Upper Mustang Trekking - 16 Days

Annapurna Upper Mustang

Duration16 Days

CountryNepal

Trip GradeModerate
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The moderate grade includes a one-week to fifteen-day itinerary. It can reach up to 5000 meter altitude range, but the trails will be moderate (neither easy nor tough). High altitude may affect walking speed and distance. You need to have acclimatization over 3000 meters.

Maximum Altitude3,800m

Group Size2 - 10

StartsKathmandu

EndsKathmandu

ActivitiesUpper Mustang Trekking

Best TimeLate March to Mid November

Experience the Upper Mustang Trek 16 Days adventure to the ancient kingdom of Lo Manthang. Discover detailed itineraries, permits, trekking cost, and the best Upper Mustang Trek Package or Upper Mustang Jeep Tour for your Himalayan journey.

Upper Mustang Trek Nepal – 16 Days Trek to Lo Manthang

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic Himalayan adventures, taking you into a hidden kingdom that was once closed to foreigners. Falling under the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, the Upper Mustang Trek Nepal leads you through arid Kali Gandaki valley, dramatic desert-like landscapes, ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, cave dwellings and centuries-old mud roof villages of Nepal.

Nestled in the Annapurna Himalayan range, the Upper Mustang trek offers a captivating blend of dramatic landscapes, hidden Monastery, and ancient Tibetan Culture.

This Upper Mustang Trek 16 Days journey is the perfect blend of culture, history and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. The final destination of the trek is reaching the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang- the cultural heart of the former Kingdom of Mustang. With its narrow alleys, royal palace and traditional monasteries, 5-story manmade sky cave i.e. Chooser cave, Lo Manthang feels like stepping back in time.

For trekkers and nature lovers, seeking both adventure and cultural immersion, a guided Upper Mustang trek Nepal offers an unforgettable experience far from Nepal’s common Everest Base Camp or Annapurna trekking routes.

Upper Mustang Trek Highlights

Explore the magical landscapes of the restricted area in Upper Mustang trek
Visit ancient monasteries, chortens, and cave settlements
Experience authentic Bon Po Tibetan-influenced culture and lifestyle
Reach the historic walled city during the Lo Manthang trek Nepal
Spectacular views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges
Option for Upper Mustang trek with jeep support or a full Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

Upper Mustang Trek 16 Days Itinerary Overview

A meticulously crafted 16 days Upper Mustang trek itinerary usually begins in Kathmandu with flights to Pokhara and Jomsom. From there, you follow the arid Kali Gandaki valley into Upper Mustang’s dramatic landscapes.

Typical Kathmandu to Lo Manthang trekking itinerary:

Day 1–2: Arrival in Kathmandu & travel to Pokhara
Day 3: Fly to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni (Restricted Area Starting point)
Day 4–7: Trek through Chele, Syanboche, and Ghami and Charang.
Day 8–9: Explore Lo Manthang and nearby monasteries
Day 10-13: Trek to Yara, Tangye, Chhusang and Muktinath.
Day 14-15: Jomsom Flight back to Pokhara and Kathmandu
Day 16: Fly back home, final departure!

This Upper Mustang Trek itinerary allows sufficient time to explore ancient villages, river bank, monasteries, iconic viewpoint and local culture while gradually acclimatizing high altitude.

Upper Mustang Trek Cost and Package Options

The Upper Mustang Trek cost per person varies depending on services, group size and travel style (Teahouse/ Camping). A typical Upper Mustang trekking package Nepal includes all permits, professional guide services, teahouse accommodation (attached bathroom and common bathroom), air and land transportation, and meals during the trek. Our listed price is for standard trekking packages.

Upper Mustang Trek price for 2026 / 2027:

Standard trekking package: $1,600 – $3,200 per person

Luxury guided trek: $3,500+

Budget package: $ 899 USD per person. includes guide, ACAP permit, land Transportation, Mustang Permit.

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour: $1,300 – $1,900 depending on itinerary and group size.

Upper Mustang Trek Permit Cost

Upper Mustang lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, north from Jomsom. Lo Manthang is a restricted area where a restricted area permit (RAP) is required. The Upper Mustang Trek permits cost 50 USD per day per person. This new rule replaces the old mandatory 500 USD for 10 days. The mandatory 2 trekkers to obtain a RAP also are replaced, and an individual traveler also can travel freely with a local guide through a local trek company. Considering the trekkers' safety, there will be a maximum of 7 people in one group. These new rules are imposed from March 22, 2026. This Kali Gandaki Corridor is the shortest travel to Mansarovar and Kailash Parikrama.

