Accomodation

Local lodge & Tea Houses
Best Season

Sep-Dec & Mar-May
Maximum Altitude

3800m
Meals

Breakfast
Transportation

Drive / Flight
Walking Hours

5-6 hrs
Difficulty

Easy
Start Point

Pokhara
End Pont

Pokhara
No. of days

15
Group Size

1 to 20

The Upper Mustang trek is an expedition to a very hidden gem in Nepal for adventurers eager to explore ancient Tibetan culture, desert like landscapes, and eternal traditions. The trek takes you beyond the Himalayas in Upper Mustang into the heart of a region that thrived in the days of its former glory as a kingdom. It offers an unforgettable experience with a unique mix of spirituality and nature.

Starting from Jomsom, Kobang, Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, and Tsarang are picturesque villages that the trail goes through before the entrance into this medieval walled city of Lo Manthang. Along the trail, you encounter striking scenic landscapes, historic ancient monasteries, and colorful festivals like the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival trek. Upper Mustang Trek, offered by Alliance Treks with expertly guided tours, intertwines adventure, history, and spirituality.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

this is the picture of upper mustang trek

Introduction to the Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang trek has opened up for the tourists a hidden corner of Nepal in its high Himalayan region and also ranks on one of the top 10 best treks in Nepal. Dubbed the “Forbidden Kingdom,” this arid landscape has compounded by Tibetan culture in historical caves and steep cliffs. Be it adventure or culture, the Upper Mustang Nepal Trek provides moments to treasure. Alliance Treks further eases your travel by providing custom made Upper Mustang trek packages tailored to personal needs which ensure travel logistics at its best.

Why Choose the Upper Mustang Trekking Experience?

Untouched, unlike heavily trafficked trails such as the Annapurna and Upper Mustang trek combined, is this line across the mountain. Walking the Upper Mustang Trek is like taking a trip through the Kali Gandaki Valley trek and through medieval villages and Mustang caves of Nepal. Moreover, looming tall and visible across is the Tibetan culture in Upper Mustang towns such as Lo Manthang trek, the historic capital of Mustang. Mustang is also famous for the Lower Mustang trek. This is one of those places where people can glimpse an untouched lives as few places do.

Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek: Seasonal Insights

Planning to choose the best time for an Upper Mustang trek would ensure that the conditions would be favorable. Most trekkers prefer to trek from March to October, and doing Upper Mustang trek in October means clear skies and the happy festival moods. In contrast, Upper Mustang trek in winter is more attractive to those wishing to experience peace and solitude, while the winter temperature is ever so cold. Alliance Treks strongly recommends looking at the Upper Mustang trek map to coordinate the dates of travel with festivals such as the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival trek.

Upper Mustang Trek Cost and Budget Planning

So the Upper Mustang trek cost would be given to the traveler for budgeting. The Upper Mustang trek packages normally range from $2,475, covering permits, guides, and meals. The Upper Mustang restricted area permit costs around $500 for 10 days. In the case of the Upper Mustang Trek cost for Nepali, the Nepali price surprisingly drops. Alliance Treks gives a customizable touch whether planning private treks or Upper Mustang helicopter tour or just a classic trek.

Crafting Your Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary

The Upper Mustang trek itinerary 10 days, being perfectly paced, establishes a balance between exploration and acclimatization. Starting from Upper Mustang trek from Pokhara, the route follows Tea houses in Upper Mustang, ancient monasteries, and the highlights provided by the the Nepal forbidden kingdom trek. While shorter options, like the Upper Mustang Trek 7 days itinerary, focus on salient landmarks, the longest travel, such as Upper Mustang trek 15 days, has some detours to the Dolpo trek region.

Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty: What to Expect

The Upper Mustang trek difficulty puts moderate levels for fit beginners. Rocky paths and high altitudes are involved, but elevations here are below 4,000 meters unlike the Upper Mustang vs Annapurna Circuit. Also, experienced guides are provided by the Alliance Treks to solve the challenges which include the Upper Mustang motorcycle tour routes and winter conditions. For further information, you can refer to our page on how to prepare for trek in Nepal.

Permits and Logistics for the Upper Mustang Nepal Trek

It is a must that you get the Upper Mustang restricted area permit. Further, you will require an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Alliance Treks will take care of arranging for these whether you are doing the Upper Mustang trek from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Check the Pokhara to Mustang map to visualize the Kali Gandaki Valley trek. As Nepal trek booking is open for the year 2025/26, please go through the latest trekking rules in Nepal, know about trekking permit in Nepal, and also please keep in mind that the Nepal Government had made guides mandatory in Nepal.

