Upper Mustang Trek – Journey into the Last Forbidden Kingdom – Kathmandu to Kathmandu – 17 Nights / 18 Days
All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 to 14 participants. 👉 “One Destination. One Small Group. One True Adventure.”
🗓️ 18 Days – Arrival to Departure
👥 Small Group | 4–14 Participants
🚩 Guaranteed Departure
🎒 Guided by English Speaking Trek Leader or Hire Prasan
The Upper Mustang Trek is a special journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and unique regions—often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” This area sits behind the big Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains and feels like stepping into a different world. You’ll see dry desert valleys, deep canyons, old cave homes, and ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. The highlight is visiting Lo Manthang, a walled city that was once the capital of the Mustang Kingdom.
Upper Mustang was closed to outsiders until 1992. Even now, you need special permits to go there, which helps protect the local culture and natural beauty. The people in this region still follow traditions that are hundreds of years old.
Instead of flying, this trek takes you overland—by road—from Kathmandu to Mustang. You’ll drive through beautiful valleys and mountain villages, stopping in Pokhara and the Kali Gandaki Gorge on the way to Kagbeni, where the trekking begins. This makes the journey more relaxed, immersive, and better for seeing real village life.
If you’re looking for a quiet, cultural trek with stunning landscapes and fewer crowds, the Upper Mustang Trek is the perfect choice. It’s a peaceful adventure filled with history, beauty, and connection.
Why Trek Upper Mustang With Prasan?
I’m not just a guide—I’m someone who truly cares about your journey. With over 10 years of experience leading treks in Nepal, I know the trails, the people, the weather, and the small things that can make your trek more special.
When you trek with me, you’re not just following a map—you’re walking with someone who understands the culture, respects the land, and will always put your safety and comfort first.
✅ Local, government-licensed guide with deep knowledge of Mustang
✅ Supportive and friendly service from the moment you arrive
✅ Your money goes directly to local people and communities
✅ Connection-focused trekking: travel with intention and integrity
✅ Guided yoga, meditation & breath-work for balance on the trail
✅ Ethical, respectful, and mindful approach to travel
I believe in slow, meaningful travel—where you connect with nature, culture, and yourself. Whether this is your first trek or one of many, I’ll be there every step of the way to guide, support, and inspire you.
Let’s walk the ancient trails of Mustang—together.
Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek
- 🏯 Visit the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang
- 🏜️ Walk through stunning high-altitude desert landscapes
- 🕉️ Explore old Tibetan Buddhist monasteries
- 🚙 Enjoy a scenic overland drive from Kathmandu to Kagbeni
- 🏔️ See amazing views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri
- 🕳️ Discover ancient cave dwellings carved into cliffs
- 🌾 Experience the local Mustang culture and villages
- ✨ Trek in a restricted, preserved area with few crowds
Upper Mustang Trek – Outline Itinerary
- Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) – Airport pickup and hotel transfer
- Day 02: Free day in Kathmandu – Rest, explore, and prepare for the journey
- Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (820m) – 6–7 hrs scenic drive through hills and river valleys
- Day 04: Drive to Tatopani (1,190m) – 6–7 hrs via Beni and the Kali Gandaki Gorge
- Day 05: Drive to Kagbeni (2,810m) – 6–7 hrs overland journey via Jomsom
- Day 06: Trek to Chele (3,050m) – 5–6 hrs walk through the Mustang gateway
- Day 07: Trek to Syangboche (3,800m) – 6–7 hrs via steep climbs and narrow canyons
- Day 08: Trek to Ghami (3,520m) – 5–6 hrs across dramatic high desert landscapes
- Day 09: Trek to Tsarang (3,570m) – 5 hrs through dry valleys and ancient villages
- Day 10: Trek to Lo Manthang (3,810m) – 4 hrs walk to the ancient walled capital
- Day 11: Rest and explore Lo Manthang – Visit gompas, caves, and royal heritage sites
- Day 12: Trek to Dhakmar via Ghar Gompa (3,820m) – 6 hrs via a sacred monastery
- Day 13: Trek to Ghiling (3,570m) – 5 hrs with beautiful views and Tibetan villages
- Day 14: Trek to Chhuksang (2,980m) – 5–6 hrs descending through cliffs and ridges
- Day 15: Drive to Tatopani (1,190m) – 6–7 hrs off-road drive with optional hot springs soak
- Day 16: Drive to Pokhara (820m) – 6–7 hrs via Kalopani and lush valleys
- Day 17: Drive to Kathmandu (1,400m) – 6–7 hrs scenic return journey
- Day 18: Final departure – Transfer to airport for your onward flight
Upper Mustang Trek Detail Itinerary
This 18-day itinerary takes you on a soulful journey from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the remote, high-altitude desert of Upper Mustang. Starting with a scenic overland drive to Pokhara and Tatopani, the route continues by road to Kagbeni—the gateway to the Last Forbidden Kingdom. From there, you trek through timeless villages, deep gorges, ancient monasteries, and the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang.
