Upper Mustang trek is a popular destination for trekking in Nepal due to its unique desert-like terrain, unique history, and culture of Thakalis, Gurung, or, in traditional Mustang, primarily Tibetan. Upper Mustang is one of the best Annapurna region treks in Nepal.
The Upper Mustang region lies in and around the Annapurna conservation area. So as you trek to Upper Mustang, you can witness glorious mountain ranges - including Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), and Manaslu (8,163m).
Upper Mustang (formerly known as Kingdom of Lo) is an upper part of Mustang District, which is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Upper Mustang is an arid river valley lying near the Annapurna Circuit in the rain shadow region of the Himalayas.
The upper Mustang area was opened for tourists in 1992. Due to decades of isolation from the outside world, it developed its tradition and culture close to the Tibetan culture and a majority of the population still speaks traditional Tibetan languages. Life in Mustang revolves around tourism, animal husbandry, and trade.
The Upper Mustang trek into the remote Trans-Himalayan Region offers spectacular trekking through a striking semi-arid desert with colorful rock formations, deep ravines, and snow-capped peaks surrounding you.
The 13 Days Upper Mustang trek itinerary starts and ends in Pokhara, and offers a mix of cultural immersion and stunning Himalayan views in the rain shadow region. The itinerary generally begins with a flight to Jomsom, followed by trekking through traditional villages like Kagbeni and Chele. The highlight is reaching Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of Mustang, before returning via a similar route.
The best time for the Upper Mustang Trek is from March to early November. The region is in a rain shadow, so it remains dry and accessible even during the monsoon months. This trek is moderate in difficulty, with daily walks of 5-7 hours on rugged terrain. Although the altitude reaches around 4,077 meters, the gradual ascent makes it manageable for most trekkers with some experience.
You will need 3 permits for the Upper Mustang Trek: the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), TIMS card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Proper packing is very essential for the trek. Your packing list should include layered clothing for varying temperatures, sturdy trekking boots, a good-quality sleeping bag, and personal essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. Trekking poles and a first-aid kit are also recommended.
Trek Facts
- Difficulty: Moderately Difficult
- Max Elevation: 4,077 m / 10,503 ft (Gyu La Pass)
- Best Time: Mar, Apr, May, June, July, Aug, Sept, Oct & Nov
- Transportation: By Road (Private / Public Vehicle)
- Trek Duration: 13 Days
- Accommodation: Hotel / Teahouse
- Per Day Walking: 5 - 7 Hours
- Trek start and End Point: Pokhara
Trek Highlights
- Visit Jomsom (2,720m / 8,915ft) - the headquarters town of Mustang District.
- Spectacular Mountain views of Annapurna (8,091), Thorung Peak, Nilgiri (7,061m), Chulu West, Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV.
- Magnificient views of Yak pastures, lakes, glaciers, gorges, and waterfalls.
- Pray and Worship at Shree Muktinath Temple - a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Walk through many Gompas, chortens, flapping prayer flags, and caves.
- Visits the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mustang - Lo Manthang.
- Ancient Buddhist monasteries.
Upper Mustang Trek Overview
The Upper Mustang trek into the remote Trans-Himalayan Region offers spectacular trekking through a striking semi-arid desert with colorful rock formations, deep ravines, and snow-capped peaks surrounding you.
Its distinct geography differs from other parts of Nepal as it lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. Geographically, the upper mustang is a part of the Tibetan plateau, and because of this, its culture resembles that of Tibetan rather than Nepali.
In the Upper Mustang region, you can explore ancient caves, monasteries, gompas, holy fossil rocks, arid landscapes, and cliffs. Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of Upper Mustang, is a small town with around 150 houses, a palace, and a 200-year-old monastery called Lhakhang. The Tiji festival in Lo-Manthang is another popular attraction for tourists seeking to experience the native culture.
Mustang lies in and around the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA). Panoramic views of mountains including Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), and Manaslu (8,163m) are an exciting part of the Upper Mustang Trek.
