Upper Mustang Trek – A Journey to Nepal’s Hidden Forbidden Kingdom

The Upper Mustang Trek offers a truly extraordinary experience unlike any other trek in Nepal. Often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Upper Mustang remained isolated from the rest of the world until recent decades. Tucked behind the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, this rain-shadow region is rich in Tibetan culture, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and dramatic desert-like landscapes.

Unlike the popular trekking trails, Upper Mustang is a unique blend of raw Himalayan beauty and preserved Tibetan traditions. The upper mustang trek region’s crown jewel, Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the ancient Kingdom of Mustang, feels like stepping back in time with its white-washed houses, prayer wheels, and royal palace.

Trek Details:

Duration: 17 Days

Trek Region: Mustang Region

Max Altitude: 3,950m (Lo La Pass)

Accommodation: Tea Houses / Lodges

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (B/L/D)

Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Best Season: Mar–Nov (best in spring and autumn)

Permit Required: Yes (Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit)

Start/End Point: Jomsom

Why Choose the Upper Mustang Trek ?

Unbeaten Trail: Far from the crowded trails of Annapurna and Everest, Upper Mustang offers peace, silence, and raw adventure.

Cultural Exploration: Explore centuries-old monasteries like Thubchen, Chhoser, and Jhong caves, and witness Tiji Festival if you travel in May.

Rain Shadow Area: Trek even during monsoon season as this region lies behind the Himalayas, receiving little rain.

Jeep or Trek: Choose between classic trekking or a Jeep Tour to Upper Mustang for a quicker yet scenic adventure.

Trek Highlights:

Explore Lo-Manthang, the ancient capital of the Mustang kingdom

Visit ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and sky caves

Trek through dramatic red cliffs, canyons, and windswept valleys

Experience the lifestyle of the Loba people — untouched by time

Option to witness Tiji Festival if trekking in spring

Unreal views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri & Mustang Himal

Ride horses in the high-altitude desert if desired

Trekking Route and Highlights:

The classic Upper Mustang trek itinerary begins from Jomsom, accessible by a short scenic flight from Pokhara. From there, the trail passes through Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, Ghami, Tsarang, and finally reaches Lo Manthang at 3,840 meters. Along the way, trekkers pass through barren cliffs, colorful chortens, prayer flags, and deep gorges, all under the majestic Himalayan sky.

Permit and Regulations:

Since Upper Mustang is a restricted area, a special Upper Mustang Permit is required. The cost is USD 500 per person for the first 10 days, and USD 50 per additional day. A registered guide and licensed trekking agency like Himalayan Trails Nepal Treks and Expedition is mandatory to obtain this permit.

Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek !

Unlike most treks in Nepal, the best time for the Upper Mustang Trek is from May to early November, thanks to its location in the trans-Himalayan rain shadow. The famous Tiji Festival in May is a perfect time for culture lovers.

Accommodation and Food

During the trek, you will stay in simple tea houses or local lodges, offering basic yet warm hospitality. Meals typically include dal bhat, Tibetan bread, noodles, and yak butter tea.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a remote, cultural, and mystical adventure in Nepal, the Upper Mustang Trek is your dream destination. With Himalayan panoramas, Tibetan Buddhist heritage, and dramatic landscapes, this journey goes beyond trekking — it touches the soul.

Let Himalayan Trails Nepal Treks and Expedition guide you through this hidden gem. Book your adventure today and walk through the history, spirit, and silence of the Upper Mustang.

Basic Itinerary for Upper Mustang Trek:

Day 01 : Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel

Rest and relax after the journey

Briefing on the trekking itinerary

Day 02 : Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Pashupatinath Temple

Boudhanath Stupa

Explore the vibrant local culture and ancient temples

Day 03 : Fly to Pokhara

Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Arrive in Pokhara and transfer to the hotel

Enjoy the scenic views of the Himalayas

Day 04 : Fly to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni

Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom

Begin trekking from Jomsom to Kagbeni

Explore the village of Kagbeni

Enjoy views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains

Day 05 : Trek to Chele

Trek from Kagbeni to Chele

Pass through beautiful villages and landscapes

Reach Chele for an overnight stay

Day 06 : Trek to Shyangbochen

Continue trekking from Chele to Shyangbochen

Enjoy scenic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges

Overnight in Shyangbochen

Day 07 : Trek to Dhakmar

Trek from Shyangbochen to Dhakmar

Explore the unique red cliffs and landscapes

Stay overnight in Dhakmar

Day 08 : Trek to Lo-Manthang

Continue trekking to Lo-Manthang, the ancient walled city

Visit monasteries and fortresses in Lo-Manthang

Acclimatize and enjoy the Tibetan-influenced culture

Day 09 : Explore Lo-Manthang

Explore the ancient city of Lo-Manthang

Visit more monasteries and cultural sites

Rest and prepare for the trek ahead

Day 10 : Trek to Yara

Trek from Lo-Manthang to Yara

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Yara village

Overnight in Yara

Day 11 : Trek to Tangye

Continue trekking from Yara to Tangye

Pass through traditional villages and landscapes

Overnight in Tangye

Day 12 : Trek to Chhusang

Trek from Tangye to Chhusang

Explore the ancient caves in the area

Stay overnight in Chhusang

Day 13 : Trek to Muktinath

Continue trekking from Chhusang to Muktinath

Visit the sacred Muktinath temple, a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists

Overnight in Muktinath

Day 14 : Trek to Jomsom

Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom

Enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and villages

Arrive in Jomsom for an overnight stay

Day 15 : Fly to Pokhara

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

Arrive in Pokhara and transfer to your hotel

Relax and explore the lakeside city of Pokhara

Day 16 : Fly to Kathmandu

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu

Rest or explore Kathmandu at your leisure

Day 17 :

Leisure Day in Kathmandu

Explore more of Kathmandu, or relax and shop for souvenirs

Visit other attractions in the city or enjoy a cultural experience

Day 18 : Transfer to Airport

Transfer to the airport for your departure

End of the trip

Trek Cost:

Starting From USD $2,100 per person

Includes restricted area permits. Group discounts available.

What’s Included:

Special Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang

ACAP Permit & TIMS Card

Two-way flight: Pokhara ↔ Jomsom

Private transport as needed (Pokhara transfers)

Licensed guide with Mustang experience & porter (1:2 ratio)

Hotel in Pokhara (2 nights, twin sharing)

Tea house accommodation during the trek

All meals during the trek (B/L/D)

Sleeping bag & down jacket (on request)

First Aid Kit

All local taxes & service charges

What’s Not Included:

International airfare

Nepal visa fees

Extra drinks and bottled water

Personal trekking gear

Extra hotel nights outside the itinerary

Travel insurance with emergency evacuation

Tips for guide and porter

Book Your Upper Mustang Trek Today !

Let us take you on a journey you’ll never forget. The Upper Mustang trek is calling — are you ready to answer

Contact & Booking

Email: junlama333@gmail.com

Website: www.himalayantrailsnepal.com

WhatsApp: +977-9803698769

Office: Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal

Note: A special Restricted Area Permit is required. Let us handle all paperwork — just bring your spirit of adventure!