Cultural Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek

This is the place where the Tibetan culture in Upper Mustang thrives from its immemorial monasteries, quite an attraction, to vibrant festivals like Tiji. Besides these, one can visit the Mustang caves Nepal, which were chiseled into cliffs. Why Upper Mustang is restricted? To preserve its heritage. Interact with the locals in the Tea houses in Upper Mustang. This would make your experiences much fuller regarding such a unique region. For further information, refer to our accommodation facilities in Nepal as well as transportation in Nepal page.

Comparing Upper Mustang with Other Treks

Upper Mustang vs Dolpo trek: Which trek is better? Both of them exhibit rugged picturesque features, but the accessibility of Upper Mustang brings it above most in terms of cultural densities. Again, Annapurna and Upper Mustang trek combined becomes ideal for those wanting variability in the trip. For adventure lovers, the Upper Mustang motorcycle tour takes the excitement one step above standard trekking.

Unique Adventures: Helicopter Tours and Festivals

Lack of time? Well, the Upper Mustang helicopter tour offers a two-hour aerial view of the entire map of Mustang Nepal. Alternatively, you can combine your trip with the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival trek, which encompasses three days of celebration celebrating Buddha mythology. The itineraries organized by Alliance Treks revolve around these events so that you do not miss out.

Final Tips for Your Upper Mustang Trek

Consider analyzing an Upper Mustang trek map to identify features like the Kali Gandaki Valley trek. Wear layers for unpredictable weather, especially on an Upper Mustang trek in winter. And finally work with Alliance Treks for trekking equipment list, permits, guiding, and budgeting for the Upper Mustang trek budget planning.

Conclusion: Is the Upper Mustang Trek Worth It?

The Upper mustang trek sure boasts immense uniqueness and cultural depth for travelers. Every step from the Lo Manthang trek to the mustang caves Nepal tells one story or the other. Alliance Treks takes this journey a notch higher with its expertise, making the Upper Mustang Nepal Trek an absolute must on your bucket list. Ready to discover? Contact Alliance Treks today to book your adventure.

Day 1 :

Drive to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) west of the Kathmandu Valley

After breakfast, we take a 6 to 7 hour drive to Pokhara on a comfortable tourist bus. Along the way, we enjoy beautiful views of the Trishuli and Marysangdi rivers. As we near Pokhara, the landscape opens up with river valleys and great views of mountains. Pokhara, a popular tourist spot, greets us with modern comforts and natural beauty.

Day 2 :

Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720m / 8,915ft) and trek to Kagbeni (2,800m / 9,500ft)

We take an early flight to Jomsom, and then enjoy clear views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. From Jomsom, we then follow the scenic Kali Gandaki River valley to Kagbeni. It is an ancient trading village with a Buddhist monastery, just south of Upper Mustang's restricted area.

Day 3 :

Trek from Kagbeni (2,800m / 9,500ft) to Chele (3,055m / 10,025ft).

First we register at the Kagbeni checkpost, and then begin our trek into Upper Mustang. We start early to avoid strong winds. After that we follow the Kali Gandaki River with great sunrise views of Mt. Nilgiri. Along the dusty trail, we pass Mustang’s unique red sandstone formations. We reach Tangbe Village, with its red and whitewashed houses, apple orchards, and barley fields. When we pass through a canyon, we will arrive at Chele. It is a ridge-top village with great views.

Day 4 :

Trek from Chele (3,055m / 10,025ft) to Syangboche (3,930m / 11,400ft)

Today's trek is a challenging ascent of 800 meters from Chele. We climb a steep spur, pass through a rugged canyon to Eklo Bhatti, and continue up to Taklam La Pass (3,625m). From there, we reach Samar, a scenic village with great views of Mount Nilgiri and a common stop for mule caravans. Descending through a deep gorge, we make our way to Syangboche, marking another memorable leg of our journey.

Day 5 :

Trek from Syangboche (3,930m / 11,400ft) to Ghami (3,520m / 11,535ft)

We begin our day with a climb to Yamda La Pass (3,845m), trekking through a desert landscape before descending into Gelling’s barley fields, where traditional mud-stone houses dot the village. Continuing to Tama Gaun, we ascend again to Nyi La Pass (4,015m) before descending into Ghami, our next stop.

Day 6 :

Trek from Ghami (3,520m / 11,535ft) to Tsarang (3505m / 11,500ft)

Our trek on this day leads us through the most arid and parched terrain of Mustang. The ascent comes with great views of the heavenly countryside. Thus, it makes every step worthwhile. Our ultimate destination is Tsarang. It is a small town with approximately 1,000 residents.