You can also visit an Amchi (traditional Tibetan doctor) museum and school where visitors can learn about this ancient healing art.
A few hours of walk from Lo-Manthang is Gyaka Gomap. Gyakar Gompa also known as Ghar Gompa, is an ancient and revered monastery. It is believed to be built by Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) in the 8th century during his journey to Tibet. It is a vital pilgrimage site for devotees of Tibetan Buddhism. The Gompa is believed to possess special powers of wish fulfillment, and many pilgrims visit to seek blessings and spiritual growth.
While it is no problem for those born at this altitude to travel at speed, visitors will be more leisurely in their hike to avoid any altitude-related problems. On average, walking takes 5 to 7 hours a day, and some paths are particularly windy and dusty.
Your journey begins with a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom - the headquarter of Mustang. As you fly, you can catch the stunning views of Mt Dhaulagiri and Mt Annapurna. After landing at Jomsom, you will start your trek to Kagbeni - the gateway to Upper Mustang.
After staying overnight at Kagbeni, you continue the trek to reach Chele. As you trek forward, you will come across Tangbe village, and reach Chele - your destination for the day.
From Chele, you will head to Syangboche. On the way you will pass through a settlement called Eklo Bhatti and Taklam High Pass (3,625m / 11,940ft). This trek is challenging as you will be gaining altitude of 800m. You will also pass through Samar village - known for its magnificent views of Nilgiri mountain.
Next, you will start the trek from Syangboche to Ghami. You will be crossing through Yamda La Pass (3,845m / 12,655ft) across the desert landscape reaching Geling, Tamagaun, and finally Ghami. You will stay overnight at Ghami.
From Ghami you will trek to Tsarang. Tsarang is a small town with roughly 1,000 inhabitants.
From Tsarang, you head to Lo Manthang as you will enjoy the views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I, and Brikuti Peak. You will rest and explore Lo Manthang for a day. At Lo Manthang, there are so many places to explore, such as gompas, palaces, old temples, and many more.
Lo Manthang is known for its tall whitewashed mud-brick walls, gompas and the King's Palace, a nine-cornered, five-story structure built around 1400. There are four major temples in the village: Jampa Lhakhang or Jampa Gompa, the oldest and also known as the "God house"; Thubchen Gompa, a huge, red assembly hall which was built in the late 15th century; Chodey Gompa, now the main city gompa; and the Choprang Gompa, popularly known as the "New Gompa".
After the eighth day, you return journey begins. You will leave Lo Manthang and head to Ghami.
On the ninth day, you will leave Ghami and trek to Samar. You will move forward passing Jaite and Chhukungkah to reach Samar.
After Samar, you will trek to Chhusang. On the way, you will get a chance to visit a holy site, where people believe that Padmasambhava (Tantric Buddhist Master) meditated.
The next trek destination after Chhusang is Muktinath. You will be crossing Gyu La Pass (4,077m) and join the famous Annapurna circuit trek. Shree Muktinath temple is a common holy site for Hindus and Buddhists which hosts 108 bathing spouts. Additionally, you can witness an eternal flame burning in the temple.
From Muktinath, you head to Jomsom, which marks the final day on the trails. The trail descends to Jahrkot and Khingar, leading to Jomsom, which lies at the bottom of the Kali Gandaki River Valley.
After spending a night at Jomsom, you will catch an early morning flight to Pokhara. Pokhara is the end of your trekking journey to Upper Mustang.
13 Days Upper Mustang Trek Itineraries
Day 1: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720m / 8,915ft) and trek to Kagbeni (2,800m / 9,500ft)
Flight Hours: 25 minutes
Trek Distance: 11.4km / 7miles
Highest Altitude: 2,800m / 9,500ft
Trek Duration: 4 hrs
Your journey to Upper Mustang starts with an early morning flight to Jomsom. During the flight to Jomsom, you can witness spectacular mountain views - including two eight-thousander mountains - Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.
