Upper Mustang Trek

  • Destination Nepal
  • Duration 16 Days
  • Transportation Bus, Jeep During Mustang Trek
  • Grade Moderate
  • Group Size 5-6

Overview on Upper Mustang Trek

An ideal destination for rescue and adventure, Mustang trekking in Nepal is a place surrounded by tall mountains. Here the time tics, not with the modern pace, it has been very little changed over centuries and its terrain reveals that nature has been painted with white and green that gives an artistic feel. For discerning travelers searching for mysteries and curiosity, Upper Mustang Trek is the ultimate destination where some parts of your queries in life will be solved. A trip that will engrave in your memories forever, enough to make you fall in love with the mighty Himalayas. The entire trek is about 15-16 days with almost 5-6 hours of hike every day only at Trekkers Nepal. So having good resilience, giving time to training, and adjusting to local food and accommodation will be much welcome equipment for the forthcoming trip. The main highlight of this travel is a flight to Jomsom and a trip to Kagbeni dring your upper mustang trek in Nepal.

About Mustang and Upper Mustang Trek

Mustang lies on Nepal-Tibet(China) border and is divided into two regions, upper mustang and lower Mustang. The place is very dry and rainfall is very scarce. Mustang is one of the driest places in the country so for those having a passion for the trek, this is one of the most congenial places to explore. This is one of the most desolate parts of the country perhaps you may not find it going with the twenty-first century but it may reflect us how our ancestors lived many centuries ago in the Himalayan region. The traditions, customs, lifestyle, etc of the area might take you to the past during the Upper Mustang Trek. If you are totally a city dweller then this place has much to offer you with monasteries, prayer flags, and Gompas denoting Tibetan culture.

The upper Mustang trek is one of the least explored places in the country. The ethnic people of this region are known as “Lobas” and consider themselves the descendants of Tibet.  People living in Mustang area still follow an ancient lifestyle may be due to topography. Besides, one thing is assured, an ever-lasting impression that will remain with you forever. Additionally, the gateway to Upper Mustang a village called Kagbeni dates back to the 14th century that stood as a check post for Nepali traders. As we go up further at Mustang upper trek, we come across Chele, Gelling, and Gharang and eventually reach the ancient kingdom of “lo-Manthang”. This is one of the most amazing and marvelous places in the country with historical significance.

Having a unique climate at Mustang the area is dry and barren, so it appears a pretty challenging trail for trek lovers but with training from our well-trained instructors at Trekkers Nepal, the upper Mustang Nepal tour can be easily overcome. Since all the treks in the Himalayan region consist of ups and downs this trail is no different. It is going to test your patience but by the end of the upper mustang trip, it is going to bring you pleasure. This mustang trek is not open throughout the year because the area is mostly covered with snow in winters so the perfect period for Trek to Upper Mustang would be from April to October. Even during monsoon, there is a chance as it hardly rains in this region.

If you are looking to make a trip to this magical place then we believe that you are a travel enthusiast, so we are ready to serve you with our highest zeal.  All you require is fitness and ready to explore the most amazing Upper Mustang Treks.