Day 7 :

Trek from Tsarang (3505m / 11,500ft) to Lo Manthang (3810m / 12,135ft)

Our day's journey kicks off on level terrain before ascending once again, this time conquering the Lo La Pass. From this vantage point, you will see vistas of the valley below, which includes the sight of Lo Manthang. Our descent from the Lo La Pass brings us into Lo Manthang.

Day 8 :

Rest and exploration day in Lo Manthang

Today, explore the historic walled city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo, founded in 1380. Known for its whitewashed walls, ancient monasteries, and a grand five-story palace, it houses four major temples, including Jampa Gompa, the oldest. Opened to foreigners in 1992, Upper Mustang still limits tourism to preserve its unique culture and heritage.

Day 9 :

Trek from Lo Manthang (3,810m / 12,135ft) to Ghami (3,520m / 5,577ft)

We leave Lo Manthang and then take a different route south toward Kagbeni passing through Drakmar. Along the way, we visit the famous Ghar Monastery with its stunning wall paintings. Our trek then continues through Mustang’s beautiful landscapes, and we arrive in Ghami for the next leg of our journey.

Day 10 :

Trek from Ghami (3,520m / 5,577ft) to Samar (3,700m / 12,139ft)

Our trek leads through remote, arid terrain with stunning vistas. We ascend Chemi La and Yiy La passes before a steep descent to Geling. Continuing with a gentler descent past Syangboche, we reach Samar, a Tibetan style village with mani walls, a serene monastery, and terraced fields.

Day 11 :

Trek from Samar (3,700m / 12,139ft) to Chhusang (2,980m / 9,776ft )

We leave Samar and rejoin the main trekking trail to Chhusang. Gradually descending to the Kali Gandaki riverbed, we pass through a striking rock tunnel before reaching Chhusang, a charming village beside the ever-flowing river.

Day 12 :

Trek from Chhusang (2,980m / 9,776ft) to Muktinath (3,760m / 12,335ft)

Today, we cross Gyu La Pass (4,077m), offering stunning views of the Himalayas and Annapurna range. Passing through ancient villages, we reach Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists, home to temples, 108 water spouts, and an eternal flame.

Day 13 :

Trek from Muktinath (3,760m /12,335ft) to Jomsom (2,720m/8,915ft)

On our final trekking day, we descend through Jharkot and Khingar, passing beautiful monasteries. As we lose elevation, the landscape shifts, leading us to Jomsom’s bustling market, where our incredible journey concludes.

Day 14 :

Early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) (and optional flight back to Kathmandu).

With cherished memories of Mustang, we take an early flight over the Kali Gandaki Valley to Pokhara. From here, you can fly to Kathmandu or explore Pokhara’s attractions, ending your journey with adventure and discovery.

Day 15 :

Drive from Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) to Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,450ft) 6-7hrs

We journey back to Kathmandu by tourist bus, following the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers along a 200 km route. A 25-minute flight option is also available (not included). With our arrival, the trek concludes, leaving you with unforgettable Mustang memories.

FAQ

Expand all

How hard is the Upper Mustang trek?

The Upper Mustang Trek is considered a moderate-level trek in the Himalayas within the Annapurna range. Despite its remote and isolated location, the trekking trails are not very difficult. The terrain is relatively smooth, thus making it less strenuous on the legs. The paths are mostly wide and spacious, allowing vehicles to pass in some sections.

How long is the Upper Mustang trek?

The total trekking distance for the Upper Mustang Trek is approximately 125 kilometers. Trekkers typically walk around six hours per day to complete the journey.

How much does the Upper Mustang trek cost?

The cost of trekking in Upper Mustang varies between $2,475 and $3,400 USD, depending on the itinerary and level of customization.

Why is Upper Mustang famous?

Upper Mustang is renowned for preserving its medieval Tibetan culture, featuring ancient monasteries and cave dwellings. It offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes, attracting adventurers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Due to permit regulations, it remains an exclusive destination.

Why is Upper Mustang restricted?

Upper Mustang shares a border with Tibet, which makes border security a priority. To maintain security and prevent illegal activities, the Nepali government has imposed restrictions on access to the region, ensuring both local and visitor safety.

When should I visit Upper Mustang?

The best time to visit Upper Mustang is in autumn, when the skies are clear, the days are warm, and the nights are cool. The dry weather makes hiking and exploration more enjoyable. Temperatures range from around 20°C during the day to as low as 5°C at night.

Can we go to Upper Mustang by bus?

