16-day Upper Mustang Trek | Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal

Trip Facts

Trip Duration 16 Days

Trip Difficulty Moderate

Maximum Altitude 3,810 m/12,500 ft.

Best Season To Visit March-May, June-September, October-November

Average Group Size 2-15 pax

Trip Overview

Upper Mustang Trek: A Journey Through the Forbidden Kingdom

The Upper Mustang Trek reveals one of Nepal’s most extraordinary and untouched landscapes. Once the hidden Kingdom of Lo, this remote region features vast high-altitude deserts, deep canyons, ancient rock formations, and authentic Tibetan-style villages—waiting to be explored. Isolated from the outside world, Upper Mustang was closed to tourists until 1992, earning its famous title as the “Forbidden Kingdom.”

In the early days, the Upper Mustang Trek was tightly controlled—no permanent lodges were allowed, and visitors depended on fully supported camping expeditions. Local communities mainly contributed by offering flat camping grounds or horse rentals for short trips around Lo Manthang.

The Kingdom of Lo, founded in the 14th century by Ame Pal, was ruled by his descendants for 25 generations. Although Nepal abolished its monarchy in 2008, the last king, Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista, remained a respected spiritual leader until his death in 2016.

Today, Upper Mustang is still a restricted zone, requiring a special permit to enter. Locally owned teahouses and family-run lodges now line the trekking route, offering comfort and cultural immersion without losing the region’s spiritual core, dramatic desert landscapes, and Tibetan Buddhist heritage.

As you trek through the high-altitude, arid terrain of red cliffs, wind-carved canyons, and surreal rock formations, you’ll feel transported to another world. The Upper Mustang Trek trail passes ancient villages like Chhusang, Chele, Syangbochen, Ghami, Dhakmar, and Charang, each preserving centuries-old architecture and authentic Mustangi traditions.

The highlight of the Upper Mustang Trek is Lo Manthang, a walled city with narrow whitewashed streets, ancient monasteries like Namgyal Gompa, and the historic King’s Palace, which remains a rare stronghold of Tibetan Buddhist culture outside Tibet.

Timing your Upper Mustang Trek for mid-May lets you experience the vibrant Tiji Festival, a three-day celebration featuring masked dances and sacred rituals that honor the triumph of good over evil—a captivating cultural event.

Beyond its rich heritage, the Upper Mustang Trek rewards you with breathtaking views of Himalayan giants such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tilicho Peak. The Nyi La Pass (3,990 m) offers one of the best spots to soak in the vast, untouched beauty of this extraordinary region.

Best Time to Trek Upper Mustang

The best time to trek Upper Mustang is from March to May or September to November. Unlike most of Nepal, Upper Mustang sits in a rain shadow, allowing trekking during the monsoon season (June-August), though it can get uncomfortably hot. Winter treks (December-February) are possible but cold, with many guesthouses closing for the season.

Physical Fitness for the Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderate but demands trekking 5 to 7 hours daily at altitudes ranging from 2,800 to 4,000 meters. To prepare, it’s important to build strong cardiovascular endurance through activities like running, cycling, or hiking, alongside leg-strengthening exercises such as squats, lunges, and stair climbing. If possible, spending time acclimatizing to higher elevations before the trek can greatly improve your experience. While no technical climbing skills are required, having some prior trekking experience will be helpful .

Why Choose Upper Mustang Trek with Nepal Sanctuary Treks?

At Nepal Sanctuary Treks, we provide a personalized Upper Mustang Trek experience. With over 26 years of expertise in the field, we craft custom Upper Mustang Trek itineraries to suit your pace and preferences. Our experienced guides bring invaluable knowledge, offering insights into the rich local culture while ensuring your safety throughout the journey. They have trekked the Upper Mustang Trek many times and knows the region inside out.

We focus on small group sizes and rigorous safety protocols, providing you with personalized attention and safety. Our long-standing partnerships with trusted suppliers ensure you have carefully selected accommodations and reliable transportation during your Upper Mustang Trek .

