Upper Mustang Trek—The Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal
The upper Mustang trek is something truly special. It recites forever in the heart of the visitor. Step into this mystical realm of the Last Forbidden Kingdom in this Upper Mustang Trek. It’s a journey to one of Nepal’s most preserved and geographically dramatic regions.
Upper Mustang hides softly beyond the towering Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and is home to ancient Tibetan heritage. Various desert-like landscapes and spiritual sanctuaries that have remained unchanged by time make the place truly unique.
It was once restricted to outsiders, a sacred region and home to the walled city of Lo Manthang. The area still echoes the legacy of the ancient Kingdom of Lo. This trek is truly going to be awesome with its beauty and calmness. The trek is not only a physical adventure but also a profound cultural and spiritual experience.
Our upper Mustang Trek follows an ancient trade route through the arid Kali Gandaki Valley, leading from Kagbeni to the walled city of Lo Manthang. Lo Manthang is the former Kingdom of Lo. The trail passes through dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and centuries-old villages like Chele, Ghami, and Charang. These villages are surrounded by views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. Along the way, trekkers explore ancient monasteries, sky caves, and the sacred Ghar Gompa, believed to grant wishes. This route offers a rare journey through Mustang’s timeless landscapes and preserved Tibetan culture.
Highlights
- Visit the former Kingdom of Lo, it is one of the most remote regions in Nepal.
- Explore the ancient walled capital—Lo Manthang with its royal palace and various old monasteries.
- Sky caves of Chhoser, it is carved high into sandstone cliffs
- Discover the everyday lives of Mustang's residents and authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture.
- Trek through arid canyons, red cliffs, and high-altitude deserts beneath snow-capped peaks
- Enjoy incredible mountain views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri
- See the area's rain-shadowed scenery and distinctive Beauty from the Trans-Himalayas
Itinerary
Welcome to Nepal. After you arrive in Nepal at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative of Igloo Himalaya Treks will receive you. After proper formal greetings, the representative will transfer you to your hotel.
At the hotel, after you log in and freshen up, our team representative will give a short intro and information on the trek and mention required gear. Later you can take rest in your hotel or stroll around Thamel area. At Thamel you can buy any remaining gear. Spend your night at the hotel and prepare for tomorrow’s journey.
Distance: ~200 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
Have a warm breakfast at your hotel, and prepare for a scenic drive to Pokhara along the Prithvi Highway. The route that we are going to take follows the Trishuli River and passes through beautiful hills, terraced fields, and local villages.
After a somewhat 6 to 7-hour ride, we will reach Pokhara. Upon reaching Pokhara, check in to your hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening by the Phewa Lakeside with views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) Himal. We will stay at a hotel there in Pokhara.
Distance: ~10 km | Duration: 3–4 hours
Taking an early morning flight to Jomson from Pokhara. Enjoy a stunning aerial view of mountain ranges such as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Our trek starts along the windy Kali Gandaki River valley towards Kagbeni. Kagbeni is the official gateway to upper Mustang. Here you get to explore the charming village surrounded by medieval architecture and ancient monasteries. You will be staying at a beautiful teahouse in Kagbeni.
Distance: ~13 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
We will get you a permit to restricted area at the checkpoint. Afterwards we will begin trekking north, following the riverbank. This trail passes through sandy ridges, canyons, and small settlements like Tangbe.
We will gradually ascend to the village of Chele, this is where you can witness strong Tibetan influences. You will stay overnight at teahouse in Chele.
Distance: ~11 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
Today we will climb through barren hills and narrow gorges. Then cross Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Daorji La Pass (3,735 m), where you get magnificent mountain views.
Later the trail descends through Samar village before another short ascend to Syangboche. And later you will stay at a teahouse in Syangboche.
Distance: ~12 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
For today’s trail we will be crossing Yamada La Pass (3,850 m) and Nyi La Pass (4,010 m). There you can see one of the most amazing views of barren ridges and scattered juniper trees. After we descend to Ghami, we will see one of Mustang’s longest mani walls, which is fully inscribed with sacred Buddhist prayers. After all these amazing visit and views, we will stay overnight at a teahouse in Ghami.
Distance: ~10 km | Duration: 4–5 hours
Our today’s trail to Charang passes through various rough terrains and dry plateaus. We will be crossing a suspension bridge over Ghami khola and see red cliff faces that characterize upper Mustang’s desert landscape.
Village of Charang lies at the top of Charang Chu canyon, where you can see the famous red gompa. After we reach the Charang village, you can explore the area at your will.
Distance: ~13 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
Today will be one of the most remarkable day of our trek. Our trail gradually ascends to Lo La Pass (3,950 m). From here you’ll catch your first glimpse of the walled city of Lo Manthang. Descend gently to reach this ancient capital, which was once home to the King of Mustang.
Surrounded by various mountains, you can enjoy the day exploring and enjoying the view and later spend overnight at Lo Manthang.