**The Upper Mustang Trek Permit Cost are as bellow**
Restricted Area Permit	50 USD Per day per person.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)	approx. $ 28 for single entry

Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty

Upper Mustang Trek categories in moderate level of difficult that goes through dry, windy terrain rather than steep climbs. Every day 12 to 15 kilometer is traveled on foot above 3,600 m altitude. The trek starts from Jomsom- the district headquarters of Mustang, follows the trail to Kagbeni- gateway to Upper Mustang and reaches the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang-the capital of Upper Mustang.

Upper Mustang Best Time to Explore

One of the most unique features of Upper Mustang is that it lies in a rain shadow behind Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, making the Upper Mustang trek best time to visit different from many other treks in Nepal.

Best seasons for upper Mustang Trekking:

Spring (March – May) – pleasant weather, moderate temperature, colorful landscapes, and blossoming Rhododendron. Holi festival and Shiva Ratri also falls in the spring making the trip more joyous.

Summer (June – August) – ideal because Mustang receives very little monsoon rain and less windy more greenery.

Autumn (September – November) – clear skies and excellent mountain views with festival vibes.

Upper Mustang Trek or Upper Mustang Jeep Tour – Which is Better?

Today, Lo Manthang is accessible by road, offering you two exhilarating ways to explore this hidden Himalayan kingdom: the classic Upper Mustang Trek or a comfortable Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. Both options allow you to experience the ancient culture, history and landscapes of Upper Mustang Trek Nepal.

If you are passionate about Tibetan Buddhism and fascinated by the ancient Bon Po culture, visiting Upper Mustang should definitely be on your travel list.

The Upper Mustang Trek 16 Days adventure is supper for those who want a deeper experience. Trekking through traditional villages, ancient monastery, dwelling caves and remote trails allows you to connect with local culture and fully enjoy the beauty of the Upper Mustang restricted area trek.

If you have limited time and do not like to walk much then Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is a great alternative. It offers a faster and more comfortable way to reach Trek to Lo Manthang while still experiencing the culture, landscapes, and historical sites.

Some travelers also prefer an Upper Mustang trek with jeep support, combining trekking and jeep travel for a flexible and balanced Himalayan journey.

Join us for your Upper Mustang Trek packages

Whether you seek a fully guided trekking experience or a flexible Upper Mustang Trek Package, this remote Himalayan region promises extraordinary landscapes, deep-rooted Tibetan culture and a journey into one of Nepal’s last hidden kingdoms that stays forever in your heart and mind.

From the flawless Kali Gandaki valley to the timeless city of Lo Manthang, the Upper Mustang Trek Nepal is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for travelers seeking something beyond the imagination. Join us for your local travel partners!

Itinerary

Our 16 days Upper Mustang Trek itinerary begins and ends in Kathmnadu. The itinerary includes the every corner of Upper Mustang which are picturesque and fascinated by Buddhism. Does not meet your requirement? Contact our experts for customize itinerary!

Trip PlanExpand All

01Day

Arrival and Transfer to hotel

On your upon arrival, our representative welcomes you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel by a private car.

Accommodation: 2** Hotel in Kathmandu

Max Altitude: 1,350 mAccommodation: Hotel

02Day

Kathmandu to Pokhara by Bus [830 m / 2,723 ft / 7 hrs]

The tourist bus leaves early morning at 7 am from Kathmandu. It is a 200 km ride through the Prithivi Highway with scenic view of Manaslu mountain range and some typical village along the way. One can experience the Trishuli River rafting for 3 hours. Arrival and transfer to hotel. Evening pleasant walk around lakeside.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Tourist standard two stars hotel.

Max Altitude: 830 mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: 8 hoursDistance: 200 km

03Day

Pokhara fly to Jomsom, Trek to Kagbeni [ 2810 m / 9,186 ft / 3 hrs]

A jomsom flight is a breathtaking flight between the Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri I Mountain (both above the 8000m). You can find yourself above the mountains and clouds. These flights depart only in the morning because of the strong wind in Jomsom after 11am. The flight takes just 25 minutes, starting from 6 am until 10 am.

Max Altitude: 2,810 mMeals: Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 3 hoursDistance: 10 km

04Day

From Kagbeni Trek to Chele [3,050 m / 10,006 ft / 6 hrs]

After having breakfast, we set off to enter Upper Mustang! The trail takes you along the Kali Gandaki River, where the wind will contest us as it whistles up the valley gorge. In Tangbe Village, you get to notice white-washed houses settled among fields of buckwheat and barley. There are apple orchards along the way. By following the ridge, you will reach the village of Chele.

Max Altitude: 3,050 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 15.3 km

05Day

From Chele Trek to Syangboche [3,800 m / 12560 ft / 6 hrs]

The difficulty level of the trek is on and off! This day, you are to cross the Taklam La pass (3,624 m) and the Darjori La pass (3,735 m). Along the way, you will encounter wonderful mountain views and fascinating small caves high above the ground on the hills. Enjoying the dramatically formed hills and the panoramic view of the Himalayas, you will reach Syangboche, where you will stay overnight.

