This 16-day Upper Mustang Trek is a journey of exploration of a forbidden land that remained virtually untouched by the outside world until 1992.
Beyond the magnificent Annapurna Range lies the Upper Mustang journey, which offers desert-like scenery that can only be found in the prohibited Kingdom of Mustang.
Even though the monarchy is long gone and the ancient palace is in ruins, the King is still regarded as a symbolic figure throughout the area. The Kingdom of Mustang was once made up of 13 distinct hamlets, including Tsarang, with Lo Manthang as its capital.
Situated in the shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, the area has minimal to no precipitation, making it one of the driest regions in the country. People in Mustang are friendly despite the difficult circumstances, demonstrating that hospitality originates from the heart.
A distinct culture that is comparable to Tibetan culture, the manner of life in the area has been influenced by both spiritual beliefs and the natural surroundings.
Though the territories are said to remain unexplored, they are home to some of the most beautiful caves. There are cave-like formations carved out of the gorgeous mountains, the origin of which is mysterious.
Many assume that people utilized it to shield themselves from the cold, but some say it was used for Sky Burials. You can find everything you’re seeking on the Mustang Kingdom trek, a place of myth, mystery, and exploration.
From Kathmandu, we start our trekking adventure by driving to Pokhara, where we take in the breathtaking Himalayan scenery and verdant valleys. Our first night on the journey begins with a flight to the charming town of Jomsom, after which we head towards the hamlet of Kagbeni. After passing Kagbeni, the route proceeds along the Kali Gandaki River’s banks in the direction of the village of Chele, which is located directly on the river’s edge.
As we continue on our trek to Syangbochen, we reach Tsarang, which signifies the beginning of the forbidden kingdom. After taking a day off to see Lo Manthang and the northern hamlets of Nyiphu and Garphu, we continue our Himalayan adventure by traveling to Dhakmar and passing through the historic Ghar Monastery.
We visit the hamlet of Ghiling in the last part of this expedition before arriving at the hamlet of Samar. After continuing to the hamlet of Kagbeni, we finally descend to Jomsom, where we once again meet the beautiful Kali Gandaki River.
Duration: The standard itinerary of upper Mustang ranges from 16 to 18 days. If you have the time and can commit to several days of trekking without significant breaks, this trek is for you.
Age Requirements: Even though there is no age restriction, this trek is best suited for adults aged 18 and over.
Experience: Upper Mustang is not an introductory trek. To participate in this trek, you must be comfortable with multi-day trekking, High-altitude exposure, and accustomed to walking for 6-8 hours a day on steep, uneven, and rocky trails.
Fitness Criteria: You must arrive in Nepal with a high level of conditioning built over months to join this trek.
Health conditions: Before booking the trip, make sure you check your health conditions and inform us of any pre-existing medical conditions, especially those related to the heart, lungs, or blood pressure. If you have severe health conditions, this trek is not for you.
Travel insurance: You will not be permitted to join the trek with High Route Adventure without providing proof of insurance.
Mustang weather: If you are interested in arid, otherworldly landscapes, the Upper Mustang Trek is a perfect destination for you. Upper Mustang lies in the Himalayan rain shadow. Trekking is possible during the spring (March–May), autumn (September–November), and monsoon (June–August).
Lo Manthang is an ancient palace of Mustang, also known as the Himalayan Kingdom of Mustang. This palace was built in the 15th century and is popular for its unique walled structure, whitewashed houses, and narrow alleyways. Locals living in this area follow centuries-old Tibetan culture and traditions.
Upper Mustang is home to some of Nepal’s oldest and most sacred monasteries, like Thubchen, Jampa, and Ghar Gompa. These monasteries feature stunning murals, ancient scriptures, and unique Tibetan Buddhist architecture, offering spiritual richness and cultural depth.
The red cliffs of Dhakmar are a natural wonder formed by wind and erosion over centuries. These dramatic, vibrant red walls offer a striking contrast against the blue skies and are steeped in local myths and legends.
Throughout the Upper Mustang trek, you are treated to breathtaking views of towering Himalayan peaks like Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna. These snow-capped giants provide a stunning backdrop to the barren beauty of Mustang.
