Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek
Mustang Region
Overview
Upper Mustang, known as the Hidden Kingdom, sits in Nepal’s Trans-Himalayan area. It’s perfect for tough hikes away from busy trails. This far-off spot keeps old Tibetan ways alive in dry deserts, deep valleys, and red rocks. Hikers see old temples, cave homes, and the walled town of Lo Manthang. It feels like a secret world without modern changes. The trip needs strong fitness but gives quiet peace and deep culture.
The hike goes along the upper Kali Gandaki River, starting at Jomsom after a pretty flight from Pokhara. Main spots include the Chele bridge, sky caves by Ghilling, and the king’s house in Lo Manthang. It lasts 10 to 18 days, passing villages like Tsarang and Ghemi. You’ll see spots with old fossils and big mountain views. Best time is May to October, with medium heights and dry, windy paths.
To visit Upper Mustang, you need special papers because it’s limited. It opened to outsiders in 1992. Get a Restricted Area Permit (about $500 for 10 days) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit from a approved company. A official guide is required to protect nature and culture. Nepal’s government handles these steps, making the trip special and safe for this delicate place.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,300 m / 4,264 ft)
Day 02: Kathmandu sightseeing & trek preparation
Day 03: Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (823 m / 2,700 ft) – 6 hrs
Day 04: Fly to Jomsom & trek to Kagbeni (2,858 m / 9,375 ft) – 3–4 hrs
Day 05: Trek Kagbeni to Chele (3,050 m / 10,004 ft) – 5–6 hrs
Day 06: Trek Chele to Syanbochen (3,475 m / 11,398 ft) – 6–7 hrs
Day 07: Trek Syanbochen to Ghaymi (3,520 m / 11,546 ft) – 5–6 hrs
Day 08: Trek Ghaymi to Charang (3,500 m / 11,480 ft) – 4–5 hrs
Day 09: Trek Charang to Lo-Mangthang (3,700 m / 12,136 ft) – 5–6 hrs
Day 10: Explore Lo-Mangthang
Day 11: Trek Lo-Mangthang to Drakmar (3,810 m / 12,500 ft) – 6–7 hrs
Day 12: Trek Drakmar to Ghiling (3,806 m / 12,484 ft) – 5–6 hrs
Day 13: Trek Ghiling to Chhuksang (3,050 m / 10,004 ft) – 5–6 hrs
Day 14: Trek Chhuksang to Jomsom (2,700 m / 8,856 ft) – 6–7 hrs
Day 15: Fly Jomsom to Pokhara
Day 16: Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 17: Departure from Kathmandu
Cost Included
- All domestic flight, hotel/airport transfer
- All ground transportation by private vehicles
- 12 B,L,D Lodging + Breakfast while return flight
- Experienced Local Guide and Porter
- All necessary paper works and permits
- All government and local taxes if necessary
Cost Excluded
- Nepal Visa fee (International airfare to & from home city)
- Excess personal baggage charges beyond 25kgs
- Hotel, Lunch & evening meals during Kathmandu stay
- Travel & rescue insurance
- Personal expenses e.g. phone calls, laundry, bar bills etc.
- Gratuity for staffs
- Optional trips and sightseeing if extend