m)
▲ 3,520 m
Pass ancient cave monasteries and the longest mani wall in Nepal en route to Ghami. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Ghami
Trek Ghami → Tsarang (3,620 m)
▲ 3,620 m
Visit the impressive Tsarang Dzong and its monastery — one of Upper Mustang's finest. 4–5 hrs.
Overnight: Tsarang
Cross Lo La Pass (3,950 m); reach Lo Manthang (3,840 m)
▲ 3,950 m
Over Lo La Pass and into the sacred walled city of Lo Manthang — 600-year-old walls, palaces, and four ancient monasteries. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Lo Manthang
Explore Lo Manthang
▲ 3,840 m
A full day in the ancient capital: the royal palace, Thubchen Monastery, Jampa Lakhang, and the cave hermitages on the cliffs above.
Overnight: Lo Manthang
Trek Lo Manthang → Drakmar (3,810 m)
▲ 3,810 m
Take the ancient eastern route past Chhoser cave monastery on the return south. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Drakmar
Trek Drakmar → Ghiling (3,806 m)
▲ 3,806 m
Overnight: Ghiling
Trek Ghiling → Chhusang (2,980 m)
▲ 2,980 m
Descend back into the gorge of the Kali Gandaki, crossing distinctive red-rock formations. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Chhusang
Trek Chhusang → Jomsom (2,720 m)
▲ 2,720 m
Overnight: Jomsom
Fly Jomsom → Pokhara (822 m)
▲ 822 m
Overnight: Pokhara
Fly Pokhara → Kathmandu; leisure
Overnight: Kathmandu
Departure
Gallery
Moments from the route
Route
Route Map
Route and durations are approximate and can be customised to your schedule.
Included
What's Included
Exclusions
Not Included
Before You Go
Important Notes
- Permits: Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit + ACAP — arranged by TempleFront.
- Licensed guide mandatory in Upper Mustang — solo trekking is strictly prohibited.
- Best seasons: April–June (pre-monsoon) and September–November. Unlike most Nepal treks, the dry Mustang plateau is often trekable even during Nepal's monsoon months.
- Comprehensive travel insurance with high-altitude cover and emergency helicopter evacuation is mandatory.
- Jomsom flights are short mountain flights, weather-sensitive and usually scheduled in the morning — we recommend a buffer day in Pokhara in case of delay.
- Fitness: a moderate trek at a steady 2,700–3,950 m. Be able to walk 5–6 hours a day for about two weeks. Daytime sun is strong and afternoon winds on the plateau are common.
- Connectivity & money: signal is limited and there are no ATMs beyond Jomsom — carry cash in Nepali rupees for the whole trek.
- Cultural respect: Upper Mustang's monasteries and cave shrines are living religious sites — walk clockwise around chortens and mani walls, dress modestly, and follow your guide on where photography is permitted.
Frequently Asked
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private trek?
Yes — every TempleFront trek is guided exclusively for your group. We never combine you with other trekkers.
What is included in the price?
All required permits (including the Restricted Area Permit), a licensed English-speaking guide, porters, teahouse/lodge accommodation, and breakfast and dinner throughout. Lunches are on your own account.
Why does Upper Mustang require a special permit?
Upper Mustang was a closed, restricted kingdom until 1992. The Nepalese government still restricts access to protect its unique Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and fragile environment. The USD 500 permit fee (per 10 days) funds conservation and supports the local Lo Manthang community.
What is Lo Manthang like?
Lo Manthang is a walled medieval city unchanged in 600 years: narrow lanes, whitewashed houses, four ancient monasteries, and a royal palace. The King of Mustang still resides there. Visiting feels genuinely like stepping into another century.
What about altitude sickness?
The trek stays between 2,700 m and 3,950 m (Lo La Pass) — manageable altitudes. The gradual ascent via Kagbeni acclimatises you comfortably. Consult your doctor about altitude medication and report any symptoms to your guide.
What gear do I need?
Sturdy trekking boots, wind protection (jacket and face covering for the Kali Gandaki), layers for cold nights, sun protection (the plateau UV is intense), and a sleeping bag. A full kit list is provided on booking.
What are the lodges like?
Upper Mustang has simple but comfortable guesthouses in each village, with twin rooms and shared facilities. Lo Manthang has the best options. A sleeping bag is recommended for warmth.
How do I confirm a booking?
Send us a WhatsApp or email enquiry. We respond same day with a detailed quote and permit checklist. A deposit secures your dates.
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Every tour is private and fully customisable. Drop us a message and we'll build the perfect itinerary for your group.