Upper Mustang Trek - 17 Days

  • Trip Code HTA-8
  • Duration: 17 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
Show All

Trip Highlights

Upper Mustang Trek Highlights:-

  • Leave no stones unturned of Transhimalyan region, also known as the forbidden kingdom of “Lo”.
  • Picturesque rural ethnic hamlets and their socio-cultural lifestyle.
  • Get to know ancient Buddhist monasteries from the medieval period and also from the 8th century.
  • Dig into astounding caves around “Lo Manthang”.
  • Search high heaven in almost tree-less barren topography and a marvelous view of mountains.

     

 

About Trip:

“Life is a desire for love, danger, danger, laughter, beauty, love; a burning desire to go with the action to see what it is about, to seek out the meaning pattern, to burn the bridges because you will never go back, and live to the end. ”- Saul D. Alinsky


The “Upper Mustang Trek” is one of the most interesting routes around the Trans-Himalayan region. This is one of the most engaging routes, since you are dedicated to traveling in the most invisible places around the "Lo" empire. With a beautiful view of the mountains, this trek will give you an opportunity to reflect on the ancient life of civilization, exactly like centuries ago. Lo Manthang lying in the northern part of Nepal, the Upper Mustang was a restricted area until 1992 making it one of the most preserved provinces in the world, most people still speak the indigenous Tibetan language and have cultures similar to the area in the independent Tibetan region.

Geographically, the Upper Mustang consists of two-thirds of the Mustang region in the Dhaulagiri Zone, Nepal. The Traditional Mustang (Lo Kingdom) is 53 km north-south in length, 60 km east - west in width and stretches 2,750 meters above sea level from the Kali Gandaki River north of Kagbeni to 6,700 m Khamjung Himal, a peak southeast of Mustang.


When we read the past of Mustang, it was once an independent state, although it was very close to Tibetan language and culture. 15th - 17th century, its strategic location had provide the Mustang control for trade in between the Himalayas &  India. At the end of the 18th century the empire was taken over by Nepal. Shepard receives a collection of 55 paintings depicting the life of the Buddha in 2007. Within the Upper Mustang valleys, we can also witness Lo-Ghyekar Gompa, an ancient palace dating to the eighth century.

The Mustang is well-known for its Buddhist traditions. It is a different way of feeling the Tibetan culture and the world of beautiful views. The Tiji Festival in Lo-Manthang is another popular event for tourists in the area who want to experience traditional culture. More than a thousand travelers visit this area each year. Located in a reserve, $ 50 must be paid for special permits, per day within the valleys of the Mustang district. A special permit for this region requires at least 2 people. We, the Himalayan Traverse Adventure, have canceled this trip to cater for travelers who want to have fun and wish to travel in the Trans-himalayan region.


Outline Itinerary

S.N.:- Outline Itinerary:-
Day-01:(1,350m.) Step On Kathmandu
Day-02:(1,350m.) UNESCO World Heritage(Sightseeing)
Day-03:(823m.) Drive Pokhara,6 hrs.
Day-04:(2,858m.) Fly Jomsom & trek Kagbeni,3-4 hrs.
Day-05:(3,050m.) Chele, 5-6 hrs.
Day-06:(3,475m.) Syanbochen,6-7 hrs.
Day-07:(3,520m.) Ghaymi,5-6 hrs.
Day-08:(3,500m.) Charang,4-5 hrs.
Day-09:(3,700m.) Lo-Mangthang, 5-6 hrs.
Day-10:(3,700m.) Explore Lo-Mangthang 
Day-11:(3,810m.) Drakmar,6-7 hrs.
Day-12:(3,806m.) Ghiling,5-6 hrs.
Day-13:(3,050m.) Chhuksang, 5-6 hrs.
Day-14:(2,700m.) Jomsom, 6-7 hrs.
Day-15:(823m.) Fly Pokhara
Day-16:(1,350m.) Fly Kathmandu
Day-17:(1,350m.) Final Departure

 


 

Cost Includes:

