Trip Facts

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Trip Duration 26 Days
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Trip Difficulty Strenuous
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Maximum Altitude 5,595 m / 18,356 ft.
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Best Season To Visit March-November
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Average Group Size 2-15 pax

Trip Overview

Naar to Upper Mustang Trek: Ultimate High-Altitude Adventure in Nepal

The Naar to Upper Mustang Trek is an epic and challenging journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions. This trek connects the hidden Nar Phu Valley with the mysterious Upper Mustang, located near the Tibetan border.

Starting from the isolated village of Nar, trekkers cross rugged mountain trails and the demanding Teri La Pass (5,595 m / 18,356 ft. ), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal.

This off-the-beaten-path Naar to Upper Mustang Trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and the Tibetan Plateau. Along the way, the trail passes through diverse landscapes—from lush alpine valleys and vibrant yak pastures to arid desert plateaus and deep red canyons. Trekkers will encounter ancient cliffside caves, centuries-old monasteries, and traditional Tibetan villages, all part of the unique experience of the Naar to Upper Mustang Trek.

One of the cultural highlights of the Naar to Upper Mustang Trek is Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo. This town is rich in Tibetan Buddhist heritage, with ancient palaces and gompas (monasteries) that reflect centuries of tradition. Visitors will experience authentic Mustangi hospitality and witness traditional festivals and rituals that have been preserved through generations.

Best Time to Do the Naar to Upper Mustang Trek

The best seasons for the Naar to Upper Mustang Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and stunning mountain vistas. In spring, blooming rhododendrons and lush green valleys enhance the trek’s natural beauty, while autumn brings crisp air and excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks.

Physical Fitness and Preparation for the Naar to Upper Mustang Trek

The Naar to Upper Mustang Trek demands experienced trekkers with strong cardiovascular fitness and high-altitude trekking skills. You will hike for 6 to 9 hours daily, often navigating steep, rocky, and challenging trails. To prepare, focus on regular cardio exercises like running, cycling, or hiking. Strengthen your legs and core through squats, lunges, and stair climbing to build endurance.

Additionally, multi-day hikes with a weighted backpack simulate real trekking conditions and boost stamina. Whenever possible, include acclimatization hikes to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. . While no technical climbing skills are required, high physical fitness, mental resilience, and the ability to adapt to changing altitudes are essential for the Naar to Upper Mustang Trek. Along the way, trekkers will cross the high Teri La Pass to enter Upper Mustang and will pass through glaciers, isolated villages, narrow trails, monasteries, and dense woodlands.

Permit and Group Requirements for Naar to Upper Mustang Trek

Since the Naar to Upper Mustang Trek passes through a restricted area, solo trekking is prohibited. A minimum of two trekkers is required to embark on this journey. Besides the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), trekkers must obtain a special restricted area permit from Nepal Immigration to enter this region.

Why Choose Nepal Sanctuary Treks for the Naar to Upper Mustang Trek?

With 26 years of experience, Nepal Sanctuary Treks specializes in trekking adventures across Nepal, including the renowned Great Himalayan Trail. We expertly organize both camping and teahouse lodge treks and tailor the Naar to Upper Mustang Trek to fit your personal preferences and fitness level.

As a Travelife Certified company,  we prioritize sustainable and responsible travel. Our operations benefit the environment and local communities, while our professional guides ensure your safety and comfort throughout the Naar to Upper Mustang Trek.

We are committed to gender equality by empowering women-led businesses, promoting girls’ education, and hiring female tour guides.

Choosing Nepal Sanctuary Treks for your Naar to Upper Mustang Trek means not only experiencing a breathtaking Himalayan adventure but also supporting responsible tourism and sustainable practices.

Note: below trekking hours, altitudes and distances are approximate, and absolutely for general ideas only.

Trip Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu airport

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Driving Time: Approx. 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu,, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will be holding a “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” sign outside the terminal to greet you.

You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in and freshening up, our representative will meet you to give a detailed briefing on the upcoming itinerary, along with important safety guidelines and hygiene practices to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek.

