Upper Mustang Trek (16 days)

The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara is a scenic and enjoyable experience. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara:

Breakfast at Hotel: Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at the hotel. It’s essential to have a hearty meal to fuel yourself for the road trip ahead.
Departure for Pokhara: After breakfast, your driver or tour operator will pick you up, and you’ll embark on the road trip to Pokhara. The mode of transportation could be a Tourist Coach or a private tourist vehicle, depending on your preference and the arrangements made by your tour operator.
Scenic Drive: The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara is approximately 200 kilometers and takes around 6-7 hours by road, depending on the road conditions. The route offers breathtaking views of the Nepalese countryside, terraced fields, and, weather permitting, panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range.
Enroute Stopovers: Your driver may make strategic stopovers along the way at places of interest or scenic viewpoints. These could include viewpoints with Himalayan panoramas, local markets, or cultural sites. Feel free to capture the picturesque landscapes and immerse yourself in the local culture during these stops.
Lunch Break: Depending on the timing of your journey, you may stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy some local cuisine and take a break to stretch your legs before continuing the drive.
Arrival in Pokhara: Upon reaching Pokhara, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax, freshen up, and enjoy the serenity of the Lakeside area, where many hotels are situated.
Evening Leisure: The evening is yours to explore Pokhara at your own pace. You might want to take a stroll along Phewa Lake, explore Lakeside’s vibrant markets, or simply unwind and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Morning Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom: Start your day early with a morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. The flight provides stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Jomsom is the gateway to the Mustang region, and its airport is known for its unique location amidst the mountains.
Arrival in Jomsom: Upon arrival in Jomsom, take some time to acclimate to the altitude and enjoy the surrounding landscapes. Jomsom is a charming town with a mix of traditional and modern elements.
Commence Trek to Kagbeni: Begin your trek from Jomsom to Kagbeni. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River, providing a picturesque backdrop of the surrounding mountains, including the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks. The flat landscape and the numerous bridges you’ll cross make for a captivating journey.
Crossing Bridges and Rivers: As you trek, you’ll cross several bridges over the Kali Gandaki River and its tributaries. The sound of the river and the changing scenery create a unique and immersive experience. Take your time to appreciate the natural beauty and capture the moments.
Views of Himalayas and Mustang Kingdom: The trek offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range, and if weather conditions are favorable, you might catch glimpses of the Mustang Kingdom. The Mustang region is known for its distinct landscapes, ancient monasteries, and cultural richness.
Arrival in Kagbeni: Reach Kagbeni, a picturesque village located at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Mustang rivers. Kagbeni is the gateway to Upper Mustang and is known for its traditional architecture and cultural significance.
Explore Kagbeni: After reaching Kagbeni, take some time to explore the village. Visit the ancient Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling Monastery, stroll through the narrow alleyways, and enjoy the unique ambiance of this historic settlement.
Overnight Stay in Kagbeni: Check into your accommodation in Kagbeni and rest for the night. The serene surroundings and the day’s trek will undoubtedly make for a peaceful evening.

This day promises a mix of adventure, cultural exploration, and breathtaking landscapes as you transition from Jomsom to Kagbeni, setting the stage for further exploration in the Upper Mustang region.

Start Early: Begin your day early to make the most of the trek. Early starts are beneficial for both enjoying cooler temperatures and maximizing daylight for the journey.
Departure from Kagbeni: Leave Kagbeni behind as you embark on the trek towards Chele. The trail will lead you through unique landscapes, and the journey provides opportunities to soak in the rich cultural and natural surroundings.
Trek Along Kali Gandaki River: The trek follows the Kali Gandaki River, and the path may take you through riverbanks, barren lands, and ancient settlements. Keep an eye out for the changing scenery and the traditional architecture of the villages you pass through.
Chhusang and Tangbe Villages: Enroute, you may pass through Chhusang and Tangbe villages. These settlements are known for their traditional Mustang architecture, including whitewashed houses and intricate woodwork. Take time to interact with locals and learn about their way of life.
Crossing the Chhusang Khola: During the trek, you may encounter river crossings, such as the Chhusang Khola. Use the suspension bridges or ford the river with care, enjoying the adventure of the journey.
Ascent to Chele: The trek to Chele involves some ascent as you gradually gain elevation. The path may take you through windy canyons and open landscapes. The higher elevation offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri: As you ascend, you may be rewarded with stunning views of prominent peaks like Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. The Himalayan vistas are a highlight of this part of the trek.
Chele Village: Arrive in Chele, a charming village with traditional Mustang architecture. Explore the village, interact with locals, and absorb the unique cultural atmosphere. The village is often surrounded by terraced fields and offers a serene setting.
Overnight Stay in Chele: Check into your accommodation in Chele and rest for the night. The day’s trek will likely leave you with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the further exploration of Upper Mustang.

