Trek Overview
The Upper Mustang trek takes you into the ancient forbidden kingdom of Lo, a region that was closed to outsiders until 1992. This unique trek explores a dramatic, arid landscape reminiscent of the Tibetan Plateau, dotted with ancient cave dwellings, medieval walled cities, and centuries-old Buddhist monasteries. The capital, Lo Manthang, is a walled city where time seems to have stood still.
Highlights
- Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang
- Discover centuries-old cave dwellings and monasteries
- Dramatic desert-like landscapes unique in Nepal
- Rich Tibetan-Buddhist culture preserved for centuries
- Visit sky caves and ancient cliff-side art
- One of the last forbidden kingdoms in the world
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A carefully designed itinerary with proper acclimatization to maximize your chances of success.
Flight to Pokhara, connect to Jomsom in the Kali Gandaki valley.
Trek along the Kali Gandaki River to the medieval town of Kagbeni – gateway to Upper Mustang.
Enter the restricted area. Dramatic canyon scenery and red rock formations.
Cross high passes with views of Nilgiri and Tilicho peaks.
Trek past the longest mani wall in Nepal. Visit remote villages.
Visit the impressive Tsarang Monastery and the crumbling royal palace.
Arrive at the walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo.
Full day exploring the king's palace, four major monasteries, and local life within the city walls.
Begin return journey via an alternative route.
Continue descent through dramatic landscapes.
Return to Kagbeni. Celebrate completion of the Upper Mustang circuit.
Short trek back to Jomsom.
Morning flight to Pokhara. Free day by the lake.
Return to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner.
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- All domestic flights
- Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- All meals during trek
- Licensed guide
- Porter/pack animals
- Upper Mustang restricted area permit ($500)
- ACAP permit and TIMS
- First aid kit
Not Included
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear
- City meals (lunch/dinner)
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide and porters
Cost & Dates
Trip Cost
- Price based on 2+ person group
- Group discounts available for 4+ trekkers
- Solo traveler supplement may apply
- Custom itineraries available on request
Best Dates
Best Season
Spring (Mar-Jun), Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Duration
14 Days
Start/End Point
Kathmandu / Pokhara / Jomsom
Note: We run trips year-round on custom dates. Contact us to plan your preferred departure date.
Packing List
Here's what we recommend you bring for this trek. Items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu if needed.
Clothing
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Fleece jacket or down sweater
- Waterproof shell jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Trekking pants (2 pairs)
- T-shirts (3-4)
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Gloves (liner + waterproof outer)
- Warm socks (4-5 pairs)
- Underwear (5-6)
Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
- Camp shoes or sandals
- Gaiters (optional)
Equipment
- Backpack (30-40L daypack)
- Sleeping bag (-10°C to -20°C rated)
- Trekking poles (pair)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles (2x 1L)
- Water purification tablets
Toiletries & Health
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Personal medications
- First aid kit
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox)
Accessories
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Power bank
- Dry bags for waterproofing
- Snacks and energy bars
- Notebook and pen
Frequently Asked Questions
The $500 restricted area permit helps preserve the unique cultural and environmental heritage of this ancient kingdom. The fee limits visitor numbers and supports local conservation efforts.
Unlike most of Nepal, Upper Mustang has an arid, desert-like landscape similar to Tibet. Its isolation preserved medieval Tibetan Buddhist culture that has largely disappeared elsewhere.
Guest Reviews
What our trekkers say about their experience
Pierre Dubois
France · June 2024
Stepping into Upper Mustang is like traveling back in time. The ancient caves, the walled city of Lo Manthang, and the dramatic desert landscapes are unlike anything else in Nepal.
Lisa Hoffmann
Austria · September 2024
A truly unique trekking experience. The Tibetan Buddhist culture is preserved beautifully here. The red and white cliffs against the blue sky create an otherworldly landscape.
Mark Thompson
United States · May 2024
Fascinating culturally and visually stunning. The restricted area permit is worth every penny. Be prepared for strong afternoon winds and a very different landscape from typical Nepal treks.