Upper Mustang Trek | A Journey into Nepal’s Forbidden Kingdom - 14 Days

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Upper Mustang Trek Highlights

  • Lo Manthang: Explore this ancient walled town with royal palaces, monasteries, and traditional Tibetan homes.
  • Kagbeni Village: Start your journey here, known for its narrow streets, historic monastery, and as the gateway to Upper Mustang.
  • Ancient Monasteries: Visit Thubchen and Ghar Gompa, rich with murals and sacred artifacts.
  • Kali Gandaki Valley: Trek through a dramatic landscape of cliffs, canyons, and high-altitude desert.
  • Tiji Festival: (If in season) Witness this vibrant Buddhist festival with dances and cultural rituals in Lo Manthang.
  • Mountain Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri.
  • Cave Exploration: Discover mysterious, ancient caves like the multi-level Chhoser Cave near Lo Manthang.
  • Tibetan Culture: Experience the unique customs, language, and traditions of the Loba people.
  • High-Desert Scenery: Marvel at colorful rock formations and unique landscapes rarely found in other parts of Nepal.
  • Solitude of a Restricted Area: Enjoy a quieter, less crowded trekking experience due to the area’s restricted access.

Discover the Upper Mustang Trek: A Journey into Nepal’s Forbidden Kingdom

Are you ready to step into a world untouched by time? The Upper Mustang Trek is a unique experience that takes you through one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions. Hidden from the outside world until 1992, Upper Mustang offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, ancient Tibetan culture, and historical sites—all wrapped up in a rugged landscape unlike anywhere else in Nepal. Here’s what makes this journey so remarkable, and why you’ll want to lace up your boots for this unforgettable trek.

Lo Manthang: The Mysterious Walled Kingdom

Imagine walking through a city frozen in time. That’s Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Upper Mustang. Narrow alleyways, whitewashed walls, and centuries-old monasteries surround you as you explore this cultural heart of Upper Mustang. This place feels like a living museum, and it’s easy to get lost in its stories:
  • King’s Palace – A grand yet humble reminder of the region's royal past.
  • Thubchen and Chode Monasteries – Step inside to see intricate murals that date back hundreds of years. Here, Tibetan Buddhist heritage lives on, untouched by the outside world.

Landscapes Like No Other

The Upper Mustang region is known for its striking desert-like landscapes, shaped over millennia by the elements. You’ll trek through barren valleys, wind-carved cliffs, and ancient caves, with towering peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri framing the view. The colors of the land—reds, ochres, and greys—contrast beautifully with the sky and mountains.
  • Canyons and Cliffs – Marvel at formations that seem to belong on another planet.
  • Caves of Chhoser – Some of these caves were used as meditation retreats or homes centuries ago. If you’re up for a climb, exploring them feels like entering another world.

Spiritual Treasures and Monasteries

One of the most special parts of trekking in Upper Mustang is connecting with its deep spiritual roots. Ancient monasteries dot the landscape, each holding centuries of history and devotion.
  • Lo Gekar Monastery – Older than Tibet’s famous Samye Monastery, Lo Gekar is one of the oldest monasteries in Nepal.
  • Ghar Gompa – This sacred site has stood for over 1,200 years, and stepping inside feels like touching history itself.
Take your time in these places. Listen to the silence, look at the intricate murals, and let the tranquility sink in. These monasteries aren’t just tourist spots—they’re living legacies of a spiritual tradition.

Experience the Tiji Festival

If your timing’s right, you could witness the Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang. This three-day celebration is a vibrant explosion of color, music, and tradition, celebrating the victory of good over evil. Locals dress in traditional attire and perform sacred dances that have been passed down for generations. It’s a glimpse into the rich spiritual life of the Upper Mustang region.

What Makes the Upper Mustang Trek Unique?

Unlike other treks in Nepal, the Upper Mustang trek isn’t about lush forests or high mountain passes. It’s about immersing yourself in a rugged, untouched landscape and a culture that has remained remarkably unchanged for centuries. Here’s what sets it apart:
  • Cultural Depth: From Tibetan Buddhist rituals to traditional festivals, every day in Mustang brings you closer to an ancient way of life.
  • Desert-Like Terrain: The landscapes here are more similar to the Tibetan Plateau than the lush forests of the Annapurna or Everest regions.
  • Historical Significance: Known as the “Forbidden Kingdom,” this region was once part of an independent kingdom, and much of its identity reflects this unique history.

Trekking Routes and Alternatives

There are multiple routes through Upper Mustang, each offering its own unique rewards. While most people take the classic route through Jomsom, there are alternative paths for those wanting a slightly different experience.
  • Classic Route: Begins in Jomsom and follows the Kali Gandaki River into Upper Mustang. Ideal for first-time visitors to Mustang.
  • Extended Lo Manthang Trek: For those wanting to explore more remote villages or trek further north toward the Tibetan border.

A Trek Beyond the Physical

The Upper Mustang trek isn’t just a physical journey; it’s a trip through history, culture, and tradition. Trekking in this remote region connects you with the essence of a culture that is rare in our modern world. Every step on these ancient paths brings you closer to a timeless world where simplicity, spirituality, and natural beauty are deeply intertwined.
If you’re looking for a trek that’s more than a physical challenge, if you crave an adventure rich in history and culture, the Mustang Valley Trek is your answer. So, lace up your boots, prepare to explore the Ancient Mustang Kingdom, and step into one of the last untouched vestiges of Tibetan culture in Nepal.

Why choose Contour Expeditions for your Upper Mustang trek?