The return journey follows a different scenic trail before rejoining the road back to Pokhara and Kathmandu. With built-in rest days, cultural exploration, and daily wellness activities like yoga and breathwork, this itinerary is thoughtfully designed to offer a balanced, immersive, and unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Activities: Airport pickup and hotel transfer
Accommodation: Serenity Hotel or Similar
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner
Welcome to Nepal—the land of ancient mountains and timeless culture. After arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will greet you with a warm smile and transfer you to your hotel in central Kathmandu. Once you’ve checked in and had time to rest, we’ll meet in the hotel lobby for a detailed trek briefing. This is a great time to ask questions, go over your packing checklist, and get to know your guide and group. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner together.
Day 2: Free Day in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Activities: Leisure day and trek preparation
Accommodation: Serenity Hotel or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is a flexible day for you to rest, explore, or prepare for the trek. You may want to visit famous sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, or Kathmandu Durbar Square. If you prefer to relax, enjoy a walk through Thamel, full of cafés, shops, and colorful local life. Your guide will help you with any last-minute shopping or gear rentals. This is also a perfect day to begin adjusting to the rhythm of Nepal—slow, soulful, and full of surprises.
Day 3: Drive to Pokhara (820m)
Activities: Scenic drive to Pokhara via Prithvi Highway
Accommodation: Hotel Queens Park or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we start our journey west with a beautiful drive to Pokhara. The road winds through green hills, terraced farms, and river valleys, with glimpses of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges on clear days. We’ll make rest stops along the way for lunch and refreshments. Upon arrival in Pokhara—Nepal’s lake city—you can take an easy walk along Phewa Lake or unwind at your hotel. Enjoy a peaceful evening with views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 4: Drive to Tatopani (1,190m)
Activities: Overland drive to Tatopani via Beni
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we begin the overland leg of our Mustang journey. We’ll drive along the Kali Gandaki River valley, passing waterfalls, charming villages, and lush forested hills. The road gets bumpier beyond Beni, adding a sense of adventure as we approach Tatopani—famous for its natural hot springs. If time allows, enjoy a soak in the warm mineral water, which is said to soothe muscles and energize the body. We spend the night in a cozy local teahouse.
Day 5: Drive to Kagbeni (2,810m)
Activities: Drive through Jomsom and up the Kali Gandaki Gorge
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A full day of dramatic landscapes awaits as we drive deeper into the mountains. We follow the Kali Gandaki Gorge—the deepest gorge in the world—with views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri rising above. We pass through Jomsom, the windy administrative center of Mustang, before reaching Kagbeni. This medieval village is the official gateway to Upper Mustang, with narrow alleys, prayer wheels, and stunning views in every direction. Take time to explore the village and breathe in the high desert atmosphere.
Day 6: Trek to Chele (3,050m)
Activities: Begin trekking; walk along Kali Gandaki to Chele
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our trekking adventure begins! We leave Kagbeni and follow the Kali Gandaki River, walking past dry riverbeds and eroded cliffs. The trail climbs gently through the windswept village of Tangbe, with its narrow alleys and whitewashed homes. We then continue to Chhusang before crossing the river and climbing steeply to the village of Chele. This marks the entry into Upper Mustang’s restricted zone—a dramatic landscape of canyons, caves, and endless stone walls.
Day 7: Trek to Syangboche (3,800m)
Activities: Cross passes; visit Chungsi Cave Monastery
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is both scenic and challenging. We cross the Taklam La and Dajori La passes, enjoying views of snow-capped peaks and Mustang’s desert terrain. We stop at Chungsi Cave Monastery, an ancient site where Gurhu Rinpoche is said to have meditated. The trail winds through valleys, ridges, and hidden canyons before reaching Syangboche—a peaceful settlement nestled in the highlands. Look out for grazing yaks and traditional herders along the way.