As a Travelife Certified company, we are dedicated to promoting sustainable and eco-friendly travel. When you choose our Upper Mustang Trek , you support local communities and help minimize environmental impacts, making responsible tourism a key part of your adventure. Your safety, comfort, and unforgettable experience are our top priorities.

Contact us today to plan your tailored Upper Mustang Trek.

This is a sample itinerary of the Upper Mustang Trek . We shall customize the program as per your needs and preferences.

Note: below trekking hours, altitudes and distances are approximate, and absolutely for the general idea 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

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 historical royal complex with temples, palaces, and shrines dating back to the 15th century. Key attractions include Kumari Ghar (the house of the living goddess) and Kasthamandap, 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: Flight to Pokhara

Altitude above sea level: 895 m / 2,936 ft – Pokhara
Flight duration: Approximately 25 minutes
Accommodation: Mount Kailash Resort or similar
Meal: Breakfast

This morning, you’ll be transferred to the domestic airport for a short flight to Pokhara. On clear days, the flight offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. After arriving in Pokhara, you’ll be escorted to your hotel, where you can relax or spend the afternoon exploring the city at your leisure.

Day 04: Flight to Jomsom- Drive Kagbeni- Hike to Tiri village

Altitude above sea level: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Flight duration: Approximately 25 minutes
Driving duration: Approximately 30 minutes (Jomsom to Kagbeni)
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Pokhara before heading to the airport for a short domestic flight to Jomsom. Enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges during the flight.

Upon arrival in Jomsom, you’ll take a scenic 30-minute drive to Kagbeni. After checking into your lodge and freshening up, explore the quaint village of Tiri. Hike to a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the village nestled below.

Tiri is also home to the historic Sandup Choeding Monastery, which stands on a heart-shaped rock and has been a spiritual center for 860 years. Though the original gompa was damaged by fire, it was carefully rebuilt by monks and nuns, preserving its deep cultural and religious importance.

Day 05: Trek to Chele

Altitude above sea level: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
Hiking duration: Approximately 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, begin your trek into Upper Mustang. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River, where strong winds whistle through the valley gorge. You’ll hike up the ridge from Kagbeni, offering stunning mountain and landscape views.

Next, ascend steeply before easing into a gentle climb to reach Tangbe village—a charming maze of narrow cobbled lanes, whitewashed houses, buckwheat fields, and apple orchards. From Tangbe, continue to Chhusang village, perched dramatically on a cliff jutting into the Kali Gandaki Gorge, surrounded by striking rock formations.

The trail then follows the river, crossing a steel bridge beneath ancient cave dwellings carved into the cliffs, their “windows” visible high above. Finally, a short but steep hike leads to Chele village, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views over the valley below.

Day 06: Trek to Syanbochen

Altitude above sea level: 3,475 m / 11,404 ft
Hiking duration: Approximately 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, leave Chele and head toward Syanbochen. The trek intensifies today as you cross two challenging high passes: Taklam La at 3,624 m and Darjori La at 3,735 m. Along the way, stunning mountain vistas, a striking copper-red canyon, and intriguing caves offer captivating distractions from the demanding ascent.

Following the passes, enjoy a gradual descent to a ridge adorned with chortens, then continue downhill to reach the picturesque village of Samar.

Day 07: Trek to Charang via Ghami

Altitude above sea level: 3,500 m / 11,483 ft
Hiking duration: Approximately 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, leave Syangbochen and begin your trek toward Charang. The trail starts with a steady climb to a pass at 3,770 m, followed by a descent to Gheling village. Gheling, one of the larger villages in the region, is home to an impressive 15th-century monastery nestled at the base of a rocky mountain and surrounded by cultivated fields.

From Gheling, ascend through farmland to the head of the valley, crossing rugged terrain to reach Nyi La Pass at 3,840 m. After the pass, descend for about half an hour to a trail junction. The right fork leads to Charang, while the left heads to Ghami. Ghami is a charming village with clustered whitewashed mud and stone houses beneath an overhanging cliff. You’ll notice a beautiful prayer wall, colorful chortens, and local water taps at the village center.

