Upper Mustang Trek

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  • Duration 17 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • CountryNepal
  • Maximum Altitude 3800
  • Starts Jomsom
  • Ends Lo-Mangthang
  • Best Time March-May, September-November

Upper Mustang Trek: Explore the Enchanting Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal

Upper Mustang is a trans-Himalayan area in Nepal. It has always remained a separate kingdom with a ruling king, and the Nepal government has forever honoured that.

Located untouched from the rest of the country in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Mustang has grown into a place unaffected by modernization. Even though the region is geographically isolated, it is culturally enriching.

On the Upper Mustang trek, you will travel beyond the lush Himalayan valleys. You will discover canyons, semi-sand deserts, high cliffs, vast pastures, mud houses, and arid landscapes. Different from what you may have pictured about trekking in Nepal, right?

The journey takes you close to the northern Nepal-Tibet border where Lo Manthang is situated. Lo Manthang is the capital of Upper Mustang. It goes by the names Last Forbidden Kingdom and The Walled City.

Until 1992, foreigners were only allowed to enter Upper Mustang on special requests for research purposes or if they wanted to make a documentary. After 1992, the region was opened for treks and tours for travelers from around the world.

Even though the Upper Mustang still remains a restricted area in Nepal for foreigners, traveling here is much more accessible now. We will help you obtain the permits, arrange the logistics, and provide a local guide.

Are you ready to embark on this magical once-in-a-lifetime venture? Join us and get the best Upper Mustang trek service and cost.

Highlights

  • Explore the famous tourist cities of Nepal- Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Explore a trans-Himalayan rain shadow area in Nepal
  • Witness stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri mountains 
  • Geographically isolated, it is culturally enriching
  • Peaceful trails, ancient monasteries, and welcoming locals
  • Discover canyons, semi-sand deserts, high cliffs, vast pastures, and mud houses
  • Explore Lo Manthang, Last Forbidden Kingdom & The Walled City
  • A journey packed with the adventure of a lifetime
  • Explore the famous sky caves and see the daily lives of the locals
  • Enjoy warm hospitality and humble service
  • Visit Namgyal Gompa, Champa Lhakhang, Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, and Ghar Gompa
  • Hike to Tingkhar, the last village in the northwest

Trek Overview

A perfect blend of adventure and cultural engagement

The Upper Mustang trek is both adventurous and culturally rich. The region is steeped in Tibetan Buddhism and has several thousands of years-old monasteries. The locals are strongly tied to their roots and ancient beliefs.

Their lifestyle, food, and practices are very similar to their ancestors. That's why we say Upper Mustang trekking is like traveling back in time. You will experience very warm hospitality in the villages. There is nothing fancy, but locals love to share their humble service.

Namgyal Gompa, Champa Lhakhang, Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, and Ghar Gompa are some of the monasteries you will visit during the trek. Apart from Ghar Gompa, all of them are situated in Lo Manthang. Ghar Gompa is located in Gyakar.

There are also many stupas, chortens, and mani walls all around the region. Choose Caves, also known as Sky Caves, is another highlight of the Upper Mustang trek. These caves once housed humans thousands of years ago. Most of them are unexplored because of their instability.

Likewise, you will also hike to Tingkhar, the last village in the northwest. Crossing the border is not allowed. On the adventure side, you will cross numerous passes during the trek. All of them are under 4,000 meters. The trails go through narrow canyons and high cliff sides.

Mountains like Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri are seen from many parts of the trail. Apart from them, you will see many unique rocks, barren peaks, and green pastures. Fields of potatoes, barley, and wheat also add to the scenery.

Explore Upper Mustang by car or bike

If you have ever wanted to explore the Himalayas in the comfort of a car, then Upper Mustang is your destination. It is the only trekking region in Nepal that can be explored using the vehicle. The roads are mostly well-made, with a few rocky sections.

You can start the Upper Mustang car tour from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Likewise, travelers who love biking can also travel to the Upper Mustang on a bike. You have to bring an international driving licence for that. We will help you rent a perfect alpine bike. Note that you have to be a strong and experienced biker.

