Alture Treks
Upper Mustang Trek
16 days
Moderate
From £ 2,120
£ 1,985
No of people Price per person
1 - 1 £2,120
2 - 4 £1,985
5 - 9 £1,970
10 - 16 £1,950
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What's included?

Transportation

Domestic flight and all ground transportation as per itinerary.

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara and Lodge / Tea House during trek

Meals

All meals during the trek

Permits

Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit & ACAP/MCAP fees and TIMS Card

Guide

Experienced, English-speaking trek guide.

What is it really like?

Photos from the Upper Mustang Trek

Breathtaking views of the Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges

Dramatic desert-like landscapes, red cliffs, and deep gorges unique to Mustang

Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, rich in Tibetan culture

Visit centuries-old monasteries like Thubchen and Chhoser Cave Monastery

Challenging yet rewarding trails through rugged terrain and remote villages

Cross high passes like Nyi La and Ghar Gumba Pass for a true Himalayan adventure

Region known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom” with strong Buddhist roots

Sacred caves, mani walls, and prayer flags along the route enhance the spiritual vibe

Key Information

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Alture Treks will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take this day to rest, acclimatize to the altitude, and prepare for the adventure ahead. In the evening, enjoy a briefing session about the trek and explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu if time permits.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. This journey takes approximately 7 hours, passing through beautiful countryside, terraced fields, and rivers. Arrive in Pokhara, a tranquil city known for its lakeside beauty and stunning views of the Annapurna range. Spend the evening relaxing by Phewa Lake and preparing for your early morning flight to Jomsom.

Catch an early morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, a gateway to Upper Mustang. Upon arrival, you will start trekking towards Kagbeni, a traditional village located at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Jhong rivers. This short trek takes about 3 hours and offers a great introduction to the Mustang landscape and culture. Explore Kagbeni’s ancient monasteries and narrow alleys.

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the remote Mustang region. Hiking from Kagbeni to Chele involves crossing high desert landscapes and passing through traditional villages, monasteries, and ancient caves. The trail ascends gradually, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Chele is a quiet village where you can experience the Tibetan-influenced Mustang culture.

The trail today leads to Syangmoche, a small village perched on the hillside. This part of the trek is a mix of rugged landscapes and cultural immersion. You’ll pass through barley fields and yak pastures, witnessing the everyday life of the local people. The altitude increases, so take your time to acclimatize and enjoy the serenity of this Himalayan desert environment.

From Syangmoche, trek to Ghami, one of the largest villages in Upper Mustang. The village is famous for its fertile fields and beautiful whitewashed houses. Ghami also offers stunning views of the snow-capped Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks. Explore the ancient fort ruins and local monasteries, soaking in the rich history and traditions of the region.

Today’s trek is a short but culturally significant journey to Charang, an ancient walled village with a stunning fortress. Charang’s unique architecture and traditional lifestyle make it a highlight of the Mustang region. Visit the local gompa (monastery) and explore the quaint alleys lined with prayer flags and mani walls.

Trekking from Charang to Lo Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang, is one of the most anticipated parts of the journey. Lo Manthang is a medieval town with narrow streets, ancient palaces, and vibrant monasteries. Upon arrival, explore the royal palace and immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture that defines Mustang.

Spend the day exploring Lo Manthang and taking a day trip to Chhoser Cave, famous for its extensive cave system where ancient locals lived and meditated. The cave complex offers fascinating insights into Mustang’s spiritual history. Return to Lo Manthang for more cultural exploration or relaxation in the town.

Begin your trek to Dhakmar, a remote village known for its ancient monasteries and cliffside architecture. The path takes you through pristine high-altitude desert landscapes with striking rock formations and panoramic views. Dhakmar is less visited, offering a unique glimpse into Mustang’s untouched wilderness.

Today’s trek leads to Ghiling, a small settlement nestled among barren hills. The terrain is rugged and the altitude demanding, but the peaceful surroundings and dramatic mountain views reward the effort. Enjoy local hospitality and learn more about the traditional Mustang lifestyle.

