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Upper Mustang Trek

Trip code
Package name Upper Mustang Trek
Duration 17
Max. elevation 3850 m
Level Moderate
Transportation Domestic flight and 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

Highlights

Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most culturally enriching and adventurous trekking routes in Nepal, offering a unique journey into the "Last Forbidden Kingdom" of Nepal. Located in the rain-shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Mustang is a region that feels like stepping back in time, with its ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, mystical monasteries, and stunning landscapes of arid deserts, rugged canyons, and towering cliffs. The trek takes you through the Mustang Valley, where you'll explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Mustang Kingdom, and visit sacred caves, shrines, and monasteries that are centuries old.

The trek starts from Jomsom and follows the Kali Gandaki River, gradually climbing up to the high desert landscape of Mustang. Along the way, trekkers pass through traditional Tibetan villages, ancient chortens (Buddhist stupas), and picturesque monasteries, where local people, primarily of Tibetan descent, still practice their age-old customs and religion. Upper Mustang offers a fascinating glimpse into Tibetan culture, with the trek providing a blend of nature, spirituality, and historical significance. The Upper Mustang Trek is a journey that combines exploration, discovery, and adventure, making it one of the most sought-after trekking destinations in Nepal.

Why Choose Chingu Treks and Tours for the Upper Mustang Trek
Chingu Treks and Tours is dedicated to providing you with a memorable and authentic trekking experience to Upper Mustang. We specialize in organizing customized trekking tours that prioritize your safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Our team of professional guides, all of whom are deeply familiar with the local culture and terrain, will ensure that your trek through this mystical land is both informative and enjoyable. We emphasize responsible tourism, respecting local traditions and contributing to the sustainable development of the region.

What sets Chingu Treks and Tours apart is our commitment to providing personalized services. We carefully plan your trek to ensure you get the most out of the cultural and scenic experience. We handle all logistics, including permits, transportation, and accommodations, so that you can focus on the adventure itself. Our expert guides will share valuable insights into the region's history, religion, and culture, making your trek not only a physical journey but also a deep cultural experience. Whether you’re trekking to the ancient monasteries of Lo Manthang or exploring the mysterious caves of Chosar, Chingu Treks and Tours offers a seamless and enriching Upper Mustang experience that few can match.

Trip Itinerary

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

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by our Chingu Treks and Tours team. After completing the immigration process, we will transfer you to your hotel in the city. You will have the rest of the day to rest and adjust to the time zone and altitude. You can relax at the hotel or take a light stroll around Thamel, a vibrant tourist district. This is also a good opportunity to finalize your trek preparations. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

Today, we will explore some of the cultural gems of Kathmandu. After breakfast, we will visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Next, we will head to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Afterward, we will visit Boudhanath Stupa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, there will be time for final trek preparations, including checking gear, permits, and briefing. The evening will be free for last-minute shopping or relaxation. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Kathmandu to Pokhara (Drive)

After breakfast, Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city nestled in the foothills of the Annapurna Range. The drive will take approximately 6-7 hours, passing through terraced fields, small villages, and winding mountain roads. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Phewa Lake, offering great views of the surrounding mountains. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 4 : Pokhara to Jomsom (Flight) and Trek to Kagbeni

After an early breakfast, we take a short domestic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, which offers spectacular views of the Himalayas. Jomsom, located at an altitude of 2,700 meters, is the gateway to Upper Mustang. Upon arrival in Jomsom, we begin our trek towards Kagbeni (2,800 m), a small but picturesque village located at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki River and the Jhong Khola. The trek takes around 3-4 hours and offers the first views of the unique Mustang landscape. Kagbeni is a Tibetan-style village with narrow alleys and a rich culture. Overnight stay in Kagbeni.

Day 5 : Kagbeni to Chele

After breakfast, we begin our trek from Kagbeni towards Chele (3,050 m), a village located in the Kali Gandaki Valley. The trek takes around 6-7 hours, and we will pass through beautiful desert landscapes, rocky terrain, and Tibetan-style houses. The route offers views of the Nilgiri and Annapurna ranges. As we continue to climb higher, we can begin to feel the unique Tibetan atmosphere of Upper Mustang. Chele is a small settlement with traditional architecture, where we will rest and prepare for the next day's journey. Overnight stay in Chele.