Distance: — | Duration: 4–5 hours (excursion)
Explore the day fully at your will. Spend the day exploring various treasures of Lo Manthang. Visit different monasteries such as Thubchen, Jampa, and Chode Gompas, these monasteries show exquisite murals and Buddhist art.
Later you can take a short hike or horseback ride to Choser village to explore the ancient sky caves carved into sandstone cliffs. These sky caves were assumed to be burial chambers, hiding places, places of meditation, and later, monasteries. Return after and stay overnight at Lo Manthang.
Distance: ~14 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
Leaving Lo Manthang, the trail to Dhakmar leads through highland pastures, red cliffs, and ancient caves. The area is one of the most scenic and spiritual sections of the Upper Mustang Trek. Along the way, you’ll visit Ghar Gompa, an ancient monastery linked to Guru Rinpoche, where locals believe wishes come true.
The path then winds through windswept passes and valleys before descending to Dhakmar, a serene village famed for its striking red cliffs and mystical legends. We will take a peaceful night stop at Dhakmar.
Distance: ~13 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
After a calm night in Dhakmar, the trail heads south through Mustang’s high, desert-like landscapes. The path climbs gently over ridges and valleys, revealing new views of cliffs and wide plateaus. You may visit Ghar Gompa again if missed earlier—a sacred monastery tied to Guru Rinpoche.
As you descend, the terrain softens with green fields and stone farms. By afternoon, you reach Ghiling, a quiet village with traditional homes, chortens, and a monastery—an ideal place for an overnight stay. Starting early is best, as afternoon winds can be strong.
Distance: ~16 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
Today you will continue walking, descending through dusty trails with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges. Walking through, we will pass Syangboche and Samar before reaching Chhusang, where the lower Mustang greenery starts to return. You will stay at a teahouse overnight.
Distance: ~15 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
Today, day 13 of our trek, will be the final day. We will follow the Kali Gandaki River downstream back to Jomson. While returning, you get to reflect on your incredible journey across the hidden kingdom. You can celebrate the end with your team and trekking crew. Enjoy the area and spend the overnight at a lodge in Jomsom.
Distance: — | Duration: 25-min flight
In the morning take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. After landing, check in at the hotel in Pokhara. You can enjoy rest of the day in Pokhara enjoying scenes of mountain and lake. The area in Phewa is very vibrant and social, you can even get a taste of local cuisine. Later, stay at a hotel in Pokhara for the night.
Distance: 200 Km | Duration: 6 to 7 hours ride/25 min flight
Today after a warm meal/breakfast, we will prepare to take you back to Kathmandu. You can choose to either take a flight or drive to Kathmandu. Flight takes around 25 min to land in kathmandu and around 6 hours by drive in highway. While on drive you can look into rural areas and landscapes.
Upon reaching Kathmandu, you can log in to the hotel and freshen up. Afterwards you can stroll around at your wish.
The day has come to say goodbye. Today you will have a small farewell party with Igloo Himalaya Treks, hoping we will meet again for treks in Nepal. Hope you had proper satisfaction from our service, thanking you for your cooperation, we will have your farewell.
After this short program we will escort you back to Tribhuvan International Airport.
Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- All ground transportation (private vehicle, flights as per itinerary)
- 3★ hotel stays in Kathmandu (2 nights) and Pokhara (2 nights) with breakfast
- Twin-share teahouse lodging on trek,
- Full-board meals and complimentary tea/coffee on trek
- Seasonal fruits and snickers chocolate with dinner
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- English-speaking guide and insured porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- Duffel bag, down jacket, sleeping bag (Return after trip)
- Trekking map and achievement certificate
- Restricted Area Permit (Upper Mustang) and ACAP permit
- Salary, insurance, and equipment for trekking staff First aid kit and necessary safety equipment
Excludes
- nternational flights to/from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except breakfast)
- Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, laundry, phone, etc.)
- Tips for guide, porter, and driver
- Extra accommodation or activities beyond the itinerary
- Any costs due to unforeseen circumstances (weather, flight delays, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The trek is moderate in difficulty. It involves walking 5–7 hours a day on dry, windy trails at altitudes up to 3,840 m. Good fitness and some trekking experience are recommended.
Yes. You need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Upper Mustang and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Igloo Himalaya Treks will arrange both for you.
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). The region lies in a rain shadow, so it’s also possible to trek during the monsoon (June–August).
You’ll stay in local teahouses or lodges along the trail. Rooms are simple but comfortable, offering basic amenities and hearty local meals.
The trek starts from Jomsom, which is reached by a short flight or drive from Pokhara. Igloo Himalaya Treks will manage all transfers as part of the package.
Trip Facts
- Region: Mustang (Trans-Himalayan Region, Nepal)
- Trek Duration: 14 Days
- Trek Grade: Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 3,840 m (Lo Manthang)
- Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
- Best Seasons: March–May & September–November
- Permits: Restricted Area Permit (Upper Mustang) & ACAP Permit
