Explore Nepal's Hidden Kingdom
The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most exclusive and culturally rich trekking adventures. Often called the Last Forbidden Kingdom, Upper Mustang remained closed to foreign visitors until 1992, preserving its unique Tibetan Buddhist culture, centuries-old monasteries, cave dwellings, and medieval villages.
Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, the trek offers spectacular desert-like landscapes, colorful cliffs, deep canyons, snow-capped Himalayan peaks, and authentic Himalayan culture unlike anywhere else in Nepal.
This adventure is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of breathtaking scenery, ancient history, and a moderate trekking experience away from crowded trails.
Why Choose the Upper Mustang Trek?
Unlike popular trekking routes, Upper Mustang offers an authentic journey into one of the world’s best-preserved Himalayan cultures. The region receives very little rainfall, making it an excellent trekking destination even during Nepal’s monsoon season.
The trek combines history, spirituality, geology, and mountain scenery, making it perfect for photographers, culture lovers, and adventure enthusiasts.
Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Airport pickup
Hotel check-in
Trek briefing
Welcome dinner
Day 2: Drive or Fly to Pokhara (822m)
Scenic drive (7–8 hours) or optional flight
Explore Lakeside Pokhara
Overnight stay
Day 3: Fly to Jomsom (2,720m) & Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m)
Early mountain flight
Trek through Kali Gandaki Valley
Enter the gateway to Upper Mustang
Walking: 3–4 Hours
Day 4: Trek to Chele (3,050m)
Restricted area permit check
Beautiful red cliffs
Traditional villages
Walking: 6–7 Hours
Day 5: Trek to Syangboche (3,475m)
Cross mountain passes
Ancient chortens
Panoramic Himalayan views
Walking: 6–7 Hours
Day 6: Trek to Ghami (3,520m)
Long Mani walls
Tibetan villages
Beautiful landscapes
Walking: 5–6 Hours
Day 7: Trek to Tsarang (3,560m)
Ancient monastery
Traditional palace
Stunning valley scenery
Walking: 5–6 Hours
Day 8: Trek to Lo Manthang (3,840m)
Reach the capital of Upper Mustang
Explore royal palace
Ancient monasteries
Walking: 4–5 Hours
Day 9: Explore Lo Manthang
Visit:
Jampa Monastery
Thubchen Monastery
Chhoser Cave
Local villages
Royal Palace
Day 10: Trek to Ghami
Walking: 6–7 Hours
Day 11: Trek to Kagbeni
Walking: 7 Hours
Day 12: Trek to Jomsom
Walking: 3–4 Hours
Day 13: Fly to Pokhara & Return to Kathmandu
Morning mountain flight
Drive or fly back to Kathmandu
Farewell dinner
Day 14: Departure
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.
Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek
Spring (March–May)
- Pleasant weather
- Blooming landscapes
- Clear mountain views
- Tiji Festival departures
Summer/Monsoon (June–August)
Upper Mustang lies in a rain-shadow region, making it one of the few Himalayan treks suitable during Nepal’s monsoon season.
Autumn (September–November)
- Crystal-clear skies
- Comfortable temperatures
- Excellent photography conditions
Trek Difficulty
The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderately difficult. Daily walks range from 5–7 hours on dry mountain trails with gradual ascents and descents. Prior trekking experience is helpful but not essential. Good physical fitness and preparation are recommended.
Required Permits
The trek requires:
- Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Your trekking agency will arrange all permits before the trek.
Upper Mustang Trek Highlights
- Trek into the ancient Kingdom of Lo Manthang.
- Explore centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
- Visit mysterious sky caves carved into cliffs.
- Experience authentic Tibetan culture and traditions.
- Walk through dramatic desert landscapes and colorful canyons.
- Cross the famous Kali Gandaki Valley.
- Enjoy magnificent views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Mustang Himal.
- Visit traditional villages like Kagbeni, Ghami, Tsarang, and Marpha.
- Discover one of Nepal's restricted trekking regions.