Tiji festival and trekking during this time

Tiji Festival is the biggest festival in Lo Manthang. It is a three-day event that celebrates the victory of the deity Dorje Jono, who destroyed a demon that had caused droughts and chaos in the region.

In 2025, the Tiji festival will be celebrated on May 24th, 25th, and 26th. Plan your trek according to this date if you want to experience the festival. During these three days of festivities, locals perform ancient rituals, traditional mask dances, and spiritual practices.

You can see traditional instruments, huge mandalas, and many antiques. It will be a very fascinating, heartwarming, and spiritually magnificent period.

Summer/monsoon trekking

The rain shadow location of the Upper Mustang makes it suitable for trekking in the summer/monsoon seasons. So, you can do the Upper Mustang trek 17 days from March to November. There is no to very little rainfall in the Upper Mustang.

While travelling from Kathmandu to Kagbeni, you will face rainfall and unstable weather. However, the weather stabilizes once you enter the Upper Mustang with little to no rainfall.

Guide and porter

Upper Mustang is a restricted area, so trekking with a guide is compulsory. On top of that, you have to join a trek that is organized by a local trekking company like ours. Independent guides cannot help you obtain restricted area permits.

We will provide a local guide for the Upper Mustang trek and a strong porter. The guide's job is to show you the route, ensure your safety, and share information about the region and the locals. Likewise, the porter will support you by carrying your duffel bag.

The company of a guide and porter will make your Upper Mustang trek very satisfying, fun, and entertaining. If you are happy with their service, feel free to tip them as a thank-you gesture.

Preparation for Upper Mustang Trek

Are you ready to embark on the Upper Mustang trek? Do you want to experience this magical trek but are unsure whether you are fit for the journey? Let us help you clear up this question.

The most important requirement for the Upper Mustang trek is 6 hours of daily walking. If you are capable of it, you can do this trek. We will help you with acclimatization and other things, but you have to push yourself.

Exercise, take long walks, and do a few day hikes near you. Engage in these activities consistently for at least 4 to 6 weeks, and you will be physically and mentally ready for the trek.

Likewise, you have to pack proper clothes and gear for the Upper Mustang trek. Read the packing list below to have a general idea of clothes, gear, and essentials you need for the Upper Mustang trek 17 days:

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  • Comfortable, breathable underwear
  • Base layer and thermal layer
  • Trekking t-shirts and pants
  • Down jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket and pant
  • Thermal socks, gloves, beanie, and scarf
  • Dry towel
  • Hiking socks
  • Trekking boots and a causal pair of shoes/slippers
  • Duffel bag and day pack
  • Trekking poles, UV ray protection sunglass, sun hat, sleeping bag and liner
  • Reusable water bottles and water purification tablets
  • Portable torch, knife, map
  • Personal first aid kit (bandaids, insect repellant, ointment, hand sanitizer, crack bandage, pain relief gel/spray, general medicine, etc)
  • Toiletries (deodorant, SPF, lip balm, toilet paper, wet tissues, moisturizer, comb, toothpaste/brush, soap, etc)
  • Snacks, nuts, energy bars, ORS (electrolyte powder)

Proper preparation is essential for the Upper Mustang Trek:

  • Physical Fitness: Engage in regular exercise, focusing on cardio and strength training.

  • Acclimatization: Spend time at higher altitudes to help your body adjust.

  • Proper Gear: Ensure you have the right gear, including sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, quality backpack, sleeping bag, and first aid kit.

  • Mental Preparation: Be ready for the physical and mental challenges of the trek.

  • Hydration: Maintain proper hydration throughout the trek.

Requirements for Upper Mustang Trek

Trekkers must fulfil certain requirements for the Upper Mustang Trek:

  • Group Requirement: Solo trekking is prohibited; trekkers must be in a group of at least two.

  • Permits: A special immigration permit, ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit, and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card are required.

  • Licensed Guide: Only government-licensed trekking guides can take trekkers to the region.

Unique Aspects of Upper Mustang

  • Lomanthang: The capital of Upper Mustang, a walled city with ancient monasteries and a mystical atmosphere.