Day 6 : Chele to Syangmoche

Today’s trek takes us from Chele to Syangmoche (3,750 m). The trek involves a climb up to a ridge and then descends slightly into the valley, continuing for approximately 6-7 hours. We will pass through narrow canyons, dry riverbeds, and small Tibetan villages. As we walk, the terrain becomes more barren, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Syangmoche is a quiet and peaceful village, ideal for resting and acclimatizing to the altitude. Overnight stay in Syangmoche.

Day 7 : Syangmoche to Ghami

After breakfast, we trek from Syangmoche to Ghami (3,520 m), which is a village known for its beautiful landscapes and Tibetan culture. The trek will take around 5-6 hours, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through arid terrain. The path offers fantastic views of the surrounding valleys, and we will see small settlements along the way. Ghami is surrounded by beautiful monasteries and offers a chance to experience the peaceful Tibetan lifestyle. Overnight stay in Ghami.

Day 8 : Ghami to Charang

Today, we continue our trek from Ghami to Charang (3,560 m). This is a shorter trek, taking about 4-5 hours. The route is more tranquil and less traveled, offering a more serene experience. Along the way, we will pass through villages, farms, and ancient monasteries, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Charang is a picturesque village with a monastery and traditional Tibetan houses, perfect for a quiet evening. Overnight stay in Charang.

Day 9 : Charang to Lo Manthang

Today, we trek from Charang to Lo Manthang (3,840 m), the capital of Upper Mustang. This is a significant day of the trek, taking about 5-6 hours. Lo Manthang is a unique and historic place, with a rich cultural heritage and beautiful Tibetan architecture. It is surrounded by ancient walls and monasteries and offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Mustang people. Upon arrival, we will explore the town, visit the King’s Palace, and interact with the local people. Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.

Day 10 : Day Trip to Chhoser Cave

Today, we take a day trip from Lo Manthang to Chhoser Cave, an ancient cave complex located high above the Kali Gandaki River. This site is known for its fascinating cave dwellings and historical significance. The trek to the caves takes about 3-4 hours, and the caves are famous for their intricate carvings and spiritual importance. After exploring Chhoser Cave, we return to Lo Manthang for an overnight stay.

Day 11 : Lo Manthang to Dhakmar

After a restful night, we leave Lo Manthang and trek to Dhakmar (3,820 m), a village known for its unique red cliffs and beautiful landscapes. This trek takes around 6-7 hours, passing through remote areas with a stark landscape. The area is home to numerous caves, cliffs, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. Dhakmar provides a peaceful atmosphere to reflect on your journey. Overnight stay in Dhakmar.

Day 12 : Dhakmar to Ghiling

Today, we trek from Dhakmar to Ghiling (3,806 m), passing through dry landscapes, Tibetan villages, and terraced fields. The trek will take about 6-7 hours. As we descend, the views of the mountains and valleys become even more dramatic. Ghiling is a charming village where we can explore the local culture and interact with the villagers. Overnight stay in Ghiling.

Day 13 : Ghiling to Chuksang

After breakfast, we begin the trek from Ghiling to Chuksang (2,980 m), which will take about 5-6 hours. The trail leads us through narrow gorges, dry riverbeds, and small Tibetan villages. Chuksang is a pleasant village, and it marks the beginning of our return journey from Upper Mustang. Overnight stay in Chuksang.

Day 14 : Chuksang to Jomsom

Today’s trek takes us from Chuksang to Jomsom (2,700 m), a trek of about 5-6 hours. The route is mostly downhill, following the Kali Gandaki River. Jomsom, the gateway to the Mustang region, is a small town with a wide variety of services and shops. After arriving, we can relax and enjoy the mountain views. Overnight stay in Jomsom.

Day 15 : Jomsom to Pokhara (Flight)

After breakfast, we take a scenic flight from Jomsom back to Pokhara. This flight offers incredible views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can rest or enjoy a peaceful afternoon at Phewa Lake. The day will be free for sightseeing or relaxation. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 16 : Pokhara to Kathmandu (Drive)

After breakfast, we begin the drive back to Kathmandu, which takes approximately 6-7 hours. The journey offers more scenic views of the countryside. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will have some free time for shopping or exploring before your final departure. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 17 : Final Departure

On the final day of your trek, after breakfast, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. We hope you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of your trek to Upper Mustang. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back for future adventures with Chingu Treks and Tours.

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