Early Morning Start: Begin your day with an early morning start to make the most of daylight and enjoy the cool temperatures. Having a good breakfast is crucial for sustaining your energy throughout the day.
Departure from Chele: Leave Chele behind as you set out on the trek to Syangboche. The trail will continue to offer diverse landscapes, from canyons to open terrain, providing a unique trekking experience.
Trek through Dajori La Pass: The trek may involve crossing Dajori La Pass, a mountain pass that adds both challenge and scenic beauty to your journey. Take your time to navigate the pass, enjoying the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Descend to Samar: After crossing the pass, you may descend to the village of Samar. This village is known for its traditional architecture and is often a welcome sight after a challenging ascent.
Continue to Bhena La Pass: The trail may then take you towards Bhena La Pass, another notable pass on your route. As you ascend, be prepared for more stunning views of the Mustang region’s landscapes.
Trek through Bhena and Yamdo Villages: Enroute, you may pass through Bhena and Yamdo villages, each offering a glimpse into the local way of life. These settlements are often surrounded by terraced fields and are great places to interact with the friendly locals.
Ascend to Syangboche: The trek continues with an ascent towards Syangboche. The trail may be challenging at times, but the reward is the sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking views that accompany you along the way.
Syangboche Village: Reach Syangboche, a picturesque village in the Mustang region. Explore the village, visit local landmarks, and take in the cultural ambiance. The traditional architecture and the warmth of the locals make Syangboche a memorable stop on your trek.
Overnight Stay in Syangboche: Check into your accommodation in Syangboche and rest for the night. Reflect on the day’s trek, enjoy the tranquility of the village, and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.

Early Morning Start: Begin your day with an early morning start, ensuring you have a good breakfast to fuel your trek to Dhakmar.
Departure from Syangboche/Ghiling: Whether you start from Syangboche or Ghiling, the trail to Dhakmar will take you through varied landscapes, providing a mix of cultural and natural experiences.
Trek through Ghemi La Pass: Depending on your starting point, you may pass through Ghemi La Pass, which could be on the way to Dhakmar. The pass may offer panoramic views of the Mustang region.
Ghami Village: Enroute, you may come across Ghami village. This ancient village is known for its historic Ghami La Pass, impressive chortens (Buddhist shrines), and traditional Mustang architecture. Take the time to explore the village and interact with the locals.
Trek through Beautiful Landscapes: The trail between Ghimi and Dhakmar is likely to offer diverse landscapes, ranging from rocky terrains to open plateaus. Enjoy the natural beauty and the changing scenery along the way.
Dhakmar Village: Arrive in Dhakmar, a unique village with distinctive red cliffs and mud-brick houses. Dhakmar is known for its ancient cave dwellings and the fascinating landscape that surrounds it. Explore the village, visit local landmarks, and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the area.
Monastery Visit: Dhakmar is often home to monasteries with intricate artwork and religious artifacts. Take the opportunity to visit a monastery, if available, and learn more about the spiritual and cultural practices of the region.
Overnight Stay in Dhakmar: Check into your accommodation in Dhakmar and rest for the night. The village’s unique features and the day’s trek will likely leave you with lasting memories.

Trekking from Syangboche or Ghiling to Dhakmar offers a blend of cultural exploration and natural wonders, with each village and pass along the way adding its own charm to the journey. Enjoy the adventure and the unique experiences that the Upper Mustang region has in store for you.

Early Morning Preparation: Start your day with an early morning wake-up and have a nutritious breakfast to prepare for the day’s trekking.
Departure from Dhakmar: Begin your trek from Dhakmar, leaving behind the unique landscape and red cliffs characteristic of the village.
Traverse through the Mustang Region: The trail from Dhakmar to Tsarang takes you through the stunning Mustang region, offering a variety of landscapes including rocky terrain, canyons, and possibly river crossings.
Trek through Beautiful Valleys: As you trek, you may pass through valleys and open plateaus, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and capture stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Ghar Gompa Visit: Depending on your route, you may come across Ghar Gompa, an ancient monastery with historical and cultural significance. Take the time to explore the monastery and its surroundings.
Lo Gekar Village: Enroute, you may also encounter Lo Gekar village. This village is known for its ancient Ghar Gompa and is believed to be the oldest monastery in the Mustang region. Explore the village and appreciate the cultural heritage.
Ascent to Tsarang: The trek may involve some ascent as you make your way towards Tsarang. The gradual climb provides scenic views and a sense of accomplishment as you approach your destination.
Tsarang Village: Arrive in Tsarang, a historic village with a rich cultural heritage. Explore the village, visit Tsarang Monastery, and admire the traditional architecture. Tsarang is known for its palace, chortens, and unique structures.
Overnight Stay in Tsarang: Check into your accommodation in Tsarang and rest for the night. The village’s cultural and historical significance, coupled with the day’s trek, will make for a memorable evening.

