Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

Duration: 12 Nights / 13 Days

Upper Mustang, often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” is one of Nepal’s most enchanting and culturally rich regions. Nestled in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, this remote area offers a unique blend of breath-taking landscapes, ancient monasteries and a rich tapestry of Tibetan culture. The stark, arid landscapes are characterized by dramatic cliffs, colourful rock formations and vast stretches of desert-like terrain, providing a striking contrast to the lush greenery found in other parts of Nepal. The journey through Upper Mustang reveals hidden caves, deep canyons and high-altitude passes, offering trekkers awe-inspiring views at every turn.

Once a part of the Tibetan Kingdom of Lo, Upper Mustang’s cultural heritage remains deeply rooted in Tibetan traditions. The walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Lo, stands as a testament to the area’s rich history. Visitors can explore ancient monasteries adorned with intricate murals, traditional Tibetan homes and the royal palace, which still houses the king of Mustang.
The people of Upper Mustang are predominantly of Tibetan descent and their way of life has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Known as Loba, the locals are renowned for their warm hospitality and deeply spiritual lifestyle. Festivals such as Tiji, which celebrates the victory of good over evil, are vibrant displays of traditional music, dance, and rituals.

Day 1: Arrival and transfer to hotel. Collect passports for Upper Mustang restricted area permit. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Trek briefing and tours of Pashupatinath temple and Boudhanath stupa. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara (30 minutes) and transfer to your hotel in Pokhara. After lunch, enjoy a boat ride across Phewa Lake, followed by a hike up to the Peace Pagoda. Return to the hotel by taxi (c.3-4 hour tour). Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 4: Drive Pokhara to Kagbeni, 2,800m (c.7-8 hours). You will stop for lunch along the way and take time to visit some interesting sites. Highlights include the highest bungee jump bridge over the Kaligandaki River at Kusma, the Rupse Jharana waterfall at Rupse, and the charming village of Marpha, famous for its apples. Overnight in Kagbeni.

Day 5: Drive to Muktinath temple then to Samar 3,660m.
Set out early in the morning for a scenic ascent to Muktinath Temple (3,760m), navigating through the towns of Jharkot and Ranipauwa while enjoying the expansive views. Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists alike, is a place where spirituality merges seamlessly with the splendour of nature. On clear days, breath-taking views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,060m) and other peaks can be seen from Muktinath. After visiting Muktinath, the route follows the Kali Gandaki corridor to the picturesque village of Samar in Upper Mustang. This path is lined with stunning landscapes and culturally rich villages like Tangbe, Chuksang, and Tsaile, known for their distinctive architecture with white-washed houses; narrow passageways and friendly inhabitants. The journey traverses rugged terrain, featuring steep cliffs, rocky gorges and quaint villages such as Chele and Ghyakar. These villages are notable for their historic monasteries, Tibetan-influenced culture, and ancient structures. Overnight in Samar.

Day 6: Drive to Tsarang (3,560m) via Chungsi cave and Dhakmar. After breakfast, you’ll set off on a scenic drive toward Tsarang. The journey will lead us past towering cliffs and expansive barren valleys dotted with small settlements. This historic route is believed to have been traversed by the renowned Indian saint Padmasambhava, who played a pivotal role in introducing Tibetan Buddhism to the region around 750-810 AD. From the comfort of your jeep, you’ll witness striking landscapes, including dramatic rock formations, canyons, rolling hills and the Kali Gandaki riverbed. You’ll stop along the way to appreciate the stunning views, particularly the vivid red cliffs to the west of Ghami. After navigating a pass through Ghami, you will reach Tsarang. From Tasarang, you’ll explore significant cultural sites, including the majestic White Palace and Ghar Gompa, both ancient monasteries renowned for their historical significance. Overnight in Tsarang.

Day 7: Drive to Lo Manthang (3,780m) and explore the walled kingdom. As you make your way from Tsarang towards Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, you will be accompanied by breath-taking views of majestic peaks like Tilicho, Mount Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Bhrikurti. Crossing the Lho Pass, you’ll be greeted by the vast and impressive Lo Manthang Valley. The ancient walled city of Lo Manthang is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, featuring ancient monasteries, the Amchi school of Tibetan medicine, a royal palace and narrow streets that weave through its rich history and unique architecture. Surrounded by spectacular mountain views, this charming town offers a deep dive into its vibrant culture and history. During our visit, we’ll explore the historic monasteries, wander through the narrow alleyways and engage with the welcoming locals. Overnight in Lo Mantang.

Day 8: Morning drive to Chhoser 3,908m visiting caves and monasteries before returning to Lo Manthang. The journey from Lo Manthang to Chhoser winds through several villages, including Nenyul, Bharcha, Dhuk, Ghom, Gharphu, and Chhoser. On this Chhoser excursion, you have the chance to explore significant sites like the Jhong Cave, Niphu and Garphu Monasteries, as well as chortens and mani walls, all while enjoying views of the surrounding hills and valleys. This side trip also offers you the opportunity to engage with local residents, providing insights into their culture, traditions and everyday life. Overnight in Lo Manthang

Day 9: Drive to Luri Gumba and back down to Ghiling (3,570m)
After breakfast at the hotel you will drive from Lo Manthang to the villages of Yara and Ghara in Upper Mustang. This route offers the chance to explore notable sites such as Luri Gumba, Tashi Kabum, ancient monasteries and experience the Tibetan-influenced culture and lifestyle of the locals and villages. Overnight in Ghiling.