Jomsom is the district headquarters of Mustang. The trek starts from Jomsom.
From Jomsom, the route follows a trail up the arid valley of the Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni. Kagbeni lies south of the restricted area of the Upper Mustang.
Day 2: Trek from Kagbeni (2,800m / 9,500ft) to Chele (3,055m / 10,025ft)
Trek Distance: 11.2 km / 6.9miles
Highest Altitude: 3,055m / 10,025ft
Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs
You will start the trek early in the morning, along the eastern bank of the Kali Gandaki River to Chuksang. On the way, you will get fantastic views of Mt. Nilgiri glowing from the early sun's rays. You will need sunglasses and a face mask to cover your nose and mouth since the area beside the river can be windy with dust all over the air.
After passing through the Mustang’s unique red sandstone pillars and rock formations, you will reach Tangbe Village. Then you follow a relatively narrow path to Chele, a small town along a ridge.
Day 3: Trek from Chele (3,055m / 10,025ft) to Syanmoche/Syangboche (3,930m / 11,400ft)
Trek Distance: 11.5km / 7.1miles
Highest Altitude: 3,930m / 11,400ft
Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs
Today the hiking becomes a bit harder as the altitude gain is over 800 m and you cross the Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and the Darjori La Pass (3,735m).
You can witness amazing mountain views and intriguing caves along the way.
The trail descends into Samar Village. You can catch beautiful views of Mount Nilgiri from Samar.
From Samar, you descend to a large gorge past Rangchyung Chorten and trek ahead to reach Syanmoche.
Day 4: Trek from Syanmoche (3,930m / 11,400ft) to Ghami (3,520m / 11,535ft)
From Geling, you reach Tama Gaun and climb another pass known as the Nyi La (4015 m/13,205ft). After descending from this pass trek ahead to reach Ghami. Ghami is a large village and is beautifully located and surrounded by fields.
Day 5: Trek from Ghami (3,520m / 11,535ft) to Charang/Tsarang (3505m / 11,500ft)
Trek Distance: 11.2km / 6.9miles
Highest Altitude: 3,520m / 11,535ft
Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs
The trek starts over rough and sometimes slippery as you descend to a Ghami Khola. The trail takes you to mani walls (stone-built walls with Tibetan mantras carved into the stones) and over the Charang La Pass (3,870 m).
At the top of the Charang Chu canyon lies the village of Charang or Tsarang. This village also has a fortress and red gompa to the east of it.
Day 6: Trek from Tsarang (3505m / 11,500ft) to Lo Manthang (3810m / 12,135ft)
Dropping down into a Charang Chu canyon you cross a river and ascend to the Lo La pass (3,950m). From the pass, you get the first look at the beautiful village of Lo Manthang.
You descend from Lo La Pass and enter the historic village of Lo Mathang from the north.
Day 7: Rest and exploration day in Lo Manthang
Lo Manthang is the ancient walled capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang in the northern part of Nepal. Nestled at an altitude of 3,840 meters (12,600 feet), it is one of the main highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek. This remote and culturally rich town is renowned for its historical significance, unique architecture, and well-preserved Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
Founded in 1380 by Ame Pal, Lo Manthang served as the political and cultural center of the Kingdom of Lo (Upper Mustang). The village is best known for its tall whitewashed mud-brick walls, gompas, and the royal palace.
The royal palace is one of the major attractions of the Upper Mustang trek. The four-story white-washed palace, built in the 15th century, stands as a symbol of the town's royal heritage.
Lo-Manthang is also home to four major temples - Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, Chodey Gompa, and Choprang Gompa.
Jampa Lhakhang (God House) is one of the oldest monasteries in Lo Manthang.
Thubchen Gompa is a large monastery near the royal palace.
Chodey Gompa is the main monastery of Lo Manthang, home to a large community of monks.
Choprang Gompa is also known as New Gompa.