  • Hill Caves: Cultural and natural attractions where people once took shelter during famine and war.

  • Tiji Festival: Celebrated in May, marking the victory of truth and good deeds over evil.

  • Ideal Monsoon Trek: Upper Mustang is a rain shadow area, making it suitable for trekking even during the monsoon season.

  • Overland Jeep Tour vs. Trekking: While the road network allows for jeep tours, trekking offers a more immersive experience.

Upper Mustang Trek Distances, Durations, and Elevations

Trekking RouteDistance (Kilometers)Duration (Hours)Altitude (Meters)
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara2058 to 9822
Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom6820 to 25 Minutes2720
Trek from Jomsom to Kagbeni11.43 to 42810
Trek from Kagbeni to Chele11.25 to 63055
Trek from Chele to Syangboche11.55 to 63930
Trek from Syangboche to Ghami9.35 to 63520
Trek from Ghami to Charang11.25 to 63560
Trek from Charang to Lo-Manthang11.55 to 63810
Trek from Lo-Manthang to Yara166 to 73650
Trek from Yara to Tangge167 to 83340
Trek from Tangge to Chhusang249 to 102980
Trek from Chhusang to Muktinath14.56 to 73750
Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom226 to 72720
Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara6820 to 25 Minutes822
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu2058 to 91400

 

Experience and safety with Top Of The World Adventure team

You will need a local expert team for a successful and satisfying trek. We, Top Of The World Adventure, will provide you with genuine guidance, an experienced guide, and a reasonable Upper Mustang trek cost.

Another main requirement for this trek is that you have to be in a group of at least two trekkers. There is nothing to worry about if you are in a group of 2 or more trekkers. However, travellers visiting Nepal solo and wanting to do the Upper Mustang trek can join our group departure.

Our groups are small (2 to 8 trekkers). In addition to that, we are flexible with our itinerary. You can customize it as well. We guarantee a safe and hassle-free trip with us. If you have any more questions about the trek, feel free to contact us. Bookings are open for the Upper Mustang Trek 2025.

Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary

Starts from: Jomsom Ends to: Lo-Mangthang
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Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, the Top of the World Adventure team will be there to greet you. After collecting your baggage, you'll find our agency inside the international arrival tunnel. Our friendly airport staff will brief you on your trip and provide you with all necessary vouchers. You will then be comfortably transferred to your hotel. In the evening, meet your dedicated trekking guide who will assist with final checks of your trekking equipment.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

Spend half of the morning visiting famous tourist sites in Kathmandu with a tour guide and the rest of the day preparing for the trek. Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and Bouddhanath Stupa.

While visiting these places, you will gain a good understanding of Nepali culture, traditions, art, and architecture. After the tour, you will get some rest and later meet us for the trek briefing. Then, you will shop for trekking essentials and pack your duffle bags.

 

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

You will travel to Pokhara today. The ride will be comfortable. The route is scenic, so you will be trained throughout the way. You can see beautiful views of lush hills, terraces, rivers, waterfalls, and mountains.

In the evening, visit Phewa Lake to enjoy a beautiful sunset and explore Lakeside Market after that. If anything remains to purchase for the trek, get it today. Also, withdraw some money for personal expenses during trekking.

 

  • Max Altitude: 850m
  • Meals: Breakfast,
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

You will take an early morning flight to Jomsom. The flight will be short but very scenic, with excellent mountain views. Upon landing in Jomsom, get ready to trek to Kagebni. Porters will join you here.

Walk through the bustling streets of Jomsom and gradually ascend to Kagbeni. You will see mountains like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, etc. The trail is rugged.

 

  • Max Altitude: 2800m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

We will register our restricted area permits at the police checkpost and continue trekking to Kagbeni. The trail enters Upper Mustang. You will trek past the narrow alleys of Kagbeni and gradually ascend to Tangbe. From here, you will ascend to Chele, passing by barley and buckwheat fields.

