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Upper Mustang Tour - 9 Days

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Days
9
  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
  • Book Now, Pay Later
No of people Price per person
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Max. Elevation
4660 m / 15288 ft
Group size
Min 1+
Level
Moderate
Transportation
All ground transportation and domestic flight as per itinerary 
Best Season
March to May, Sep to Nov
Starts at / Ends at
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accomodation
3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara , Tea House during the trip
Meals
Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara, all meals during the trip
Trip Route
Kathmandu - Pokhara - Tatopani - Kagbeni - Charang - Lo Manthang - Korala Border - Pokhara - Kathmandu

Highlights

  • The Forbidden Kingdom of Lo Manthang: Step inside the walled city of Lo Manthang, once restricted to outsiders until 1992. This ancient kingdom still holds its royal palace, narrow alleys, and historic monasteries, offering a rare glimpse into a timeless Himalayan culture.
  • Unique Desert Landscapes: Unlike other parts of Nepal, Upper Mustang features striking desert-like terrain with red cliffs, deep canyons, and wind-eroded rock formations. The dramatic scenery makes every journey feel like traveling through another world.
  • Ancient Monasteries & Tibetan Culture: Discover centuries-old monasteries such as those in Charang and Lo Manthang, where Tibetan Buddhism is deeply rooted in daily life. Experience traditional villages, prayer flags, chortens, and authentic local culture untouched by modern influence.
  • Mysterious Sky Caves: High up in the cliffs, you’ll see ancient cave systems carved into the mountains. These caves, some over 2,000 years old, were once used for meditation, living, and even burial practices, adding a sense of mystery to the region.
  • Gateway Village of Kagbeni: Kagbeni is the entrance to Upper Mustang, a beautiful village with narrow stone streets, ancient houses, and views of the Kali Gandaki River. It’s a perfect introduction to the Mustang region.
  • Visit the Nepal–Tibet Border at Korala Border: Stand at one of the most remote borders in Nepal, where ancient trade routes once connected Nepal and Tibet. The high-altitude landscape here is raw, rugged, and truly unforgettable.
  • Charming Village of Marpha: Famous for its apple orchards and traditional whitewashed houses, Marpha offers a peaceful stop with local apple products, including cider and brandy.
  • Natural Hot Springs at Tatopani: Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by mountain scenery — a perfect way to unwind during your journey.

Overview

Upper Mustang trek is located beyond the great Himalayan range in the western part of Nepal. Many foreigners who come to Nepal for trekking would want to include upper mustang in their itinerary as it provides them with the opportunity to peek at the ancient Buddhist and Tibetan culture that is still prevalent in the region. The major attractions of the upper Mustang treks are undoubtedly the ancient monasteries, some of which were built thousands of years ago, and the replete caves that lie scattered in the region. The culture at upper Mustang is a beautiful amalgamation of Tibetan and Buddhist traditions. In the past, it was an independent state with a separate King ruling the region. Lo-Manthang is still considered as the Kingdom of upper Mustang.
The existing culture of the people of the upper Mustang region greatly resembles to the Tibetan cultures exercised by the Buddhists. Going to the upper Mustang as part of the trek is one of the great ways to experience the old charm of the Himalayan mountain deserts. Several old and new monasteries and ancient caves fall along the trekking trail. And it comes as a no surprise that the word Mustang comes from two Tibetan words “mun” and “tan” roughly translated as the "fertile plain". Until recently, Mustang had enjoyed its status as an independent state with Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista being the last king of the region. It, however, lost its independent status in October 2008 when the Nepal government passed a ruling to that effect.
Mustang, however, had largely remained in oblivion and was under sort of anonymity even amongst the domestic tourists until the government of Nepal granted access to the western tourists in October, 1991. However, the government still places several restrictions on the number of tourists entering the secluded Himalayan province. The government takes special measures to protect its ancient culture from being influenced by the west. Special permit passes are required to gain entry into the region for the prospective tourists.
The fascinating trek kicks off with a trip to Pokhara from Kathmandu, the capital city. Over a period of 9 days, the trip and trek encompasses several places which include Jomsom, Kagbeni, Chele, Geling, Charang, Namgyal, among others. Tourists will also have the chance to explore the Kali Gandaki River Valley, which is considered as the deepest gorge in the world.

