Explore Adventures

Upper Mustang Trek

Journey to the forbidden kingdom of Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang. This restricted-area trek reveals an ancient Tibetan kingdom with cave cities, colorful monasteries, and dramatic desert landscapes.

14 Days
3840m Max
Moderate

From

$1649

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4.9(145 reviews)
Jomsom to Jomsom

About This Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most iconic and sought-after trekking experiences in the Mustang Region of Nepal. This 14-day journey takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Himalayas, reaching a maximum altitude of 3840m.

Journey to the forbidden kingdom of Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang. This restricted-area trek reveals an ancient Tibetan kingdom with cave cities, colorful monasteries, and dramatic desert landscapes.

Throughout the trek, you'll experience the rich culture and warm hospitality of the local communities. The trail passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and breathtaking mountain viewpoints. Our experienced guides ensure your safety and comfort while sharing their deep knowledge of the region's history, flora, and fauna.

This trek is rated as "Moderate" and is ideal for trekkers with some experience who want a genuine mountain challenge without extreme technical demands.

Duration14 Days
Max Altitude3840m
DifficultyModerate
Group Size2-12

Trek Highlights

Ancient walled city of Lo Manthang

Forbidden Kingdom exploration

Tibetan Buddhist monastery art

10,000-year-old sky caves

Mars-like desert landscapes

Preserved medieval culture

Trekking during monsoon season

Unique rain-shadow geography

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel. Welcome dinner and trek briefing with your guide. Explore Thamel district if time permits.

1400m
12.1km approx.

Travel to the trek starting point. Depending on the route, this may involve a scenic flight or a drive through beautiful Nepalese countryside. Brief orientation walk in the afternoon.

2776m
8.8km approx.

Trek through lush valleys, suspension bridges, and terraced hillsides. Approximate walking time: 5 hours.

2796m
9.9km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

3016m
13.6km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 8 hours.

3213m
8.8km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 5 hours.

3398m
13.5km approx.

Rest day for proper acclimatization. Optional short hike to a nearby viewpoint for stunning views. This day is crucial for adapting to the altitude and ensuring your safety for the higher sections ahead.

3573m
15km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

3742m
14.7km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

3646m
14.8km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 6 hours.

3373m
17.7km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

3160m
11.7km approx.

Trek through lush valleys, suspension bridges, and terraced hillsides. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

2972m
9.4km approx.

Final day of trekking. Descend through forests and villages. Celebration dinner with the trekking team in the evening.

2483m
12.6km approx.

Return to Kathmandu by flight or vehicle. Free time for shopping and sightseeing. Farewell dinner with the team to celebrate your achievement.

1400m
8.5km approx.

What's Included

Included

  • Airport & hotel pickup/drop-off
  • All ground transportation
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • Comfortable teahouse accommodation
  • Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • All necessary permits and entry fees
  • First aid kit and oximeter
  • Sleeping bag (if required)
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
  • Trek completion certificate
  • Government taxes and service charges

Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal trekking gear and clothing
  • Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, etc.)
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Alcoholic and bottled beverages
  • Hot showers and device charging (where available)
  • Emergency evacuation costs (covered by insurance)
  • Any costs arising from itinerary changes due to weather or health

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this trek.

The Upper Mustang Trek is rated as "Moderate". This trek requires a good level of fitness and some prior trekking experience. You should be comfortable walking 5-7 hours per day on varied terrain. We recommend starting a fitness routine at least 6-8 weeks before your trek.
The best seasons for the Upper Mustang Trek are Spring (Mar-Jun), Autumn (Sep-Nov). During these periods, you can expect stable weather, clear skies, and excellent mountain views. The autumn season (September-November) typically offers the clearest visibility, while spring (March-May) brings beautiful rhododendron blooms. Monsoon (June-August) and winter (December-February) are generally not recommended due to heavy rainfall and extreme cold respectively.
The trek price of $1649 per person includes airport/hotel transfers, all ground transportation, experienced English-speaking guide, porters (1 per 2 trekkers), all accommodation during the trek, three meals per day, necessary permits and entry fees, first aid kit, and a comprehensive pre-trek briefing. Government taxes and service charges are also included.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Your policy must cover emergency helicopter evacuation up to $50,000, trek-related accidents, trip cancellation, and medical treatment at altitudes up to 3840m. We can recommend reputable insurance providers that cater specifically to high-altitude trekking.
We recommend starting your training at least 6-8 weeks before the trek. Focus on cardiovascular fitness (running, cycling, swimming), leg strength exercises (squats, lunges, stair climbing), and practice hikes with a loaded backpack. Try to include some uphill walking to simulate trail conditions. Yoga and stretching are also beneficial for flexibility and mental preparation.
The Mustang Region is a restricted trekking area in Nepal. You will need a Special Restricted Area Permit in addition to the standard TIMS card. These permits require trekking with a registered agency (which we provide) and a minimum group size. All permit costs are included in our trek price, and we handle the entire permit application process on your behalf.