Upper Mustang Tour - 11 Days

Upper Mustang Tour - 11 Days

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Trip at a Glance
Duration11 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4700m
Group Size2-15
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesAdventure Drive
Best TimeAll year

Upper Mustang is located in the north-central part of Nepal, bordering the Tibetan plateau. The tour typically starts from Jomsom, which is accessible by a short flight from Pokhara or drive from pokhara.

The ancient walled capital of Upper Mustang, known for its monasteries, royal palace, and Tibetan Buddhist culture. Unique landscapes with red cliffs, barren hills, and deep gorges.Panoramic views of peaks like Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and others. Ancient cave dwellings with over 44 rooms.A significant monastery believed to be older than the famous Samye Monastery in Tibet.

Scenic drive along the Trishuli River, explore Pokhara's lakeside.Drive through the lower Himalayan region, enjoy natural hot springs at Tatopani. Views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, stop at the apple orchards in Marpha, drive along the riverbed to Kagbeni. Enter the restricted area of Upper Mustang, pass through traditional Tibetan villages, and enjoy the rugged landscapes. Drive through high-altitude terrain, visit Tsarang monastery and the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang.

Visit the royal palace, monasteries, and local villages. Optional drive to Chhoser Cave and other nearby attractions. Retrace the route, stop at cultural and historical sites.Drive through scenic trails, enjoy views of the Mustang landscape. Return journey through familiar routes, relax in the hot springs at Tatopani. Scenic drive back to Pokhara, evening relaxation at the lakeside. Final leg of the journey back to Kathmandu, enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way.

The Upper Mustang Tour offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and adventure, making it a must-do for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

The drive typically brings you into Pokhara via the town of Lekhnath.As you approach Pokhara, you’ll be greeted by the stunning views of the Annapurna range and serene lakeside scenery. Scenic drive along the Trishuli River, explore Pokhara's lakeside.This drive offers a memorable experience with a blend of natural beauty and local culture, making it one of the most popular road trips in Nepal.Overnight Stay in Pokhara.

Max Altitude: 827 m Meals: Breakfast,lunch,DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 200 km

Driving from Pokhara to Tatopani is a scenic journey that takes you through the lower Himalayan region, offering beautiful landscapes, river valleys, and glimpses of traditional Nepali villages.Follow the Kali Gandaki River, driving through narrow gorges and lush green hillsides.This drive from Pokhara to Tatopani is a blend of adventure and relaxation, with the natural hot springs providing a soothing end to your journey.

Max Altitude: 1190 m Meals: Breakfast,lunch,DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 119 km

The journey from Tatopani to Kagbeni takes you deeper into the Annapurna and Mustang regions, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Drive through lush green valleys, cross suspension bridges, and enjoy views of waterfalls and terraced fields.This journey from Tatopani to Kagbeni offers a mix of adventure, stunning landscapes, and cultural immersion, making it a memorable experience for travelers and trekkers alike.Overnight stay in Kagbeni.

Max Altitude: 2804 m Meals: Breakfast,lunch,DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 71 km

Drive from Kagbeni To Ghami.The journey from Kagbeni to Ghami takes you deeper into the Mustang region, offering a mix of rugged landscapes and traditional Tibetan culture. Follow the trail that ascends through the Kali Gandaki Gorge and passes through small villages.Pass through diverse landscapes and witness the unique flora and fauna of the region.Overnight Stay in Ghami.

Max Altitude: 3520 m Meals: Breakfast,lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 5-6 hours(drive)Distance: 32 km

Drive From Ghami to Lo Manthang.The Drive from Ghami to Lo Manthang takes you deeper into the Upper Mustang region, characterized by its stark and rugged landscapes. The road from Ghami to Lo Manthang is rough and can be challenging, especially during the monsoon season.The journey from Ghami to Lo Manthang is a memorable experience, offering a deep dive into the remote and culturally rich region of Upper Mustang.Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.

Max Altitude: 3840 m Meals: Breakfast,lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 4-5 hours(drive)Distance: 22 km

Exploring Lo Manthang, the ancient walled city in Upper Mustang, offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, historical sites, and stunning landscapes.Visit the royal palace, monasteries, and local villages. Optional drive to Chhoser Cave and other nearby attractions. Lo Manthang offers a rich experience of Tibetan culture, historical architecture, and stunning high-altitude landscapes, making it a memorable destination in Upper Mustang.

Drive from Lo Manthang to Ghiling. Lo Manthang to Ghiling involves traversing the rugged terrain of Upper Mustang and descending towards the more verdant and lower regions.Follow the trail that descends through diverse landscapes, from the arid Mustang region to more fertile areas around Ghiling. Lo Manthang to Ghiling offers a memorable experience of traveling through the diverse and rugged terrain of Mustang, transitioning from high-altitude desert landscapes to more verdant and hospitable regions.

Max Altitude: 3600 m Meals: Breakfast,lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 6-8 hours(drive)Distance: 40 km

Drive through scenic trails, enjoy views of the Mustang landscape.The drive from Ghiling to Chhuksang provides an opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Mustang region and offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of its inhabitants Overnight Stay in Chhuksang.