Max Altitude: 3,800 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 11 km

06Day

From Syangboche Trek to Dhakmar [3,820 m / 12,605 ft / 6 hrs]

Trekking from Shyangbochen to Dhakmar includes ascending and descending into the nature. You will cross another pass at the Yamada La (3,850 m) and experience the lining prayer Chorten/Mani walls, and interesting villages with cattle grazing in the fields. Dhakmar is one of the buggest villages of Upper Mustag. Dhakmar is famous for its Red Cliffs and drematic landscapes.

Max Altitude: 3,520 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 12 km

07Day

Trek from Dhakmar to Charang 3,560 m / 11,679 ft / 6 hrs

The path could be greasy (depending on the time of the year) as we descend to a suspension bridge over the Ghami Khola. The trail leads you to Mani walls (Tibetan mantras engraved on the boulders), and Buddhist prayer flags. At the top, Charang Chu canyon can be seen hanging above the village of Charang. Visit the greatest and oldest library at Charang. Upon arrival check in at the Guest House.

Max Altitude: 5,360 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 11 km

08Day

Trek from Charang to Lo-Manthang 3,810 m / 12,570 ft /11 km / 5 hrs

Charang to Lo-Manthang trek is about 11 km, with most of the trek on flat land. Descend to Charang Chu and steep climb to Tholung Valley. The trail then leads north and climbs gently to an isolated chorten before crossing LoLa pass (3,950 m). Charang to Lo Manthang trail offers the perfect blend of remoteness, adventure, culture lushness and natural beauty. The highest pass of the day is Lo La (3,965 m) where you can have the first glimpse of Lo Manthang. Upon arrival, check in to guest house.

Max Altitude: 3,810 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 11 km

09Day

Explore Lo Manthang and Hike to Chhoser Cave

Day Trip to Chhoser Cave or Konchok Ling Cave (3,770 m / 12368 ft) – 6 hrs

The Jhong cave in Upper Mustang is the most interesting place to visit. It is a 5-storied building hanging on the cliff. There are more than 40 rooms inside. Upper Mustang showcases the best civilization of monasteries and caves in Nepal. The views of the Chooser village are outstanding from the Jhong cave’s windows.

Optional: You may take a longer trip to the Konchok Ling Cave near the Tibetan border. This cave, discovered in 2007, is relatively new. A day trip to Konchok ling cave is exciting but is becoming almost inaccessible due to the erosion. You have the option to visit Konchok Ling Cave by renting a jeep and return, which is recommended. The views are extra ordinary!

Max Altitude: 3,810 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 10-15 km

10Day

Trek from Lo-Manthang (3,810 m) to Yara [3,650 m / 7 hrs / 16.5 km]

After breakfast, our destination for today will be Yara. Picture yourself walking along the beautiful scenery of high- altitude deserts, dramatic cliffs, rocky canyons, and snow-capped mountains welcoming you into the wilderness. But the art doesn't stop there. Follow the serpentine river of Kaligandaki, where you can find Saligrams (religious significance). This path is a less travelled alternate trail we are offering to add a touch of adventure. Heading off to Yara, we pass Lo La and Dhi la along the way. Upon reaching Yara, you will drench yourself IN the traditional white houses with barley fields, yak herding and kitchen gardens. Yara is rich in culture and lifestyle. Upon arrival, enjoy the local culture and lifestyle and take a rest.

Max Altitude: 3,650 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 7 hoursDistance: 16 km

11Day

Trek from Yara (3,650 m) to Tangye [3,340 m / 7 hrs / 18.3 km]

As you step onto the trails from Yara to Tangye, you will hear the whispering wisdom of the Himalayas in the thin air along the journey. The barren, rugged landscape spreads like paint on a boundless canvas. The uninhabited trails, with constant ascents and descents, give you enough time to understand yourself, as there are no houses or settlements along the way. Crossing the Dhechyang Kholla valley, with Kaligandaki River winding in its path, human melody waits in the Tangye village where Tangye horses, chortens, mani walls, and warm welcoming people melts your heart.

Max Altitude: 3,340 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 7 hoursDistance: 18 km

12Day

Trek from Tangye (3,340m) to Tetang [2,980 m / 9 hrs / 24 km]

You have to set off early today as it is a long haul of a 9-hour trek from Tangye to Tetang in the Upper Mustang area. Along the way, you will walk between the barren beauty of towering cliffs, rugged mountains, snow-peaked Himalayas, rivers nearby villages. The trail will lead you to Pa (4200 m), the best scenic viewpoint in Upper Mustang trekking. With the topography of highs and lows, you move along the rhythm of Pa, watching the abandoned settlement whisper its stories. From here, your path continues to ascend to the Siyarko Tank Danda route with challenging climbs along with the majestic views of the Himalayas. After more walking, you will reach Chhomnang, where you will stumble upon a fascinating Himalayan salt mine. After this much-awaited promise, you finally reach ancient Tetang village.