Day 8: Trek from Lo Manthang (3,810m / 12,135ft) to Ghami (3,520m / 5,577ft)
Trek Distance: 16.1km / 10miles
Highest Altitude: 3,810m / 12,135ft
Trek Duration: 6/7 hrs
From Lo Manthang, you head towards Kagbeni.
As your journey passes through Drakmar, you head to the famous Ghar Monastery decorated with beautiful wall paint. The trek continues until you reach Ghami.
Day 9: Trek from Ghami (3,520m / 5,577ft) to Samar (3,700m / 12,139ft)
Trek Distance: 13.2km / 8.2miles
Highest Altitude: 3,700m / 12,139ft
Trek Duration: 6/7 hrs
Today, You trek through the remote and arid landscape.
You will be ascending to reach Chemi La and Yiy La passes and then descend to reach Geling.
After Geling, you descend to reach Syanmoche, but your destination lies further at Samar.
Samar is a small Tibetan-style village with mani walls, a monastery, and terraced fields.
Day 10: Trek from Samar (3,700m / 12,139ft) to Chhusang (2,980m / 9,776ft )
Trek Distance: 9.9km / 6.1miles
Highest Altitude: 2,980m / 9,776ft
Trek Duration: 5/6 hrs
From Samar, you trek to Chhusang. The trails lead to the Kali Gandaki riverbed. You cross the Kali Gandaki river and trek forward to reach Chhusang.
Day 11: Trek from Chhusang (2,980m / 9,776ft) to Muktinath (3,760m / 12,335ft)
Trek Distance:14.5km / 9miles
Highest Altitude: 3,760m / 12,335ft
Trek Duration: 6/7 hrs.
Today you will cross Gyu La Pass (4,077m) as the trek follows the world-famous Annapurna circuit trail, but you will cross the pass from a different direction. From this pass, you can see several majestic Himalayan peaks including the Annapurna range.
The trail passes through several ancient villages before reaching Muktinath. Shree Muktinath temple is an ancient Vishnu temple. The temple is known as 'the lord of liberation', and is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists whom they worship as an abode of the Hindu deity Vishnu and Buddhist deity Avalokiteśvara respectively.
Buddhists call Muktinath ‘Chumig Gyatsa’, which in Tibetan means "A Hundred Waters".
The Muktinath temple complex houses a Buddhist monastery, several Hindu shrines, 2 ponds, 108 bathing spouts, and an eternal flame.
Day 12: Trek from Muktinath (3,760m /12,335ft) to Jomsom (2,720m/8,915ft)
Trek Distance: 22km / 13.6miles
Highest Altitude: 3,760m / 12,335ft
Trek Duration: 5 hrs
Today is the final day of the Upper Mustang trek. You descend through Jharkot and Khingar and gradually lose elevation to reach Jomsom, which sits at the bottom of Kali Gandaki River Valley.
Day 13: Early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft)
Flight Hours: 25 minutes
Today is the end of your journey to Upper Mustang Trek. You catch a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
How Difficult is the Upper Mustang Trek?
The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderately challenging.
The trek reaches altitudes of up to 4,077m at the highest, Gyu La Pass. Most of the trekking days are spent above 3,000 meters (9,800 feet), which can pose challenges related to altitude sickness. There are several high passes like the Lo La Pass (3,950 m) and Nyi La Pass (4015 m/13,205ft) which involve steep ascents and descents, which can be physically demanding.
The trek involves long days of walking, typically 5 to 7 hours per day. The combination of length and altitude can be taxing on the body.
The trails of the Upper Mustang are often rocky, dusty, and uneven, requiring good balance and sturdy trekking boots. There are several river crossings, some with suspension bridges and others that may require careful navigation.
Like any other trek in Nepal, you must have a good physical and mental fitness level. Do some cardiovascular and muscle strength training.
How to Be Fit for the Upper Mustang Trek?
Preparing for the Upper Mustang Trek involves a comprehensive approach to fitness, ensuring you are physically and mentally ready for the demands of this unique and challenging journey.