Day 8: Trek to Ghami (3,520m)
Activities: Cross mountain passes and descend to Ghami
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We continue through one of the most striking sections of the trek. After climbing to the Yamda La and Nyi La passes, we descend into wide, arid valleys surrounded by red cliffs. The landscapes are surreal, shaped by centuries of wind and erosion. We reach Ghami, a quiet village with mud houses and a nearby monastery. Ghami is also home to Mustang’s longest mani wall—an impressive stretch of carved prayer stones.
Day 9: Trek to Tsarang (3,570m)
Activities: Easy trek through dry plateau to Tsarang
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
It’s a shorter and more relaxed walk today as we head to Tsarang, passing through open meadows and ridgelines. This village is known for its historic dzong (fort) and red-painted monastery perched above barley fields. With its whitewashed homes and sacred sites, Tsarang offers a perfect blend of history and high-desert beauty. In the evening, you can explore the old monastery and enjoy sunset views over the valley.
Day 10: Trek to Lo Manthang (3,810m)
Activities: Enter the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we reach the highlight of our trek—Lo Manthang, the fabled walled capital of the Mustang Kingdom. The trail offers sweeping views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and the Tibetan plateau as we climb through chortens and mani walls. After a gentle descent, we walk through the ceremonial gateway into Lo Manthang. Inside the city walls, explore narrow alleys, timeless homes, and monasteries that echo with centuries of spiritual tradition.
Day 11: Explore Lo Manthang (3,810m)
Activities: Cultural sightseeing and optional excursions
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend a full day exploring this fascinating city. Visit centuries-old gompas like Thubchen, Choprang, and Jampa Lhakhang—each with incredible murals and sacred relics. You can also take an optional excursion to Chhoser Cave or Nyphu Monastery, set in the cliffs above the valley. This day is all about cultural immersion, photography, and quiet reflection. Lo Manthang offers a window into Tibetan Buddhist life preserved by time and geography.
Day 12: Trek to Dhakmar (3,820m) via Ghar Gompa
Activities: Visit Ghar Gompa and trek through red cliffs
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We leave Lo Manthang and take a different return route via Ghar Gompa, one of Mustang’s oldest and most sacred monasteries. Said to pre-date even the famous Samye Monastery in Tibet, it’s a spiritual highlight of the journey. After a peaceful visit, we continue to Dhakmar, known for its striking red cliffs and windswept atmosphere. This is one of the most visually dramatic places on the entire trek.
Day 13: Trek to Ghiling (3,570m)
Activities: Trek down through barren hills to Ghiling
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We continue descending through the wide, dusty valleys of Upper Mustang. The trail winds through grassy ridges and ancient stone paths until we reach Ghiling, a traditional village with Tibetan-style homes and fluttering prayer flags. Enjoy a quiet evening with views of distant mountains and the sounds of village life all around you.
Day 14: Trek to Chhuksang (2,980m)
Activities: Final trekking day through the lower Mustang trail
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
On our final trekking day, we descend into greener, lower Mustang terrain. We pass through small hamlets and fields of barley, gradually leaving the high desert behind. Chhuksang is a lovely village with stone houses, apple orchards, and a peaceful riverside setting. It’s the perfect place to reflect on how far you’ve come.
Day 15: Drive to Tatopani (1,190m)
Activities: Return drive through Kali Gandaki Gorge
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We begin the return journey by jeep, retracing the route through Jomsom and the Kali Gandaki Gorge. The road is rough but filled with epic mountain views and waterfalls. Once in Tatopani, treat yourself to a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs—a true reward after days on the trail.
Day 16: Drive to Pokhara (820m)
Activities: Scenic drive back to Pokhara
Accommodation: Hotel Queens Park or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we continue our journey back to Pokhara, passing through charming villages, green hills, and river valleys. Arrive in Pokhara by afternoon and enjoy a warm shower, delicious food, and a relaxing walk along the lakeside. After so many days in the highlands, Pokhara feels like paradise.
Day 17: Drive to Kathmandu (1,400m)
Activities: Return to Kathmandu by private vehicle
Accommodation: Serenity Hotel or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
We leave Pokhara and drive east along the Prithvi Highway to Kathmandu. This 6–7 hour drive is full of lush scenery, riverside towns, and rolling hills. Once back in the capital, enjoy your final evening with a farewell dinner, or pick up last-minute gifts and souvenirs.