Tiji festival is a colorful three-day festival held at Lo Manthang that comprises dances by people elaborately attired, folk music, and ritual dances portraying the triumph of good over evil, which leaves a permanent cultural experience for tourists.
Jomson is the capital of the Mustang Region, and this place is renowned for its strong winds and stunning view of dry terrains and barren hills. The high-end luxury hotels and restaurants make this place a comfortable stop before heading for a tough adventure. You can reach Jomson by taking a direct flight from Pokhara International Airport.
| Season | Months | Weather | Temperature Range |
| Spring | March to May | -Clear skies -Blooming landscapes -Best for trekking | 12°C to 20°C (Day), -5°C to 0°C (Night) |
| Summer/Monsoon | June to August | -Dry weather (rain shadow area) -Warm days | 15°C to 25°C (Day), 0°C to 5°C (Night) |
| Autumn | September to November | -Clear and stable weather -Stunning mountain views | 10°C to 18°C (Day), -5°C to 0°C (Night) |
| Winter | December to February | -Cold and harsh -Heavy snowfall in some areas | 0°C to 5°C (Day), -15°C to -5°C (Night) |
For those who want to celebrate or participate in the Tiji festival trekking with Upper Mustang Trek, here is the date for you.
| Tiji Festival Year | Celebration Dates |
| 2026 | 📅 13 May, 14 May, 15 May |
| 2027 | 📅 01 June, 02 June, 03 June |
The cost of the Upper Mustang Trek actually depends on the number of days that you want to spend during the adventure. Also, the level of service that you want to add to your trek. If you choose the 15 Days Upper Mustang Trekking Package from High Route Adventure, it will cost you 1875 USD Per Person. The more you are in a group, the more discounts you can get on the trekking package from us.
| No of People | Price Per Person |
| 2 – 4 | $ 2165 USD |
| 5 – 8 | $ 2044 USD |
| 9+ | $ 1875 USD |
The Best time for the Upper Mustang trek is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. During this season weather is most favorable, with uninterrupted mountain views, and optimal trekking conditions.
Best for: Festival lovers, photographers, and those seeking pleasant temperatures and clear skies.
Best for: Serious trekkers, solitude seekers, and photographers capturing golden light on dramatic canyons.
Continue reading: Best Time For Upper Mustang TrekFor those who want to avoid trekking, Highroute Adventure also offers the 10-Day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. This tour is best for those who are physically unable to trek or those who want to explore stunning landscapes of Upper Mustang comfortably by vehicle( 4*4 Jeep).
For Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Itinerary and Cost check here: Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Package| Permit Type | Cost |
| Restricted Area Permit | – USD 50 per day |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit | – USD 50 per day – NPR 3,000 for a foreign citizen – NPR 200 for Local |
These are the main entry permits required on the trek to Upper Mustang. The permits are important to ensure and safeguard all trekkers, especially for individual or solo trekkers. If they are lost, this will help to track the missing person on a trek.
To get the permits, you need to provide the following documents and information:
Note: When you book the Upper Mustang Trek Package with High Route Adventure with us we will handle all the permits for you and also the cost will be included in trekking package.
| Category | Hotels/Lodges | Location | Features |
| Low Budget | Hotel Grand Shambala | Lo Manthang | – Basic rooms – Local food – Warm hospitality |
| Hotel Nirvana | Kagbeni | – Simple – Stay clean – Affordable meals | |
| Mona Lisa Guesthouse | Jomsom | – Basic amenities – Cozy atmosphere | |
| Medium Budget | Royal Mustang Hotel | Lo Manthang | – Comfortable rooms -Traditional design |
| Red House Lodge | Kagbeni | -Well-maintained – Hot showers – Good service | |
| Om’s Home | Jomsom | – Cozy rooms – Good restaurant – Hot water | |
| Luxury | Jomsom Mountain Resort | Kagbeni | – Deluxe rooms – Airport shuttle – Fine dining |
| Mystic Mountain Hotel & Resort | Jomsom | – High-end service – Beautiful mountain views |
Note: When you book a package with High Route Adventure, we provide comfortable 3-star hotel accommodations as part of the service. However, if you prefer a more premium and luxurious stay, we can upgrade your booking at an additional cost. This includes options like private attached rooms, luxury hotel facilities, and more—just let us know your preference!
