Upper Mustang Trek Nepal

Arrival in Kathmandu – Airport Pickup & Hotel Transfer

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o., operating through its local partner, Jagdamba Holidays. Our representative will be waiting with an official Monkvana sign and a traditional marigold garland to welcome you to Nepal.

You will then be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. For late-night arrivals, transportation will be arranged according to your arrival time.

Your representative will also provide information about the tour briefing and group meeting. During the briefing, we will review your travel plans and included services and introduce you to your trekking or tour guide.

Before the journey begins, all participants will complete the required travel and liability forms. Any outstanding tour balance should also be settled during the meeting.

Trishuli River Rafting & Drive to Pokhara

After breakfast, depart Kathmandu by private vehicle and travel approximately 200 km towards Pokhara, with a stop along the Trishuli River for an exciting white-water rafting experience. The drive takes you through Nepal’s scenic mid-hills, passing terraced farmland, forested slopes, traditional villages, and winding river valleys. At the rafting point, receive a safety briefing before enjoying around 3 hours of guided rafting, with a combination of gentle stretches and moderate rapids suitable for beginners and first-time rafters. After the adventure, enjoy a freshly prepared riverside lunch before continuing the journey.

In the afternoon, continue by private vehicle towards Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft), following winding roads through green hills and picturesque countryside. As you approach the Pokhara Valley, the landscape opens to wider views of the surrounding hills and distant Himalayan peaks, creating a pleasant transition from the morning’s river adventure to the relaxed atmosphere of Pokhara.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in at Hotel Silver Oaks Inn in Lakeside, conveniently located near Phewa Lake. Accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis with a private bathroom, and breakfast is included. The remainder of the evening is free to relax or explore the lively lakeside area, take a walk beside Phewa Lake, visit nearby cafés and shops, or simply unwind after the day’s journey.

Scenic Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom & Trek to Kagbeni

After breakfast in Pokhara, take a scenic morning flight to Jomsom (2,743 m / 9,000 ft). The flight takes approximately 20 minutes, offering panoramic aerial views of the Annapurna Range and Dhaulagiri Range. Upon arrival near the Kali Gandaki River, meet your trekking team, who will assist with the necessary arrangements before you begin the day’s trek.

The trek from Jomsom to Kagbeni (2,804 m / 9,200 ft) covers approximately 10 kilometres and takes around 3 to 4 hours. The route includes a gradual 320-metre ascent and 220-metre descent, allowing you to maintain a comfortable pace while beginning your acclimatisation. Following the Kali Gandaki corridor, the trail passes through open landscapes, cultivated farmland, and traditional Tibetan-influenced settlements typical of the Upper Mustang region.

Upon arrival in Kagbeni, check in at Jonika Hotel and relax after the day’s trek. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest, explore the village, and enjoy the distinctive Mustang landscape and traditional Himalayan surroundings.

Trek from Kagbeni to Chele – Enter Upper Mustang

After breakfast at the lodge, begin the trek from Kagbeni to Chele, crossing the Kali Gandaki River and passing through the Upper Mustang checkpoint. Continue to Chhusang (2,980 m), known for its ancient cave dwellings carved into dramatic red cliffs. The trail then climbs through dry valleys and rugged terrain to Tangbe, with its traditional houses, barley fields, Buddhist chortens, and prayer flags. Views of Nilgiri Peak (7,061 m) and Tilicho Peak (7,134 m) accompany the walk.

The trek covers approximately 14 km and takes 6–7 hours, with around 630 m of ascent and 430 m of descent. The route combines open mountain trails, rocky sections, small streams, and striking views across the Kali Gandaki Valley, giving you your first real sense of Upper Mustang’s distinctive high-altitude landscape. The gradual climb also provides a comfortable transition into the drier and higher terrain ahead. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Chele (3,050 m), check in at Hotel Mustang Gate or a similar-standard teahouse. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The evening is free to rest, explore the traditional village, or enjoy the quiet mountain surroundings.

Trek from Chele to Syangboche – Visit Chungsi Cave

After breakfast at the lodge, begin the trek from Chele to Syangboche, climbing through the dry and rugged terrain of Upper Mustang. The route passes traditional Tibetan-style villages, stone houses, prayer flags, and Buddhist sites before reaching Chungsi Cave, an important religious site known for its ancient murals, meditation areas, and sacred shrines. The trail continues through narrow canyons, rocky passes, and barren high-altitude terrain, with views towards the Annapurna (8,091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) ranges. Along the way, you encounter ancient monasteries, Buddhist chortens, and prayer wheels, offering a closer look at the region’s Buddhist traditions and cultural heritage.

