Beyond the colossal ramparts of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs lies a land suspended in time: Upper Mustang, Nepal's last forbidden kingdom.
Beyond the colossal ramparts of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs lies a land suspended in time: Upper Mustang, Nepal's last forbidden kingdom.
An Invitation to a Lost Kingdom: Introduction to the Upper Mustang Trek
Our Upper Mustang Complete Experience Circuit is not merely a trek; it is a pilgrimage into a rare bastion of authentic Tibetan culture, a realm that was politically and geographically isolated from the outside world until 1992. To journey here is to traverse a high-altitude desert of surreal beauty, explore medieval settlements, and witness a way of life preserved for centuries.
The soul of this program is the exploration of the former Kingdom of Lo. Until 2008, this semi-independent state was ruled by its own monarchy. While the king, or Lo Gyalpo, no longer holds official authority, the local Lo-pa people continue to revere the royal family, offering a living connection to a dynastic heritage that has shaped this land for over 600 years. This cultural integrity, shielded by the rain shadow of the Himalayas, is the trek's most profound reward. The landscape itself is a stark and magnificent departure from the verdant hills of lower Nepal. It is a trans-Himalayan desert, a vast expanse of wind-eroded canyons, ochre-hued cliffs, and arid plateaus that echo the terrain of neighboring Tibet.
This journey is graded as Hard. The challenge is not one of technical climbing but of endurance and resilience. It demands the capacity for long, sustained trekking days—some lasting up to ten hours—at a consistently high altitude, often in the face of strong winds and dust. Success requires excellent physical conditioning and a robust mental disposition, prepared for the rigors of a remote, high-desert environment.
While the region’s isolation was a key factor in preserving its unique culture, it was historically a major artery of commerce. For centuries, the trail through Mustang was a critical section of the salt caravan route linking the Tibetan plateau with the Indian subcontinent. This duality defines the experience; trekkers are not just entering a secluded sanctuary but are walking a corridor of ancient trade and pilgrimage. The very monasteries and villages that feel so wonderfully preserved are a direct legacy of the prosperity this historic trade once brought.
We invite you to journey into Nepal's lost Tibetan kingdom on the Upper Mustang Circuit Trek, the only way to explore this last forbidden kingdom away from the crowds. Hike off-the-beaten-trails through forgotten settlements where time stands still, on a remote 18-day adventure that culminates at the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang.
You can request additional days (extra cost applicable) and include the following excursions in this program for a wholesome experience
The following are the list of services, also defined in the itinerary, included in the package cost for the Everest Base Camp Trek:
Trekking in Upper Mustang is a privilege, regulated by the Government of Nepal to preserve its unique culture and fragile ecosystem. The permit process is strict and non-negotiable.
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Permit & Fee Summary (2025/2026) |
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Permit Name |
Cost (USD) |
Issuing Body |
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Restricted Area Permit (RAP) |
$500 (first 10 days) + $50/extra day |
Department of Immigration, Nepal |
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) |
$30 |
Nepal Tourism Board |
A comprehensive gear list will be provided upon booking, but key items specific to the challenges of Upper Mustang include:
Embarking on the Upper Mustang Trek demands a versatile and thoughtfully packed gear list. The right equipment is crucial for your comfort, safety, and enjoyment across diverse landscapes. This curated guide ensures you are well-prepared for varying climates, activities, and altitudes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in every unique experience Nepal has to offer.
Personal First Aid Kit:
The trek is graded as Hard. Even thoug you'll not reach 5,000 metres on the Upper Mustang Trek, the difficulty comes from the long daily distances (6-9 hours on average), sustained high altitude, and exposure to wind and dust, rather than from technical climbing requirement.
The highest point on this Upper Mustang Trek itinerary is the Kangcholing Cave at 4,217 m.
Our carefully designed itinerary consists of gradual ascents and plenty of acclimatization days to mitigate any chances of altitude sickness. Plus, our expert guides are trained to recognize early symptoms. As long as you stay well-hydrated, maintain a slow and steady pace, and descend if symptoms persist, you'll be okay.
No. Upper Mustang is a government-regulated restricted area.
It is mandatory to trek with a licensed guide as part of an organized group of at least two trekkers, and all permits must be arranged by a registered Nepali trekking agency.
Our package include all permits, domestic flights, ground transport, guide and porter services, and standard meals and accommodation during the trek.
Exclusions generally cover international airfare, Nepali visa fees, travel insurance, personal expenses (showers, charging, snacks), beverages, and tips.
For a detailed breakdown please refer to Cost Details.
The high permit fee is a deliberate policy by the Nepal government to limit the number of tourists.
This strategy helps to preserve the unique, fragile culture and pristine environment of the Upper Mustang region from the impacts of mass tourism.
In this package, accommodation on the trek is in basic but clean and welcoming teahouses (lodges) on twin-sharing rooms and shared bathroom facilities.
