About UPPER MUSTANG TREK (17 DAYS)

The Upper Mustang Trek offers a compelling exploration of one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions. With its historical significance and rugged landscapes, the trek takes you through isolated villages, arid plateaus, and spiritual landmarks, all the while providing a fascinating glimpse into Tibetan culture that has been preserved through centuries of isolation.

The early morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara is short but scenic. As the aircraft ascends, you’ll get your first views of the towering mountains (Machhapuchhre and Annapurna) before landing in Pokhara. The remainder of the day is yours to rest, gather supplies, or stroll by Phewa Lake. Pokhara serves as a transition point, preparing you for the journey into the more remote reaches of Nepal. From Pokhara, you take a 20-minute flight to Jomsom. The flight, while brief, offers sweeping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Once in Jomsom, the trek begins with a short hike to Kagbeni. Kagbeni itself, with its traditional Tibetan-style buildings and a backdrop of barren hills, sets the tone for the days ahead. As you leave Kagbeni, the landscape shifts from fertile farmland to a more desolate, high-altitude desert terrain. You pass through traditional Tibetan villages, some of which are home to remarkable monasteries that serve as centers of spiritual life. As you move further north, the landscape becomes even more stark and windswept, with a notable absence of trees.

Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, is the highlight of the trek and a key destination for cultural immersion. As you approach Lo Manthang, the terrain becomes progressively more inhospitable, with towering cliffs and arid plains. Lo Manthang itself, encircled by high walls, feels like an oasis of Tibetan culture. Its ancient monasteries, with intricate murals and statues, and the local architecture make it one of the most fascinating stops of the trek. The next day is set aside for exploring Lo Manthang and its surroundings. You can visit the nearby caves, which are believed to have been used for meditation and refuge in ancient times, or hike to the Chhoser Monastery, known for its stunning murals and old scroll paintings. The day offers the chance to engage more deeply with the culture, history, and religion of the region, with ample time to wander through the narrow streets, observing the local lifestyle and traditions. Lo Manthang is the furthest destination of this trip, after which you will head back to Kathmandu following the same route unless stated otherwise in your itinerary.

Note: You can choose to drive or to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and from Pokhara to Kathmandu.