Descend from the high desert landscape toward Chuksang, located at the edge of the Mustang region. The trek passes through dramatic canyons and river valleys, transitioning gradually into greener terrain. Chuksang is a vibrant village known for its impressive cliffside caves and scenic beauty.

The trek concludes as you descend to Jomsom, a bustling town and airport hub. The route follows the Kali Gandaki river valley with stunning views of Nilgiri and Annapurna peaks. Celebrate your accomplishment with a relaxing evening in Jomsom, preparing for your flight back to Pokhara.

Fly from Jomsom back to Pokhara, enjoying spectacular aerial views of the Annapurna massif and the Mustang region from above. Arrive in Pokhara and spend the rest of the day at leisure—explore lakeside cafes, visit local markets, or relax by the lake.

Today, drive back to Kathmandu through the scenic highway, passing through picturesque towns and lush valleys. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy your final evening in Nepal’s vibrant capital city. Consider a farewell dinner with your trekking group arranged by Alture Treks.

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Reflect on your unforgettable journey through the mystical Upper Mustang, filled with unique landscapes, ancient culture, and incredible memories made with Alture Treks.

To start your journey to Upper Mustang, you first need to arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital and international gateway. Most major airlines operate regular flights to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), which serves as the primary entry point. From Kathmandu, the adventure continues with either a scenic drive or a short domestic flight to Pokhara, the lakeside city and popular starting point for many treks in the Annapurna region.

From Pokhara, you’ll take a short flight (approximately 20 minutes) to Jomsom, a picturesque town nestled between the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains. This flight is often a highlight in itself, showcasing dramatic Himalayan vistas. Jomsom marks the beginning of your trekking journey. With Alture Treks, all logistics from airport pick-ups, hotel transfers, permits, and domestic flights are arranged to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience from arrival to departure.
Elevation Chart
During the Upper Mustang Trek, you’ll stay in a mix of traditional teahouses and lodges, each offering a cozy and authentic atmosphere. While the amenities are more basic in the Upper Mustang region compared to popular routes like Everest or Annapurna Base Camp, they are sufficient and run by welcoming locals. Rooms typically come with twin beds and shared bathrooms, and while electricity and hot showers may be limited, most teahouses offer charging and Wi-Fi at a small cost.

The food on the trek is a delightful blend of Nepali and Tibetan cuisine. You’ll enjoy hearty meals like dal bhat (lentils with rice), tsampa (barley flour porridge), momos (dumplings), and Tibetan bread. Meals are nutritious and plentiful—ideal for fueling your trek. Alture Treks ensures that the teahouses selected for your journey meet hygiene standards and provide the most comfortable lodging available in the region.
The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderately challenging, making it suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and some prior hiking experience. While it does not involve technical climbing, the trek demands stamina due to its altitude (reaching above 3,800 meters), daily walking duration (5–7 hours), and the dry, windy climate of the high Himalayan desert.

Trekkers should be prepared for ascending and descending rugged trails, crossing passes, and hiking through remote landscapes. The altitude gain is gradual, and Alture Treks carefully designs the itinerary to allow for proper acclimatization. Though it may not be as strenuous as some high-altitude treks, the isolation and remoteness of Upper Mustang add an extra layer of physical and mental challenge.

The best time to trek in Upper Mustang is from late March to early November, with May to October being the ideal window. Unlike other parts of Nepal, Upper Mustang lies in a rain-shadow area, meaning it receives very little rainfall—even during the monsoon season. This makes it one of the few treks that are highly recommended during summer months when most trails in Nepal are muddy and clouded over.

Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and clear skies, making the scenery even more stunning. Summer months bring vivid colors to the arid landscape and fewer crowds. Winters, however, can be harsh, with temperatures dropping well below freezing and many teahouses closing for the season. Alture Treks schedules departures during the most favorable periods to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu.
  • Domestic flight and all ground transportation as per itinerary.
  • Hotel accommodation in Pokhara / Kathmandu.
  • Teahouse accommodations during the trek.
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu.
  • Upper Mustang Special Permits.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.
  • Experienced, English-speaking trek guide.
  • Porter(s) to carry luggage (1 per 2 trekkers).
  • Trekking map and group medical kit
  • International flights to/from Kathmandu.
  • Nepal entry visa fee.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Personal trekking equipment.
  • Personal expenses (laundry, calls, internet, etc.).
  • Alcoholic beverages and bottled water.
  • Additional meals and beverages not specified.
  • Tips for trekking staff.
To prepare for the Upper Mustang Trek, a fitness regime focused on endurance, cardio, and leg strength is highly recommended. Start your training at least 6–8 weeks before your trek. Activities such as long-distance hiking, stair climbing, jogging, cycling, or swimming can significantly improve your stamina. Training with a loaded backpack will help simulate actual trekking conditions.

