Journey to Nepal's 'Forbidden Kingdom' of Mustang, a land of ancient Tibetan culture and stunning rain-shadow landscapes. A challenging trek for those seeking deep history and a profound Himalayan adventure.
Journey to Nepal's 'Forbidden Kingdom' of Mustang, a land of ancient Tibetan culture and stunning rain-shadow landscapes. A challenging trek for those seeking deep history and a profound Himalayan adventure.
The name Mustang has a certain ring to it, conjuring images of a remote mountain land steeped in centuries-old complex culture. A Tibetan enclave in Nepalese territory, this ancient kingdom was long inaccessible to foreigners, visited only by a handful of pioneering explorers such as Guiseppe Tucci and Michel Peissel. While a trek to this fabled "forbidden kingdom" became possible for a limited number of travelers in 1992, the region's mystique remains, offering an experience entirely different from the more frequented Annapurna and Everest trails.
This 18-day Upper Mustang Trek is a challenging yet highly rewarding journey for those who have already experienced the wonders of Nepal and now seek a deeper, more profound adventure. You will follow the ancient salt-trade routes that were once part of the Silk Road, which offer a vivid lesson in the resilience and unique culture of the Loba people. Bordering Tibet, the trek explores regions that have preserved authentic Tibetan culture and tradition, with Lo Manthang, the capital, as the culmination of this exceptional journey.
As you traverse one of the driest regions of Nepal, you'll be rewarded with a landscape of red cliffs, canyons, and fairy chimneys that contrast dramatically with the high peaks of the roof of the world. For those who have already experienced the wonders of Nepal and now seek a journey into a world of ancient culture, profound history, and raw natural beauty, the Upper Mustang Trek is the ultimate adventure. It is an experience that will not only challenge you physically but will enrich you culturally and spiritually.
You can time your Upper Mustang journey to include the following.
Please email us for more information.
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.
| Permit & Fee Summary (2025/2026) | ||
|
Permit Name |
Cost (USD) |
Issuing Body |
|
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) |
$500 (first 10 days) + $50/extra day |
Department of Immigration, Nepal |
|
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) |
$30 |
Nepal Tourism Board |
Key items specific to the challenges of Upper Mustang include:
For more specific details, please check our gear list section.
While this itinerary is a proven path, it can be customized to suit your specific interests or time constraints, including add-ons for the Tiji festival or more days in Lo Manthang.
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.
Light to Mid-Weight Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag with a comfort rating of around 0°C to -5°C (32°F to 23°F) is generally suitable for lodge stays during the Poon Hill trek. Teahouses provide blankets, but your own bag adds crucial warmth and hygiene.
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 have the choice of a scenic 30-minute flight or a picturesque 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara. The flight offers magnificent mountain views, while the drive provides a fascinating glimpse into Nepal’s diverse landscapes. After settling into your hotel, you are free to explore the tranquil Lakeside area.
The day begins with a thrilling 20-minute mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, the administrative center of the Mustang region. From Jomsom (2,743 m), your trek begins, following the windswept Kali Gandaki riverbed to the medieval village of Kagbeni. Known for its ancient chortens and a historic fort, Kagbeni is the official gateway to Upper Mustang. Here, a blend of Thakali and Loba cultures sets the stage for the journey into the heart of the forbidden kingdom.
Leaving Kagbeni, you officially enter the restricted area of Upper Mustang, following the classic route.
The trail ascends from the riverbed into a world of dramatic, arid landscapes. Today's trek involves navigating rocky paths and gradual climbs. You will witness the striking contrast between the green oases of the villages and the barren cliffs and canyons, a defining feature of the region's rain-shadow geography.
This is a long and challenging day with several ascents and descents over high passes. You will cross the Taklam La Pass (3,624 m) and Darjori La Pass (3,735 m), which provide stunning views of the surrounding peaks. En route, you will visit the sacred Chungsi Cave, a revered meditation site with a deep spiritual connection to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. After a final ascent to the welcoming village of Syangmochen, you can reflect on the powerful legends etched into the very landscape.
