Upper Mustang Trek
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Upper Mustang Trek

Trip Fact

Destination
Nepal
Max Altitude
4,020M
Duration
16 days
Difficulty
moderate
Group Size
Private or Small
Best Season
March to May / September to November

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Trip Description

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal's most extraordinary and exclusive trekking experiences, leading you into the ancient walled kingdom of Lo Manthang - a place where Tibetan Buddhist culture, dramatic desert landscapes, and centuries-old traditions have been preserved almost entirely untouched. This is not simply a trek. It is a journey into a living piece of history.

The route begins with a scenic drive to Pokhara and then a flight onward to Jomsom, from where the trail heads north into the restricted zone of Upper Mustang. The landscape here is unlike anywhere else in Nepal - vast wind-sculpted cliffs in shades of red and ochre, ancient cave monasteries carved into cliff faces, and a dry, open plateau that feels closer to the Tibetan highlands than the green hills of the south.

The walled medieval city of Lo Manthang is the centerpiece of the journey. Within its ancient walls you will find ornate monasteries, royal palaces, and a community that has maintained its traditions with remarkable continuity. The people of Mustang - the Loba - carry a culture, language, and spiritual practice that is deeply connected to Tibet and among the most fascinating you will encounter anywhere in the Himalayas.

With Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition, every detail of this restricted-area trek is handled professionally, including the special Upper Mustang permit, so you can focus entirely on the extraordinary experience ahead.

Culture of the Annapurna Region

Upper Mustang is one of the last places on earth where ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture survives in its most intact and authentic form. The Loba people maintain centuries-old traditions of art, religion, and community life within the walls of Lo Manthang. Ornate gompas, sky-high chortens, sacred cave dwellings, and the vibrant Tiji Festival - held annually in Lo Manthang - offer a cultural immersion that is genuinely rare and deeply moving.

Best Season

Spring (March to May)

The best time to witness the famous Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang, with warm days and clear skies across the plateau.

Autumn (September to November)

Upper Mustang sits in a rain shadow and remains dry even during Nepal's monsoon season, making it one of the few Himalayan destinations that is excellent for trekking year-round.

Contact our team to plan your Upper Mustang Trek with the right timing and full support for your adventure.

highlights

Explore the ancient walled kingdom of Lo Manthang and its medieval heritage.
Discover dramatic red and ochre cliffs, desert landscapes, and high Himalayan plateaus.
Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions of the Loba people.
Visit ancient monasteries, royal palaces, sacred caves, chortens, and traditional villages.
Explore one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally preserved trekking regions.
Witness the vibrant Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang during spring.
Enjoy a unique Himalayan journey through landscapes unlike anywhere else in Nepal.
Best seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November), with trekking possible year-round.

Day by day Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport,  a representative from Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, you may rest or explore the lively streets of Thamel. In the evening, join your trekking guide at 6:00 PM for a traditional Nepali welcome dinner accompanied by cultural performances and a full trip briefing.

 

Max Altitude

1,400 m / 4,593 ft

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Dinner

After breakfast, we depart Kathmandu and drive through the scenic Kathmandu Valley and along the Trishuli River. On clear days, the route offers beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we checked into the hotel and made final preparations for the trek. The evening is free for relaxation along the lakeside.

Max Altitude

(800 m / 2,625 ft)

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Flight Duration: Approximately 20 minutes

Trek Duration: Approximately 3 hours

An early morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom offers stunning aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. Jomsom, the administrative center of Mustang, was once a vital Himalayan trading town. After a brief rest, we trek along the Kali Gandaki riverbed for approximately three hours to reach Kagbeni - a historically significant trading town where the Kak Khola and Mustang Khola tributaries converge to form the Kali Gandaki River.

 

Max Altitude

2,700 m/2,858 m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours

After completing the special permit checks at Kagbeni, we trek along the Kali Gandaki River through picturesque valleys and sandy trails. Our first stop is Tangbe Village, where narrow alleys wind through whitewashed houses surrounded by fields of barley, buckwheat, and apple orchards. We continue to Chhusang, cross the river, and ascend toward the striking red cliffs of the Kali Gandaki gorge before reaching the village of Chele, situated just beyond a small ridge.