  • Certified Experienced Guides: Skilled in high-altitude trekking, culture, and terrain for a richer, safer journey.
  • Complimentary Airport Transfers: Free airport pickup and drop-off in a private vehicle for added convenience.
  • Pre-Trek Online Briefing: Comprehensive online trip briefing provided upon booking confirmation.
  • Flexible Itineraries: Tailored options to suit your fitness level and preferences.
  • Seamless Logistics: Coordinated permits, accommodations, and transport for a stress-free experience.
  • Secure Luggage Storage: Free storage for extra luggage at Contour Expeditions store.
  • Authentic Cultural Engagement: Opportunities for immersion in local culture and meaningful experiences.
  • Dedicated 24/7 Support: Multi-channel communication (Email, WhatsApp, Facebook, Insta, Viber, Skype, Zoom)
  • Easy Booking & Payment Options: Smooth reservation and payment process for your convenience.

Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary

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Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu (1,350m) to Pokhara (822m) – 7/8 hour drive

Day 2: Flight to Jomsom (2,743m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2,804m) – 3/4 hour hike

Day 3: Trek from Kagbeni (2,804m) to Chele (3,070m) – 3 hour hike

Day 4: Trek from Chele (3,070m) to Geling (3,500m) – 5/6 hour hike

Day 5: Trek from Geling (3,500m) to Charang (3,620m) – 5/6 hour hike

Day 6: Trek from Charang (3,620m) to Lo Manthang (3,840m) – 3/4 hour hike

Day 7: Rest and Explore Lo Manthang

Day 8: Trek from Lo Manthang (3,840m) to Drakmar (3,820m) via Ghar Gompa – 6/7 hour hike

Day 9: Trek from Drakmar (3,830m) to Shyangmochen (3,800m) – 5/6 hour hike

Day 10: Trek from Shyangmochen (3,800m) to Chhusang (2,950m) – 5/6 hour hike

Day 11: Trek from Chhusang (2,950m) to Muktinath (3,800m) – 7/8 hour hike

Day 12: Trek from Muktinath (3,800m) to Jomsom (2,700m) – 5/6 hour hike

Day 13: Flight from Jomsom (3,700m) to Pokhara (822m) – 30 minutes

Day 14: Drive from Pokhara (820m) to Kathmandu (1,350m) – 7-8 hours

Cost Includes of Upper Mustang Trek

  1. Airport pickup and drop on a tourist vehicle.
  2. 3-Star accommodation at Kathmandu and Pokhara on breakfast plan.
  3. Round trip airfare between Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara and airport taxes.
  4. The best available tea-house/lodge during trekking. Note: In case of need of private room, you can contact us at info@contourexpeditions.com
  5. Full board standard meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  6. Govt. certified highly experienced English speaking helpful, knowledgeable and friendly trekking guide.
  7. Porters to carry your luggage during the trek. Each porter will carry the bags for two trekkers, with a 10 kg limit per trekker.
  8. All wages, meals, lodging, transportation, and insurance for guides and porters.
  9. For your safety during the trek, the company will provide a first aid kit and an oximeter. The oximeter will be used twice a day to check your pulse, oxygen levels, and heart rate to watch for any signs of altitude sickness. 
  10. All conservation fees, permit fees, coordination with a relevant government office and government taxes.
  11. If there's an emergency, helicopter service can be arranged, and the cost will be covered by your travel insurance.
  12. An assistant guide will be provided for groups of 8 or more people.
  13. Duffle bags and trekking poles in case you don’t have your own.
  14. Trek Completion Certificate from Contour Expeditions.
  15. Farewell dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant in Kathmandu.     

Cost Excludes of Upper Mustang Trek

  1. Nepal Entry Visa and Visa extension fees (USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa, you can get visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu).
  2. Personal trekking gears and equipment.
  3. International flight fare and airport departure tax.
  4. Other charges at lodges/tea houses such as showers, internet access, battery re-charging, hot water and extra hot drink.
  5. Travel and Medical Insurance (Compulsory).
  6. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
  7. Charges for emergency rescue or evacuation by helicopter, if needed.
  8. Tips for the guides and porters.
  9. Any additional night’s accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara owing to early arrivals, late departures, or early returns from the trek (for any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
  10. Extra baggage charges.
  11. Any expenses other than the Price Inclusion Section.

Booking

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Thursday 09 Jan 2025
Wednesday 22 Jan 2025
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Sunday 26 Jan 2025
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Thursday 16 Jan 2025
Wednesday 29 Jan 2025
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Monday 20 Jan 2025
Sunday 02 Feb 2025
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Thursday 23 Jan 2025
Wednesday 05 Feb 2025
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Monday 27 Jan 2025
Sunday 09 Feb 2025
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Thursday 30 Jan 2025
Wednesday 12 Feb 2025
$1899 $2450
18 available

Traveller's Review

5
5 Stars 1 review
avatar
Digby Webb
Nov 25, 2024

In November 2024, I had the opportunity to make use of Contour Expeditions to plan a trek to Everest Base Camp. Communication was great with the planning, accommodation, itinerary and trek information before I left. When I arrived I was met by the team in Kathmandu and they really did a great job in looking after me, including a welcome dinner and briefing session. They had everything arranged, including the flights to Lukla and back, as well as a really experienced, English speaking guide and a friendly capable porter. The trek went without a hitch, teahouse accommodation and 3 meals a day were provided. There seem to be hundreds of trekking and expedition companies in Nepal, however, I would be careful to do your research and make sure you choose a experienced company like Contour Expeditions. I will definitely be back to do another trek soon and would have no hesitation to make use of them again. Thank you Contour Expeditions for the fun, memorable experience.

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