Another long day of trekking on the classic route lies ahead.
Today's journey takes you to the heart of the kingdom. You will cross the high Nyi La Pass (4,010 m), the highest point of the main trail, which offers expansive views of the vast, arid plateaus. The trail then descends, leading you to the magnificent village of Tsarang. This village is home to a massive monastery and a crumbling five-story palace, which legend says was built using a human backbone as a pillar.
Finally, you arrive at the the walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo Manthang.
The trail is relatively short, building a sense of anticipation for your arrival in Lo Manthang. After settling into your accommodation, the afternoon is dedicated to exploring the city's ancient mud walls, narrow alleyways, and its three main monasteries—Jampa Gompa, Thubchen Gompa, and Choede Gompa—which house some of the finest murals in the Himalayas.
This is a dedicated day of cultural immersion and exploration around Lo Manthang.
You'll hike to Chooser (3,857 m), a village known for its unique "sky caves." , where you will visit the ancient Shija Jhong Cave complex, believed to be the homes of ancient monks, as well as the revered Garphu and Niphu monasteries, which house ancient murals and relics. These sites are a testament to the region's deep and enduring spiritual history.
A challenging day of cultural exploration, today’s trek takes you to two of the region's most fascinating historical sites.
You will visit the Konchok Ling and Ritseling caves, ancient hermitages and homes carved into the dramatic rock faces, offering a glimpse into the isolated lives of early inhabitants and hermits. The journey offers unique geological and historical insights that are unparalleled anywhere else in the Himalayas.
The journey back begins, but the adventure is far from over as you get to explore the significant sites of interest on the western route of the Upper Mustang trek.
The long, demanding day of trekking that takes you to the village of Ghami. You will cross the high passes of Marang La (4,295 m) and Mui La (4,135 m), which offer some of the most spectacular views of the entire trek.
Along the way, you'll visit the ancient Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in the world, believed to have been built by Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century. Legend says that a wish made here will be fulfilled. You'll also see the striking red cliffs of Dhakmar, where it is said Guru Rinpoche killed a demon, leaving the cliffs stained with its blood.
Another long and rewarding day of trekking. You'll rectrace your steps back to the picturesque village of Samar, a traditional trading post along the ancient salt route.
Today is a shorter, more relaxed day as you descend to Chhusang for some well-deserved rest. The village is known for its dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations.
The rest of the day is at your leisure. You can request an optional excursion to the small settlement of Tetang is you wish to continue exploring.
This is your last day in Upper Mustang as you retrace your steps back to Kagbeni.
From there, you will continue to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Here, you can witness the peaceful coexistence of Hindu and Buddhist faiths, with its famous temples and 108 water spouts. It is a powerful cultural and spiritual highlight to end your trek.
Today, you'll begin your final long descent. Instead of following the motorable road to Jomsom, you'll detour you via the traditional village of Lupra, known for its Bon monastery, offering a final unique cultural encounter. The trail descends through the Kali Gandaki valley, eventually leading you back to the bustling town of Jomsom, where you can celebrate the completion of your trek.
You have the choice of a 20-minute flight or a scenic 7-8 hour drive back to Pokhara. The flight offers a final, sweeping view of the Himalayan ranges, while the drive provides a more in-depth experience of the beautiful landscape.
The morning is yours to relax by the lakeside in Pokhara, reflecting on the incredible journey. In the afternoon, you will take a short flight back to the capital, Kathmandu.
This is a free day in Kathmandu to unwind, explore the city, and shop for souvenirs. You can visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites you may have missed or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
In the evening, you're invited to a farewell dinner celebrating your trip in Nepal.
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.
We spent three weeks with Rinzi and Bibek and really enjoyed our time -- Annapurna Circuit, Upper Mustang, and Mardi Himal. We also found Sujan excellent to work with.
Three paired characteristics stand out and let us...