Important Note

Trip Itinerary

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. The vibrant capital city offers a fascinating blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore nearby areas or simply relax and prepare for your journey ahead. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

After breakfast, you will take a scenic flight to Pokhara, which takes about 25 minutes. During the flight, enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Pokhara is known for its peaceful lakeside atmosphere and beautiful mountain backdrop. After checking into your hotel, you can explore the lakeside area or relax by Phewa Lake. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Today, you begin your overland journey into the Mustang region. The drive from Pokhara to Kagbeni via Tatopani takes around 7 to 8 hours, covering approximately 160 km. Along the way, you will pass through beautiful river valleys, waterfalls, and traditional villages. A stop at Tatopani allows you to experience natural hot springs. Continuing onward, the landscape gradually changes into a dry, desert-like terrain as you reach Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Overnight stay in Kagbeni.

After breakfast, you will drive deeper into Upper Mustang. The journey to Charang takes about 4 to 5 hours over a distance of approximately 40 km. The route passes through dramatic cliffs, eroded hills, and ancient cave dwellings. You will also visit monasteries along the way, experiencing the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture. Charang is a historic village known for its large monastery and ancient fortress. Overnight stay in Charang.

Today’s short but spectacular drive takes you to Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Upper Mustang. The journey covers around 20 km and takes about 3 to 4 hours. As you approach Lo Manthang, you will witness vast open landscapes and panoramic Himalayan views. Once inside the walled city, you can explore its narrow alleys, royal palace, and centuries-old monasteries. Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.

Early in the morning, you will drive to the Korala border, located at an altitude of approximately 4,660 meters. This is the historic trade route between Nepal and Tibet. After enjoying the remote and rugged scenery, you will begin your return journey, driving down to Jomsom or the charming village of Marpha. The total driving distance is about 90 km and takes 7 to 8 hours. Marpha is especially famous for its apple orchards and traditional architecture. Overnight stay in Jomsom or Marpha.

After breakfast, you will drive back to Pokhara along the same scenic route. The journey takes around 7 to 8 hours, covering approximately 160 km. As you descend, the dry Mustang landscape gradually transforms into lush green hills and forests. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax and enjoy the comfortable lakeside environment. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

In the morning, you will explore the major attractions of Pokhara, including Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, and the Peace Pagoda. You may also enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake. Later, you will take a short flight back to Kathmandu, which takes about 25 minutes. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy your final evening in Nepal. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

On your final day, you will explore some of Kathmandu’s cultural highlights, such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites including temples and stupas. After sightseeing, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your unforgettable Upper Mustang adventure.

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Includes

  • Arrival & Departure private Transportation .
  • 2 Night Kathmandu with bed and breakfast 
  • 2 night pokhara  with bed- and- breakfast basis
  • During Mountain tour (Pokhara to Pokhara)  three meals a day during the mustang tour (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • Accommodation in Tea House during the tour.
  • Tour Guide with Insurance, salary , accommodation , transportation ,
  • Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara – Pokhara to Kathmandu with Guide
  • Transportation ( Pokhara to Jomsom to Kagbeni to Chusang to Lo- Mangtang and  Back Jomsom  to Pokhara Private Jeep or bus..
  • Special permit for Upper Mustang ( Tourist)
  • Annapurna Conservation fee.(tourist)
  • Tims card (Trekking information management system) as like a permit. (Tourist)
  • Free use Company's duffel bag during tours
  • Emergence of helicopter rescue (pay by your insurance)
  • Kathmandu sightseeing half day
  • Pokhara  sightseeing half day
  • Sightseeing Entry fee
  • 1 hours boating at fewa lake
  • Welcome dinner at nepali culture place
  • All needed Government fee.

Doesn't Include

  • International Airfare..
  • Kathmandu /pokhara All Lunch and dinner 
  • Extra activities 
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Nepal Visa fee
  • Any kind of drinks. , Alcohol , chocolate, tea coffee, cold drink  etc..
  • Tips for Guide, Driver and helper
  • Donation
  • Items of personal expenses like battery charge, telephone etc
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Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal