Upper Mustang remains one of Nepal’s most isolated regions, where Tibetan and Nepalese cultures coexist due to its long history of restricted access. The trek offers a combination of dry desert landscapes, impressive mountain views, and cultural highlights centred on the walled city of Lo Manthang, known as the Forbidden Kingdom.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu with transfer to your hotel. Spend the day preparing and resting ahead of the journey.
Day 02: Travel by tourist bus to Pokhara, where you’ll enjoy an evening beside the tranquil lakes and get ready for the flight the next day.
Day 03: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, followed by trekking to Kagbeni at 2858 metres. The trail introduces you to the Mustang region’s cultural mix and the start of the arid landscape.
Day 04: Trek to Chele (3050m), passing small villages and ancient gompas, gaining views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges in the distance.
Day 05: Continue trekking to Syanbochen (3475m). The environment becomes noticeably drier and the landscape more dramatic as you gain altitude.
Day 06: Move onward to Ghaymi (3520m), a village with Tibetan-style houses and prayer flags fluttering across the skyline.
Day 07: Trek to Charang (3500m), where the remains of old fortresses and numerous monasteries reflect Mustang’s history.
Day 08: Journey to Lo Manthang (3700m), Mustang’s walled capital. The dry desert landscape contrasts sharply with the vivid colours of the Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags.
Day 09: Rest day in Lo Manthang. Explore the city walls, local markets, monasteries, and ancient caves, soaking in the unique cultural atmosphere.
Day 10: Trek to Dhakmar (3810m), reaching the highest point of the trek while crossing rocky passes and vast open terrain.
Day 11: Descend slightly to Ghiling (3806m), known for its traditional stone homes and nearby caves.
Day 12: Continue down to Chhuksang (3050m), entering greener valleys and more agricultural settlements.
Day 13: Trek down to Jomsom (2700m), preparing for the flight back to Pokhara.
Day 14: Fly to Pokhara and enjoy an evening relaxing by the lakeside.
Day 15: Return to Kathmandu by tourist bus, concluding the trek.
Upper Mustang is situated in the rain shadow of the Annapurna massif, bordering Tibet to the north. The region’s arid, desert-like environment is marked by deep gorges and high plateaus with minimal vegetation, a stark contrast to Nepal’s usual green mountain scenery.
Lo Manthang, the trek’s highlight, is a remote walled city preserving centuries-old Tibetan architecture, monasteries, and cultural practices. The area remains relatively untouched by modernisation, offering an authentic glimpse into Himalayan life shaped by both Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Accommodation during the trek is in local tea houses, which are small guesthouses offering basic rooms and home-cooked meals. These family-run establishments provide a warm welcome and often serve a variety of local and western dishes, though facilities are simple compared to urban hotels.
Rooms typically include shared or private bathrooms, and heating may be limited, so bringing suitable sleeping gear is recommended. The availability of hot showers varies and usually comes at an additional cost, but tea houses provide essential rest stops with opportunities to recharge devices and relax between trekking days.
A good level of fitness is necessary due to daily walking periods of 4 to 8 hours and altitude reaching over 3800 metres. While previous trekking experience helps, the pace can be adjusted to suit the fitness and needs of each person.
Since Upper Mustang is a restricted area, a special permit arranged by the trekking company is required. Preparation for cold, dry conditions and awareness of altitude sickness symptoms is important to ensure safety and enjoyment.
The company prides itself on personalised service with experienced guides from remote mountain communities who understand the local culture and terrain well. Their approach supports sustainable tourism and contributes back to local people, helping maintain the region’s heritage.
Having served over 2,500 customers with excellent reviews, the team focuses on smooth logistics and careful planning, particularly when managing permits and restricted access areas. This ensures every person enjoys a hassle-free and memorable trek through Upper Mustang.
The ideal months to trek in this region are from late September to early December and from March to May. During these periods, the weather is generally clear with stable temperatures, offering good views of the mountains and comfortable trekking conditions. Outside these windows, the region may experience harsher weather, including colder temperatures and occasional snow at higher altitudes.
While winter months can be very cold and some trails may be difficult due to snow, spring offers blooming rhododendrons and warmer days. The monsoon season from June to August is usually avoided because of heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides, which can make trekking unsafe and less enjoyable. Planning your trip in the recommended seasons increases the chance of a successful and comfortable trek.