Max Altitude

3,100 m/3,050 m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 6–7 hours

Today's trek begins with a gradual climb to Eklo Bhatti before ascending to Taklam La Pass (3,624 m). We cross a high plateau with sweeping views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kang, and Damodar Danda, then descend slightly to reach Samar Village. From Samar, we continue over the ridge and descend via stone steps through pine forests to the village of Syanbochen. Following a local tradition, we burn pine branches to seek blessings before visiting the renowned Ramchung Cave.

 

Max Altitude

3475m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours

After breakfast, we ascend along mountain paths past Tibetan teahouses, roadside shrines, and small villages before reaching Yamda La Pass (3,850 m). The trail continues through several high mountain passes and an avenue lined with poplar trees and barley fields, then climbs again to Nyi Pass (4,010 m). After a long descent, we arrive at Ghaymi, the third-largest village in the Upper Mustang region, set amid wide, open, and largely barren landscapes.

 

Max Altitude

3,520m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 4–5 hours

The day's trek begins gently before becoming steeper as we cross the Ghaymi Khola River and ascend to the high plateau. We follow a stone-paved pilgrimage route lined with mani walls, then head east toward Charang Village. Perched atop the Tsarang Chu Canyon, Charang offers beautiful views of fields, traditional houses separated by willow trees and stone walls, and several important Tibetan monasteries.

 

Max Altitude

3840m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 4–5 hours

Today's trek offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks including Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I, and Bhrikuti. We begin by descending into the Charang Chu Canyon, crossing the river, and ascending to a sandy plateau at approximately 3,850 meters. From this high vantage point, the Lo Manthang Valley comes into view for the first time. We descend into Lo Manthang - a walled medieval city that appears both majestic and sacred against the backdrop of the mountains bordering Tibet.

 

Max Altitude

3700m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A full day is dedicated to exploring Lo Manthang and its surroundings. Begin with a visit to Namgyal Gompa, perched on a hilltop and of great religious and historical significance, before continuing to Tingkhar - the last major village to the northwest of Lo Manthang. Alternatively, explore the legendary Tall Champa Lakhang (locally known as the Ghost House), the red-walled Thugchen Monastery, Chyodi Monastery, and the ancient entrance hall of the town. A highlight not to be missed is the four-story Raja Palace, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayas.

 

Max Altitude

3700m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours

We begin the day with a trek to Lo Gekar Monastery - one of the oldest and most revered monasteries in Nepal, predating even the famed Samye Monastery in Tibet. After crossing several hills and passing through a peaceful meadow, we arrive at Drakmar, where the landscape creates a dramatic contrast between vivid red cliffs and patches of green pasture.

 

Max Altitude

3810m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours

Today we trek through high ridges, lush green meadows, and deep ravines before descending to the village of Ghiling. The afternoon is free to explore the village and its surroundings. Strong winds are common in this area in the evening - a characteristic feature of the Upper Mustang plateau.

 

Max Altitude

3806m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 6–7 hours

We trek back to Chhusang following the same route taken on the way north. The return journey offers a fresh perspective, and with the changing angle of light throughout the day, the landscapes along the trail appear noticeably different. Upon arriving in Chhusang, the evening is free to rest and relax.

 

Max Altitude

2980m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours

On the final day of trekking, we follow the Kali Gandaki River south through Kagbeni and onward to Jomsom. Upon arriving in Jomsom, we check into the hotel and celebrate the successful completion of the Upper Mustang Trek with a small gathering and local meal.

 

Max Altitude

2,700m

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drive Duration: Approximately 8–10 hours

After breakfast in Jomsom, we begin a scenic drive back to Pokhara along a route that passes through picturesque villages such as Marpha and Tukuche, crosses the Kali Gandaki River, and transitions from the arid landscapes of Mustang to the lush greenery of the lower valleys. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we transfer to the lakeside hotel for a relaxing evening.

 

Max Altitude

2,720 m/8,924 ft

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we drove back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day upon arrival is free for last-minute shopping in Thamel, sightseeing around the Kathmandu Valley, or relaxation. In the evening, a farewell dinner hosted by Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition celebrates the successful completion of your Upper Mustang Trek.

 

Max Altitude

1,400 m/4,600 ft

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Your Nepal adventure comes to a close today. Depending on your international flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport approximately three hours before your departure. We hope the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the wind-sculpted desert plateaus, and the living traditions of the Loba people have left a lasting impression, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal.