The day’s trekking journey covers approximately 14 km and takes around 7–8 hours, with about 1,290 m of ascent and 590 m of descent. The route includes sustained uphill sections, rocky and uneven trails, narrow valley sections, and exposed high-altitude terrain, making it one of the more demanding days of the Upper Mustang Trek. The significant elevation gain requires a steady pace, with regular short breaks to manage the changing altitude. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Syangboche (3,820 m), check in at Hotel Dhaulagiri or a similar-standard teahouse and relax after the day’s trek. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest or explore the village, its traditional stone houses, and Tibetan Buddhist surroundings before continuing deeper into Upper Mustang.

Trek from Syangboche to Ghami via Nyi La Pass

After breakfast at the lodge, begin the trek from Syangboche to Ghami, following the trail towards Nyi La Pass (3,932 m). The route climbs through rocky switchbacks, exposed ridges, and dry high-altitude terrain, passing traditional settlements, stone houses, mani walls, and Buddhist stupas. As you gain elevation, the landscape opens into broad plateaus and rugged valleys, with views towards the Annapurna and Nilgiri massifs and across the Kali Gandaki Valley.

The trek journey covers approximately 11 km and takes around 6–7 hours, with about 460 m of ascent and 670 m of descent. The route includes a steady climb to Nyi La Pass (3,932 m), followed by a descent to Ghami over rocky and uneven trails. The changing terrain and increasing altitude require a steady pace with regular breaks. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Ghami (3,520 m), check in at Hotel Lo Ghami or a similar-standard lodge and relax after the day’s trek. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest or explore the village, traditional stone houses, terraced fields, monasteries, and surrounding Upper Mustang landscape with your guide.

Trek from Ghami to Tsarang via Dhakmar

After breakfast at the lodge, begin the trek from Ghami to Tsarang, passing through Dhakmar (3,820 m) along the way. The trail winds through red sandstone cliffs, unusual rock formations, and rugged valleys, with traditional villages, stone houses, monasteries, and prayer flags reflecting the distinctive culture of Upper Mustang. Dhakmar is a particularly scenic section, surrounded by striking red cliffs and open mountain views.

The trek journey covers approximately 10.7 km and takes around 6–7 hours, with about 490 m of ascent and 470 m of descent. The route combines steady climbs, rocky trails, and gradual descents through Mustang’s dry mountain landscape, offering a good balance of walking and cultural exploration. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Tsarang (3,560 m), check in at Lumbini Guest House or a similar-standard teahouse and relax after the day’s trek. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest or explore Tsarang’s historic monastery, chortens, traditional houses, and surrounding village with your guide.

Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang via Ghar Gumba & Chogo La

After breakfast at the lodge, begin the trek from Tsarang (3,560 m) towards Lo Manthang, passing through the historic Ghar Gumba (4,280 m). The trail crosses the dry landscapes of Upper Mustang, with red cliffs, open plateaus, rocky formations, traditional villages, chortens, prayer flags, and stone houses along the way. Ghar Gumba is an important Buddhist site, known for its ancient murals, sacred scriptures, and historic Buddhist heritage, with views across the surrounding valleys and towards the Nilgiri and Annapurna ranges.

The trek journey covers approximately 17 km and takes around 7–8 hours, with about 740 m of ascent and 510 m of descent. The route includes a demanding climb towards Chogo La Pass (4,280 m), followed by a descent through a scenic valley towards Lo Manthang. The high-altitude terrain requires a steady pace and regular breaks, while the changing landscape provides excellent views across the Mustang mountains. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Lo Manthang (3,840 m), check in at Potala Guest House or a similar-standard teahouse and relax after the day’s trek. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest or take a short walk through the narrow lanes of Lo Manthang, with its traditional Tibetan-style houses and historic cultural surroundings.

Lo Manthang Sightseeing – Explore Ancient Monasteries & Caves

After breakfast at the lodge, spend the day exploring Lo Manthang (3,840 m), the historic walled town and former capital of the Mustang Kingdom. Visit Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, Chodey Gompa, and the Royal Palace, discovering traditional architecture, ancient Buddhist artwork, murals, and the cultural heritage of Upper Mustang. These main sites can be explored comfortably on foot from the town.

