Upper Mustang Trek

• Duration: 7 hours
• Activity: Drive

Description: Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, to the serene city of Pokhara. This 7-hour drive takes you through beautiful valleys, terraced hillsides, and rural villages. Pokhara is known for its tranquil Phewa Lake and breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Spend the evening exploring the lakeside, enjoying a boat ride, or visiting nearby attractions like the World Peace Pagoda and Devi’s Falls.

• Flight Duration: 20 minutes
• Trek Duration: 3 hours

Description: Early morning, board a short flight to Jomsom, the gateway to the Upper Mustang region. The flight offers stunning views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri peaks. After landing in Jomsom, begin your trek with a gentle walk along the Kali Gandaki River to the village of Kagbeni, the entry point to Upper Mustang. Kagbeni is a medieval village with narrow alleys, mud-brick houses, and a rich history, perfect for an afternoon of exploration.

• Trek Duration: 6 hours

Description: After registering your permits, you enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang. The trail takes you along the Kali Gandaki River, crossing several streams and passing through villages like Tangbe and Chhusang. The landscape changes dramatically as you head north, with colorful rock formations and deep canyons. Reach Chele, a small village perched high on a ridge, offering spectacular views of the valley below.

• Trek Duration: 6 hours

Description: Today’s trek involves crossing the Taklam La Pass (3,624 m) and the Dajori La Pass (3,735 m), offering panoramic views of the barren landscapes and distant mountains. The trail takes you through Samar, a peaceful village surrounded by orchards and fields, before ascending to Syangmoche. The trek is challenging but rewarding, with the rugged beauty of the Upper Mustang region on full display.

• Trek Duration: 5 hours

Description: Start the day with a climb up to the Yamda La Pass (3,850 m), and pass through Tibetan-style villages with traditional houses, chortens, and monasteries. After crossing the Nyi La Pass (4,010 m), descend into the village of Ghami, one of the largest settlements in Upper Mustang. Ghami is surrounded by barren hills and is known for its ancient monastery and long mani walls, which are covered in Buddhist prayers and inscriptions.

• Trek Duration: 4 hours

Description: Today’s trek is relatively short, but the trail offers an interesting mix of desert-like landscapes and cultural highlights. Cross the Ghami Khola River and continue through arid terrain before reaching Charang. This village is home to an impressive five-story white Dzong (fortress) and a red Gompa (monastery), both of which are worth visiting for their historical significance and intricate artwork.

• Trek Duration: 5 hours

Description: The trek to Lo Manthang is one of the highlights of the journey. The trail ascends steadily, offering magnificent views of the snow-capped Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges. You’ll cross the Lo La Pass (3,950 m), where you’ll catch your first glimpse of Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the Mustang kingdom. Lo Manthang is a fascinating town with a rich cultural heritage, ancient palaces, and monasteries.

• Activity: Day trip, 6 hours

Description: Spend the day exploring the wonders of Lo Manthang. Visit the king’s palace, centuries-old monasteries like Thubchen Gompa and Jampa Lhakhang, and the local museum. Take a day trip to the nearby village of Chhoser to explore the mystical Chhoser Cave. These ancient caves, carved into the cliffside, were once used as homes, meditation chambers, and burial sites. Return to Lo Manthang for the night.

• Trek Duration: 7 hours

Description: Retrace your steps and begin the trek back toward Jomsom. The trail to Dhakmar takes you through a high desert landscape with colorful red cliffs and expansive valleys. Dhakmar is known for its distinctive red cliffs and ancient caves, offering a stunning backdrop to the village. This day of trekking is both physically challenging and visually rewarding.

• Trek Duration: 6 hours

Description: Continue your descent, passing through high-altitude passes and arid landscapes. You’ll rejoin the familiar trail and head towards the village of Ghiling. The trek offers expansive views of the Annapurna range to the south and the unique geological formations of the Upper Mustang region.

• Trek Duration: 6 hours

Description: Trek down from the high Mustang region, passing through villages like Samar and Syangmoche. The landscape changes as you descend, with the barren, windswept terrain giving way to more greenery and fertile valleys. Arrive in Chuksang, a small village located at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Narshing Khola rivers.

• Trek Duration: 5 hours

Description: The final day of trekking takes you back to Jomsom, where you started your Upper Mustang adventure. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River, with views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri ranges. Celebrate the completion of your trek with a hot meal in Jomsom and prepare for your flight back to Pokhara.

• Flight Duration: 15 minutes

Description: Take an early morning flight back to Pokhara. Once in Pokhara, you can spend the day relaxing by Phewa Lake, shopping for souvenirs, or exploring the city’s attractions. Pokhara offers a perfect blend of nature and culture, making it an ideal place to unwind after your trek.

• Duration: 8 hours

Description: After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu, completing your 14-day adventure. Enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside, and upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can explore the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Durbar Square.