  • Max Altitude: 3050m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today, we have a long day ahead of us. We will cross two passes- Taklam La pass (3,624 m/11,890 ft) and Darjori La pass (3,735 m/12,254 ft). Even though the passes are not high, the steep terrain demands care. Enjoy stunning mountain views and arid landscapes as you descend to Samar village. From Samar, you will follow a steep route to Syanbochen.

  • Max Altitude: 3475m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The trail ascends from Syanbochen to Ghami. You will cross the Yamada La (3,850 m/12,631 ft) and pass by small settlements and chortens on the way. As you trek ahead, you will see many barley fields. Gradually ascend Nyi La pass (4,010 m/13,156 ft) and descend to Ghami for the night stay.

  • Max Altitude: 3500m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Leaving Ghami, you will follow a steep, rugged trail and descend to Ghami Khola. Cross the river using a suspension bridge. You will pass by mani walls on the way and slowly ascend to Tsarang La pass (3,870 m/12,697 ft).

The view from the top of the pass is extremely beautiful. Further, the trail ascends to the Tsarang Chu canyon, where the Tsarang village is situated. Here, you will explore an ancient fortress and gompa.

 

  • Max Altitude: 3560m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Descend from the Tsarang Chu canyon. The trail is steep, so you have to be extra careful. Cross a river and follow a steep route that ascends to Lo La pass (3,950 m/12,959 ft).

You can see superb mountain views of Tilicho Peak, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Bhrikuti Peak. The trail then descends from the pass and goes along a long mani wall to Lo Manthang. 

 

  • Max Altitude: 3840m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinne
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today is your rest day in Lo Manthang, so you will have a full day to explore in and around the village. Wake up early and have a delicious breakfast.

After that, you will hike to Namgyal Gompa, the spiritual centre for locals. Likewise, hike to the northwest of Lo Manthang to explore Tingkhar. It is the last village.

You will also visit the Chooser Caves, also known as Sky Caves. A few other monasteries you will visit are the Entrance Hall, Champa Lhakhang, Chyodi Gompa, and Thugchen Gompa, later in Lo Manthang.

 

  • Max Altitude: 3840m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahosue

Leave Lo Manthang early in the morning and descend to Dhakmar. The trail goes past Gyakar, where you will visit Ghar Gompa. This monastery's history dates back 1,2000 years. Explore the monastery and gradually descend to Dhakmar, enjoying air landscapes on the way.

  • Max Altitude: 3810m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The trail from Dhakmar to Ghiling gets quite windy, so it is important that you start this day as early as possible. You will follow a downhill route and pass by farming fields. While trekking, enjoy striking views of Mt. Nilgiri and Mt. Dhaulagiri.

  • Max Altitude: 3860m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The trail goes through small settlements and high cliffs. You will be describing most of the time. While passing by villages, see the daily lifestyle of the locals. Mountain views and vast sand field views are exceptional. The trail is steep in some sections, so be cautious.

  • Max Altitude: 3050m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today is your last day of the trek. You will trek back to Jomsom. Leaving Chhuksang village, you will descend to Kagbeni. See vast meadows, unique rocks, high cliffs, and lovely snow-covered mountains on the way. Walk through the narrow alleys of Kagbeni and descend to Jomsom.

 

  • Max Altitude: 2715m
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

You will take a short flight back to Pokhara. Enjoy the last spectacular views of the Himalayan mountains during the flight. The remaining day is free in Pokhara. Have a trek celebration and spend the day as you wish. Visit the spa and shop for souvenirs.

Note: The Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara flight operates mainly during the trekking seasons in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). At other times, you may need to use roadway transportation.

  • Max Altitude: 822m
  • Meals: Breakfast,
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

Follow the same highway, and drive back to Kathmandu. The guide will drop you at your hotel. The remaining day is free in the city. It is also your last day, so visit local markets and buy souvenirs.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

We will drop you at the international airport terminal for your flight back home. Our team will pick you up on time, so make sure you are all packed and ready to leave the hotel.

  • Meals: Breakfast
Still Confuse?

Download brochure or customize your trip.