Continuing from Ghami, trek onward to Charang, the second-largest village in Upper Mustang after Lo Manthang. Once the region’s capital, Charang features the King’s Palace standing proudly above the fields and homes. Don’t miss the striking 16th-century monastery—a central red building with striped walls, one of the most remarkable in Upper Mustang.

Day 08: Trek Lo Manthang

Altitude above sea level: 3,770 m / 12,371 ft
Hiking duration: Approximately 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, begin your trek to the walled capital of the Kingdom of Lo. You will descend into a canyon, cross a river, and then ascend to Lo La Pass at 3,950 m / 12,959 ft. From the pass, enjoy your first stunning view of the historic and picturesque village of Lo Manthang. From there, descend gradually all the way to Lo Manthang itself, a walled city with around 150 households and residences for lama gurus—home to the traditional King of Lo.

Upon arrival, explore the ancient monasteries and the perimeter of the King’s grand palace, where the King and Queen of Lo Manthang reside. The panoramic views of surrounding peaks—Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I, and Bhrikuti—add to the breathtaking experience of this remarkable destination.

Day 09: Explore Lo Manthang

Today is a rest and acclimatization day, giving you the chance to explore the rich spiritual heritage of Lo Manthang. Within the medieval walls, you’ll find four main monasteries: the red Jampa Lhakhang (built in 1387) featuring a towering 50-foot clay statue of Jamba (the Future Buddha); the 15th-century Thubchen Gompa; Chhoede Gompa, home to the local Khempo; and Choprang Gompa.

Alternatively, spend about two hours visiting the hilltop Namgyal Gompa, a site of religious, social, and legal importance, serving as the local courthouse. Afterwards, explore the nearby village of Tingkhar, with its 40 households, and visit Champa Lhakang to admire a large Buddha statue and intricate wall Mandalas.

For the adventurous, consider trekking to Chhosar to see the mysterious Jhong or Sky Caves—multi-story caves carved into cliffs. Their origins and purpose remain a mystery, but they are believed to have served as burial chambers, hiding spots, meditation retreats, and later, monasteries.

Day 10: Trek to Drakmar

Altitude above sea level: 3,810 m / 12,500 ft
Hiking duration: 6-7 hours approx.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, begin your trek eastward to a mountain pass, crossing a ridge that opens into a vast valley below. Along the way, you’ll encounter many fascinating sights. In Gyakar Village, visit the century-old Ghar Gompa, famous for its stunning rock paintings. Tradition says you must make a wish here before continuing. After exploring the gompa and making your wish, descend a steep path to the spectacular village of Dhakmar, nestled beneath towering red cliffs.

Day 11: Trek to Ghelling

Altitude above sea level: 3,806 m / 12,490 ft
Hiking duration: 4-5 hours approx.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, start your trek early to beat the strong winds. The trail descends to Ghemi before looping back over the same route, crossing Nyi La Pass and returning to Ghelling. While the windy conditions can make the day challenging, the stunning panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri peaks offer a rewarding experience.

Day 12: Trek to Chhuksang

Altitude above sea level: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
Hiking duration: 5-6 hours approx.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, begin your trek back along the trail toward Lo Manthang, heading to the small village of Chhuksang. From this altitude, the majestic mountains tower above you, offering breathtaking views throughout the hike. The trail passes through several quaint villages before arriving at Chhuksang, where you’ll have the rest of the day to explore and soak in the local atmosphere.

Day 13: Trek to Jomsom

Altitude above sea level: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Hiking duration: 6-7 hours approx.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, you’ll begin your trek back to Jomsom, joining the famous Annapurna Circuit route. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of the Nilgiri Himal. From Chhuksang, it takes about 4 hours to reach Kagbeni, where you’ll stop for lunch before continuing your trek to Jomsom.

Day 14: 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, head to the nearby Jomsom airport for your flight. Take in one last breathtaking view of the Himalayas before flying to Pokhara and then onward to Kathmandu. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a leisurely afternoon—rest, explore the city, or shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Day 15: Buffer Day

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals: Breakfast

This day also serves as a buffer in case of bad weather in Jomsom, allowing flexibility if flights are delayed or rescheduled.

Day 16: 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,
Internal flight Kathmandu-Pokhara-Jomsom- Pokhara-Kathmandu
3 nights in Hotel Tibet or similar in Kathmandu with breakfast,
1 night in Mount Kailash Resort or similar in Pokhara with breakfast
Guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour with entrance fees
Tea house lodge during the trek on full board
Restricted Area Permits, ACAP and TIMS
Staff insurance on the trek,
Trek guide & porter/s
Duffel bag
Map

What's not Included

Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara (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 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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Faqs

Where is Upper Mustang?

Upper Mustang is a restricted region in Nepal situated in the Trans-Himalayan area near the Tibetan border. It was once an independent kingdom with a rich cultural heritage. Learn more about Upper Mustang

Can I visit other restricted areas in Nepal with the same permit?

The permit for Upper Mustang is specific to that region and does not grant access to other restricted areas. Separate permits are required for places like Dolpo or Manaslu.

When is the best time to trek in Upper Mustang?

The ideal trekking seasons for Upper Mustang are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable and offers stunning views.

Temperature varies by season:

Month	Day Temperature	Night Temperature
March-May	14°C – 20 °C	-7 – -1 °C
June-August	20°C – 30 °C	-2°C -0 °C
September-November	12 °C – 20 °C	-7°C – -2 °C
December-February	0 °C-5 °C	-20 –25 °C

What should I pack for Upper Mustang Trek

Waterproof walking boots with suitable ankle support.
Loose, casual waterproof trousers for trekking.
Thermal coats or fleece.
Warm socks.
Fleece jacket or warm wool jumper.
Windproof, waterproof outers for higher altitudes.
Wool or fleece cap.
Day sack to be carried personally.
Warm gloves
Two water bottles (Nalgene wide mouth bottles are the best).
Personal water bottle.
Camera, spare battery and battery charger.
Toilet items and towels.
Moisturizers
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Water purification tablets (Pristine, Biox Aqua or Aqua Mira)
Favorite snack food.
Books, iPod and cards etc.
Camera with spare batteries and memory cards.
Insurance certificate.
Earplugs (optional), binoculars.
Personal wipes, Biodegradable soap
Dental floss
Face Mask and Hand sanitizer

Gears

· Day backpack: 25-35 L backpack (depending on one’s preferences).

· Small lock: Bring a small lock for your duffle bag.

· Sack to organize and store your dirty laundry.

· Trekking Poles

· Sleeping bags: -10° C /14° F for a teahouse

· Trekking Towels

Personal first aid kit

Note: we provide a comprehensive group first aid kit but please bring personal medications and other items you might use regularly such as:

Any personal medications.
Malaria prophylactic tablets.
Blister treatment (Compeed patches are the best).
Rehydration powder e.g. Dioralyte.
Analgesics (paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin).
Plasters and zinc oxide tape.
Throat lozenges.
Diamox (helps with acclimatization)

What is the temperature like in Upper Mustang?

Temperature in the Upper Mustang varies by season:

Month	Day Temperature	Night Temperature
March-May	14°C – 20 °C	-7 – -1 °C
June-August	20°C – 30 °C	-2°C -0 °C
September-November	12 °C – 20 °C	-7°C – -2 °C
December-February	0 °C-5 °C	-20 –25 °C

What are the cultural and historical highlights of the Upper Mustang?

Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek include the ancient city of Lo Manthang, Tibetan culture, stunning cave monasteries, and dramatic landscapes. Upper Mustang is often referred to as a “Living Museum” due to its well-preserved Tibetan culture. Visit ancient monasteries like Thubchen Gompa and Jampa Gompa, explore cave dwellings, and witness the Tiji Festival. Learn more about Upper Mustang

Is it possible to do the Upper Mustang Trek solo?

Solo trekking is restricted in Upper Mustang, and trekkers must be part of a group of at least two individuals to obtain a trekking permit. Nepal Sanctuary Treks is here to handle all your permit arrangements for a hassle-free trekking experience. For more information email us at info@nepalsanctuarytreks.com

How can I get to the Upper Mustang?