  • Domestic flight service from Pokhara and Jomsom
  • International & domestic airport transfers from and to Hotel
  • All ground transportations in tourist vehicles as per itinerary
  • Accommodation in star level hotel with bed and breakfast facility in Kathmandu and Pokhara as per itinerary
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) while trekking as indicated by the itinerary.
  • Accommodation in twin sharing basis tents or local lodges/guesthouses while trekking
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking related permits and fees like Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS, special permit for restricted Mustang region, etc.
  • Professional, government licensed, helpful, and English speaking guides with necessary porters (1 porter per two members)
  • First Aid Medical Kit box during the trip
  • All costs of Nepalese staff including their wages, insurance, food and accommodation, domestic flights, transportation and other related costs.
  • Himalayan Traverse Adventure duffel bags
  • Government and local taxes as per itinerary

     

Cost Excludes:

  • International airfares to and from Nepal.
  • Lunch and Dinner while in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Nepal Visa fees
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Extra expenses by members like Laundry fees, drinks, phone calls, shower, etc.
  • All foods and beverages are other than on the itinerary.
  • Personal gears and equipment.
  • Good Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
  • Excess Baggage charges
  • Services more than included in “Trip Includes” section.

     


DAY-01: Step on Kathmandu (1,300M./4,264 FT.)

From 1st step off to the land of Nepal, Completing our mandatory custom Formalities -Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu. Himalayan Traverse representative excited full of joy for you at the gate who will lead us to Hotel.  Rest of the day taking rest to get recharged after the tiredness of the long flight.

1,300m.                                        

Hotel Vaishali                                         

No Meal


DAY-02: UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SIGHTSEEING(1,350M./4,429FT.)

4-landmarks, 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites Visit with a Professional Licensed Person helping you know Kathmandu even deep historically. (Swayambhunath, Bauddhanath)- Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, & Kathmandu Durbar Square. With the knowledge gained we make you actually feel welcomed the Night as a part of a family with a warm Nepalese cuisine at a welcome dinner hosted by Himalayan Traverse after knowing the team & getting to know our guides in person.

Overnight in Kathmandu.           

INCLUDED MEALS: WELCOME DINNER

1,350m.                                          

Hotel Vaishali                                          

Breakfast, Welcome Dinner 


Day 03: Drive Pokhara [823m/2,700ft.],6 hrs.

Early in the morning at seven o'clock in the morning, we drove to Pokhara in a standard tourist car. A great hiking trip will lead us to Pokhara where we will see the most beautiful mountain scenery. In the afternoon, we reach Pokhara. Pokhara offers excellent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, the five peaks of Annapurna, & others. Pokhara is a lake town & has many beautiful lakes. We can explore the most accessible & beautiful, Fewa Lake in the afternoons - fun by boat again. Explore, relax, & enjoy Lake Fewa peacefully. You can also do some shopping in the afternoons. Overnight in Pokhara.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

823m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner    


Day 04: Fly Jomsom & trek Kagbeni [2,858m/9,375ft],3-4 hrs

After an early morning transfer from the airport on a morning flight to Jomsom, a spectacular 20-minute flight over the mountains with a view of 8,000 people like Annapurna & Dhaulagiri, takes you to Jomsom, the district headquarters in Mustang. This is a large city, the capital of the Mustang region; & it is a large town in the Kaligandaki region that links the old Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade route to Tibet. From Jomsom it continued to be very windy in the afternoon, continued slowly along the Kali Gandaki River in the river for about three hrs. & finally reached the village of Ekley-bhatti. After a good stay here, an hr.-long drive takes us to Kagbeni, on the banks of two rivers. Kagbeni is a fascinating village that blows the wind on a major salt trade route from the old Trans-Himalayan to Tibet via the Upper Mustang. In Kagbeni a large lake, Kak Khola, from Muktinath, meets the Mustang Khola, & there the river is called Kali Gandaki. Overnight in Kagbeni.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

2,858m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner    


Day 05: Chele [3050m/10,004ft], 5-6 hrs

Our journey begins with special permission to look up & continue on the banks of the Kaligandaki River. During the trip we have a wonderful place to park in wagons with sand & wind. This route follows ups & downs. First, we arrive at Tangbe village with narrow alleys between whitewashed houses, barley fields, barley, wheat, & apple orchards. From there we continue on to Chhusang & after crossing the river straight up into a large red piece of mud that has fallen off the cliff above, we make a tunnel following Kaligandaki. We head to the small edges that reach the village of Chele. Overnight in Chele.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