Route Map

upper-mustang-trek-map

Altitude Graph

Upper Mustang Trek Altitude Graph

Upper Mustang Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • Arrival and departure by private vehicle
  • Kathmandu sightseeing by private car with tour guide
  • Kathmandu and Pokhara hotel with breakfast
  • Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by tourist bus
  • Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara flight fares
  • Restricted area permit
  • TIMS
  • Annapurna conservation permit
  • Trekking guide (food, accommodation, salary, insurance)
  • Teahouse accomodation in mountain
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during trekking
  • First aid tool box

Excludes

  • Bar bills
  • Entrance fee for Kathmandu sightseeing
  • Visa fee
  • International flight fare
  • Travels insurance
  • Trekking equipment 
  • Tips
  • Lunch and Dinner except trekking time

Add-ons and Options

Options & Extras for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

  • Pokhara Sightseeing Extension
    Take advantage of the World Peace Pagoda, Devi's Falls, and Phewa Lake boating during your day or two in Pokhara, or simply relax in the bustling lakeside community.

  • Jhinu Danda Hot Springs
    Take a detour to Jhinu Danda's natural hot springs after the hike to unwind and relieve your tense muscles.

  • Intercultural Exchanges
    Take a guided village tour in Ghandruk or Ghorepani, visit local museums, or enroll in a Nepali cooking class to learn about Gurung and Magar customs.

  • Private Room Upgrades
    Do you want to feel more at ease? You can request private rooms (subject to availability) at teahouses instead of the usual twin-sharing rooms.

  • Porter Service
    Hire a porter to carry your main backpack so you can enjoy the hike with a light daypack for a more relaxed experience.

Additional Info

Upper Mustang trek permit

For the Upper Mustang trek, you will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and a restricted area permit. We will get the ACAP permit on your behalf, but you have to be present to get a restricted area permit. Both permit fees are covered in our Upper Mustang trek cost.

For your information, ACAP costs USD 30 per person, and the restricted area permit costs USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and USD 50 per person per day after that. Yes, a restricted area permit is expensive.

Upper Mustang trek difficulty

Trekking to Upper Mustang is challenging because it involves steep trails and many passes. The high altitude, remote locations, arid climate, and offbeat terrain make this trek tough. So, we recommend it to experienced trekkers with decent fitness.

Note that the Upper Mustang trek is not as demanding as the circuit trek in Nepal. However, it is more difficult than treks like Langtang Valley, Annapurna Base Camp, and Ghorepani Poon Hill. Beginner trekkers can also do the Upper Mustang trek with proper preparation.

Altitude sickness during the trek

Like most of the treks in the Himalayas, altitude sickness is a concern during the Upper Mustang trek. It happens when you are not used to high elevation and see drastic altitude gain quickly.

Following our Upper Mustang trek itinerary, you will ascend gradually, so you will have ample time to acclimate and avoid altitude sickness. Likewise, follow the below instructions to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness during the trek:

  • Have lots of warm soups and teas during trekking, and get ample rest daily.
  • Drink at least two liters of water.
  • Avoid alcoholic drinks and smoking while ascending. Dehydration will make you prone to altitude sickness.
  • Be aware of symptoms like headache, difficulty breathing, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, and insomnia. If you experience these symptoms, you must immediately inform your guide and get medicine.
  • Ascend slowly and have a constant pace.

Travel insurance for the Upper Mustang trek

Restricted area treks like the Upper Mustang compulsory demand travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation and medical bills. You are not allowed to do this trek without proper travel insurance coverage.

*There is no good provision for travel insurance in Nepal. So, foreigners are recommended to purchase travel insurance with the necessary coverage in their country. Make sure to bring the insurance documents with you. We need it before the trek starts.

When should you do the Upper Mustang trek?

March, April, May, September, October, and November are the best months in terms of weather and climate for the Upper Mustang trek. This means most tourists visit the Upper Mustang in these months. The trail is not crowded thanks to expensive permits, so you will enjoy a peaceful trail.

You can also do the Upper Mustang trekking between June and August. The region does not see rainfall in the monsoon, but you have to get ready for a scorching hot climate. Heavy rainfall will make your journey from Kathmandu to Jomsom a bit annoying, but once you enter Upper Mustang, a clear sky, and dry trails will welcome you.