Upper Mustang Trek Map

a detail guide for upper mustang trek map and route

Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary

As you step into the airport our staff will be eagerly waiting to greet and welcome you. Then you will be taken to the hotel where you can rest and relax after long hours of flight. In the evening our well-trained instructors are there to brief you for the entire upper mustang trip.
It's an early morning flight to Pokhara which will take around 30 minutes. Our guide will come to pick you up as you leave Kathmandu valley you will be astounded to find scenic beauty on the way. On arrival firstly you will be taken to the hotel and then to Fewa Taal(lake) the water body which had made this place famous. You can enjoy boating if you wish, reflections of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna are clearly visible on the lake. Finally, the day ends with alacrity in heart what's waiting days ahead.
The flight takes off early in the morning with mesmerizing view of the snow-covered peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The sight of gigantic mountains(Above 8000m) and the deepest gorge is just incredible. On reaching Jomsom we start our trek to Kagbeni time to stretch our legs. So we head on with a spectacular view accompanying us, on reaching Kagbeni the day's hike end. Since this is the main gate to Upper Mustang Trek, this place has historical significance established around the 14th century it was a check post for Nepalese traders. Still, a checkpoint exists to control groups departing to Mustang and Muktinath.
Starting in the morning the hike takes towards the east bank of the Kaligandi river. Traveling across many ridges Tangbe village is the next place, with whitewash houses, buckwheat, barley, and wheat fields, and apple orchards within the vicinity. Nilgiri peaks stand on the south side. After hiking for almost an hour and a half at stretch we reach another village called Chhusang. Then after we cross the river and continue ascending. After a while, we leave Kaligandaki valley behind and climb up a rocky gully to Chele where we spent the night and prepare for the day next.
The topography is unusual with no trees and water bodies as we climb. But a gorgeous canyon along with rock cairn at 3540m will make you spellbound and then climb downhill to Samar village. Annapurna and Nilgiri are visible on the southern side as we again ascend from Samar to a ridge and then we descend towards a large gorge. So we go through valley fields, cross a stream and again climb up the ridge(3800m). Going through another pass following the ridge and again downhill we reach Shyangmochen. So from this place, our hike gradually climbs to a pass at 3770m. Ultimately from this place, the route declines into Gelling village and time to rest.
The day starts with the gentle climb up to NYI La pass and then declines below the cliff. Then we cross the steel bridge of the Tangmar Chu river and reach the longest Mani wall in Mustang. Then we ascend to another pass at 3600m and after that, a long gentle decline awaits till Charang village. The main attraction here is the five-storey Dzong and red Gompa, there are other things also like the collection of statues, thankas, and paintings of Buddha. The pristine nature will bring you a good sleep.
At this altitude, the trail begins with a steady climb to Lo-Gekar. This Lo-Gekar Gompa is considered to be one of the oldest Gompa in the region older than the Samye Gompa in Tibet. We carry on to the upper Mustang trek to Lo-Manthang after leaving Lo-Gekar. This trail has some minor climbing to be done and a bit more adventure. Passing the wall of Lo along the route we make a short decline, crossing a stream and finally climbing to the plateau of Lo-Manthang. We stop here for the night and relax.
The day is spent within the periphery of Lo-Manthang, firstly a two hours hike to Namgyal Gompa. It is situated on the hilltop and is an important monastery for the local community supporting the local court as well. After Namgyal Gompa, we move towards Tingkhar, the last village to the northwest of Lo Manthang. The density of houses is 40-50, so after visiting both places we return and spend the night at Lo-Manthang.
It’s a special morning after spending two nights at Lo-Manthang, so we gradually ascent to a ridge at 4070m and continue to Chogo-La(4210m/13810ft). So far this is the highest point of the route, from here the hike declines and the trail is steep. After a while, the Charang river is crossed then uphill to Lo Gekar, then reaching Ghar Gompa(small monastery). Then we go ahead climbing a ridge, crossing a valley with alpine meadows, and again descending an eroded steep road towards Drakmar. Here we spend the night at the guest house, and as usual, all meals will be served.
Today's hike will begin with a descent passing the stone walls and amazing fields. After a while, we climb a ridge that further declines to the lower part of Ghami and to Jaite(3820m). Hiking downhill to Chhung-Kah our journey continues to Tama Gaon(3710m). The spectacular view and nature's beauty are enough to be blissful. Here onwards we descend at a normal pace only to have a glimpse of Shyangmochan where we rest and prepare for the day next.
Stretching our legs with great zeal we start the day. We have the final glance of the guest house and continue our long hike. There is an alternative route as well which is just 30 minutes long, but it has Ranchung caves in a place called Samar. So if we follow the regular path we will walk all the way to Chhusang with the stream beside it.
Upper Mustang Trek: Again following the stream, making a short steep ascent towards the valley we leave the village of Chhusang. We carry on climbing until we reach a small pass from where Muktinath and the red-painted Buddhist monastery are visible. After crossing the path we decline to a stream and cross the suspension bridge. Then we ascend for some time and eventually reach the village of Muktinath. Muktinath temple is famous especially for Hindu pilgrims. This place is also popular for stone fossils that are mainly found between Tetang and Gyu La pass(4077m). From here Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Tukuche can be clearly seen.
As mentioned earlier Muktinath has a famous Hindu temple as well as an important place for the Buddhists. Morning is the period to visit the popular temple and enjoy the marvelous view of the Dhaulagiri range. There is a Buddhist monastery nearby. After visiting the temple we descend towards the village of Jharkot where a monastery is situated. This was actually an old fortress but now it serves as a Tibetan herbal Centre, and then hiking continues to Jomsom. We can have a vivid picture of Kagbeni village and Kaligandaki valley along the way. We cross Ekle Bhatti and eventually arrive at Jomsom which reveals that the wonderful hiking period is over. You can celebrate your accomplishment of completing Upper Mustang Trek and have time to rest.
Probably the fight against Pokhara is in the morning hours only. On reaching Pokhara you can go out boating in a traditional boat and sightseeing around Pokhara and the city recollect the entire trek that had refreshed you.
After spending a night at Pokhara we return to Kathmandu. The flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu will be half an hour long. During the flight, you will be able to see many beautiful terrains and forests.
On this day departure to the Kathmandu international airport before 3 hours from flight time, if we have late flight then on our free day time can visit around Kathmandu valley.