Trekking to Lo Manthang and exploring its monasteries and walled city is a significant highlight of the Upper Mustang trek. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your day:

Early Morning Start: Begin your day with an early morning start, ensuring you have a hearty breakfast to energize yourself for the trek to Lo Manthang.
Departure from Tsarang: Start your trek from Tsarang, leaving behind the village’s cultural richness and embarking on the trail that leads to Lo Manthang.
Traverse the Landscape: The trek may involve traversing through various terrains, from valleys to plateaus, as you make your way towards Lo Manthang. Enjoy the changing landscapes and the breathtaking views along the journey.
Reach the Walled City: As you approach Lo Manthang, you’ll first catch sight of its distinctive walled city. The ancient walls surrounding Lo Manthang add to its unique charm and historical significance.
Check-in to Accommodation: Upon reaching Lo Manthang, check into your accommodation. Rest for a while, freshen up, and prepare for a day of exploration in this ancient walled city.
Explore Monasteries: Lo Manthang is home to several ancient monasteries, each with its own unique architecture and cultural treasures. Explore monasteries such as Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, and Chodey Gompa, known for their intricate murals, sculptures, and religious artifacts.
Visit the Royal Palace: Explore the Royal Palace of Lo Manthang, known as the King’s Palace. The palace is a significant historical site with its own museum. Admire the traditional Mustang architecture and learn about the region’s royal history.
Wander Through the Walled Streets: Roam through the narrow, cobbled streets within the walls of Lo Manthang. The city’s layout is fascinating, and the well-preserved architecture provides a glimpse into its medieval past. Engage with locals, visit local shops, and absorb the unique atmosphere.
Enjoy Panoramic Views: Climb to elevated viewpoints within or around Lo Manthang to enjoy panoramic views of the walled city and the surrounding Mustang landscapes. The views of the Himalayas and the vast expanse of the region are often breathtaking.
Cultural Interaction: Take the opportunity to interact with the residents of Lo Manthang. The locals are known for their hospitality, and engaging with them provides insights into the traditional way of life in this ancient city.
Evening Reflection: In the evening, find a serene spot to reflect on your day of exploration. The cultural immersion, historical significance, and natural beauty make Lo Manthang a unique destination.
Overnight Stay in Lo Manthang: Retire to your accommodation in Lo Manthang for a well-deserved rest. The day’s exploration and the rich cultural experiences will leave you with lasting memories.

Early Morning Preparation: Start your day with an early morning wake-up and have a wholesome breakfast to fuel your trekking day.
Departure from Lo Manthang: Begin your trek from Lo Manthang towards Chhoser. The trail will take you through the beautiful Mustang landscapes, offering unique views of the region.
Chhoser Exploration: Explore Chhoser, a village known for its ancient caves and monasteries. The caves in Chhoser are carved into the cliffs and are believed to have historical and spiritual significance. Take your time to wander through the village, visit the caves, and absorb the cultural richness of this unique settlement.
Visit Chhoser Monastery: Chhoser is likely to have its own monastery. Explore the monastery, admire the religious art, and learn about the spiritual practices followed by the local community.
Enjoy the Scenery: Take moments to appreciate the stunning scenery surrounding Chhoser. The landscapes in this part of Upper Mustang are often dramatic, with the Himalayas in the backdrop and unique geological features.
Return to Lo Manthang: After thoroughly exploring Chhoser, begin your trek back to Lo Manthang. The return journey allows you to revisit familiar landscapes and enjoy different perspectives of the Mustang region.
Evening in Lo Manthang: Arrive back in Lo Manthang in the evening. Spend some time wandering through the streets, visiting local shops, and interacting with the residents. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this walled city.
Overnight Stay in Lo Manthang: Check into your accommodation in Lo Manthang for an overnight stay. Reflect on the day’s trek, cultural experiences, and the unique beauty of Chhoser.

Trekking to Chhoser from Lo Manthang and returning to Lo Manthang in the evening allows you to explore an additional facet of the Mustang region. The ancient caves, monasteries, and the scenic landscapes make this trek worthwhile. Enjoy your evening in Lo Manthang and the comfort of your accommodation.