Day 02: Cultural Introductory Tour and Trek preparation

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Tour Duration:  Approx. 8 hours

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Meal: Breakfast

9:00 AM: Guided Cultural Tour of Kathmandu Valley

Start your day with a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu Valley. Explore the vibrant Kathmandu with our expert guides, who will share insights into the area’s rich history.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka Durbar), a royal historical complex filled with temples, palaces, and shrines from the 15th century. Highlights include Kumari Ghar (the home of the living goddess) and Kasthamandap, an architectural marvel built from a single tree.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Next, head to Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple, a sacred site for both Hinduism and Buddhism. Admire the stunning white dome and golden spire, while soaking in the serene atmosphere filled with incense and prayer wheels.

PM: Boudhanath Stupa

Visit the massive Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a spiritual center for Tibetan culture, surrounded by prayer flags, monks, and devotees chanting ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’.

Pashupatinath Temple

Conclude your tour at the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples, located along the Bagmati River. Here, you can witness profound spiritual rituals, including the moving sight of open-air cremations, which hold deep cultural significance. After immersing yourself in this sacred experience, you will transfer back to your hotel.

Day 03: Drive to Jagat

Altitude above sea level: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft
Driving Duration: Approx. 8–9 hours (204 km)
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, your adventure begins with a scenic overland drive from Kathmandu to Jagat. As you leave the Kathmandu Valley behind, the road meanders through forested hills, terraced fields, and traditional villages. This route offers breathtaking views and cultural insights into rural Nepal.

The journey follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers—both glacial-fed and famous for their beauty and white-water rafting. You’ll pass through the bustling town of Dumre, then continue toward the Marsyangdi Valley, reaching the gateway town of Besisahar and further to Syange, where you’ll witness a spectacular waterfall cascading from the cliffs.

Eventually, you’ll arrive in Jagat (1,300 m / 4,265 ft), a village steeped in history. Once a toll station on the ancient salt trade route to Tibet, Jagat now serves as a key entry point for trekkers exploring the Annapurna and Manaslu regions.

Day 04: Trek to Dharapani

Altitude above sea level: 1,940 m / 6,365 ft
Trekking Duration: Approx. 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a nutritious breakfast, begin your scenic trek from Jagat to Dharapani. The trail initially descends before climbing gradually into a lush, rocky forest. As you move through this serene landscape, you’ll arrive at Chamje, a small Tibetan-influenced village nestled along the Marsyangdi River.

Continuing your journey, you’ll cross a dramatic suspension bridge and begin a steady ascent to the picturesque village of Tal (1,700 m / 5,577 ft), uniquely situated on a former glacial lakebed. This charming settlement marks your entry into the Manang District. From Tal, the path meanders through terraced fields of barley, wheat, and potatoes, followed by tranquil pine forests.

The trail crosses the Marsyangdi River again near the quiet village of Khotro. As you leave this village behind, a final ascent through a narrowing valley leads to a short descent, followed by another river crossing into the welcoming village of Dharapani, where you’ll set up camp for the night.

This stretch of the trek introduces you to the changing landscapes of the Annapurna region—lush forests, river valleys, and highland villages—while offering excellent opportunities for photography and cultural immersion.

Day 05:  Trek to Koto

Altitude above sea level: 2,600 m / 8,530 ft
Trekking Duration: Approx. 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin today’s trek, which involves both uphill and downhill sections, offering stunning views of diverse vegetation and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Early in the trek, the Marsyangdi River curves left, revealing a striking view of Annapurna II, a majestic peak that dominates the horizon.

You will follow a well-maintained trail leading to Bagarchhap, a charming village famous for its traditional Tibetan-style architecture and vibrant prayer flags that flutter in the mountain breeze. From Bagarchhap, the path ascends through dense oak and pine forests as you pass the peaceful settlement of Danaque.

As you gain elevation, the trail enters an alpine zone where the air turns cooler, surrounded by farmland and thick pine woodland. The route then descends into a deep gorge with steep stone steps, rewarding trekkers with spectacular views of the towering Manaslu massif.