Cost Includes During Upper Mustang Trek

  • Kathmandu to pokhara and Pokhara to kathmndu flight
  • Pokhara to jomsom and jomsom to pokhara flight
  • Upper mustang Spacial permit fee
  • Guide and potter service
  • Two night hotel in Kathmandu 3 star deluxe hotel with breakfast and two night hotel in Pokhara 3 star deluxe hotel with breakfast
  • During trekking time food ( lunch dinner and breakfast with tea or coffee and seasonal fruits after meal )
  • All necessary permit
  • Domestic and international airport pick up and drop service
  • Private Bus, Jeep
  • Two nights of basic BB lodging in Pokhara
  • Return flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu
  • Proper meals thrice a day
  • Best lodging options
  • Professional English-speaking trek guides
  • Experienced trekking porters to help you carry your backpack (2 guests = 1 porter as a minimum).
  • All required documentation, trekking licenses, and local fees
  • Travel and rescue expenses, if necessary

Cost Excludes During Upper Mustang Trekking

  • Costs of international travel to and from Kathmandu
  • Nepal entry visas
  • Any meals during your stay at Kathmandu
  • Any personal costs for telephone calls, mineral water, bar expenses, battery replacements, additional porters & equipment expenses, etc.
  • Gratitude tips for porters and guides (Tipping is expected but not mandatory)

Equipment Used During Upper Mustang Trek

  • Warm, waterproof, and breathable jacket with a hood
  • pants for trekking (breathable, wind, and waterproof)
  • shorts for trekking (breathable, wind, and waterproof)
  • thermal pants
  • Duffel-kit bag padlocks
  • trekking sticks
  • Sleeping bag
  • Headlamp
  • full-length shirt (woolen and cotton)
  • a scarf
  • underwear
  • Gloves
  • woolen cap
  • Waterproof walking shoes
  • Socks (Woolen & Cotton)
  • Sandals
  • Sunblock
  • sunglasses that block UV rays
  • Medium rucksack & Small daypack
  • Duffel bag

faqs

How long is the journey across Upper Mustang Trekking?

The Upper Mustang hike will typically take 16 days to complete.

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Trip Reviews

Upper Mustang Trek

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Average rating:  
 1 reviews
Adam Wales
Nov 30, 2022
 by Adam Wales
Awesome Expereince at Upper Mustang Trek

I must say that Trekkers Nepal provides amazing service in the field of travel. They recently guided me on my Upper Mustang Trek. A professional team, a great food location, and an amazing experience!

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