Upper Mustang Trek is about discovering the hidden world of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Mustang. Due to its inaccessibility, Mustang was long protected from mass tourism and is now known as the last stronghold of traditional Tibetan culture. Trekking in Upper Mustang is one of the most fascinating experiences in the Himalayas, thanks to its long, rich, and complex history.

This trek is definitely not about athletic performance. The Upper Mustang Trek is a perfect blend of culture and trekking — that’s its very essence. Far from the civilized world and deep in the wilderness. Let yourself be embraced by the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the mystique of Mustang on this rarely traveled trek. 

The grand sun-scorched red cliffs and the endless variety of grey, undulating Mustang hills will stay with you long after you return home. Add to that your experiences in the incredible locations of the kingdom and the friendliness of the Mustang people.

Trekking in Upper Mustang is something special. Here you’ll encounter the lifestyle of true mountain people, who for many years had very little contact with the rest of Nepal and managed to preserve their rich cultural heritage. Until recently, their king was formally recognized by the government of Nepal. 

In many ways, this trek is comparable to trekking in Tibet, as the region is geographically part of the Tibetan Plateau. Until 2008, Mustang was an autonomous kingdom within Nepal’s borders. The former king, the Raja of Mustang, still resides in the historical capital known as Lo Manthang.

Upper Mustang was only opened to non-Nepali tourists fifteen years ago, and even today the area is highly restricted. To enter Upper Mustang, you need a special (and very expensive) trekking permit and must be accompanied by a certified guide.

On the second day after arriving in Kathmandu, we transfer to the airport for a half-hour flight west to Pokhara. The view of the Nepalese Himalayas from the plane is stunning. After checking into our hotel, you’ll have the afternoon free to explore this charming lakeside town.

On the third day, an even more exciting morning flight takes us to Jomsom (2,713 m) in the Kali Gandaki valley. Here, we meet our crew and board 4WD vehicles to drive to the village of Kagbeni — a magical place that is the gateway to Upper Mustang. In addition to its enchanting narrow alleyways, we’ll explore an ancient monastery and stay the night in the charming Yak Donalds lodge.

The next day, we head by jeep to Muktinath, from where we begin our hike over a pass and descend gradually beneath stunning cliffs to the villages of Tetang and Chhusang. 

The following day brings a relatively easy hike as we slowly ascend to the village of Samar.

On day six, we cross a low pass and descend to a cave gompa (monastery) in a river valley, have lunch in Sangboche, and finish the day in the small settlement of Jhaite.

Day seven is a light descent to the beautiful village of Ghami, beneath red cliffs. After lunch and some exploration, we continue to the village of Dhakmar.

On the last trekking day, we cross Mui La Pass (the highest point of the trek at 4,170 m), explore the Lo Ghar Gompa monastery, and descend to the town of Charang, where we visit an intriguing monastery and royal palace.

The next day, we drive in 4WD vehicles to the heart of Mustang — the incredible walled city of Lo Manthang (3,840 m). In the afternoon, we’ll visit hot springs just outside the city.

The seventh day (in Lo Manthang) is dedicated to exploring the city and its surroundings — with narrow alleyways, brightly painted houses, and chortens. We’ll visit monasteries in Nyamgal, Chhoser, and Lo Niphu, and hike to the multi-level Garphu Cave dwellings. In the afternoon, we’ll explore the three main monasteries in Lo Manthang. We'll spend a second night in the city.

The next day, we begin the return journey by jeep to Jomsom, followed by a short flight back to Pokhara the day after. The rest of the day is for relaxing by Phewa Lake, enjoying restaurants and bars.

The following day we fly back to Kathmandu.
 
More about Upper Mustang in this article.

Accommodation along the trek is relatively good — mostly in tourist lodges or small family-run guesthouses. A sleeping bag is not needed. The trek itself is not technically difficult but takes place at high elevations between 2,800 – 4,100 meters. Daily elevation gains are moderate. Early June usually brings warm and stable weather.

Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara is in hotels of European standard. After the trek, we’ll explore the historical Buddhist and Hindu landmarks in the Kathmandu Valley and enjoy a well-earned rest.

The entire journey, including the trek and flights, takes 14 days, and we will be accompanied by Slovak Himalayan expert Michal Gabriž, as well as the required local certified guide. You also have the option to hire a local porter. The trekking group is limited to a maximum of 10 people.

Optional extension: After the trek, you can spend a few relaxing days on safari in Natioal Park Chitwan.