Day 18: Final Departure
Activities: Airport transfer and farewell
Accommodation: —
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your journey through the ancient kingdom of Mustang comes to an end today. Our team will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. We hope this experience stays with you forever—rich in beauty, culture, and personal growth.
💰 Upper Mustang Trek Package Cost
(Drive-In/Drive-Out – 18 Days)
| Group Size | USD Price (per person) | AUD Equivalent | NZD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 to 14 | $2,495 USD | AUD $3,920 | NZD $4,150 |
Note: Currency conversions are approximate and may vary slightly depending on the exchange rate at the time of booking AUD, NZD etc.
🛏️ Single Supplement (Optional)
If you prefer a private room in Kathmandu and Pokhara, a single supplement of $120 USD applies.
Please note: Teahouses in Upper Mustang typically offer twin-sharing rooms only.
This package is all-inclusive on the trail, covering transportation, permits, accommodation, meals during the trek, and even wellness activities. It offers one of the most unique and culturally rich experiences in Nepal—perfect for travelers who want depth, adventure, and comfort in one unforgettable journey.
What’s Included in Upper Mustang Trek?
- All ground transportation (Kathmandu–Pokhara–Tatopani–Kagbeni and return) by private vehicle
- 3 nights in Kathmandu at a 3-star hotel (twin-share, with breakfast)
- 2 nights in Pokhara at a lakeside hotel (twin-share, with breakfast)
- 12 nights in teahouses during the trek (twin-share, shared facilities)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
- Licensed, experienced English-speaking trekking guide or trek with Prasan
- One porter per two trekkers (max 10kg luggage per person)
- Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang (USD $500 value)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- All government taxes and trekking paperwork
- Group medical kit and trek support
What’s Not Included
- Nepal entry visa (available on arrival – USD $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days)
- International flights to/from Nepal
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except welcome & farewell dinners)
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, WiFi, laundry, hot showers on trek)
- Tipping for guide and porter (recommended: USD $6–10 per day total)
- Sightseeing entry fees in Kathmandu (if exploring)
- Travel insurance (must include high-altitude emergency evacuation)
- Emergency evacuation (if required) – must be covered by your insurance
- Trekking gear and clothing (can be rented or bought in Kathmandu)
- Not other then mention in included above.
ℹ️ Additional Information
Before you begin your Upper Mustang Trek, it’s helpful to understand the key details. This section covers everything you need to know—from trekking permits and fitness levels to health, safety, tipping, accommodation, and transportation. Whether it’s your first trek or your fifth, these insights will help you feel fully prepared and confident for the journey ahead.
🗺️ Restricted Area Access
Upper Mustang is one of Nepal’s most culturally protected trekking zones. To preserve its sacred Tibetan heritage and delicate desert landscape, the government requires a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) costing USD $500 for the first 10 days, plus an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These are included in your package and fully arranged by us. Independent trekking is not allowed—you must travel with a licensed guide and in a registered group (minimum two trekkers).
💪 Trek Difficulty & Fitness Level
The Upper Mustang Trek is rated moderate, with no technical climbing involved. However, daily walking covers 10–18 km per day over rugged, dry terrain with gradual ascents and descents. The maximum altitude reached is 3,820 meters, which can still affect the body. Anyone in reasonable physical condition who enjoys walking and has a positive mindset can complete this trek. Training with regular hikes, light cardio, or stairs a few weeks before departure is highly recommended.
🌬️ Acclimatization & Altitude
Though this trek doesn’t exceed 4,000m, proper acclimatization is still essential. The itinerary is carefully crafted with a gradual altitude gain and includes a rest day in Lo Manthang. We also offer daily breathwork sessions to strengthen lung capacity and regulate your nervous system at altitude. Staying hydrated, walking at a slow pace, and listening to your body will ensure a smooth and safe journey through Mustang’s high-altitude terrain.
🛖 Teahouse Accommodation
During the trek, you’ll stay in local teahouses run by Mustang families. These accommodations are basic but full of character—twin-sharing rooms with clean bedding and shared bathrooms are standard. Higher up, amenities become more limited, but the warmth and hospitality of the people make up for it. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll enjoy more comfort in tourist-class hotels with ensuite bathrooms, hot water, and breakfast included.
💧 Meals & Safe Drinking Water
Three fresh, hot meals are provided daily while trekking. Food is simple but nourishing—featuring Nepali staples like dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), Tibetan bread, soups, noodles, and momos. Vegetarian options are widely available. We recommend avoiding meat in remote areas for hygiene reasons. Filtered or boiled drinking water is available at all teahouses for bottle refills. We encourage bringing a reusable bottle and water purification tablets or a SteriPen to stay safe and reduce plastic waste.