It’s also important to focus on mental preparation. Long days of hiking in high altitudes and remote regions require patience and resilience. Prior experience with multi-day hikes at moderate elevation is a plus but not mandatory. Alture Treks provides pre-departure guidance to help you get physically and mentally ready for the journey.
Clothing
  • Thermal underwear (top & bottom)
  • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (long-sleeved)
  • Moisture-wicking underwear
  • Fleece jacket
  • Insulated jacket (down/synthetic)
  • Waterproof, windproof jacket
  • Waterproof pants
  • Warm beanie
  • Sun hat
  • Neck gaiter
  • Trekking pants
Handwear
  • Lightweight gloves (inner)
  • Insulated gloves/mittens (outer)
Footwear
  • Hiking boots (waterproof)
  • Camp shoes (sneakers/sandals)
Gear
  • Trekking backpack (30-40L) with cover
  • Sleeping bag (cold-rated)
  • Insulated sleeping pad
  • Trekking poles
  • Insulated water bottles/hydration bladder (2L)
  • Travel-sized toiletries
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Medications (altitude, pain relief)
  • Sun protection cream
  • Wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
Miscellaneous
  • Camera and batteries
  • Notebook and pen
  • Earplugs
  • Portable solar charger
  • Headlamp, power bank, extra batteries

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal's most culturally rich and geographically unique trekking routes. Nestled in the trans-Himalayan region, it offers trekkers a chance to explore the once-forbidden kingdom of Lo, which remained closed to foreigners until 1992. Unlike the lush trails of the Annapurna or Everest regions, Upper Mustang showcases arid landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and ancient caves carved into rock faces. The region is deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, and its walled city of Lo Manthang, centuries-old monasteries, and preserved traditions make it a living museum of Tibetan culture. Alture Treks specializes in authentic and immersive experiences in Upper Mustang, ensuring that trekkers not only enjoy the landscapes but also connect deeply with the culture.

The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. While it doesn’t involve extremely high altitudes like Everest Base Camp, trekkers still reach elevations of around 3,800 meters (12,467 feet), which requires a good level of physical fitness. The trails are not overly steep, but the dry, dusty terrain and exposure to the sun can be challenging. Alture Treks prepares trekkers with proper acclimatization, a manageable itinerary, and experienced local guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for trekkers of varying skill levels.

Yes, trekking in Upper Mustang requires a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) due to its proximity to the Tibetan border and its protected cultural heritage. In addition to the RAP, you’ll also need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency like Alture Treks, and you must trek with a licensed guide. Alture Treks handles all permit arrangements on your behalf, making the process hassle-free.

The best time to trek in Upper Mustang is from late March to early November, with the most popular months being April to June and September to October. Since the region lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, it is one of the few trekking routes in Nepal that is ideal even during the monsoon season (June–August). Alture Treks organizes departures throughout the season and can help you choose the best time based on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and cultural festivals like the Tiji Festival.

Accommodation on the Upper Mustang Trek consists mainly of local teahouses and guesthouses. These are run by local families and offer basic yet comfortable lodging with twin-sharing rooms and shared bathrooms. While amenities can be limited, Alture Treks partners with the most reliable and hygienic teahouses along the route to ensure your stay is pleasant. Meals are typically Nepali and Tibetan cuisine, including dal bhat, momos, and thukpa, with vegetarian options available.

While the altitude in Upper Mustang is moderate compared to some other treks in Nepal, it still reaches above 3,500 meters, where altitude sickness can occur. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and shortness of breath. Alture Treks follows a well-paced itinerary to allow for acclimatization and provides pre-trek briefings on recognizing symptoms. Our guides are trained in first aid and equipped with basic medical supplies to assist you if needed.