Note: We suggest our travellers purchase a local SIM ( Ncell or NTC) from the Airport terminal so that you can use it for communication and for mobile internet. It will cost you 1 Dollar.
Note: If you have to buy anything, like for the Upper Mustang Trek, you can buy from here. Also, if you need to change your currency, you can find the currency exchange counter at the lakeside.
Our team will transfer you to the Tribhuvan International Airport( TIA) for your flight.
Conclude your Upper Mustang Trek in a memorable way.
Choose from our scheduled group trips below, or contact us to plan a private or family adventure tailored to your schedule.
Mustang Trekking Route: The Mustang trekking route takes you through Nepal’s most rugged, remote, yet beautiful landscapes of the Upper Mustang region, known as “Last Forbidden Kingdom”. Your journey starts from Kathmandu to Pokhara by Tourist bus, and a flight to Jomsom from Pokhara. Then from Jomsom you will trek through beautiful villages like Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, and Ghami before reaching the walled city of Lo Manthang.
Mustang Trekking Altitude: Your journey of the Upper Mustang Trekking starts from Jomsom, which is situated at an altitude of 2,743 m (8,999 ft). You will pass through several small mountain passes, such as the Djong La Pass, the Syangmochen La Pass, the Nyi La Pass, and the Muila Bhanjyang Pass, during the trek. Finally, you will reach Lo Manthang situated at an altitude of 3,840 meters (12,598 feet), which is also the highest altitude of the trek.
Distance: The total trekking distance for Upper Mustang covers around 125 to 160 kilometers. The exact duration depends upon itinerary days and side trips involved in the trek.
Assessment by Difficulty Factors:
Altitude: Upper Mustang Trek takes you to the high altitude wherethe chances of catching altitude sickness remain high when you do rapid ascent and do not follow the acclimatization plan. If you catch altitude sickness, you need to return to a lower altitude without reaching the Lo Manthan.
Weather & Climate: The region lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, resulting in a dry, cold desert environment. Temperature fluctuatesdrastically. You should prepare for the cold and chilly temperatures at night and early morning.
Terrain & Trail Conditions: Expect rugged, uneven trails with sections of scree, loose rock, and exposed paths. While no technical climbing is involved, endurance and surefootedness are crucial.
Isolation: Upper Mustang is remote, with limited access to medical facilities and communications. Rescue or evacuation, if needed, can be complex and time-consuming.
Physical Fitness: Try to maintain your physical fitness at least 2-3 months in advance by participating in exercises or activities that build leg strength and endurance. Also, practise walking on uneven terrain to improve balance and coordination.
Acclimatization Strategy: Learn early symptoms of altitude sickness and its preventive measures. Follow the standard itinerary, which has proper acclimatization days. Avoid shortcuts and walk at your own pace during the trek.
Packing Essentials: Invest in high-quality trekking boots and clothing, and pack all the essential things required for this trek.
Permits & Logistics: Obtain all the required permits with the help of the tour agency. Book flights to and from Jomsom (domestic flights from Pokhara) well in advance, as weather disruptions are common.
Manage the budget: In addition to the package cost, set aside some money for extra personal expenses such as tips, meals in Kathmandu, souvenirs, and other personal items.
Your journey of the Upper Mustang trek starts with stays at comfortable 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara. We will choose the hotels that are best for their exemplary service, cleanliness, and convenience.
These hotels offer:
You’ll stay in pre-booked tea houses and mountain lodges, which are hand-picked by High Route Adventure during the Upper Mustang Trek. These places are carefully inspected by our team for safety, hygiene, and guest satisfaction. Trekkers love these traditional inns for their warm hospitality and authentic local charm.
This tea house/mountain lodge offers:
Meals Served on Upper Mustang Trek
Kathmandu and Pokhara: There are a variety of restaurants in Kathmandu, and Pokhara offers a wide range of dining options serving Nepali, Chinese, Korean, Indian, Continental, and international cuisines.