Luxurious options are available till Lo-Manthang (at an added cost), but the options are severly limited on the eastern trail (Yara, Tangee and Tetang). Please contact us for more information.
It is recommended to budget approximately USD $25-35 per day for personal expenses.
This will cover costs such as hot showers, charging electronics, Wi-Fi (where available), extra snacks, beverages, and tips for your guide and porter.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for joining this trek.
The policy must cover high-altitude trekking up to at least 4,300 m and, crucially, include emergency medical evacuation by helicopter.
Depending on how you plan to arrive at Kathmandu, we will arrange for you to rendezvous at your hotel in Thamel. In most cases, you will arrive at Kathmandu via Tribhuvan International Airport where you will meet your guide.
In the evening, you will join for a program briefing with your group members. In case you arrive late at night, you will meet your group members next day at breakfast during which you will also be briefed about your program.
You've the morning to yourselves as Himalayan Ecstasy sorts out your Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit and ACAP.
Early afternoon, you'll embark on a spectacular 25-minute flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan range to Pokhara. The rest of the day is at leisure in Pokhara, a serene city nestled by Phewa Lake, with the iconic spire of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak dominating the skyline.
The journey begins with a four-hour drive deep into the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world's deepest. From the village of Lete, an essential acclimatization hike of four to five hours leads to the beautiful Titi Lake. This walk offers the first close-up views of the colossal Dhaulagiri massif, preparing the body for the altitudes to come.
You'll drive to Dhumba Lake, a glacial lake fed by the ice melt from Nilgiri, en-route to Jomsom and continue up the valley to the medieval village of Kagbeni.
Here, at the official checkpoint, the mandatory Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are presented. This marks the formal entry into the forbidden Kingdom of Lo. Time is allocated to explore Kagbeni's labyrinthine alleys and ancient monastery before driving onward to the overnight stop in Samar.
A challenging day of ascents and descents through dramatic, eroded canyons. The trail crosses the first of many high passes, offering expansive views. A key highlight is a visit to Chungsi Cave, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated.
The day involves a significant climb to the Keke La at 4,030 m, a windswept saddle adorned with prayer flags that offers vast, panoramic views across the Mustang landscape. From the pass, a long descent leads to the village of Ghami, one of the largest settlements in the region, nestled by a river.
A day rich in cultural landmarks. The route passes the spectacular, blood-red cliffs of Dhakmar, a place steeped in local legend. A visit is made to the ancient Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in the region. The trail then passes Nepal's longest Mani wall before arriving in Tsarang, a village distinguished by its large, crumbling fortress and an impressive red monastery.
The trail descends into a canyon, crosses the Tsarang Chu river, and then begins a steady climb towards the Lo La pass (3,850 m). This pass offers the iconic, long-awaited first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang, a breathtaking sight in the vast, arid basin below.
A fascinating day trip into the Chhoser valley, exploring the region's famous sky caves. The primary destination is the Jhong Cave, an incredible five-story complex with over 40 rooms carved directly into the cliff face. The excursion also includes visits to the nearby ancient monasteries of Lo-Nifu and Lo-Gurfu.
The trek now enters its more remote eastern circuit. The day begins with a descent to the village of Dhi, followed by a crossing of the Kali Gandaki river. A challenging climb on the other side leads to the village of Yara, which is dramatically set amidst towering, fluted cliffs and rock formations.
This is a long and demanding day across a remote, high-desert plateau. The trail is undulating and exposed, requiring high stamina. A key challenge is the crossing of the Dhechyang Khola, a river that may need to be forded depending on water levels. Tangge is a beautiful, fortified village that feels wonderfully isolated.
The trek's ultimate physical challenge. The day involves a very long and steep ascent to the highest point of the entire journey, the Paa Pass at 4,205 m. The summit provides extraordinary views. This is followed by an equally long and demanding descent into the valley, finally reaching the village of Tetang.
The final trekking day crosses one last pass, the Giyu La at 4,077 m, before descending to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath. This marks the re-entry into the bustling Annapurna Circuit region, a stark contrast to the solitude of the past week.
The morning is dedicated to exploring the holy Muktinath temple complex, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, with its 108 water spouts and eternal flame. Afterward, a short 45-minute drive leads back to the district headquarters of Jomsom.
An early morning flight provides a final, thrilling 25-minute aerial journey through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, with stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. The rest of the day is for relaxation in Pokhara.
This essential buffer day accounts for the high probability of weather-related flight delays or cancellations from Jomsom, ensuring the international departure is not jeopardized. You'll have the day at leisure to explore the vibrant lakeside city on your own.
A morning flight returns to Kathmandu, with the remainder of the day free for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxation.
In the evening, you're invitied to join a farewell dinner celebrating your Upper Mustang journey.
Depending upon your exit plans, with the most probable being your return flight back home, your guide or a representative will accompany you to the Tribhuvan International Airport.