The Upper Mustang Trek usually starts from Jomsom, which is accessible by a short flight from Pokhara. The journey to Pokhara from Kathmandu can be made by domestic flight or tourist bus. Alture Treks organizes all domestic transportation, including flight bookings, transfers, and necessary assistance during any flight delays, which can happen due to weather conditions in the mountains.

Packing for Upper Mustang requires preparation for both warm days and chilly nights. Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, layered clothing (base layers, fleece, and a down jacket), sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a refillable water bottle, personal toiletries, and a good sleeping bag. Alture Treks provides a detailed packing list after booking and can assist in gear rental if needed in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

No, solo trekking is not permitted in the restricted region of Upper Mustang. You must be part of a group of at least two trekkers and be accompanied by a registered guide through a licensed agency like Alture Treks. If you're a solo traveler, we can pair you with others in a group or help organize a customized private trek with the required permits and guide.

Alture Treks offers a personalized, safe, and culturally immersive trekking experience in Upper Mustang. Our guides are not only experienced in mountain safety but also well-versed in the region's history and traditions. We prioritize responsible tourism, work closely with local communities, and ensure our clients enjoy a smooth journey from start to finish. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time visitor, Alture Treks provides the professional support and authentic experiences that make your Upper Mustang adventure truly unforgettable.

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most captivating journeys, offering a rare glimpse into a remote and preserved Tibetan-influenced culture. Once a restricted kingdom, the region of Upper Mustang was opened to trekkers only in 1992, and access is still regulated to preserve its unique cultural and environmental integrity. Nestled in the rain-shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, this semi-arid desert landscape is adorned with deep canyons, colorful rock formations, ancient monasteries, and walled villages that have changed little over centuries.

With Alture Treks, the Upper Mustang Trek is not just a hike—it’s a cultural immersion into the mystical “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” The trek typically begins with a scenic flight to Jomsom and leads through Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Over the course of the trek, you’ll journey through striking desert valleys, cross high-altitude passes, and ultimately reach the walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang. The experience is both physically rewarding and spiritually enriching, appealing to trekkers seeking something truly off the beaten path.

Why Choose Us – Alture Treks?

Alture Treks is more than a trekking company—we’re passionate guardians of Himalayan culture and nature, and we pride ourselves on crafting unique, safe, and personalized trekking experiences. Our experienced guides are licensed, multilingual, and deeply knowledgeable about the history, culture, and terrain of the Upper Mustang region. We maintain strong relationships with local communities, ensuring ethical tourism practices and authentic encounters for our guests.

With Alture Treks, your comfort, safety, and satisfaction come first. From airport pickups to obtaining special permits, arranging accommodations and meals, and offering flexible itineraries, we manage every detail so you can focus on the journey. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple, or a group of explorers, our tailored approach ensures that your Upper Mustang Trek is memorable, meaningful, and hassle-free.

You can count on us

Expert Local Guides

We are seasoned professionals who know these trails like the back of our hands. We bring both deep knowledge and genuine warmth to your journey—keeping you informed, inspired, and in good hands.

Authentic & Flexible Itineraries

We craft our trips to offer more than just the highlights. Whether it’s a peaceful village walk or a high-altitude challenge, our itineraries blend iconic sights with lesser-known gems, and we’re always happy to tailor the pace to your comfort.

Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your adventure is locked in—no cancellations due to low group sizes. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group, you can plan with confidence knowing your trip is guaranteed to go.

Commitment to Safety

Your well-being is our top priority. We closely monitor weather and trail conditions, carry essential safety gear, and make informed decisions on the ground. You’ll trek with peace of mind, backed by a team that genuinely cares.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

We practice low-impact trekking and support local communities every step of the way. From eco-conscious planning to fair wages for our team, we believe in travel that respects people, place, and planet.

Unbeatable Value

We believe great adventures shouldn’t come with a hefty price tag. With fair pricing, no hidden fees, and excellent service included from start to finish, Alture Treks offers exceptional value—so you get the most out of your journey without compromise.

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