Max Altitude: 2,980 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 9 hoursDistance: 24 km

13Day

Trek from Tetang to Muktinath [3,800 m / 5 hrs / 14 km]

Today, you are trekking over Tetang, Gyu Lo Pass, and Jhong which leads your Upper Mustang trek to Muktinath. Every day offers different surroundings and beautiful views of mountains and landscapes. Along the way, you can see the Throng la (5,416m) pass of Annapurna Circuit Trek and join Muktinath. Muktinath is very famous for its religious significance, where both Hindus and Buddhists worship together in the Temple and Monastery.

Optional: Upon arrival in Muktinath, you can look around the area and take a jeep to Jomsom, which is 22km / 2 hrs away. Stay overnight at Jomsom, and the next morning fly back to Pokhara.

Max Altitude: 3,800 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 14 km

14Day

Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom 2,743 m / 5 hrs / 22 km

The trek from Muktinath to Jomsom is 22 km via Kagbeni, which makes it the second longest day of the entire trek. The gentle downhill stroll makes the trek effortlessly easier. You will hike along the Kali Gandaki Bank, a trail famous for finding fossilized, “Saligram” on its river bank. If you find the trek too long, you may take a local jeep to Jomsom.

Max Altitude: 2,743 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 22 km

15Day

Jomsom to Pokhara and to Kathmandu by air

After having a warm breakfast in Jomsom, you will walk to the airport and complete the check-in process. You can enjoy the flight over Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri I. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will take a connecting flight to Kathmandu. The flight from Jomsom to Pokhara is about 20 minutes and 25 more minutes to reach Kathmandu. After arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel. Evening farewell in a warm and cozy place.

Max Altitude: 1.350 mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: 45 minutes

16Day

Final Departure

After having breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Kathmandu International Airport for your onward flight

Meals: Breakfast

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Cost Details

Includes

Airport pick up and drop off services in Kathmandu.
2-night accommodation in Kathmandu at 3*** hotel including breakfast.
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Special Permit
Annapurna Conservation Entry Permit
TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) permits
12-night twin sharing Mountain accommodation
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) as per itinerary
Kathmandu to Pokhara by comfortable Tourist Bus
Pokhara to Jomsom to Pokhara by flight.
Pokhara to Kathmandu return by flight
An Experienced English-Speaking Guide with equipment.
All the food and lodging and salary of Sherpa Guide
Insurance of Nepalese Staff.
1-night, 3** stars hotel in pokhara including Breakfast
All ground transportation as per itinerary
Gov't tax and VAT
The services which are not mentioned in the included section are extra

Excludes

Personal expenses, Tipping to the Guide,
Necessary trekking equipment
Pony trek is available but the cost of Pony is solo responsible
Lunch and Dinner during Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
Taking a porter will cost additional 25 USD per day (ratio:- 1 porter is for every 2 clients, 1:2) including his all expenses

Dates & Availability

We run a trip for solo travelers, couple, friends and family with children. Our private trips are running every day. If you are looking for group trips please do contact us. Out Itinerary is outline and if you any suggestion, we are happy to customize in the itinerary and services.

Add-ons & Options

Porter Services: The mark price do not includes the porter services. If you need a porter please feel free to let us know. Taking a porter will cost additional 350 USD. (ratio:- 1 porter is for every 2 clients, 1:2) including his all expenses

Pony Services: Upper Mustang is popular for pony services as well. If you would like to have a horse riding to explore the area that will cost you additional (50 to 100) USD depending on the season.

Essential Information

We need a special permit for Upper mustang due to the geographical remoteness, border with Tibet and Cultural signification
6-month valid passport is required at the time of traveling to Nepal.
Visa can be granted on upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport but to avoid the long queue you can apply online from your home. Visa cost, 30 USD, 50 USD and 125 USD for 15 days, 30 days and 90 days respectively.
Upper Mustang is behind the mountain so pack the warmer clothes.
The flight of Jomsom depends upon clear visibility and weather, so to avoid such uncertainty, we will organize an overland drive to Kagbeni to catch the regular plan if the flight is cancelled.
If you are travelling solo to Upper Mustang for your peace of mind, Global Eco Trails is pleased to welcome. Travelling solo will cost 50 USD per day for the restricted area permit.
Tipping is standard practice in Nepal. The discussion on how much to tips should be determind by how nicely they serve the team. Tips can be made in Rupees, USD, Euros at Jomsom after the farewell. About 100-150 USD is expected for the Upper Mustang Trek.