The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most captivating and culturally rich trekking experiences, offering an unparalleled journey into a land often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” Nestled in the trans-Himalayan region of northern Nepal, bordering Tibet, Upper Mustang offers a rare opportunity to witness ancient Tibetan culture, arid desert landscapes, hidden cave monasteries, and the mystical walled city of Lo Manthang.
This trek is not just about landscapes or high-altitude adventure—it’s a cultural pilgrimage into a realm where traditions are frozen in time, and the modern world has barely made an imprint. With restricted access and a distinct identity, the Upper Mustang Trek is ideal for trekkers seeking something rare, spiritual, and off-the-beaten-path.
Why Choose the Upper Mustang Trek?
Unlike the Everest or Annapurna regions, the Upper Mustang trail offers something deeply spiritual and historical. The region remained isolated until 1992, and even today, it requires a special restricted-area permit to enter. This limited access helps preserve the unique culture and environment.
Key reasons to choose Upper Mustang Trek:
- Tibetan Buddhist culture in its purest form
- Ancient cave systems and monasteries dating back thousands of years
- Walled city of Lo Manthang – a former royal kingdom
- Dramatic desert-like scenery, unlike any other part of Nepal
- Less crowded trails, even during peak season
- Opportunities for cultural immersion and spiritual reflection
Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek
- Lo Manthang – the medieval capital with a royal palace, ancient gompas, and vibrant festivals
- Chhoser Caves – human-carved cliff dwellings believed to be over 2,500 years old
- Muktinath Temple – a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists
- Kali Gandaki River Valley – the world’s deepest river gorge
- Panoramic views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna massifs
- Tiji Festival – a spiritual festival of good over evil, celebrated in Lo Manthang
Typical Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary (14–17 Days)
Here’s a classic 17-day trekking itinerary that ensures proper acclimatization and cultural immersion.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Your journey begins in Nepal’s capital. Explore cultural UNESCO sites like Swayambhunath and Patan Durbar Square while preparing for the trek.
Day 2: Drive or Fly to Pokhara (820m)
Travel to Pokhara, Nepal’s serene lakeside city, and enjoy views of the Annapurna range.
Day 3: Fly to Jomsom (2,720m), Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m)
Catch a scenic flight to Jomsom, then begin trekking through the Kali Gandaki valley to the traditional village of Kagbeni, the official gateway to Upper Mustang.
Trekking time: 3–4 hours
Day 4: Trek to Chele (3,050m)
Pass through villages like Tangbe and Chhusang, with whitewashed houses, barley fields, and red cliffs. Cross the Kali Gandaki River via suspension bridge.
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 5: Trek to Syangbochen (3,475m)
Climb over Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La Pass (3,735m), with views of Nilgiri and Tilicho peaks. Visit the village of Samar and trek through alpine meadows.
Trekking time: 6 hours
Day 6: Trek to Ghami (3,520m)
Walk through forests and past chortens and mani walls to reach Ghami, one of the largest villages in Upper Mustang.
Trekking time: 5 hours
Day 7: Trek to Charang (3,560m)
Cross the longest mani wall in Mustang and visit Charang Monastery, which holds an extensive collection of Tibetan texts and Thangka paintings.
Day 8: Trek to Lo Manthang (3,810m)
Enter the walled kingdom of Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of Upper Mustang. Explore its royal palace and four historic monasteries.
Trekking time: 4–5 hours
Day 9: Acclimatization and Exploration in Lo Manthang
Spend a full day exploring Lo Manthang. Visit Chhoser Cave, Jampa Lhakhang (God House), and the Namgyal Monastery. Consider a short hike or horseback ride.
Day 10: Trek to Dhakmar (3,820m)
Return via a different route through Ghar Gompa, an ancient monastery associated with Guru Rinpoche. Continue to the red cliffs of Dhakmar.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 11: Trek to Ghiling (3,570m)
Pass through arid terrain and small villages, offering views of the Dhaulagiri range.
Day 12: Trek to Chhuksang (3,050m)
Descend gradually back toward the Kali Gandaki riverbed.
Day 13: Trek to Jomsom (2,720m)
Return to the starting point through Kagbeni. Celebrate your trek with your team and enjoy the comforts of Jomsom.
Day 14: Fly to Pokhara
Take a short flight back to Pokhara. Enjoy a relaxing day at Phewa Lake or indulge in a massage.
Day 15: Drive or Fly to Kathmandu
Return to Kathmandu and enjoy some final shopping or sightseeing.
Day 16: Leisure Day in Kathmandu
Optional visits to Bhaktapur or enjoy a farewell dinner with cultural performances.
Day 17: Departure Day
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
Permits and Regulations
As a restricted area, Upper Mustang requires two key permits:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 500 per person for the first 10 days, then USD 50/day thereafter
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 25)
Trekkers must go through a registered trekking agency, and solo trekking is not allowed in Upper Mustang.
When Is the Best Time for the Upper Mustang Trek?
- Spring (March–May): Blooming rhododendrons and clear skies
- Autumn (September–November): Ideal weather, vibrant festivals
- Monsoon (June–August): Surprisingly good for Upper Mustang, as the region lies in a rain shadow, making it one of the few treks possible during summer
Accommodation and Food
Expect basic but clean teahouses with warm hospitality. Meals include typical Nepali fare such as dal bhat, noodles, soups, and sometimes Tibetan dishes like tsampa and yak butter tea.
In Lo Manthang and major villages, upgraded lodges with hot showers, private rooms, and Wi-Fi are becoming more common.
Fitness and Difficulty Level
The Upper Mustang trek is a moderate trek. It does not involve technical climbing but does reach altitudes above 3,800m. Prior trekking experience and decent fitness levels are recommended. The route is suitable for experienced trekkers, families with teens, and even senior travelers in good health.
Cultural Etiquette in Upper Mustang
- Dress modestly, especially around religious sites
- Always walk clockwise around stupas and mani walls
- Ask before taking photos of people or religious ceremonies
- Support the local economy by buying local crafts and using local services
Conclusion: Why the Upper Mustang Trek Is a Journey Like No Other
The Upper Mustang Trek is more than a trekking adventure—it’s a time capsule of Himalayan culture, landscape, and spirituality. From the dramatic cliffs and desert plateaus to the echoes of Tibetan chants in ancient monasteries, every step is a story. It is a place where the past lives in harmony with the present.
Unlike the more crowded trekking routes of Nepal, Upper Mustang offers solitude, mystery, and an intimate connection with a landscape shaped by wind, stone, and centuries of tradition. Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a spiritual traveler, the Upper Mustang Trek invites you to walk through history, breathe in the sacred air of the Himalayas, and experience one of the last hidden kingdoms on Earth