For sites farther from Lo Manthang, an optional private jeep excursion costs approximately US$250, payable directly to the guide. Where practical, you can choose to visit the sites by walking instead. The excursion may include Tingkhar Village, Chosar Caves, Niphu Gompa, and Garphu Gompa, depending on time and local conditions. An optional excursion towards the Tibet Border can also be arranged by jeep or horseback at an additional cost.

Return to Lo Manthang and relax at Potala Guest House or a similar-standard lodge. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your own pace, with time to walk through the historic town, observe local life, or rest before continuing the Upper Mustang Trek.

Trek from Lo Manthang to Yara Gaon via Dhi La Pass

After breakfast at the lodge, begin the trek from Lo Manthang to Yara Gaon, crossing Dhi La Pass (3,950 m) along the way. Leaving the historic walled city behind, the trail passes traditional Tibetan-style houses, religious sites, stone stupas, and prayer flags before opening into the dry valleys and rugged landscapes of Upper Mustang. The route offers views of the Nilgiri and Annapurna massifs, dramatic cliffs, and deep gorges.

The trek journey covers approximately 15.3 km and takes around 6–7 hours, with about 570 m of ascent and 770 m of descent. The trail climbs steadily towards Dhi La Pass, followed by a longer descent through secluded valleys and rocky terrain. Along the way, you pass small settlements, ancient chortens, mani stones, and cliff-carved caves, offering insight into the traditional way of life in Mustang. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Yara Gaon (3,600 m), check in at Saribung Guest House or a similar-standard teahouse and relax after the day’s trek. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest or explore the village and its surroundings, including the famous Luri Gompa, a historic cave monastery known for its Buddhist artwork and spiritual significance.

Trek from Yara Gaon to Tangge

After breakfast at the lodge, begin the trek from Yara Gaon to Tangge (3,350 m) through remote and rugged landscapes of Upper Mustang. The trail passes scattered settlements, ancient chortens, monasteries, mani walls, and traditional farming areas, offering a closer look at the region’s Tibetan-influenced culture and way of life. The route also crosses dry slopes, rocky ridges, deep valleys, and dramatic canyons with views across the surrounding Himalayan landscape.

The trek journey covers approximately 15 km and takes around 6–7 hours, with about 710 m of ascent and 960 m of descent. The route involves several uphill and downhill sections over rocky and uneven terrain, requiring a steady pace and good endurance. As you continue through this remote part of Upper Mustang, the quiet trails and traditional settlements provide a strong sense of the region’s isolated mountain lifestyle. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Tangge (3,350 m), check in at Hotel Shambala Tangge or a similar-standard teahouse and relax after the day’s trek. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest or explore the village, its traditional stone houses, narrow lanes, and local surroundings before the next stage of the Upper Mustang Trek.

Trek from Tangge to Tetang via Paha

After breakfast at the lodge, begin the trek from Tangge to Tetang (3,050 m), passing through Paha and the Tenang Valley. The route crosses rocky slopes, remote settlements, and dry mountain terrain before reaching Chhusang along the Kali Gandaki River. Traditional villages, whitewashed houses, terraced fields, ancient monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags provide a closer look at the cultural heritage of Upper Mustang.

The trek journey covers approximately 24.7 km and takes around 8–9 hours, with about 1,280 m of ascent and 1,510 m of descent. This is the hardest and longest day of the Upper Mustang Trek, with sustained climbs and descents over rocky and uneven trails, narrow gorges, and varied high-altitude terrain. You need to carry a packed lunch and enough drinking water for the day, as there may be limited places to stop for food and water along this remote section. A steady pace and regular breaks are recommended to manage the demanding terrain.

Upon arrival in Tetang (3,050 m), check in at Salt Bone Lodge or a similar-standard teahouse and relax after this demanding day. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest or take a short walk around the village and enjoy its traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings.

Trek from Tetang to Muktinath via Gyu La Pass

After breakfast at the lodge, trek from Tetang to Muktinath (3,760m) via Gyu La Pass (4,077m). The trail climbs through rugged high-altitude terrain, with spectacular views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and the barren landscapes of Upper Mustang. This is the hardest day of the trek, so carry a packed lunch and enough water for the journey.

The trek covers approximately 13 km and takes around 6–7 hours, with about 980m ascent and 460m descent. The demanding climb to Gyu La Pass, one of the highest points on this route, is followed by a descent towards the sacred destination of Muktinath. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide, while the remote and rugged trail requires good fitness and steady pacing.

