Upper Mustang
Explore the forbidden kingdom of Lo with its ancient Tibetan culture, dramatic desert landscapes, and medieval monasteries.
Overview
The Upper Mustang Trek takes you into the former Kingdom of Lo, a restricted area that was only opened to trekkers in 1992. This unique destination offers a window into medieval Tibetan culture that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. The landscape is dramatically different from other Nepal treks — think high desert, eroded canyons, and golden-brown terrain more reminiscent of Tibet or Ladakh. Ancient cave dwellings, fluttering prayer flags, whitewashed monasteries, and the walled capital of Lo Manthang create an otherworldly atmosphere.
12
Days
Moderate
Difficulty
Mustang
Region
Highlights
- ✓Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang
- ✓Visit 500-year-old Buddhist monasteries
- ✓Unique high desert Himalayan landscape
- ✓Ancient cave dwellings in the cliffs
- ✓Fascinating untouched Tibetan culture
- ✓Spectacular views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
- ✓Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple on return
Gallery
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive and transfer to hotel. Trek briefing.
Fly to Jomsom, Trek to Kagbeni
Fly Pokhara-Jomsom through the Kali Gandaki gorge. Trek to Kagbeni.
Trek to Chele
Enter Upper Mustang. Climb through dramatic gorges to Chele.
Trek to Syangboche
Trek through arid landscape with views of Tilicho Peak and Annapurna.
Trek to Charang
Visit Thubchen Gompa and the five-story royal palace.
Trek to Lo Manthang
Walk through the desert-like landscape to the walled capital of Upper Mustang.
Explore Lo Manthang
Full day exploring the ancient walled city. Visit Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, and Chode Gompa.
Trek to Dhakmar
Visit the famous red cliffs and caves of Dhakmar.
Trek to Ghami
Return trek through desert landscape to Ghami, surrounded by amazing rock formations.
Trek to Chhusang
Walk through the dramatic Kali Gandaki gorge back towards Jomsom road.
Fly to Pokhara & Kathmandu
Fly Jomsom to Pokhara, then to Kathmandu.
Departure
Transfer to airport.
Inclusions
- ✓Airport transfers
- ✓Domestic flights (Kathmandu-Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
- ✓Restricted area permit ($500 for 10 days)
- ✓ACA permit
- ✓Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- ✓Tented/camp accommodation in Upper Mustang
- ✓All meals during trek
- ✓Licensed guide and porters
- ✓All necessary permits
Exclusions
- ✗International flights
- ✗Insurance
- ✗Meals in Kathmandu/Pokhara
- ✗Personal expenses
- ✗Tips
Packing List
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the permit so expensive?
The $500 restricted area permit for 10 days helps preserve the fragile culture and environment of this unique region.
What is the landscape like?
Unlike any other trek in Nepal — high desert, eroded canyons, and dramatic rock formations in golden-brown hues.
Is it cold at night?
Yes, desert conditions mean cold nights even in summer. Bring warm layers.
Read Before You Book
- ⚠Restricted area permit costs $500 for the first 10 days
- ⚠Minimum 2 trekkers required
- ⚠Unique desert-like landscape unlike other Nepal treks
- ⚠Cultural sensitivity is important — this is a living heritage site
Starting from
$2190
per person (USD)
Based on 100+ reviews