To get to Upper Mustang, start by flying into Kathmandu, then take domestic flights to Pokhara and Jomsom. From Jomsom, you can either trek or drive to Upper Mustang, which requires special permits. Nepal Sanctuary Treks offers customised treks and handles the permit arrangements.

Does the Upper Mustang Trek have internet connectivity?

Internet connectivity in Upper Mustang is inconsistent, with Wi-Fi accessible up to Kagbeni and Lo Manthang. An alternative is using a local GSM-operated SIM card for mobile data (GPRS), although network reliability decreases at higher altitudes. It’s recommended to use the internet sparingly.

Do teahouse lodges on the Upper Mustang Trek have electricity?

In the Upper Mustang, electricity is available up to Chale and beyond Tsarang. While places like Samar, Ghiling, Syangboche, and Ghimi have electricity, it may not always be reliable. Backup solar systems are used to meet trekkers’ electricity needs. It is best to bring a power bank to charge your devices.

Do I need a permit to trek in Upper Mustang?

Yes, a special trekking permit and ACAP are required to enter Upper Mustang, and these permits can be obtained through Nepal Sanctuary Treks.

Are there any restrictions or guidelines for photography in the Upper Mustang?

In the Upper Mustang, always seek permission and respect local customs before taking photos at religious sites and cultural ceremonies to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience. Learn more on Responsible Travel

Are there Wi-Fi and mobile network facilities available during the Upper Mustang Trek?

Upper Mustang trek offers mobile reception in all villages, but Wi-Fi and electricity can be unreliable. While both Wi-Fi and mobile internet are generally available at teahouse lodges, the Wi-Fi may not always work when needed, especially during power outages. It’s advisable to be prepared for limited connectivity at times. It’s wise to get NTC (Namaste) SIM card in Kathmandu, as it ensures reliable internet access, including 4G in most villages

Can I combine the Upper Mustang Trek with other treks in the Annapurna region?

Yes, you can combine the Upper Mustang Trek with other treks in the Annapurna region, such as the Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Base Camp. This allows you to extend your adventure, experience diverse landscapes, and explore the rich cultural and natural beauty of the region. Combining these treks offers a more comprehensive experience of the Himalayas. Nepal Sanctuary Treks curate the trekking experiences based on your preferences, time-frame and physical fitness.

Can I get access to ATMs or exchange money in Upper Mustang?

ATM access is limited, so make sure to carry sufficient Nepali currency for your trek. You might need spare cash for charging device, boiled water and hot shower. Exchange or withdraw money in Kathmandu or Pokhara before traveling to Jomsom.

Where in Tribhuvan airport I will be paying my visa fee? I’ve already completed the application online but I’m unclear where I make my payment at the airport.

Since you completed the process online, you will receive a submission receipt with a barcode. Please print this receipt and bring it with you when you visit the visa fees collection counter. Make sure about the type of visa you will need (15 days, 30 days, or 90 days) and make the payment accordingly. We recommend you bring the exact amount in US currency of the current visa fee while paying at the visa counter.

Next, you should head to the Immigration Desk, taking along your online application form, payment receipts, and your passport. Hand over these documents to the immigration officer to initiate the visa processing procedure.

How do Nepal Sanctuary Treks guides keep clients safe during treks?

Monitoring Health: Guides use oximeters to check clients’ oxygen levels daily, carry a first aid kit, and utilize the Lake Louise Form to monitor altitude sickness.

Communication: They are equipped with local SIM cards and satellite phones for continuous updates.

Emergency Response: In emergencies, they promptly notify the Kathmandu office and CIWEC clinic and are prepared to arrange critical support, including helicopter evacuations for severe medical issues.

Do I need travel insurance covered while trekking/traveling in Nepal?

Insurance is a compulsion as anything can happen in the trek; for emergency rescue, personal liabilities, cancellation, loss of luggage and other reasons if necessary.

Duration 16 Days

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Managing Director

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Upper Mustang Trek