Early Morning Start: Begin your day early, ensuring you have a hearty breakfast to energize yourself for the trek to Yara via Dhi.
Departure from Lo Manthang: Start your trek from Lo Manthang, bidding farewell to the walled city and its unique charm.
Trek through Dhi Village: The trail may lead you through Dhi village. Explore Dhi, a picturesque settlement known for its traditional Mustang architecture and cultural richness. Take some time to interact with the locals and experience the village life.
Ascend to Dhi La Pass: The trek may involve ascending to Dhi La Pass. The pass not only provides stunning views of the surrounding landscapes but also adds a sense of accomplishment to your journey.
Descent towards Yara: After crossing Dhi La Pass, descend towards Yara. The trail may take you through diverse terrains, from high mountain passes to valleys with unique geological features.
Views of Nilgiri and Tilicho Peaks: Enjoy panoramic views of prominent peaks such as Nilgiri and Tilicho as you make your way towards Yara. The Himalayan vistas in this region are often breathtaking.
Arrival in Yara: Reach Yara, a quaint village with its own cultural significance. Yara is known for its ancient caves and monasteries, and it provides a unique glimpse into the history and traditions of the Mustang region.
Explore Yara: Explore Yara, including its ancient caves carved into the cliffs. These caves are often adorned with religious paintings and sculptures, making them an important cultural attraction.
Overnight Stay in Yara: Check into your accommodation in Yara for an overnight stay. The village’s serene atmosphere and cultural heritage make for a memorable experience.

Early Morning Preparation: Begin your day early with a nutritious breakfast to fuel yourself for the trek to Tangge.
Departure from Yara: Start your trek from Yara, leaving behind the unique cultural heritage and landscape of this village.
Traverse Varied Landscapes: The trek may take you through varied landscapes, including rocky terrains, open plateaus, and possibly river crossings. Enjoy the changing scenery as you make your way towards Tangge.
Ascend to High Points: The trail may involve ascending to higher points, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The higher elevation offers a unique perspective on the Mustang region.
Views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri: Keep an eye out for breathtaking views of prominent peaks like Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. The Himalayan vistas along the way add to the allure of the trek.
Pass Through Remote Villages: Enroute, you may pass through remote villages, each with its own character and cultural nuances. Take the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their way of life.
Trek Along Riverbanks: The trail may lead you along riverbanks and through scenic valleys. The sound of the flowing river and the natural beauty contribute to the overall trekking experience.
Arrival in Tangge: Reach Tangge, a village known for its traditional Mustang architecture and cultural richness. Explore the village, visit local landmarks, and engage with the community.
Overnight Stay in Tangge: Check into your accommodation in Tangge for an overnight stay. The peaceful surroundings and the day’s trek will likely make for a restful evening.

Early Morning Start: Begin your day early to make the most of daylight hours. Have a substantial breakfast to fuel your energy for the long trek to Chhusang.
Departure from Tangge: Start your trek from Tangge, leaving the village behind as you descend into the valley and traverse through the diverse landscapes.
Pass Through Remote Trails: The trek may take you through remote trails, providing a sense of solitude and tranquility. Enjoy the natural beauty and immerse yourself in the rugged terrain.
Crossing Valleys and Riverbeds: Traverse valleys and riverbeds as you make your way towards Chhusang. The trail may involve crossings over streams and rivers, adding an adventurous element to your trek.
Ascend and Descend Along the Trail: The terrain may include both ascents and descents, making the trek physically demanding. Be prepared for varying elevations and challenging sections along the way.
Enjoy Panoramic Views: Take breaks to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The vast landscapes of the Mustang region offer a unique visual treat.
Pass Through Villages: Enroute, you may pass through smaller villages, each with its own charm and cultural distinctiveness. Take the opportunity to interact with locals and appreciate the traditional architecture.
Challenges of a Long Trek: A 24-kilometer trek can be physically demanding, especially with a duration of around 10 hours. Ensure you stay hydrated, take breaks as needed, and listen to your body throughout the trek.
Arrival in Chhusang: Reach Chhusang, a village with its own cultural significance and possibly a welcoming atmosphere after the day’s long trek. Explore the village, visit local landmarks, and take in the surroundings.
Overnight Stay in Chhusang: Check into your accommodation in Chhusang for a well-deserved rest. Reflect on the day’s trekking challenges and the unique experiences gained along the way.

