Upper Mustang is a remote former kingdom, north of the Annapurna massif. The area holds a unique ancient wisdom and is one of a kind in Nepal. Upper Mustang is, geographically, the extension of the Tibetan plateau and lies in the shadow of the Annapurna Mountains. Over time, centuries of wind and drought create this dramatic landscape. The area receives little rain, and the colorful landscapes are truly photogenic. The trekking route roughly follows the course of the Kali Gandaki River, which cuts through the land. Throughout the region, Tibetan Buddhism thrives among the population. During your trek, you will visit several monasteries and authentic villages. At the same time, you will also be treated to panoramic views of the Annapurna massif and the Dhaulagiri summit.
From Pokhara, you will take a spectacular flight to Jomsom. Here, you trek to Kagbeni, the beginning and ending point of Upper Mustang. As you leave Kagbeni, the Nilgiri mountain dominates the panoramic view. In the first days, there is a lot of climbing through some villages. Along the way, you pass by the typical white washed houses made from stone and mud. In the fields, the locals grow buckwheat, potatoes, and vegetables.
Eventually, you walk into the walled town of Lo Manthang. This was once the capital of the Kingdom of Lo. Sadly, the king passed away in 2016. Within its walls, there are ancient monasteries, and the monks live scattered throughout the town. During your resting day, you have all the time to explore Lo Manthang. You can wander through the alleys and visit some ancient monasteries. Or, you can explore further into the valley by hiking or horse riding.
From Lo Manthang, the hiking trip follows a slightly different hiking trail. Again, you will trek through the photogenic barren landscape towards Jomsom. Here, your Upper Mustang ends, and leaving Jomsom, you return to the green, lush valley of Pokhara and the calming Phewa Lake. It is possible to extend your stay in Pokhara for more leisure and relaxation.
Our itineraries are designed to be flexible. If you would like to modify this plan, let us know, and we will work with you to create a personalized trip.
Day 1: Arrival Nepal; pick up at the international airport and drop off at a hotel in Thamel Kathmandu
Day 2: Free day at leisure in Kathmandu and finalizing Upper Mustang permits
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (6 hrs.)
Day 4: Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, and trek to Kagbeni (2800 m – 4 hrs.)
Day 5: Trek to Chele (3050 m – 6 hrs.)
Day 6: Trek to Shyammochen (3500 m – 6 hrs.)
Day 7: Trek to Ghemi (3510 m – 5 hrs.)
Day 8: Trek to Tsarang (3560 m – 5 hrs.)
Day 9: Trek to Lo Manthang (3700 m – 5 hrs.)
Day 10: Exploration day at Lo Manthang
Day 11: Trek to Dhakmar (3810 m – 6 hrs.)
Day 12: Trek to Shyammochen (3500 m – 6 hrs.)
Day 13: Trek to Chusang (2980 m – 6 hrs.)
Day 14: Trek to Jomsom (2720 m – 6 hrs.)
Day 15: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
Day 16: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (6 hrs.)
Day 17: Free day at leisure in Kathmandu
Day 18: Departure; pick up from the hotel and drop off at the international airport
During the trekking season, prices may rise. The final price depends on the trekking season, group size, and the cost of local transfers.
Cost includes:
– Pick up and drop off from Kathmandu International Airport to hotel
– 4 nights in a hotel room in Kathmandu; breakfast included
– 2 nights in a hotel room in Pokhara; breakfast included
– Teahouse room during trek
– Return drive by tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara; return local flight Jomsom to Pokhara
– Licensed and certified mountain guide. Well experienced and English speaking
– Porter service for carrying luggage; 10 kg per person
– Salary, food, accommodation and insurance for the mountain guide and porters
– 3 meals per day; breakfast/ lunch/ dinner
– Free use of a waterproof bag for your luggage
– Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, ACAP fee, TIMS card and local taxes
– Support of the Sherpa Heritage Trails head office in Kathmandu
Cost excludes:
– International flight to Kathmandu
– Nepal entrance visa
– Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara
– All beverage bills, hot shower, internet services, laundry and battery charge during trek
– Personal travel insurance
– Rescue operation charge in case of an emergency
– Any cost that arises due to a change of itinerary, like flight delay, natural calamities, etc.
– Gratitude and tips for the mountain guide and porters