 

Max Altitude

1,400 m / 4,593 ft

Meals

Breakfast

Inclusion & Exclusion

Inclusion
  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Domestic transport and flights as per itinerary
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card
  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide and porter
  • Tea house accommodation and all standard meals during the trek
  • First-aid kit and emergency coordination
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Exclusion
  • International airfare and Nepal visa fees
  • Personal travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, hot showers, and laundry services
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Additional expenses due to delays or itinerary changes
  • Any personal expenses not listed in the inclusions

Expedition preparation

Essential Gear

Clothing: Thermal base layers, fleece jacket, insulated jacket, waterproof shell jacket and pants, trekking trousers, gloves, warm hat, sun hat, and a buff or neck gaiter for dust and wind.

Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots, camp sandals, and comfortable trekking socks.

Equipment: Trekking poles, headlamp, daypack, and duffel bag.

Personal Items: UV-protection sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, reusable water bottles, water purification tablets, sleeping bags rated to -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit), personal medications, and toiletries.

Preparation Advice

Physical Preparation: Begin training two to three months before departure with regular hiking and walks with a loaded pack. The terrain is not technically demanding, but daily distances and wind exposure require good stamina.

Technical Preparation: No technical climbing skills are required. Prior experience on remote mountain trails is an advantage on this trek.

Altitude Awareness: Although the maximum altitude is moderate, the dry plateau and persistent wind can accelerate dehydration. Drink consistently, walk at a steady pace, and monitor how you feel each day.

Mental Preparation: Upper Mustang moves at its own pace. Roads are rough, conditions can be dusty and windy, and the remoteness is part of the appeal. Come with an open mind and a spirit of genuine exploration.

Insurance: Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation to at least 4,500 meters.

Gear Preparation: A good buff or dust mask, high-SPF sunscreen, and quality sunglasses are essential in the dry, high-UV environment of Upper Mustang.

Terms & Conditions

Booking and Payment: A booking deposit is required to confirm your reservation. The remaining balance must be paid in full before the trek departure date. Please contact our team for specific deposit amounts and payment schedule details.

Travel Insurance: All trekkers must carry valid travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation in Nepal. Coverage must extend to at least 4,500 meters.

Flight Delays and Itinerary Changes: Flights to and from Jomsom are weather dependent. Delays or itinerary adjustments may occur for safety reasons, and any additional costs incurred as a result are the responsibility of the client.

Restricted Area Permit: The Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit is a mandatory requirement for this trek. Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition will arrange this permit on your behalf. Permit costs are included in the package price as specified.

Guide and Safety Authority: All clients are required to follow the instructions of guides and trekking staff at all times. Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition reserves the right to modify the itinerary if necessary to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants.

Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email or through our official communication channels. Refund eligibility and the amount refunded will depend on how far in advance the cancellation request is received before the scheduled trip, service, or booking date. Cancellations made well in advance may qualify for a partial or full refund, while late cancellations may incur cancellation charges due to operational and administrative costs. Failure to attend without prior notice may result in the booking being treated as non-refundable.In the event that Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition must cancel or reschedule a trip or service, guests will be offered an alternative departure date, travel credit, or refund where applicable. Refund processing times may vary depending on the payment method and financial institution. Certain deposits, permit fees, or third-party service charges may be non-refundable. Please contact our team directly for complete cancellation terms, refund details, and policy information related to your booking.

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Pasang Lee Sherpa
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Pasang Lee Sherpa

CEO/Founder

Pasang Sherpa is the Managing Director and one of the principal trekking and mountaineering guides behind Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition Pvt. Ltd., a government-approved outdoor adventure company based in Kathmandu. Known for his dedication to client safety, cultural sensitivity, and deep knowledge of Nepal’s terrain, Pasang has played a central role in shaping the company’s guiding philosophy rooted in professionalism and authentic Himalayan experiences.Travelers frequently highlight Pasang’s language skills, leadership, and mountain expertise, noting his ability to create comfortable, informative, and memorable journeys across a variety of terrains — from classic treks like Everest Base Camp to more challenging expeditions.“He speaks fluent English and Chinese and was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and a great guide.” — from a traveler review.

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