Early Morning Start: Begin your day early to take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures and make the most of daylight. Have a nourishing breakfast to fuel your trek to Muktinath.
Departure from Chhusang: Start your trek from Chhusang, bidding farewell to the village and embarking on the trail towards Muktinath.
Ascend to Gyu La Pass: The trek may involve ascending to Gyu La Pass. The pass is likely to provide breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Take your time to enjoy the high-altitude scenery.
Descend from Gyu La Pass: After crossing Gyu La Pass, the trail will lead you on a descent towards Muktinath. The descent may offer different perspectives of the landscape and provide a well-deserved break from the ascent.
Views of Thorong La and Dhaulagiri: As you trek towards Muktinath, keep an eye out for views of prominent peaks such as Thorong La and Dhaulagiri. The Himalayan vistas in this region are often spectacular.
Pass Through Remote Trails: Traverse through remote trails, enjoying the serenity of the Mustang region. The trail may take you through arid landscapes, adding to the unique charm of the trek.
Arrival in Muktinath: Reach Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Explore the Muktinath Temple, a significant religious site with eternal flames, 108 water sprouts, and the presence of Vishnu and other deities. Take time for spiritual reflection and cultural exploration.
Visit Jwala Mai Temple: Within the Muktinath Temple complex, visit Jwala Mai Temple, where a natural gas flame burns continuously. This is considered sacred by both Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Explore Muktinath Village: Take some time to explore the village of Muktinath, known for its spiritual significance and unique cultural atmosphere. Interact with pilgrims and locals to gain insights into the religious practices of the region.
Overnight Stay in Muktinath: Check into your accommodation in Muktinath for an overnight stay. Reflect on the spiritual experiences of the day and the unique cultural encounters in this sacred destination.

Morning Departure from Muktinath: After having breakfast in Muktinath, start your journey towards Pokhara. Whether you opt for a jeep or a bus, the road trip will provide you with scenic views of the Himalayas and the picturesque landscapes of the region.
Scenic Drive to Pokhara: The drive from Muktinath to Pokhara is approximately 8-10 hours, depending on the road conditions. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages, river valleys, and potentially enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Stopovers and Lunch: Depending on the route and timing, your journey may include strategic stopovers at viewpoints or local markets. You can also stop for lunch at a restaurant along the way, enjoying local cuisine.
Arrival in Pokhara: Upon reaching Pokhara, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Check-in, freshen up, and take some time to relax after the long drive.
Evening at Leisure: The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You might want to take a stroll along the Lakeside area, explore local markets, or simply unwind and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Pokhara.
Rest and Recuperate: After the trekking and the road journey, take this opportunity to rest and recuperate. Whether it’s enjoying the peaceful ambiance of your hotel or taking in the views of Phewa Lake, allow yourself some downtime.
Dinner in Pokhara: In the evening, explore the local dining options in Pokhara. Lakeside offers a variety of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Enjoy a pleasant dinner to cap off your day.
Overnight Stay in Pokhara: Check into your accommodation in Pokhara for a good night’s rest. The comforts of Pokhara and the serene atmosphere will provide a perfect setting for relaxation.

Morning Departure from Pokhara: Start your day with breakfast and then embark on the drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Depending on your mode of transportation, whether it’s a tourist bus, private vehicle, or another option, the journey typically takes around 6-8 hours.
Scenic Drive through the Prithvi Highway: The drive will take you through the Prithvi Highway, offering picturesque views of hills, rivers, and rural landscapes. Enjoy the changing scenery as you make your way back to Kathmandu.
Lunch En Route: Depending on the timing of your journey, you may have the opportunity to stop for lunch at a restaurant along the highway. Take a break, stretch your legs, and enjoy a meal.
Arrival in Kathmandu: Upon reaching Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Check-in, freshen up, and take some time to relax after the road trip.
Rest and Refresh: Use the afternoon to rest and refresh. You might want to take a shower, unwind in your room, or explore the hotel’s facilities.
Evening at Leisure: The evening is yours to spend at leisure. You can choose to explore the local surroundings, visit nearby markets, or simply enjoy a peaceful evening at the hotel.
Dinner in Kathmandu: In the evening, explore the diverse dining options in Kathmandu. Whether you prefer traditional Nepali cuisine or international dishes, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from.
Overnight Stay in Kathmandu: Check into your accommodation in Kathmandu for a good night’s sleep. The comfort of your hotel and the memories of your trek and travels will make for a relaxing evening.

This day marks the final chapter of your incredible journey through Nepal. It’s time to say goodbye to the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that Nepal has offered you.

Departure from Kathmandu:

Our representative will meet you at your hotel at the designated time.
Enjoy a comfortable and scenic transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
Allow enough time for check-in procedures and security checks.