Your Upper Mustang Trek begins with an early breakfast and a scenic 6 to 7-hour bus journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. En route, you’ll pass by the picturesque Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers, lush Rocky Mountains, and charming villages. In Pokhara, soak in the beauty of its serene lakes including Begnas, Fewa, and Rupa, and enjoy stunning views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri. After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront, rent a boat on Fewa Lake, or unwind at a lakeside pub before dinner.

Your Upper Mustang Trek begins with an early breakfast and a scenic 6 to 7-hour bus journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. En route, you’ll pass by the picturesque Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers, lush Rocky Mountains, and charming villages. In Pokhara, soak in the beauty of its serene lakes including Begnas, Fewa, and Rupa, and enjoy stunning views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri. After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront, rent a boat on Fewa Lake, or unwind at a lakeside pub before dinner.

To avoid the strong afternoon winds in Mustang, start your trek early in the morning. Submit your Upper Mustang trekking permit at the Kagbeni checkpoint before heading to Chuksang along the eastern bank of the Kali Gandaki River. Enjoy stunning views of Mt. Nilgiri shining orange in the early morning light. Be prepared with sunglasses and a face mask to protect against wind and dust along the riverbank.

Continue your journey through the unique red sandstone pillars and rock formations of Mustang, reaching Tangbe Village. Admire the charming red and whitewashed homes, apple orchards, and barley fields. From there, traverse a narrow canyon to reach Chele, a small settlement nestled on a ridge.

Today’s trek in Upper Mustang presents a slightly increased difficulty level as you ascend approximately 800 meters. From Chele, you’ll climb a steep spur and canyon towards Eklo Bhatti, eventually reaching the high pass of Taklam La (3625 m). Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Tilicho Peak, Damodar Danda, and Yaskawa Kang.

Passing through Taklam La, you’ll proceed to Samar, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of Mount Nilgiri. Samar is a popular resting spot for horse and mule caravans, offering a picturesque setting to relax.

Continuing from Samar, you’ll descend into a sizable gorge, passing the vibrant Rangchyung Chorten adorned in red, black, yellow, and white. Your journey then leads you through juniper trees and the renowned Ramchung Cave before reaching Syangboche after about three hours of trekking.

Today marks the culmination of your Upper Mustang Trek as you journey towards Lo-Manthang, your final destination. From Charang, descend into the Charang Chu Canyon before beginning a gradual ascent along a broad trail. Marvel at the breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and other majestic Himalayan peaks along the remote trek.

Pass through the picturesque Sungda Chorten and the Lo Pass (3850m), offering stunning vistas of Nilgiri, Annapurna I, Bhrikuti, and Tilicho peaks. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Lo, Lo-Manthang is surrounded by walls and home to several Lo communities. Though no longer a kingdom since 2008, it retains its rich cultural heritage and charm.

Today is your acclimatization and exploration day in Lo-Manthang as per the Upper Mustang Trekking Itinerary. This charming village, located about 50 kilometers from the Tibetan border, once served as a bustling commercial hub for garments and salt trade between Nepal and Tibet.

One of the most striking features of Lo-Manthang is its 6-meter wall, adorned with stunning towers that greet you at every turn. Within this walled city, you’ll discover numerous cultural and religious sites, including the Thubchen Monastery, museum, Jampa Monastery, and places for Thangka paintings.

While the region was opened to visitors in 1992, only a limited number of travelers, around 1000 yearly, are permitted to visit this enchanting location. Access is restricted to travelers from authorized trekking agencies. After a day of exploration, you’ll return to your accommodation to rest for the night.

On your adventurous Upper Mustang Trek from Yara, prepare to navigate peculiar cliffs and traverse stunning plateaus. As you journey through the Dhechyang Khola valley towards Tangge, soak in breathtaking Himalayan vistas. Keep an eye out for Shaligram (Ammonoid fossils) along the riverbank, adding a unique touch to your trek.

The final descent to Tangge reveals a breathtaking vista, with the settlement nestled under towering granite cliffs. Marvel at the scenic surroundings, including a wide riverbed and the iconic Mustang Mountains. Tangge boasts vibrant chortens and stunning mani walls, offering captivating sights at every turn. Be charmed by the warm hospitality of the villagers and the majestic Mustang horses in Tangye village—a truly unforgettable experience.

Today, your Upper Mustang trek will lead you from Chhusang through Tetang, Gyu Lo Pass, and Jhong, finally reaching the sacred site of Muktinath. At Gyu Lo Pass, take in awe-inspiring views of the Himalayan peaks extending into Tibet, while glimpsing the distant Annapurna range.

Muktinath holds significance for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, drawing visitors seeking spiritual solace. It’s also a key point for trekkers completing the Annapurna Circuit. Known as “A Hundred Waters” in Tibetan, Muktinath boasts an eternal flame, 108 bathing spouts, a Buddhist monastery, and Hindu temples nestled within its walls—a truly sacred and serene destination.

After an early start to catch the stunning sunrise, you’ll board a short 25-minute flight to Pokhara. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking mountain vistas. Once in Pokhara, take some time to wander around the charming lakeside city, reflecting on your successful Upper Mustang trek with Muktinath. Pokhara offers a plethora of attractions to explore, including Phewa Lake, the World Peace Stupa, Devi’s Fall, and the International Mountain Museum. Don’t forget to indulge in the Lakeside area’s cozy cafes, vibrant restaurants, and lively nightlife to unwind after your adventure.

After waking up in Pokhara, you’ll embark on a tourist bus journey back to Kathmandu. The scenic 205-kilometer route follows the mesmerizing Marsyangdi River and then the Trishuli River. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming market areas like Damauli bazaar, Dumre bazaar, and Mugling Bazaar, offering glimpses of hills, rivers, and snow-covered mountains. Upon arriving in the Kathmandu valley, our team member will help you settle into your accommodation. Take some time to freshen up before enjoying your final evening in Nepal, whether it’s shopping or exploring Thamel, to wrap up your memorable Upper Mustang trekking journey.