Following the upstream trail along the Marsyangdi River, you will reach the quaint village of Ratamang before arriving at your overnight stop in Koto (2,600 m / 8,530 ft). This section of the trek is perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike, as it showcases the dramatic transitions of the Annapurna region’s diverse ecosystems.

Day 06: Trek to Chhongche Cave Camp

Altitude above sea level: 2,960 m / 9,711 ft
Hiking Duration: Approx. 4 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

The trail today is well-maintained and winds through dense pine forests, offering a refreshing mountain atmosphere. As the valley narrows, you’ll encounter a dramatic gorge with a powerful river rushing below. The path skirts around pine-covered spurs and crosses the Naar Khola River via a bridge after a short descent. Just 50 meters downstream from the bridge, you’ll find a natural hot spring—though the path can be slippery, this quick 5-minute detour to the warm spring is highly rewarding and a perfect spot to relax. After roughly four hours of trekking, you will arrive at a small clearing nestled within the pine forest, where a handful of tea houses provide a comfortable campsite for the night.

Day 07: Trek to Meta

Altitude above sea level: 3,560 m / 11,680 ft
Trekking duration: Approximately 7 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Begin your day with breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m / 26,781 ft) and Peak 29 (7,161 m / 23,503 ft) as you start trekking towards Meta. The trail winds through lush green forests alongside the serene banks of the Soti Khola River. Today’s journey marks your entry into the restricted Naar Phu Valley region, where the ascent continues steadily until you reach Singenge for a short rest. From there, the trail steepens as you climb toward Meta, rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Annapurna II (7,937 m / 26,040 ft) stretching across the horizon.

Day 08: Trek to Naar

Altitude above sea level: 4,110 m / 13,484 ft.
Hiking duration: Approximately 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After an early breakfast, you begin your trek to Naar village by descending a trail and crossing a river. The path involves both uphill and downhill sections before reaching a Gompa (Buddhist monastery). Along the way, visit the monastery, then continue with a steep climb up to Naar village.

Naar is situated above the tree line, where you can admire traditional houses and numerous Chortens (Buddhist stupas). The village is surrounded by majestic peaks like Kanguru Himal and Pisang Peak. Additionally, trails from Naar connect to Manang via the challenging Kang La Pass.

Day 09: Acclimatization day at Naar Village

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you trek toward Kang La Base Camp to acclimatize and adjust to the high-altitude environment. Along the way, you may spot blue sheep grazing peacefully on the pasturelands. From the base camp, enjoy stunning panoramic views of Pisang Peak, Kanguru Himal, and Himlung Himal. After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, return to camp for lunch. Spend the rest of your afternoon leisurely exploring the charming Naar village and its surroundings.

Day 10: Trek to Lapse Khola Camp

Altitude above sea level:  4,500 m / 14,764 ft.
Hiking duration: 7-8 hours approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, begin your trek toward Lapse Khola Camp. The day starts with a gentle climb out of Naar, followed by a steep descent of about 300 meters (approximately one hour) down to the Lapse Khola River. From there, you follow an impressive trail along the river, cross a traditional Himalayan bridge, and begin a steep ascent to Chaungseng Kharka—a yak pastureland located on the opposite valley side. This area is known for its strong winds, and the local villagers collect yak dung here to use as fuel.

Enjoy lunch at the kharka before continuing your trek high above the Lapse Khola River. Now above the tree line, you’ll be treated to expansive panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail undulates along the valley’s edge, featuring several ups and downs over ridges. Afterward, the path descends to a small yak grazing area, including a narrow stretch along steep slopes. You’ll then continue alongside the river for another 30 minutes until you reach an open grassy area perched above the river, where you will camp for the night.

Day 11: Trek to Lungre

Altitude above sea level: Lungre (4,600 m / 15,092 ft)
Hiking duration: 6-7 hours approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, start with a short walk along the valley, followed by an ascent and descent over a rocky spur on a well-marked trail before crossing the Lapse Khola River. Next, enjoy a gradual hike along and up the valley near the river for about two hours. Then, ascend the west bank opposite Jomsom Khola, which flows into the Lapse Khola from the north. The trail contours along the valley side, featuring occasional rocky steps. Along the way, you will pass several small yak grazing areas (kharka), where you will stop for lunch. Afterward, descend from the Lapse Khola River to reach Lungre for the night.

