Treks

Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek is a culturally rich journey through the once-forbidden kingdom of Lo. This 16-day adventure leads you across a trans-Himalayan desert to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, blending Tibetan culture, red-rock canyons, and cave monasteries in one of Nepal's most mystical regions.

BookAsk a quote

About this Treks

The Route

The Upper Mustang trek flies or drives to Jomsom, passes Kagbeni, and follows the restricted trail north to the walled town of Lo Manthang. That town is the turnaround.

What You’ll See

Pale cliffs, cave lines, and a dry trans-Himalayan valley. Nilgiri stays behind you as the Kali Gandaki narrows.

Day by Day

About ten to fourteen days, depending on how much of the road you drive. Afternoon wind is normal. Lodges are in the villages, not on an open pass.

People & Places

Lo Manthang has the old palace and monasteries. The people are Lo-ba and, lower down, Thakali. A restricted-area permit and a licensed guide are required.

Why This Trip

Choose Upper Mustang for the walled city and the desert trail. It is not a snow-pass trek.

Includes Excludes

Includes

  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • A farewell dinner
  • Arrangements for pickup from the airport and a hotel, as well as drop-off in a private vehicle
  • Cover insurance for guides, including their meals, salary, lodging, and transportation
  • Experience guided sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
  • Receive a trip accomplishment certificate
  • A Nepal Government certified English-speaking local trekking guide
  • A tourist bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu
  • ACAP Permit and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Permit card for trekking
  • Accommodation with twin sharing and breakfast plan in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Accommodation with twin sharing during the trekking period
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with tea/coffee during the trekking period

Excludes

  • Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the cost includes section
  • International Air tickets
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Personal expenses like water, laundry, phone, and bar bills
  • Tips to your guide and porter (tipping is expected)
  • Travel and rescue Insurance

Additional Information

On the trail

Tibetan BuddhismUpper Mustang preserves Tibetan Buddhist traditions, chants, art, and festivals like Tiji.

Loba PeopleThe Loba ethnic group follows a unique set of customs and social structures linked to Tibet.

Monasteries & FestivalsMonasteries like Thubchen and Jampa Lhakhang hold sacred texts and ancient rituals.

Ancient Sky CavesThousands of man-made caves carved into cliffs were once used for meditation, burial, and shelter.

Best time to go

Spring (April–May)Dry and pleasant with blooming wildflowers. Ideal for visiting caves and monasteries.

Autumn (September–November)Clear skies and vibrant colors. Harvest season in local villages.

Monsoon (June–August)Surprisingly trek-able—Mustang lies in a rain shadow and receives little rainfall.

What to pack

Sun ProtectionHigh UV exposure in Mustang means sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brim hat are essential.

Layered ClothingDue to strong winds and temperature shifts, wear moisture-wicking base layers, fleece, and a shell.

Water SupplyCarry purification tablets or a filter. Clean drinking water sources are limited.

Windproof GearThe Kali Gandaki valley is known for strong afternoon winds—bring wind-resistant jackets.

CashThere are no ATMs in Upper Mustang. Bring enough cash for the entire trek.

Cost and permits

PermitsRestricted Area Permit ($500 for 10 days + $50/day thereafter) and Annapurna Conservation Permit ($30).

Guide RequirementA licensed guide is mandatory for Upper Mustang.

AccommodationBasic teahouses are available. Rooms cost $7–$10/night.

MealsFood is more expensive due to remoteness. Expect $7–$10 per meal.

TransportFly or drive to Jomsom from Pokhara. Flights cost $120–$140 one way.

Estimated TotalBudget $1,800–$2,500 for the 16-day trek including guide, permits, meals, and lodging.

Before you travel

  • This trip is organised by Nepal Travel Guide.
  • Most tours need only an ordinary level of fitness. A trek asks for more, and the trip page says what to expect.
  • If you are pregnant, or you have a heart or spinal condition, tell us before you book. We will say whether this trip is suitable.
  • Many temples, trails, and vehicles are not accessible by wheelchair. Ask us if you need a plan with fewer steps.
  • The person who books must be 18 or older. Younger travelers need an adult with them.
  • Weather, flights, and local conditions can change the plan. We will contact you and adjust the itinerary.
  • Bring your passport, your travel insurance details, and the booking confirmation.

Getting aroundA private car, a coach, or a domestic flight, matched to the itinerary.

The route is set. Tell us your dates.

We will confirm the route, stay, and price.

  • Dates
  • Route
  • Stay
  • Price