🧳 Luggage Allowance & Packing
Each trekker is allowed 10kg of duffel bag weight, carried by a porter, and one personal daypack (you carry yourself). Your daypack should hold water, snacks, sun protection, layers, and any personal essentials. A detailed packing list will be sent after booking and includes items like:
- Sturdy trekking boots
- Down jacket (good to -10°C)
- Warm layers and thermals
- Rain gear
- Sleeping bag (can be rented)
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, lip balm
- Headlamp, water bottle, personal first aid
🛂 Nepal Visa Information
Most travelers can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Bring a passport valid for at least 6 months, one passport-size photo, and USD cash for the visa fee:
- 15 Days – USD $30
- 30 Days – USD $50
- 90 Days – USD $125
You can also apply online in advance via the Department of Immigration eVisa portal if you prefer a quicker arrival process.
🌦️ Best Seasons for the Upper Mustang Trek
The ideal trekking months are April to June and September to November. These months offer the best visibility, pleasant temperatures, and stable weather. Unlike many other treks in Nepal, Upper Mustang lies in a rain-shadow zone, meaning it stays dry and accessible even during the monsoon (June to August). The Tiji Festival in May or June is a cultural highlight and can be included upon request.
🧘 Wellness & Mindful Travel
This trek is more than a physical journey—it’s a chance to reconnect with yourself. We offer daily wellness activities like gentle yoga, guided breathwork, and evening meditation to support your body, mind, and spirit. These practices help reduce fatigue, improve sleep, and ground your experience in presence and peace. You’ll also enjoy a group sound healing session using traditional Himalayan singing bowls—a deeply relaxing and soulful moment many say they’ll never forget.
💵 Money & Tipping
Once you leave Pokhara, there are no ATMs or card payment options available in Upper Mustang. You should carry enough Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in small denominations for personal expenses during the trek—such as snacks, WiFi, hot showers, battery charging, drinks, or souvenirs. We recommend budgeting around NPR 3,000–4,000 per day (approx. USD $25–35) depending on your spending habits.
Tipping is customary in Nepal and a meaningful way to thank your guide and porters for their hard work and care. A general guideline is:
- Guide: USD $6–8 per day
- Porter: USD $4–6 per day (per trekker, shared among two)
You can tip individually at the end of the trek or contribute to a group envelope for distribution. Your appreciation directly supports their families and local communities.
❤️ Health & Safety
Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Our guides are first-aid certified and experienced in high-altitude trekking, and we carry a group medical kit at all times. We also monitor your condition daily with wellness check-ins and optional pulse oximeter readings to track oxygen levels.
To stay healthy and safe:
- Drink 3–4 liters of water daily
- Walk slowly and take breaks often
- Avoid alcohol and excess caffeine at altitude
- Eat well to maintain energy
- Let your guide know if you feel unwell at any time
We strongly recommend that you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and helicopter evacuation up to 4,000m. This is a requirement to join the trek.
🚙 Transportation & Trail Access
This trek is designed as a drive-in, drive-out journey—making it more flexible, grounded, and less weather-dependent than fly-in treks. Here’s how transport is arranged:
- Kathmandu to Pokhara: Comfortable private tourist vehicle (6–7 hours)
- Pokhara to Tatopani & Kagbeni: Scenic and rugged jeep drive through Beni and the Kali Gandaki Gorge
- On return: You’ll follow the same overland route back to Pokhara and Kathmandu
- Trail Access: The trek officially begins from Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. From here, the walking route weaves through ancient trails used by salt traders and pilgrims for centuries.
By avoiding domestic flights, you save costs, reduce carbon emissions, and avoid delays due to mountain weather. All transport is private and included in the package.
🏔️ Final Thoughts
The Upper Mustang Trek is more than just a trek—it’s a journey into one of the last untouched corners of the Himalayas. From ancient monasteries and windswept valleys to the timeless walled city of Lo Manthang, this adventure blends culture, history, and natural beauty in a way few places can.
With a thoughtful overland route, daily wellness practices, and expert local guidance, the experience is as grounding as it is inspiring. It’s perfect for travelers who want something deeper than a checklist—those who seek connection, reflection, and adventure with purpose.
If you’re ready to walk through a lost kingdom and discover something new in yourself along the way, I’d be honored to guide you there.