Day 12: Trek to Teri La Base Camp

Altitude above sea level: Teri La Base Camp (4,900 m / 16,076 ft)
Hiking duration: Approximately 5 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, begin your climb along the left side of the valley for a short distance until the trail flattens out. Then, cross the valley through sparse vegetation, enjoying spectacular views back down the Lapse Khola and ahead toward Teri La. Keep an eye out for eagles soaring overhead and along the valley walls. After about two hours, you’ll pass a small camp as the Lapse Khola valley turns northward. After another hour, the trail veers west, leaving the Lapse Khola valley behind. You will arrive at Teri La Base Camp, where you will camp overnight.

Day 13: Trek to Teri La High Camp

Altitude above sea level: Teri La High Camp (5,200 m / 17,060 ft)
Hiking duration: Approximately 3 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you’ll hike about 300 meters (984 feet) uphill from Teri La Base Camp to reach Teri La High Camp. The trail gently follows a side valley over easy terrain for around 3 hours until the valley widens. At Teri La High Camp, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the challenging Teri La Pass crossing the next day.

Day 14: Trek to Papshu Khola Camp via Teri La Pass

Altitude above sea level: Papshu Khola Camp (4,730 m / 15,518 ft), Teri La Pass (5,595 m / 18,356 ft)
Hiking duration: Approximately 8-9 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, the trek continues with a challenging ascent to the summit of Teri La Pass, one of Nepal’s highest and most breathtaking mountain passes. From the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic and commanding views of Annapurna, Chulu Himal, Teri La Peak, and Purtun Himal. After soaking in the stunning Himalayan vistas, you descend towards Papshu Khola Camp for an overnight camping experience surrounded by pristine natural beauty.

Day 15: Trek to Yak Pa

Altitude above sea level: 4,300 m / 14,108 ft.
Hiking duration: Approximately 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you leave Papshu Khola Camp and begin your trek to Yak Pa. This stretch leads you into the arid Mustang region, famously known as “The Last Hidden Buddhist Kingdom.” The trail descends to the river near Yakpa Kharka before ascending a rocky ridge. Next, you descend into the Samena Khola Valley, cross the river, and finally arrive at the campsite in the old Kampa Village of Yak Pa. Nestled in the Upper Kali Gandaki Valley, Yak Pa features charming Tibetan-style houses that reflect the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Day 16: Trek to Tangge

Altitude above sea level: 3,300 m / 10,827 ft.
Hiking duration: Approximately 8 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you begin your trek to Tangge, a small village with just about twenty houses. Along the trail, you’ll spot flocks of sheep and goats, large mastiffs guarding the area, and the largest chorten in Mustang. Although most of the day’s hike is downhill, the trek starts with a steep, exposed uphill section. From the top, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as expansive vistas of the northern high plateau. Following this, you’ll take a long descent to reach the peaceful village of Tangge.

Day 17: Rest day and explore Tangge village

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is a well-deserved rest day after several days of trekking. Tangge offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in authentic local life in this remote trans-Himalayan village. Take this opportunity to explore the village, interact with locals, and soak in the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Day 18: Trek Tangge-Yara village

Altitude above sea level: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft.
Hiking duration: 7-8 hours approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you’ll trek along the valley shoulder, crossing a river as you go. Today’s route takes you past stunning and unique rock formations, showcasing the natural beauty of the region. After crossing another river, you’ll arrive at the charming village of Yara Gaon. Keep an eye out for fascinating fossils along the riverbed—an exciting highlight for nature enthusiasts and geology lovers alike.

Day 19: Trek to Lo Manthang

Altitude above sea level: 3,820 m / 12,533 ft.
Hiking duration: 6-7 hours approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, enjoy a scenic walk down the river valley as you leave Yara and reach the charming village of Dhi. Take time to explore this picturesque settlement before ascending towards the Dhi La Pass, passing stunning rock formations along the way. From the pass summit, descend for about an hour to arrive at the ancient, walled city of Lo Manthang—an iconic cultural and historical highlight of the Upper Mustang region.