3,050m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner    


Day 06: Syanbochen [3475m/11,398ft], 6-7 hrs

Today, we start our trek again & walk further to Eklo Bhatti. Climb Taklam La Pass (3,624m/11,923 ft) thru plateaus & narrow stretches with views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kang, & Damodar Danda. Descent to village of Samar. Climb above Samar village to the ridge then descending steeply to a stream. Add 3 hrs similar walk takes Syanbochen.  On the way, we relax along with the surrounding of cool streams & juniper trees. Locals use the dried leaves of junipers as incenses to invite deities & start any auspicious work.  Pass Ramchung Cave. Overnight in Syanbohen.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

3,475m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner    


Day 07: Ghaymi [3520m/11,546ft], 5-6 hrs

After breakfast we climb up the hill to Yamda La (3,850m / 12,667ft) passing a few teahhouses, chortens & local villages similar to the style of Tibetan houses with an open porch. We cross the mountain roads, as well as the road to the poplar trees & the fields of Baal. The climb to New Pass (4,010m / 13,193ft) will be a long one. Get off at our night stop in Gaymi. The third largest city in the region of Lo, Gayam, is surrounded by large camps, most of which are barren. Overnight in Gyami.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

3,520m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner    


Day 08: Charang [3500m/11,480ft], 4-5 hrs

Start the trip after breakfast for a fun walk. After crossing Ghaymi Khola, the trail rises to the plains & passes along the tallest wall of Mani, a sacred stone wall made by Buddhist followers. From the end of the wall the route runs east to the village of Charang with lots of fields, willows & houses separated by stone walls at the top of the Tsarang Chu canal. There is also a large white dzong & a red Gompa to our house for tea in the evening. Overnight in Charang.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

3,500m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner    


Day 09: Lo-Mangthang (3700m/12,136ft), 5-6 hrs

Today, we take a trip to Lo-Mangthang with beautiful views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I & Brikuti peak. The trail first descends to Charang Chu Canyon & then rises steeply after crossing the river. Gradually, the trail gradually exceeds the Lo-Mangthang valley, from where you can see the Lo-Mangthang valley. As you descend into Lo-Mangthang, a spectacular view of the walled city overlooks its hills on the Tibetan Border. We stay in a hotel at the stop all night. Overnight in Lo-Mangthang.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

3,700m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner    


Day 10: Explore Lo-Mangthang

Today we explore the surrounding areas. Visit Namgyal Gompa & Tingkhar. The mountain peacock Namgyal Gompa serves as an important monastery in the local community & as a local court. After visiting Namgyal Gompa continue your journey to Tingkhar, the last major town northwest of Lo-Mangthang & return to the hotel. Or you can have another way to visit Tall Champa Lakhang "God house" the red Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa & Entrance Hall which are the main attractions in the city. Also impressive is the four-story building of the Raja palace & the views surrounding the Himalayas. Overnight in Lo-Mangthang.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

3,700m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner    


Day 11: Drakmar [3810 m/12,500ft], 6-7 hrs

Take a different route than that we came by. Trek Drakmar via Gyakar(1200 years old Ghar Gompa -Guru Rinpoche as the primary figure). Famous for its rock paintings. As per legend, a wish at the Ghar Gompa is fulfilled, explore.  Dusty wind suggests a walk in the morning. Overnight in Drakmar.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

3,810m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 


Day 12: Ghiling [3806m/12,484ft], 5-6 hrs

Today, we return to Ghiling as our overnight stay after a long journey takes 5-6 hrs.. After arrival & lunch enjoy the day exploring the area, but it will be a dusty afternoon, it is best to leave in the evening. Overnight in Ghiling.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

3,806m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 13: Chhuksang [3050m/10,004ft], 5-6 hrs

We follow back to Ghiling overnight stop after a five-hour drive. You will have beautiful places during the trip with a view of the Himalayas. Enjoy your trip & overnight at tea. Overnight in Chhuksang.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

3,050m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 14: Jomsom [2700/8,856ft], 6-7 hrs

Our last day of the day will be long. It is better to leave as early as before & go to Kagbeni. Complete the Mustang highways & join the regular Annapurna tour. After lunch in Kagbeni it will head to Jomsom at the night stop. Or, if you can save one day, our guide will take you to Muktinath as well. Overnight in Jomsom.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

2,700m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 


Day 15: Fly Pokhara

After an early morning drive, we entered the airport to return to Pokhara. An amazing 30 flight to Pokhara between the two main mountain ranges of Annapurna & Dhaulagiri. Upon arrival in Pokhara airport guide & members will go to the hotel for lunch. Since we will have a flight & stay in Sarangkot that day so we can enjoy the view of the sunrise from the same place one day, we will visit the places below provided for this trip to the city of pokhara.