Arrive at Muktinath (3,760m) and check in at Hotel Eureka Inn or a similar-standard lodge. Later, visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, revered by both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, and explore its spiritual surroundings with your guide. The combination of Gyu La Pass and sacred Muktinath makes today one of the most memorable sections of the Upper Mustang trek.

Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom via Lupra

After breakfast at the lodge, trek from Muktinath (3,760m) to Jomsom (2,743m) via Jhong and Lupra. The trail descends through rugged mountain terrain, traditional villages, terraced fields, and the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley. In Lupra, visit the ancient Bon gompa, offering a unique cultural experience and insight into Mustang’s ancient spiritual traditions.

The trek journey covers approximately 19.7 km and takes around 6–7 hours, with about 570m ascent and 1,500m descent. The route features long and sometimes steep downhill sections through varied landscapes, with lunch arranged en route by your guide. As you descend from Muktinath, the scenery gradually changes from dry highland terrain to the wider Kali Gandaki Valley.

Arrive in Jomsom (2,743m), the main town of the Mustang region and an important settlement along the Kali Gandaki River. Check in at Hotel Moon Light or a similar-standard lodge, then relax after the trek or explore the local surroundings with your guide. Enjoy a peaceful evening in Jomsom before continuing your journey through the Mustang region.

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara & Explore Pokhara

After breakfast, transfer to Jomsom Airport (2,743m) for your scenic flight to Pokhara (822m). The short mountain flight offers spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, the Kali Gandaki Valley, and changing landscapes from Mustang’s dry highlands to the lush Pokhara Valley. On arrival, transfer to Hotel Silver Oaks Inn and enjoy a relaxed day after your trek.

The flight takes approximately 20–25 minutes, depending on weather and operating conditions. After checking in, enjoy lunch and spend the afternoon exploring Phewa Lake, Barahi Temple, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, or the World Peace Pagoda, depending on your available time.

In the evening, relax beside Phewa Lake, explore the lively Lakeside area, or enjoy local Nepali cuisine. If the Jomsom flight is delayed by more than 2 hours, we will cancel the flight and arrange a private vehicle to Pokhara instead, allowing sufficient time for the approximately 6–7-hour drive.

Buffer Day in Pokhara – Relax & Explore

Enjoy a relaxed buffer day in Pokhara (822m) after your Upper Mustang trek, with time to rest or explore the city at your own pace. Visit Phewa Lake and enjoy a peaceful boat ride to Tal Barahi Temple, or head to World Peace Pagoda or Sarangkot for panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. You can also stroll around the lively Lakeside area, with its cafés, restaurants, and local shops.

Use the day to discover Pokhara’s highlights according to your interests, including Devi’s Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, Bindhyabasini Temple, Seti Gorge, and Pumdikot. Your guide can help arrange sightseeing and activities, while the flexible schedule also allows you to simply relax after the trek.

Stay overnight at Hotel Silver Oaks Inn or a similar-standard hotel in Pokhara. Enjoy a peaceful evening beside Phewa Lake, explore Lakeside, or savour local cuisine as you unwind and prepare for your onward journey.

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu & Explore Kathmandu

After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Pokhara before heading to the airport. Take a relaxed walk around Lakeside, stroll beside Phewa Lake, or enjoy a final glimpse of the city before your flight to Kathmandu.

Proceed to Pokhara Airport for your flight to Kathmandu (1,400m), usually departing between 9:00 and 10:00 am. The flight takes approximately 25–30 minutes, offering beautiful aerial views of Nepal’s green hills, terraced fields, winding rivers, and Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival, meet your private vehicle and driver, transfer to Hotel Kailash Kutee or a similar-standard hotel, and have lunch before your afternoon sightseeing.

After lunch, the afternoon is free for optional half-day sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley. You may choose Swayambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square for heritage and city views; Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa for Nepal’s Hindu and Buddhist traditions; or Bhaktapur Durbar Square for its historic architecture, temples, and traditional Newari culture. Alternatively, you can simply relax at the hotel or explore the nearby area at your own pace. Accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis with a private bathroom, including breakfast.

Farewell – Airport Transfer & Departure

As your Himalayan journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on Nepal’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences—from majestic mountain landscapes to the warm hospitality of local communities.

For a smooth departure, a representative of Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o., operating through its local partner Jagdamba Holidays, will meet you at your hotel approximately 3.5 hours before your scheduled flight and provide a comfortable transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.

Thank you for choosing Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o. and Jagdamba Holidays. We look forward to welcoming you again on future journeys across the Himalayas and beyond.