TREK OVERVIEW
Maximum Altitude: 3840 meters (12598 feet)
Trip Duration: 11 Days
Starts at: Jomsom
Ends at: Jomsom
Trek Region : Annapurna
Trip Grade: Moderate
Transportation: Flight / Drive
Accommodation: Tea Houses
Meals: All included
Best seasons: September to December, March to May
Note: This trek requires a minimum of 2 participants. Solo trekking is not permitted.
Special requirements for the Upper Mustang Trek:
The Upper Mustang region of Nepal holds both mythical and natural significance and falls within a restricted trekking zone. Previously, foreigners were barred from entering the area, but now they can visit only after obtaining a special permit. Trekkers must fulfill specific requirements for the Upper Mustang Trek, which differs from regular trekking destinations in Nepal. Solo trekking is prohibited, and trekkers must be part of a group of at least two individuals, with the trek being operated by a trekking agency.
Exploring the area without a proper permit is not allowed, and a special immigration permit is issued by the immigration department of the Foreign Ministry of Nepal. Additionally, trekkers need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit. Only trekking guides licensed by the Nepal government are authorized to lead trekkers to the region.
TREK HIGHLIGHTS
The Upper Mustang Trek is a mesmerizing journey into the remote and ancient Kingdom of Lo, offering a unique blend of Tibetan-influenced culture and dramatic desert-like landscapes. The trek follows the Kali Gandaki River, passing through barren cliffs, deep gorges, and historic caves, leading to the walled city of Lo Manthang, the region’s cultural and spiritual hub. Along the way, trekkers explore centuries-old monasteries, traditional whitewashed villages, and breathtaking views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. With restricted area permits required, this trek offers an exclusive and culturally immersive experience in one of Nepal’s most mystical regions.
Upper Mustang Trekking Map
ITINERARY:
Day 01: Drive/Flight to Jomsom (2720m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2800m).
Duration: 30 minutes flight
Drive Duration:
Duration: Approx. 1 to 2 hours walk
The Upper Mustang Trek starts with a drive or flight to Jomsom, from where you would trek to Kagbeni (2800 m). It takes about 1 and half hours or 2 hours to reach Kagbeni. Kagbeni is the entrance to the upper Mustang and the trek starts getting a little rough on you from there, but that’s what adventure is all about. You would be exploring caves and rocks and painting on rocks, gompas, and other cultural heritage.
Day 02: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3100m) .
Duration: Approx, 6 to 7 hours walk
Traverse through the captivating landscapes and small villages on a 6-7-hour trek from Kagbeni to Chele, situated at 3100 meters. The journey unfolds the charm of Mustangi architecture and cultural richness in the quaint village of Chele.
Day 03: Trek from Chele to Ghiling (3570m).
Duration: Approx. 6 to 7 hours walk
Explore the stunning landscape and pass through interesting chortens and mani walls during a 6 to 7-hour trek from Chele to Ghiling, located at 3570 meters. Ghiling welcomes you with a serene atmosphere and ancient monasteries, creating a peaceful ambiance.
Day 04: Trek from Ghiling to Tsarang (3560m).
Duration: Approx. 5 to 6 hours walk
Embark on a 5- to 6-hour trek from Ghiling to Tsarang, situated at 3560 meters. The picturesque terrain features colorful rock formations, leading you to Tsarang, a historical village adorned with a beautiful palace and gompa.
Day 05: Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3840m).
Duration: Approx. 3 to 4 hours walk
Reach the capital of Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang, at 3840 meters, with a 3–4 hour trek from Tsarang. Explore the ancient walled city, monasteries, and unique Mustang culture in this cultural hub.
Day 06: Explore Lo Manthang and Chhoser Area (3961m).
Spend a day immersing yourself in the cultural and historical treasures of Lo Manthang. Venture to Chhoser to witness caves, monasteries, and unique rock formations and return back to Lo Manthang.
