Upper Mustang Overland Tour

Overview

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the most remote and culturally rich regions of Nepal. Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, Upper Mustang is often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom” due to its unique isolation from the rest of Nepal for centuries. This journey takes you through a rugged and semi-desert landscape, with dramatic cliffs, ancient monasteries, and fortified villages. The journey offers a glimpse into the Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions that have remained relatively unchanged for centuries. The region’s breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance make it a must-visit for those seeking adventure and tranquility in one of the most pristine parts of Nepal.

The tour typically begins in Pokhara, where travelers travel by jeep or land cruiser to reach Jomsom, the gateway to Upper Mustang. From here, you’ll continue your overland journey to Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of the Mustang Kingdom. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful Tibetan villages, encounter yaks, and visit Buddhist monasteries, such as Thubchen Monastery and Chhairo Monastery, offering insight into the spiritual life of the region. The remote location and unique culture of Upper Mustang make it one of the most captivating overland trips in Nepal, offering not just adventure, but also a deep cultural immersion.

Major Trips for Upper Mustang Overland Tour

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour encompasses several fascinating highlights that make it an unforgettable adventure. Some of the major trips included in the itinerary are:

Pokhara to Jomsom: The journey begins with a scenic drive or flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, where the landscape starts to change dramatically, and the first views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges emerge. From here, the overland tour to Upper Mustang begins.

Jomsom to Lo Manthang: The most significant part of the journey is traveling to Lo Manthang, the ancient walled city and the cultural heart of Upper Mustang. This part of the trip provides opportunities to visit ancient monasteries, caves, and observe the unique architecture and culture of the region.

Exploring Lo Manthang: The days spent in Lo Manthang will allow for the exploration of historical sites such as the Lo Manthang Palace, Jampa Monastery, and Ghar Gumba. The landscape around the city is filled with rugged cliffs, caves, and ancient Tibetan Buddhist stupas, offering a photographer’s paradise.

Visit to the Caves of Upper Mustang: Upper Mustang is home to many ancient caves that were used as meditation and burial sites in the past. The most famous ones are located in Choser, which are believed to date back over 2,000 years. These caves are carved into cliffs and are an intriguing part of the region’s history.

Monasteries and Tibetan Culture: The Upper Mustang region is heavily influenced by Tibetan culture, and the tour allows travelers to visit several Buddhist monasteries, observe traditional Tibetan rituals, and interact with the locals. The spiritual atmosphere is palpable, and visitors will often witness the colorful Buddhist festivals and rituals.
Natural Beauty of the Region: Along with cultural sites, the tour also allows travelers to experience the dramatic landscapes of the region. The stark contrast of the desert terrain with the snow-capped mountains in the background is a truly unique feature of this region.

These major trips not only highlight the cultural and spiritual significance of Upper Mustang but also offer a challenging yet rewarding journey for those looking to explore one of the most off-the-beaten-path destinations in Nepal.

Why Choose Us (Chingu Treks and Tours)

At Chingu Treks and Tours, we specialize in creating personalized and unforgettable travel experiences, particularly when it comes to off-the-beaten-path destinations like Upper Mustang. Our expert team is committed to providing travelers with an authentic, immersive experience that combines the thrill of adventure with cultural exploration. We work closely with local communities to ensure that our tours contribute to sustainable tourism, benefiting both the environment and the people of the region. Our guides are highly experienced and have extensive knowledge of Upper Mustang, ensuring that every aspect of the trip is insightful, safe, and enriching.

We prioritize your comfort and safety while on the Upper Mustang Overland Tour, offering well-maintained vehicles, professional drivers, and knowledgeable guides who are familiar with the terrain and the cultural aspects of the area. We take care of all logistics, including permits, accommodations, and meals, so you can focus on enjoying your journey. With Chingu Treks and Tours, you can be assured of a hassle-free, deeply enriching travel experience that combines adventure, culture, and spirituality in one of the most stunning and remote regions of Nepal.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,320 m) and Transfer to Hotel

Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by a representative from Chingu Treks and Tours. After a brief introduction, you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. Take the rest of the day to relax and recover from your journey. If time permits, you can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, known for its bustling markets, restaurants, and shops. You will also receive a full briefing about the upcoming tour in the evening.