Trekking in this area requires a special restricted area permit due to its status as a protected and sensitive region. This permit is not available for independent travellers and must be organised through a registered trekking company. The permit fee can be significant, reflecting the exclusivity and preservation efforts in place.
The trekking company will handle the permit arrangements as part of your booking, so you do not need to worry about the paperwork. It’s important to carry your permit at all times during the trek as police checkpoints are common. Failure to present a valid permit can result in fines or being turned back from the restricted zones.
This trek is graded as moderate but involves trekking at high altitude with daily walking times between 4 to 8 hours. Terrain varies from dry desert paths to rocky trails and some steep sections, which requires a reasonable level of fitness and stamina. Acclimatisation days are built into the itinerary to help reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Individuals with prior trekking experience will find it easier, but even beginners with good fitness can complete the trek by pacing themselves and following the guide’s advice. Proper preparation, including cardiovascular and endurance training before the trip, will enhance your enjoyment and ability to cope with the physical demands.
Accommodation is mainly in tea houses, which are small family-run guesthouses offering basic rooms with simple furniture. Rooms usually have one or two beds, and bathrooms may be shared or private depending on the location. Hot water and heating are not guaranteed and often come at an extra cost, so packing a warm sleeping bag liner is recommended.
Meals in tea houses include local Nepali and Tibetan dishes as well as some western options. These establishments provide a welcoming atmosphere where you can rest and socialise with other trekkers. While facilities are basic compared to city hotels, they are clean and comfortable enough to recharge after each day’s walk.
Essential items include layered clothing suitable for cold and dry conditions, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, and accessories such as a sun hat, sunglasses, gloves, and thermal wear. Trekking poles are recommended to aid balance on rocky or uneven paths. A good-quality sleeping bag liner is important as heating may be limited in tea houses.
Don’t forget personal hygiene items, sunscreen, a first aid kit, and any prescription medications including altitude sickness medicine like Diamox if recommended by your doctor. Carrying spare batteries and chargers for your electronics is also advised as power can be inconsistent along the route. Water purification tablets or a reliable filter can be useful despite the availability of boiled water.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone when ascending above 3000 metres and symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. The itinerary allows for gradual acclimatisation with rest days and moderate daily altitude gains to reduce the risk. Guides monitor each person closely and encourage proper hydration and rest.
If symptoms worsen, descending to a lower altitude is the safest option and will be arranged immediately. Carrying medication such as Diamox may be advised but should only be taken under medical guidance. Safety is a top priority, and the team is prepared to assist anyone showing signs of altitude sickness to ensure their well-being.
Yes, the trekking company can tailor the itinerary to suit individual needs and preferences, including adjusting walking pace, rest days, and the overall duration of the trek. Custom packages can also include additional activities or extend the journey to nearby areas, depending on your interests and fitness level.
It’s best to discuss your requirements before booking so the team can design a suitable plan and arrange permits accordingly. Flexibility during the trek may depend on weather and local conditions, but guides will work with you to provide the best possible experience.
Meals during trekking are mostly provided in tea houses and include a mix of local Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables) and Tibetan favourites like momos (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup). Western options including pasta and omelettes are also commonly available to suit varied tastes.
Vegetarian and special dietary requests can be accommodated with prior notice, but options may be limited in more remote villages. Snacks like energy bars and fruit should be brought along for longer trekking days. Drinking boiled or purified water is recommended to avoid illness.
The trek includes support from experienced English-speaking guides who lead the group, provide cultural insights, and ensure safety throughout. Porters are available to carry luggage, typically shared between two people, to lighten your load and make the walking days more comfortable.
Medical kits and first aid equipment are carried by guides or porters, and emergency evacuation plans are in place if needed. Transportation between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Jomsom is arranged by the company, including airport transfers and internal flights. The team aims to handle logistics smoothly so you can focus on the trekking experience.
Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara is not included in the trek package and must be arranged separately. However, the company offers advice and assistance with booking hotels or guesthouses in these cities to suit your budget and preferences.
Many options are available in Kathmandu’s Thamel district and Pokhara’s lakeside area, ranging from budget to mid-range hotels. Staying in comfortable accommodation before and after the trek allows time to rest and prepare properly for the journey or recover afterwards.
About the centre
Tribhuvan International Airport, Ring Rd, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
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