Manthang to Chhoser is approximately 3 to 4 hours of walking one way, depending on the trail conditions and walking speed. This could vary if you’re taking breaks for sightseeing along the way.
Considering both ways, the total walking time would likely be around 6-8 hours for a full day of exploration, including some time for visiting sites in both areas.
Day 07: Trek from Lo Manthang to Ghami (3510m).
Duration: Approx. 5 to 6 hours walk
Begin your return journey with a 5- to 6-hour trek from Lo Manthang to Ghami, situated at 3510 meters. Pass through scenic landscapes and reach Ghami, a village boasting ancient monasteries and a serene atmosphere.
Day 08: Trek from Ghami to Syangboche (3800m).
Duration: Approx. 6 to 7 hours walk
Continue your trek for 6-7 hours, enjoying the unique Mustang landscape, to arrive at Syangboche at 3800 meters. This small village is surrounded by stunning views, providing a picturesque setting for your trek.
Day 09: Trek from Syangboche to Chhusang (2980m).
Duration: Approx. 5 to 6 hours walk
Descend to Chhusang on a 5- to 6-hour trek from Syangboche, passing through diverse landscapes and charming villages. Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of this unique region.
Day 10: Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom (2720m).
Duration: 5 to 6 hours walk
Conclude your trek with a 5- to 6-hour journey from Chhusang to Jomsom, situated at 2720 meters. Reflect on the incredible journey and savor the comforts of civilization at the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Day 11: Flight/Drive Back to Pokhara.
Duration: 30 minutes flight
Drive Duration:
Depart from Jomsom, either by scenic flight or drive, based on your preference. The varying altitude during the journey back to Pokhara marks the conclusion of your remarkable Upper Mustang adventure, leaving you with memories of ancient villages, monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes.
INCLUDES:
- Trekking permits
- Trekking guide
- Food (meals include only the main course and tea or coffee) It doesn’t include starters or desserts.
- Private lodgings
- Private Transportation (pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel)
- Hot shower
- Mineral Water
- Water purification tablets
- We provide basic first aid, excluding medication. A first-aid kit or medical kit is available, but we recommend bringing your own medicines.
EXCLUDES:
- No alcoholic beverages or soft drinks
- Wifi
- Cell phone charging
- Hot drinking water
- Your personal expenses
- A porter isn’t included. If you need a porter, we can provide one for an extra fee.
- Sleeping bag (we rent sleeping bags for an additional fee).
- Personal Travel Insurance
COMPLIMENTARY TREKKING EQUIPMENTS:
- Trekking Poles
- Trekking Map
- Gloves
- Sun hats
- Hot water bottles
- Woolen hat
- Trekking duffel bag
- Raincoat
- Toilet paper
- Free luggage storage provided during your trek.
PERSONAL SUPPLIES FOR THE TREK
The personal supplies you require for this trek depend on the season in which you are trekking.
Head
- Sun hat or scarf
- Winter hat
- Headlights with extra batteries
Face
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Face/body wipe
Hands
- Lightweight gloves
- Heavyweight winter gloves
Body
- Hiking shirts
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Hooded rain jacket or wind shell
- Fleece jacket
- Lightweight cotton pants
- T-shirt ( bring lightweight wool)
- Polypropylene Underwears
- Down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants
Footwear
- Hiking boots
- Thick & light socks( take an extra pair of thick and light socks)
- Sandals
Essential gear
- Backpack or day pack bag
- Thermal bottle
- Medium-size drying towel
- Sleeping bag
Toiletries
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Face wash
- Body wash
Personal accessories
- Money
- Watch
- Cell phone
- Camera
- Power Adapters and Chargers
Extra supplies
- First aid kit (Note: The guide will carry a first-aid kit on the trip. However, personal kits and medications are highly recommended.)
- Lip Guard
- Notebook and pen.
- Mosquito Repellent spray
- Moleskin for blister
Contact us today for more information and pricing details.