Day 20: Explore Lo Manthang

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, spend the day fully exploring the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the cultural heart of Upper Mustang. Inside the medieval walls, you’ll find four significant monasteries: the striking red Jampa Lhakhang, built in 1387 and home to an impressive 50-foot tall clay statue of Jamba (the Future Buddha); the 15th-century Thubchen Gompa; Chhoede Gompa, the residence of the Khempo; and Choprang Gompa.

Alternatively, you can embark on a fascinating tour of Lo Manthang starting with a 2-hour visit to the Namgyal Gompa. This hilltop monastery serves as a local courthouse and holds high religious, social, and legal importance. Next, visit Tingkhar village, located northwest of Lo Manthang, home to about 40 traditional households. Don’t miss Champa Lhakang, where you can admire a large Buddha statue and exquisite Mandala paintings.

For an adventurous option, trek to the mysterious Chhosar caves, also known as the Jhong or Sky Caves. These multi-level cliffside caves remain an archaeological enigma—believed to have served as burial sites, hidden refuges, meditation chambers, and later, monasteries. Exploring these ancient caves offers a unique glimpse into Upper Mustang’s rich spiritual history.

Day 21: Trek to Ghemi

Altitude above sea level: 3,500 m/11,483 ft.
Hiking duration: 7-8 hours approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, begin your trek to the charming village of Ghemi. This peaceful settlement features a few cozy lodges and traditional local homes surrounded by lush trees and cultivated fields. The trail offers stunning views across the valley, showcasing ochre, blue, and steel-grey cliffs. Along the way, you’ll pass tri-colored chortens and the longest, most impressive Mani wall in Mustang.

Today’s route includes a steep downhill section, followed by a bridge crossing and an ascent into Ghemi. Take time to explore this fascinating village, stroll past the sacred Mani walls and prayer wheels, and enjoy a brief visit to the historic Ghar Gumba Monastery.

Day 22: Drive to Jomsom

Altitude above sea level: 2,743 m / 8,999 ft.
Driving duration: Approx. 7 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Jomsom. The route takes you through charming villages like Chele and Chussang, then continues onward via Tangbe. Upon arrival in Jomsom, you’ll have time to explore the vibrant local market area, perfect for discovering traditional handicrafts and experiencing authentic Mustang culture before dinner.

Day 23: Flight to Pokhara- Kathmandu

Flight Duration: Jomsom to Pokhara (25 minutes), Pokhara to Kathmandu (25-30 minutes)
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals: Breakfast

After an early breakfast, take a short walk to the nearby airport in Jomsom. Enjoy a final breathtaking view of the Himalayan peaks before boarding your flight to Pokhara. From there, you’ll catch a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Use this time to rest or explore Kathmandu’s bustling markets to shop for exquisite locally made handicrafts and unique souvenirs.

Day 24: Buffer Day

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals: Breakfast

This day is kept as a buffer in case of bad weather in Jomsom that might delay your flight. If the weather is clear, enjoy a relaxing day at the hotel or explore the local surroundings before your onward journey.

Day 25: Final Departure 

Meal: Breakfast

As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, it’s time to fly back home, cherishing all the incredible memories of Nepal. A representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Please make sure to check in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight for a smooth departure.

Price Included

What's Included

  • Private airport transfers,
  • Private transfer to/from trek point
  • Guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour with entrance fees
  • Internal flight: Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu
  • 4 nights in Hotel Tibet or similar in Kathmandu with breakfast,
  •  Tented camp during trek on full board
  • Trek Permits, Conservation Fee and Restricted area fee
  • Staff insurance on the trek,
  • Trek guide, assistant guide, cook & porter/s
  • Duffel bag
  • Map

What's not Included

  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu (approx. US$ 20 per day)
  • Beverages,
  • Personal equipment,
  • Personal bills,
  • International airfare
  • Excess baggage beyond 15 kilos including day pack
  • Visa fee: US$ 30 for 15 days and US$ 50 for 30 days and US$125 for 90 days for multiple entries
  • Insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects), liability insurance
  • Tips

 

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Naar to Upper Mustang Trek