UPPER MUSTANG TREK

Your adventure begins with a scenic mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, a short yet unforgettable journey offering aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. Upon landing in Jomsom, the crisp and dry mountain air immediately sets the tone for the trek ahead.

The trail to Kagbeni follows the Kali Gandaki River along an age-old trade corridor known for its fossil finds. The route is generally level, though often accompanied by strong winds and impressive vistas of Nilgiri and Tilicho Peak.

Kagbeni welcomes you with its medieval charm—narrow lanes, mud-built houses, and a revered monastery. This village also serves as the official checkpoint for trekkers entering Upper Mustang.

Multiple
20 min flight, 3–4 hrs trek
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Altitude: Kagbeni (2,858m)

Leaving Kagbeni, the trek officially enters the restricted Upper Mustang region. The trail hugs the dry, dusty corridor of the Kali Gandaki, revealing deep gorges and colorful sculpted cliffs.

Tangbe village provides a surprising burst of greenery with its whitewashed homes, apple orchards, and barley fields. Continuing onwards, Chhusang offers striking views of red cliffs filled with ancient monk-carved caves.

Chele sits high on a ridge and welcomes trekkers with sweeping views over Mustang’s rugged valleys. The village’s Tibetan-influenced culture becomes increasingly visible—through architecture, food, and daily life. Evening brings a chance to enjoy local dishes as prayer flags flutter in the mountain breeze.

Walking Day: 5–6 hrs
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: Chele (3,050m)

Today’s route is varied and more demanding, featuring steep climbs, canyon crossings, and multiple high passes. The rugged cliffs and ridgelines provide sweeping views of Mustang’s desert-like terrain.

Trekkers cross Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La Pass (3,735m), each offering superb panoramas of distant mountains and rolling barren hills.

High above the cliffs, you may spot ancient meditation caves that have been used for spiritual practices for centuries. The trail then descends to the quiet settlement of Ghiling—an oasis of cultivated land and traditional Mustang homes.

A notable attraction is the village’s red-and-white monastery, standing in serene contrast to the earthy hills. Evenings here are peaceful, ideal for rest and enjoying traditional meals.

Walking Day: 6–7 hrs
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: Ghiling (3,806m)

Departing Ghiling, the trail leads toward Mustang’s spiritual core. Mani walls inscribed with Buddhist prayers line the route, guiding trekkers across dry plains and rocky landscapes.

The path climbs steadily to Nyi La Pass (4,010m)—the highest point so far—before gradually descending into Charang Valley. Upon arrival, the impressive red-stone Kag Chode Monastery draws immediate attention, being one of Mustang’s largest and oldest religious sites.

Charang Dzong, an ancient palace-fortress, displays centuries-old murals and sacred texts. The villagers here maintain a lifestyle rooted in Mustang’s traditions, centered around yak herding and barley farming.

Walking Day: 4–5 hrs
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: Charang (3,575m)

Today marks one of the journey’s highlights—the trek to Lo-Manthang. A gradual climb through open valleys leads to Lo La Pass (3,950m), where trekkers enjoy their first captivating view of the walled city.

Descending from the pass, the iconic settlement of Lo-Manthang comes into sight, enclosed by its ancient mud walls and surrounded by a vast desert landscape.

Inside the town, narrow lanes lead to centuries-old monasteries, chortens, and the former royal palace. The monasteries of Jampa, Thubchen, and Chode stand as the spiritual heart of the city, decorated with ancient paintings and religious relics.

Artists practicing traditional Tibetan craftsmanship can often be seen at work. Sunset paints the surrounding hills in golden colors, enhancing the mystical atmosphere of this historic Himalayan kingdom.

Walking Day: 5–6 hrs
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: Lo-Manthang (3,700m)

Lo-Manthang serves as an acclimatization and exploration base. The town’s monasteries—Jampa, Thubchen, and Chode—showcase centuries-old murals, prayer wheels, and intricate Tibetan iconography, offering a deep insight into the region’s religious life.

A visit to the former royal palace reveals the architecture and heritage of Mustang’s past rulers. Traditional homes, colorful prayer flags, and bustling artisan workshops add to the town’s cultural charm, making it feel like a living museum.

A highlight of this day is exploring the ancient Chhoser caves carved high into the cliffs. These caves, used historically for meditation, are believed to be more than a thousand years old.

Evening brings quiet moments as the sun casts warm hues over the barren Mustang hills.

Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: Lo-Manthang (3,700m)

Leaving Lo-Manthang, the trail retraces its path toward Ghami. Before descending, you’ll cross Lo La Pass once again, catching one last sweeping view of the vast Upper Mustang valley.

The return route passes chortens, mani walls, and traditional villages where Tibetan-influenced culture remains strong. Descending to lower altitude eases the pace, making the trek more comfortable.

In Ghami, visitors can explore the village’s notable monastery and admire its ancient murals. Ghami is also home to one of Mustang’s longest and most impressive Mani walls.

Walking Day: 6 hrs
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: Ghami (3,520m)

The route from Ghami to Samar traverses varying Mustang landscapes. As you head lower, barren hills give way to occasional patches of greenery.

The trail includes ridge walks, canyon crossings, and thrilling suspension bridges spanning deep ravines. Blue sheep are often seen grazing along the slopes.

Samar is a peaceful village with reddish-tinted houses and a calm lifestyle. The contrast between the desert surroundings and pockets of farmland becomes clearly visible. After arrival, there is ample time to relax and enjoy a warm meal.

Walking Day: 6 hrs
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: Samar (3,660m)

The path descends steadily toward Kagbeni, following the course of the Kali Gandaki River. The dry landscapes gradually transition into greener fields, terraced farms, and apple orchards.

Re-entering Kagbeni feels familiar, with its medieval-style alleys, traditional houses, and culturally blended Tibetan-Nepali architecture. The ancient monastery provides a serene environment for reflection.

Visitors can explore the narrow streets, enjoy local tea, and listen to the wind rustling through colorful prayer flags during the calm evening hours.

Walking Day: 7 hrs
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: Kagbeni (2,858m)

The final trekking day leads through the broad Kali Gandaki valley toward Jomsom. The route is mostly flat and easy, though strong afternoon winds often add a challenge.

The trek features impressive views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and the surrounding barren landscapes. Walking through this vast valley often feels peaceful and reflective.

Upon reaching Jomsom, the lively atmosphere contrasts with the remote villages of Upper Mustang. Here you can shop for souvenirs, visit the local monastery, and enjoy a hearty final meal.

Walking Day: 3 hrs
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: Jomsom (2,700m)

Your return flight to Pokhara takes place early in the morning, offering a last airborne view of the Kali Gandaki Valley and the majestic Himalayan peaks. The short 20–25 minute journey brings you back to the lush landscapes of Pokhara.

Flight: 25 min
Meals: Breakfast
Altitude: Pokhara (822m)