Pokhora City Tour: -

The Fall of Devis -

Devi Falls is one of the popular tourist attractions in Pokhara. Also known as Patale Chhango (groundwater collapse). Devi's fall is named after Swiss women, Devi. One day in 1961, Ms. Devi was swimming near Fwawa Dam with her husband & at the same time the dam suddenly filled & flooded her into a deep ravine until she died in 1961. Since then the waterfall has been called Devi’s Fall. Beautiful & 2km waterfall south of Pokhara Airport. City buses & taxis are available for the waterfall.

Gupteswor Cave -

Contrary to Devi's fall, there is a beautiful cave. The whole cave area is very large & needs to be well prepared to explore. The cave is also a popular tourist destination. There is a natural image of Lord Shiva, which was found naturally underground. Many devotees visit the cave every day. Well-maintained steps are constructed with adequate lighting to enter the cave. There is a small tunnel behind the Shiva statue linking the cave with Devi's fall. A Cave for adventure tourists having to enjoy the underground view of Devi's Fall. Since the tunnel is a type of feature one should take care of it while in the tunnel.

Mahendra Cave -

Mahendra Cave is another natural wonder in Pokhara by Mahendra Cave. The cave has not yet been fully explored. It is advisable that visitors should have a torch or a guide to the cave. The Cave Management Committee also provides guidance to the torch on request. The Mahendra Cave is named after the late King Mahendra & is located 9 km away. North of Pokhara Airport. City buses & taxis are regularly available to the cave. There is another cave near the Mahendra Cave known as the Bat Cave or Chamere Gupha.

Bindabasini Temple -

It is an excellent & very popular destination for hiking in the beautiful four-mile [4 km] mountain range. North of the airport. Bindabasini is considered to be the Shakti Pitha of the goddess Bhagabati. The temple area is like a park & is perfect for sightseeing. There are several other temples that include a single Shiva temple near the Bindabasini temple.

Tibetan Refugee Camp -

There are three Tibetan refugee camps. One is 2km. To the south from the airport near Devi's collapse in Chorepatan, the second is in Prithwichowk & the third is 7km. North of Hemja airport. All camps should be visited to get acquainted with Tibetan culture, culture & way of life. Within the camps are craft centers.

Buddhist Palace -

It is also called the Nyeshang Monastery founded in 1960 by the Manangi Buddhists. The monastery is located in Matepani about 4km east of the airport. It is built on a small hillock & one can enjoy the beautiful view of Pokhara city & mountains.

River Seti -

It is another mysterious natural wonder of Pokhara. The Sethi River, which flows from the Machhapuchre snow, falls into a large part of the city. This river gives a perfect view of its awesome chase before it dives underground or disappears from Bagar into a deep ravine. The gorge is so small but so deep that in some places it drops more than 60 feet [60 m] in depth. The KI Sing Bridge, Mahendrapool & Prithvichowk are the main points of view of the underground river & its roaring sound.

Overnight in Sarangkot.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

4,580m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 


Day-16: Fly Kathmandu

After breakfast & enjoying the most spectacular view of the sunrise from Sarangkot the next morning & transfer to the airport, we check out our flight & the flight will be approx. just after 10:00 am & we leave you at the hotel after arriving in Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu.

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

823m.                                                

Hotel/Tea-House                                                 

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner       


DAY-17: FINAL DEPARTURE

Today we will be biding your farewell. Hoping we get to see you back in Nepal again as a family for another adventurous trip. We will take you to the International airport 3 hours before the scheduled flight & finally, you will depart back for your homeland!

Overnight in Kathmandu. 

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast

1,350m.                                                         

Homeland                                              

Breakfast   


(Note: Booking must be confirmed 6 months before in advance)


 

You must bring the important documents mentioned below in your trip.

  • Valid Passport with 2 pp sized photos
  • Proof of insurance and visa form
  • International air tickets
  • Enough cash which can be exchanged once you reach Kathmandu
  • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler's checks, etc.

Share This Page

We Associated

Certificate & Partners