Max Altitude: 2980 m Meals: Breakfast,lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 4-5 hours(drive)Distance: 20 km

Drive from Chhuksang to Tatopani involves traveling from the Mustang region to a more accessible part of Nepal, transitioning from high-altitude desert landscapes to greener, lower-altitude areas.The journey from Chhuksang to Tatopani offers a dramatic transition in landscapes and a chance to experience both the high-altitude desert and the verdant lower regions of Nepal.The drive offers scenic views of the river, terraced fields, and lush vegetation as you approach Tatopani.Overnight Stay in tatopani.

Max Altitude: 2980 m Meals: Breakfast,lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 6-8 hours(drive)Distance: 70-80 km

Experience the transition from the mountainous terrain to the more developed and picturesque city of Pokhara. Enjoy views of the lush landscapes and the Annapurna Range in the distance.The drive from Tatopani to Pokhara offers a scenic and varied journey, transitioning from the remote areas of Mustang to the vibrant and picturesque city of Pokhara.Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Max Altitude: 827 m Meals: Breakfast,lunch,DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 4-6 hours(drive)Distance: 90-100 km

The journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu involves traveling from a scenic city known for its natural beauty to Nepal's bustling capital. Enjoy views of the Trishuli River and the surrounding hills. Be prepared for the hustle and bustle as you enter Kathmandu.Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1400 m Meals: Breakfast,DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 6-8 hours(drive)Distance: 200 km
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Jeep rental and fuel
  • Driver’s accommodation, meals, and wages
  • Road permits for the vehicle
  • Restricted area permit (RAP) for Upper Mustang
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry fee
  • Lodging in Lodges along the route
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner along the route
  • Guide’s accommodation, meals, and wages
  • First aid kit
  • Basic amenities (depending on the package)
Excludes
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal trekking equipment (jackets, boots, etc.)
  • Snacks and beverages beyond what is provided
  • Souvenirs and personal shopping
  • Tips for the driver, guide, and other service providers
  • Any additional activities or excursions not included in the itinerary
  • Extra days in Kathmandu or Pokhara before or after the tour
  • Costs associated with delays due to weather, strikes, or other unforeseen events
  • Meals not covered in the package (e.g., meals in Kathmandu or Pokhara)
  • Nepal entry visa fees
FAQs

Packing List:

  • Warm clothing (layers, jackets, thermal wear).
  • Comfortable trekking shoes.
  • Personal medications and a first aid kit.
  • Snacks, water purification tablets.
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat).
  • Camera, power banks, and extra batteries.
  • Cash (ATMs are scarce).

Booking a Trip:

  • Through a reputable tour operator in Nepal like ours.
  • Research and compare packages for best value and services.
  • Lo Manthang: Ancient walled city, monasteries, royal palace.
  • Chhoser Cave: Ancient cave dwellings.
  • Tsarang: Red gompa, white dzong, and expansive views.
  • Muktinath: Sacred pilgrimage site.

Strongly recommended. Should cover high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation.

Communication:

  • Limited mobile network coverage.

Satellite phones and Wi-Fi in some guesthouses (usually paid).

Guides:

  • Highly recommended for navigation, cultural insights, and handling permits.
  • Some areas require a guide as per government regulations.
  • Simple, hearty meals (dal bhat, noodles, momos).
  • Limited menu in remote areas.
  • Vegetarian options are usually available.
  • Risk of altitude sickness; acclimatize properly.
  • Carry personal medications and basic first aid.
  • Drink plenty of water and maintain good hygiene.

Cultural Etiquette:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Always ask before taking photos of people.
  • Dress modestly, especially in religious sites.
  • Be mindful of your environmental impact (e.g., avoid littering).

Upper Mustang is a restricted region in Nepal, known for its remote, starkly beautiful landscapes and rich Tibetan culture. It was a former kingdom with Lo Manthang as its capital, and it remains one of the last places in the world to witness traditional Tibetan culture.

Accommodation:

  • Lodges,Guesthouses and tea houses along the route.
  • Basic facilities in remote areas, more comfortable in larger villages like Lo Manthang.

Safety:

  • Generally safe with experienced drivers.
  • Proper preparation and acclimatization are necessary.
  • Be aware of altitude sickness.

Road Condition:

  • Mixed terrain with paved and off-road sections.
  • Dusty, rocky, and potentially muddy depending on the season.
  • River crossings and steep inclines in some areas.

Types of Vehicles:

  • 4x4 jeeps like Mahindra Scorpio, Toyota Land Cruiser, or similar.
  • Well-maintained and equipped for rugged terrain.
  • Private Bus

Best Seasons:

  • Spring (March to May): Clear skies, blooming flora.
  • Autumn (September to November): Stable weather, ideal for travel.

Off Seasons:

  • Monsoon (June to August): Roads can be challenging due to rain.
  • Winter (December to February): Cold temperatures, some places might be inaccessible due to snow.

Total Duration: Typically, a trip to Upper Mustang and back takes about 8-12 days.

Driving Time:

  • Pokhara to Jomsom: 8-10 hours
  • Jomsom to Lo Manthang: 6-8 hours

Restricted Area Permit (RAP): $500 per person for 10 days. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30 per person. TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System): May be required by some operators.

Starting Point: Most trips begin from Pokhara, a city in central Nepal.

Route:

  • Pokhara to Jomsom (via Beni)
  • Jomsom to Kagbeni
  • Kagbeni to Lo Manthang (Upper Mustang)
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