In the Tea house/Mountain lodge: In the tea house/mountain lodge, three meals will be arranged by the High Route Adventure. The food items are limited in the tea house. Mostly, you can expect Nepali dishes and very few international dishes here. You can choose the veg and non-veg options from the menu.
Here are the common everyday meal items you can expect on the tea house menu:
Upper Mustang takes you to the high altitude upto 3,840m (12,598 ft). While heading at such alitude some trekkers might face the symptoms of altitude sickness(dizziness and mild headache). These early symptoms of AMS are treatable with care, rest, and simply descending to lower places. However, if we neglect these early symtoms it can result in HACE and HAPE, which can be life-threatening.
Here are some of the essential tips on how to prevent altitude sickness during the Upper Mustang Trek:
Note: If you experience the symptoms of altitude sickness, you should immediately inform our trekking guide. Our expert Guide will take care of you as they know how to handle altitude sickness and other high alitude related issue.
Trekkers can buy water bottles from the local shops and tea houses where they will stay during the Upper Mustang trek. At high altitudes during the trek, the shops are lacking, so it is best to carry a reusable water bottle with you. In the lower regions, you can buy the water bottle for around 20-50 Npr. But when you go at a high altitude, the price can be double.
During the Upper Mustang Trek, even a healthy and physically fit person can get sick, either from past personal medical conditions or other reasons like AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). So for severe illness, one needs immediate evacuation, and the quickest way to reach a safe place with good medical facilities, like in Pokhara city, or in Kathmandu. So, before heading for this trip, make sure travel insurance covers:
The flight from Pokhara International Airport (PKR) to Jomsom is a short 20 minutes. Even though it is short, it is one of the most scenic flights in Nepal, where you can enjoy the breathtaking aerial view of Pokhara City, the Annapurna range, the Himalayas, and many more. The airlines that operate Pokhara to Jomson and Jomson to Pokhara are Tara Air, Summit Air, and Simrik Air. The flight operates early in the morning from 6:15 am, 7:05 am, 7:55 am, 8:45 am to 9:35 am.
Remember that the Jomsom weather is terrible, and it often gets canceled. We suggest you have the extra days in the itinerary for the delay and cancellation of the flight. If the flight is canceled, we will arrange for you to get the Jeep so that you can continue your journey. On a jeep, it will take around 8 hours to reach Pokhara.
Upper Mustang is the best destination for bike lovers. Every year, thousands of bike lovers from Nepal and other countries join this Motorbike tour from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Instead of trekking, if you are interested in a bike adventure, then you can also do that with High Route Adventure. For the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour Itinerary and cost, you need to contact us.
Booking: Before booking the Upper Mustang Trek, first of all, we suggest you read all the itinerary, inclusions, exclusions, cost, and company policy. After that, for booking, you can click the inquiry form and send it to us by filling in your information. Then you need to make an advance payment of 25% to confirm the booking. The rest of the amount you can pay once you land here in Nepal.
Payment: For payment, we accept all types of payment methods[e.g., credit cards, bank transfers, PayPal, etc.]. You can choose whatever is convenient for you. For the cancellation policy, you can check on our website.
You can also book the Upper Mustang Trek Package by contacting us or visiting our office:
Email: info@highrouteadventure.com
Phone/Whatsapp: +977-9851058664
Address: Mitranagar-26, Kathmandu, Nepal
Here is the common packing list for the Upper Mustang Trekking for both males and females who wish to join this beautiful trek with us.
Backpack(30-40l): For keeping important items like snacks, and documents.Clothing Accessories: Trekking Shirt and trekking Trousers, premium waterproof jacket, fleece jacket and socks. Breathable underwear, Socks
For Footwear: 1 pair of high-quality walking shoes, trekking shoes, Slipper
Head Wears: Cap/hat, Buff/Neck Gaiter
Hand Wear: Inner and Outer Gloves
Sleeping bag (optional): You could also rent one from a rental shop located in Thamel
Accessories: Trekking poles, toiletries products, Reusable water bottle tablets for purifying water and charger. Power Banks Personal medicine and sunblock.