Buses do not reach all the way to Upper Mustang. Travelers can take a bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then to Jomsom. Beyond Jomsom, only jeeps can navigate the rugged roads leading to Muktinath.

What is the highest point in the Upper Mustang?

The highest point of the Upper Mustang Trek is at Lo Manthang, which stands at 3,820 meters. Most trekking routes turn back from this point.

How much is the permit for Upper Mustang?

The Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang costs $500 USD per person for the first 10 days. For each additional day, an extra $50 USD is charged per person.

How to reach Upper Mustang?

Travelers can fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then take a bus, taxi, or rent a bike to reach Jomsom via the Prithvi Highway. The journey from Pokhara to Jomsom takes around 6–8 hours, serving as the gateway to Upper Mustang.

How difficult is the Upper Mustang Trek?

The Upper Mustang Trek is classified as a moderate trek, striking a balance between adventure and accessibility. It is suitable for those looking for an exciting yet manageable trekking experience.

How far is Mustang from Pokhara?

The distance from Pokhara to Mustang is approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles) by road. However, the journey involves winding mountain roads, making the travel experience more challenging and thrilling.

What is the hardest trek in Asia?

One of the most challenging treks in Asia is the Three Passes Trek in the Khumbu region of Nepal. It crosses three major high-altitude passes Renjo La (5,340m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m) before reaching Everest Base Camp, with the option to ascend Kala Patthar (5,550m) for spectacular views.

Is it easy for non-Nepalese to enter Upper Mustang?

Non-Nepalese visitors need permits to enter Upper Mustang. Travelers must obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit, which costs $20 USD per person for a single entry. This permit remains valid for the entire duration of the trek.

Is there snowfall in Upper Mustang?

Snowfall in Lower Mustang generally occurs in November or December, depending on weather conditions. In Upper Mustang, snow is more frequent between mid-December and mid-February. Areas like Kagbeni, Lo Manthang, and Jomsom experience snowfall from October to January or February.

How many days do you need for Upper Mustang?

A typical Upper Mustang trek takes about 14 days. The trek offers an adventurous journey through a semi-arid Trans-Himalayan region, featuring colorful rock formations, deep ravines, and snow-capped peaks.

Which month is best for Mustang?

Spring is one of the best seasons to visit Upper Mustang. The weather is pleasant, and the region is covered with blooming flowers. This is also when the famous Tiji Festival takes place, making it a culturally significant time to visit.

How many kilometers from Kathmandu to Upper Mustang?

The distance from Kathmandu to Upper Mustang is approximately 462 kilometers (287 miles). Given its remote location, reaching Upper Mustang requires careful planning and preparation.

How much is the bus from Pokhara to Mustang?

The cost of a bus ticket from Pokhara to Mustang (Muktinath area) ranges between $7 and $22 USD (NPR 700 to NPR 2,200), depending on the type of bus service.

Do I need a permit to go to Jomsom?

Yes, an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit is required to travel to Jomsom. SAARC citizens (from India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Maldives, Bhutan, and Bangladesh) can obtain the permit for NPR 200 (~$2 USD), while other foreign nationals must pay NPR 3,000 (~$25 USD).

What animals are in the Upper Mustang?

Wildlife in Upper Mustang includes species such as the snow leopard, lynx, brown bear, red fox, gray wolf, blue sheep, Tibetan wild ass, and Tibetan argali. The region is also home to diverse bird species, including snow partridges, Tibetan snow cocks, Tibetan sandgrouse, chukor partridges, Himalayan griffons, and choughs.

How to visit Upper Mustang?

Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and visitors need both an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit to enter. These permits apply to all foreign travelers, regardless of their length of stay.

Where does the Upper Mustang trek start?

The Upper Mustang trek begins in Jomsom, after taking a flight from Pokhara. The special permit check post is located at Kagbeni, which also marks the entrance to the restricted area of Upper Mustang.

What is the Upper Mustang permit cost for SAARC countries?

For SAARC nationals, the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit costs NPR 1,000. For other foreign nationals (excluding SAARC countries), the cost is NPR 3,000.

Upper Mustang Trek Info

Overview

Introduction to the Upper Mustang Trek

Why Choose the Upper Mustang Trekking Experience?

Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek: Seasonal Insights

Upper Mustang Trek Cost and Budget Planning

Crafting Your Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary

Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty: What to Expect

Permits and Logistics for the Upper Mustang Nepal Trek

Cultural Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek

Comparing Upper Mustang with Other Treks

Unique Adventures: Helicopter Tours and Festivals

Final Tips for Your Upper Mustang Trek

Conclusion: Is the Upper Mustang Trek Worth It?

Itinerary

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