Day 2 : Exploring Beautiful Kathmandu City

After breakfast,Full-day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu with Chingu Treks and Tours. Your first stop will be the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you’ll see an impressive collection of temples, palaces, and courtyards. Next, visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. You will also explore the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, and the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world. In the evening, enjoy some leisure time to explore more of Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (830 m) – 6-7 hours

Today, we begin our journey towards Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. After breakfast, we leave Kathmandu for a scenic 6 to 7-hour drive along the Prithvi Highway, passing through lush hills, small villages, terraced fields, and the Trishuli River. As you make your way toward Pokhara, enjoy occasional glimpses of the towering peaks of the Annapurna range. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in to your hotel. Spend the evening strolling around Phewa Lake, enjoying the serene beauty of the surroundings. You may also opt for a boat ride on the lake.

Day 4 : Drive to Chhusang (2,980 m) – 8 hours via Jomsom (2,700 m)

Today, you will embark on an exciting overland drive to Chhusang, a charming village in Upper Mustang. After breakfast in Pokhara, we drive towards Jomsom, a small town known for its stunning views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountain ranges. From Jomsom, continue towards Chhusang, passing through rugged, barren landscapes that gradually give way to the high-altitude desert terrain of Mustang. The drive takes around 8 hours, with spectacular views along the way. Once you arrive in Chhusang, check in to your accommodation and take in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Day 5 : Drive to Lo Manthang (3,840 m) – 6 hours

Today, you will make your way to Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang. After breakfast, we depart Chhusang for a 6-hour drive, passing through the villages of Chele and Ghami, and making our way deeper into the Mustang region. The landscape becomes more desolate and dramatic, with red cliffs and dry, wind-swept terrain. Upon reaching Lo Manthang, you will be greeted by the sight of its ancient walled city, surrounded by its impressive fortifications. After checking in to your lodge, enjoy a peaceful evening in Lo Manthang, soaking in the beauty and serenity of this unique Tibetan-influenced town.

Day 6 : Explore Lo Manthang and Sightseeing at Nepal-Tibet Border Region

This day is dedicated to exploring the cultural treasures of Lo Manthang. After breakfast, we will visit the ancient monasteries of the region, such as the Thubchen Monastery and Jampa Monastery, where you can see intricate murals, statues, and Tibetan Buddhist rituals. You’ll also have the opportunity to stroll through the narrow streets of the walled city and experience the unique culture and architecture of Upper Mustang. In the afternoon, we will venture towards the Nepal-Tibet border region, where the stark, high-altitude landscape offers dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. The day concludes with a return to your lodge in Lo Manthang.

Day 7 : Drive to Muktinath (3,800 m) – 6 hours through Kagbeni (2,804 m)

After breakfast, we drive south towards Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. On the way, we pass through the village of Kagbeni, a picturesque settlement located at the junction of the Jhong and Kali Gandaki rivers. Kagbeni is a gateway to Upper Mustang and offers an opportunity to see traditional Tibetan-style houses and monasteries. From Kagbeni, we continue our journey to Muktinath, arriving after about 6 hours of travel. Upon reaching Muktinath, visit the Muktinath Temple, where you can see the sacred 108 water spouts, and take part in a ritual bath. This is a highlight for many pilgrims who visit this spiritual site.

Day 8 : Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara – 8 hours

Today, we begin our descent back to Pokhara. After breakfast in Muktinath, drive through Jomsom and head back to Pokhara. The journey offers more picturesque views as we descend through the Kali Gandaki valley. The road is rugged, but the surrounding landscapes are breathtaking. After approximately 8 hours of travel, we arrive back in Pokhara. You’ll have the rest of the evening free to relax, shop, or enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the lakeside restaurants.

Day 9 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu – 6 hours

After breakfast, we start the drive back to Kathmandu, following the same scenic route along the Prithvi Highway. The drive will take around 6 hours. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you will check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs or exploring any remaining sights in the city. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers and the Chingu Treks and Tours team, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve had through the Upper Mustang region.

Day 10 : Final Departure

On your final day in Nepal, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Chingu Treks and Tours wishes you a safe and pleasant journey home, and we hope you carry with you unforgettable memories of your Upper Mustang adventure.

Trip code
Package name	Upper Mustang Overland Tour
Duration	10
Max. elevation	4230 m
Level	Moderate
Transportation	All ground transportation as per itinerary
Accomodation	3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara and Tea House / Lodge during the trek.
Starts at	Kathmandu
Ends at	Kathmandu
Trip route
Cost	USD 0 per person