December to February is the coldest time of the year. If you do not mind cold weather, you will also enjoy the Upper Mustang trek in winter. Note that even some locals descend to lower elevations to spend winter seasons, so there will be limited tea houses.

Food and accommodation during the trek

You will stay in tourist-standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara. During trekking, you will spend nights in tea houses. We will book twin shared rooms. Single rooms are also available, but they cost a few extra bucks.

The amenities are very limited during trekking. Services like charging, Wi-Fi, and hot showers cost extra money, so trekkers have to bear these personal expenses by themselves. You can carry a solar power bank, wet wipes, and a local tourist SIM for backup.

The network remains unstable and even unavailable in many parts of the trail. The rooms in tea houses are small, simple, and cozy. A sleeping bag is a must. Similarly, you will have meals in the tea houses. You will get breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.

Apart from these three meals, you can buy more food and drinks on your own. Nepali and Tibetan dishes, with some Western options, will be available. Some staples are dal bhat, fried rice, thukpa, thenduk, Tibetan bread, momo, noodles, mashed potatoes, pancakes, pies, soups, porridge, stew, pudding, etc.

Likewise, boiled drinking water is readily available in all villages. Refilling your water bottle is very cheap compared to the price of plastic water bottles. You will only get breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

 

Upper Mustang Trek FAQs

The Upper Mustang trek difficulty is moderate to challenging. The starting part of the trek is moderate because you will be walking on less rugged terrain. However, as you go deep into the region, the terrain gets steep and rocky and crosses many minor passes.

The Upper Mustang is a fairly long trek. Our itinerary is 17 days long, but you can customize it to meet your time.

The Upper Mustang trek starts from Jomsom. You can take a short flight from Pokhara to Jomsom or drive around 7 to 8 hours.

The Upper Mustang trek cost ranges between USD 1800 to USD 3500 per person. The itinerary you follow, group size, and services in the package determine the cost.

Upper Mustang is famous for its gorgeous arid landscapes, less busy trails, striking views of the Annapurna, Dhualagiri, and Nilgiri mountains, ancient monasteries, grand canyons, sky caves, unique rocks, vast meadows, and welcoming locals.

The Upper Mustang has a border with Tibet, which is one of the biggest reasons to restrict foreigners to this area. Likewise, the region's rich cultural heritage, diverse archaeological values, and unique ecosystem also make it a restricted area.

There is no direct bus from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Upper Mustang. However, you can travel in a shared or private jeep. Likewise, biking is another famous way to travel to Upper Mustang among the locals.

Snow falls in Upper Mustang between mid-December and mid-February, which is also the coldest time of the year.

There are a few ways to travel from Kathmandu to Mustang. We have mentioned them below:

  • Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Take a jeep ride from Pokhara to Jomsom and start trekking from here.
  • Take a short flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and trek from here.
  • Enjoy biking from Pokhara to Upper Mustang.

Upper Mustang is located around 462 kilometers away from Kathmandu.

Muktinath Temple is located in Lower Mustang. It is one of the most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites in Nepal, and is highly recommended.

You can hike to Tingkhar, the last village in the northwest. Similarly, if you have followed the standard route (western Kali Gandaki route) while ascending, follow the eastern route while descending, which is much more wild. Similarly, we also recommend visiting Luri Gompa and Lubra Gompa.

This is our regular Upper Mustang trek package, which you can do any time of the year. If you want to participate in a festival, you can do the trek around the Tiji festival or Lhosar. It's a great time to see locals gathering to celebrate, dance, and pray together.

Yes, trekking with a guide in the Upper Mustang is mandatory. A porter is optional. Trekking with a local Nepali guide and trekking company is compulsory in all restricted areas in Nepal.

You can get food like rice with veggies and lentil soup, fried rice, rice with curry, eggs, meat, thukpa, thenduk, Tibetan bread, momos, noodles, French fries, burgers, pasta, pancakes, porridges, pudding, apple pie, etc.