You should be reasonably fit and prepared for the trek as the trek demands 5-7 hrs of walking per day.
Cardiovascular endurance is crucial and can be built through regular running, jogging, hiking on varied terrain, and cycling.
Strength training should target the lower body, core, and upper body with exercises like squats, lunges, step-ups, planks, and push-ups to build overall muscular endurance and stability.
Trekking at high altitudes is more physically demanding than trekking at lower altitudes.
The Upper Mustang Trek requires a moderate level of fitness due to the high altitudes and rough terrain. To better understand the physical demands of the journey, check out my detailed breakdown of the Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty Level.
When is the best time for the Upper Mustang Trek?
The best times for the Upper Mustang Trek are Spring (March to May), Summer (June to August), and Autumn (September to November), with peak times in spring and autumn due to more favorable weather conditions.
Spring is one of the most popular times for the Upper Mustang Trek due to its mild temperatures and clear skies. During spring, the region begins to come alive with blooming wildflowers and rhododendrons, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.
Autumn season in Upper Mustang offers stable weather and spectacular views. This post-monsoon period ensures clear skies and crisp air, making for exceptional trekking conditions and panoramic vistas.
Upper Mustang trek in Summer season is possible. As the upper Mustang region trek lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, it experiences relatively low rainfall. While trekking conditions are generally manageable, the lower trails can be muddy, and the heat can make the trek less comfortable.
Upper Mustang offers a rare opportunity to trek through an ancient kingdom with breathtaking landscapes. Curious to know more about what makes this trek so special? Read my article on the Reasons why you should trek to Upper Mustang.
What are the Permits Required for the Upper Mustang Trek?
You will require 3 permits for the Upper Mustang Trek.
I.) Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The RAP can be obtained only through the registered local trekking agency in Nepal. This permit is required because the area is classified as restricted by the Nepalese government due to its cultural and environmental sensitivity.
II.) Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP)
Upper Mustang lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area so you must have the conservation area permit to enter the region.
It is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board office located in Kathmandu and the ACAP counter in Pokhara.
III.) TIMS (Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card
The TIMS card is a necessary permit for the Upper Mustang Trek. It was introduced by the Nepal Tourism Board and Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) to ensure the safety of trekkers, manage trekking traffic, and maintain records of trekkers.
If you plan to reach and return to Jomsom via, you will not require the TIMS card. But it is mandatory for all those who plan to trek the region via ground.
Before you start your adventure, it's essential to secure the necessary permits. Check out my detailed guide on the Upper Mustang Trek Permits and costs for all the information on costs and permit details.
What to Pack for the Upper Mustang Trekking?
Headwear
- Sun hat or brimmed hat.
- Woolen cap.
- Neck gaiter / Microfleece buff.
Handwear
- Lightweight gloves.
- Heavyweight winter gloves.
Bodywear
- Hiking shirts.
- Thermal inner layer / Baselayer set.
- Hooded waterproof jacket.
- Fleece jacket.
- Lightweight cotton pants.
- T-Shirt (bring lightweight wool).
- Down jacket.
- Waterproof jacket and pants.
Footwear
- Hiking Boots.
- Casual shoes or slippers for a teahouse stay.
- Thick wool socks.
- Inner socks.
Gear and Additional Accessories
- Backpack with Rain Cover.
- Trekking Poles.
- Sleeping Bag (If you are trekking in Winter Season).
- Rain Coat.
- Water Bottles.
- Thermal Flask.
- Phone Charger.
- Power Bank.
- Camera and Binoculars (Optional).
- Head Torch with Extra Batteries.
- UV protection sunglasses.
- Crampons (If you are trekking in Winter Season).
- Games and Books (Optional).
Toiletries
- Bio-degradable Towel.
- Toilet paper.
- Wet Wipes.
- Biodegradable soap.
- Deodorant.
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste.
- Nail Clipper.