Upper Mustang Trek

The world has known Nepal as the home of the highest peak of the world, and numerous other wonderful travel spots. However, in addition to the usual mountains and popular trekking routes, there is a secret land that few travelers have an opportunity to visit, and it is Upper Mustang, also called the Last Forbidden Kingdom.

Having been ruled by ancient kings as an independent kingdom, Upper Mustang has mainly remained the same over the centuries. This region used to be closed to foreign visitors until 1992, due to its remote location and a deep cultural heritage. It is also one of the least explored and most secured regions in Nepal even nowadays.

Upper Mustang is one of the best destinations in Nepal for those travelers who desire to observe ancient history, rich culture and timeless lifestyle. The Nepal government has made Upper Mustang a restricted trekking region in order to conserve its history and ancient civilization. This makes the trip more special and exclusive.

For travellers like you, Peaceful Nepal has brought this exclusive 16-Day Upper Mustang Trekking Package. You will visit the land of mystery, dramatic landscapes, and culture that cannot be found in any other place in Nepal. This journey will take you straight to ancient monasteries, villages of Tibetan influence and desert-like landscapes.

Each of the steps that you take on this trek tells about the history, story of the Royal Palace of Lo Manthang, past stories, the religious and traditions and the wonder of natural beauty. The Upper Mustang is one of the most secret and interesting places in Nepal that everyone should visit once in their lifetime when they are in Nepal.

Best Time To Go For Upper Mustang Trek In Nepal

The Upper Mustang Trek is best done in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons are very favorable for trekking due to moderate temperatures, the skies remain clear skies, and longer days are longer. At higher altitudes, temperatures tend to remain between 5 o C to 18 o C, allowing trekkers to explore comfortably. You can enjoy the best view of the mountain ranges and beautiful landscape without any obstruction. Also best photography is possible during this season.

The rainy season (June to August) is not the best season since heavy rains may lead to landslides, flooded rivers, and muddy roads, which make traveling hard. The winter (December to February) is also brutal with extreme cold, strong winds and snowfall, particularly above 2,800 meters. To experience the beauty of Upper Mustang safely and enjoyably, spring and autumn are the two best seasons you can choose to travel.

Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty And Preparation Tips

The Upper Mustang Trek is classified as a moderate level trek in terms of difficulty level due to multi-day hike, high altitude, long trek duration and rugged terrain. This trek demands solid fitness from the trekkers, so we don’t recommend this trek for the first time and beginner trekkers. This trek will be more comfortable and adventurous if you have previous high-altitude trekking experience.
Physical Fitness Required:

On this 16-day Upper Mustang trek, you will be walking 12-16km every day at high altitude, which involves steep ascents and descents. Rough terrain, sandy trail, uneven stone path or loose scree sometimes can give you trouble. Make sure you have good cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and core stability.

Altitude & Acclimatization:
On these 16 days, the max elevation that you will reach is 3,800m/12,500ft at Lo Manthang. While reaching such a high altitude, altitude sickness can be troublesome for trekkers. So make sure to trek at your own pace, drink water, and take altitude sickness medicine by consulting with a doctor.

Trail Terrain & Sandy storm:
Although there is no technical part, in some sections you need to walk through rocky ledges and navigate narrow ridgelines that can be exposed to wind. Wear windproof clothing items, use sunglasses, a face mask and avoid windy afternoon treks if possible. Also, to protect your skin, use high SPF sunscreen and lip balm.

Weather & Seasonal Considerations:
Upper Mustang Trek is possible to do from May to October. Due to a certain change in weather patterns, some trekkers also do this trek till the end of November. Upper Mustang is a dry region, so if the weather changes and the temperature drops, the trekking will be difficult due to heavy snowfall. So always check the weather conditions before heading for the trip.

Safety, Guides, and Support:
We want to ensure that all our trekkers remain safe during the trek, so we will provide you with a licensed Nepalese Guide and porters. They will read local weather conditions, handle altitude-related symptoms and let you follow local norms and regulations.

Preparation Recommendations:
Before departure from your home country, we suggest all our trekkers prepare for at least 1-2 months by involving themselves in activities such as walking, hiking, stair climbing, etc. Learn an acclimatization plan to reduce AMS and healthy habits like drinking water regularly, eating a balanced diet and proper sleep.

Why Choose Peaceful Nepal for the Upper Mustang Trek

• Local Expertise: We will provide you with a licensed Guide that knows the trail, cultural insight, history and has a strong connection with locals.

• Customized Itineraries: Our clients can customize the Upper Mustang Itinerary based on their fitness level, interests, and available time.

• Safety First: We provide 24-hour support, take real-time reports of each day, and high-altitude medical kits for a safe journey.

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Live with the locals in a tea house and have the authentic Mustang hospitality and culture experience.

• Sustainable Trekking: We promote environmental-friendly activities to save the beauty of the Mustang Region.

• Comfortable Services: Clean teahouses, fresh organic meals, and well-managed logistics make your trek comfortable.

• No hidden fees: We offer an all-inclusive package, and all our costs are revealed on our website. 

• Trusted Service: We have 10 Years plus experience in decent Himalayan treks with quality service.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m) and transfer to the hotel.
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Pokhara (822 m) by Tourist Bus.
Day 03: Fly from Pokhara (822 m) to Jomsom (2,743 m), trek to Kagbeni (2,810 m).
Day 04: Trek from Kagbeni (2,810 m) to Chele (3,050 m).
Day 05: Trek from Chele (3,050 m) to Syangmochen (3,800 m).
Day 06: Trek from Syangmochen (3,800 m) to Dhakmar (3,820 m).
Day 07: Trek from Dhakmar (3,820 m) to Tsarang (3,560 m).
Day 08: Trek from Tsarang (3,560 m) to Lo Manthang (3,840 m).
Day 09: Exploration Day in Lo Manthang (3,840 m).
Day 10: Trek from Lo Manthang (3,840 m) to Yara (3,650 m).
Day 11: Trek from Yara (3,650 m) to Tangye (3,240 m).
Day 12: Trek from Tangye (3,240 m) to Chhusang (2,980 m).
Day 13: Trek from Chhusang (2,980 m) to Jomsom (2,743 m).
Day 14: Fly from Jomsom (2,743 m) to Pokhara (822 m) and explore Pokhara.
Day 15: Drive from Pokhara (822 m) to Kathmandu (1,400 m) by Tourist Bus.
Day 16: Homeward Journey from Kathmandu (1,400 m).

Upper Mustang Trek – Best Alternatives

• Nar Phu Valley Trek – Remote, Tibetan culture, dramatic landscapes

• Dolpo Trek (Lower Dolpo) – Wild, isolated, ancient monasteries

• Manaslu Circuit Trek – Restricted area, rich culture, epic scenery

• Humla–Limi Valley Trek – Deeply remote, authentic Tibetan lifestyle