Day 10: Drive to Marpha (2,650m)
After breakfast you will journey back towards Marpha, tracing the route along the Kali Gandaki River Valley. Enjoy the sweeping panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Overnight Marpha.

Day 11: Drive back to Pokhara and free evening (c. 6-7 hours).
After our final day on the road, you can enjoy a relaxed evening in Pokhara.

Day 12: Fly to Kathmandu
Today you’ll fly back to the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.

Day 13: Depart from Nepal

Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.

This is a guideline only

Your trek cost includes:

• Pre-trip advice and detailed information
• Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
• Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
• 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1-night post-trek in Kathmandu
• 1-night accommodation pre or post-trek in Pokhara (where applicable)
• Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
• Basic teahouse/lodge/camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
• During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
• All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
• Porters
• Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
• Rescue assistance
• Group medical kit

Your trek cost does NOT include:

• International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
• Visa for Nepal
• Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory.  Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
• Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during the trek, etc.
• Meals unless specified
• Sightseeing
• Gratuities
• Excess baggage on internal flights
• Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

Duration: 12 Nights / 13 Days

Upper Mustang, often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” is one of Nepal’s most enchanting and culturally rich regions. Nestled in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, this remote area offers a unique blend of breath-taking landscapes, ancient monasteries and a rich tapestry of Tibetan culture. The stark, arid landscapes are characterized by dramatic cliffs, colourful rock formations and vast stretches of desert-like terrain, providing a striking contrast to the lush greenery found in other parts of Nepal. The journey through Upper Mustang reveals hidden caves, deep canyons and high-altitude passes, offering trekkers awe-inspiring views at every turn.

Once a part of the Tibetan Kingdom of Lo, Upper Mustang’s cultural heritage remains deeply rooted in Tibetan traditions. The walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Lo, stands as a testament to the area’s rich history. Visitors can explore ancient monasteries adorned with intricate murals, traditional Tibetan homes and the royal palace, which still houses the king of Mustang.
The people of Upper Mustang are predominantly of Tibetan descent and their way of life has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Known as Loba, the locals are renowned for their warm hospitality and deeply spiritual lifestyle. Festivals such as Tiji, which celebrates the victory of good over evil, are vibrant displays of traditional music, dance, and rituals.

Day 1: Arrival and transfer to hotel. Collect passports for Upper Mustang restricted area permit. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Trek briefing and tours of Pashupatinath temple and Boudhanath stupa. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara (30 minutes) and transfer to your hotel in Pokhara. After lunch, enjoy a boat ride across Phewa Lake, followed by a hike up to the Peace Pagoda. Return to the hotel by taxi (c.3-4 hour tour). Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 4: Drive Pokhara to Kagbeni, 2,800m (c.7-8 hours). You will stop for lunch along the way and take time to visit some interesting sites. Highlights include the highest bungee jump bridge over the Kaligandaki River at Kusma, the Rupse Jharana waterfall at Rupse, and the charming village of Marpha, famous for its apples. Overnight in Kagbeni.

Day 5: Drive to Muktinath temple then to Samar 3,660m.
Set out early in the morning for a scenic ascent to Muktinath Temple (3,760m), navigating through the towns of Jharkot and Ranipauwa while enjoying the expansive views. Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists alike, is a place where spirituality merges seamlessly with the splendour of nature. On clear days, breath-taking views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,060m) and other peaks can be seen from Muktinath. After visiting Muktinath, the route follows the Kali Gandaki corridor to the picturesque village of Samar in Upper Mustang. This path is lined with stunning landscapes and culturally rich villages like Tangbe, Chuksang, and Tsaile, known for their distinctive architecture with white-washed houses; narrow passageways and friendly inhabitants. The journey traverses rugged terrain, featuring steep cliffs, rocky gorges and quaint villages such as Chele and Ghyakar. These villages are notable for their historic monasteries, Tibetan-influenced culture, and ancient structures. Overnight in Samar.

Day 6: Drive to Tsarang (3,560m) via Chungsi cave and Dhakmar. After breakfast, you’ll set off on a scenic drive toward Tsarang. The journey will lead us past towering cliffs and expansive barren valleys dotted with small settlements. This historic route is believed to have been traversed by the renowned Indian saint Padmasambhava, who played a pivotal role in introducing Tibetan Buddhism to the region around 750-810 AD. From the comfort of your jeep, you’ll witness striking landscapes, including dramatic rock formations, canyons, rolling hills and the Kali Gandaki riverbed. You’ll stop along the way to appreciate the stunning views, particularly the vivid red cliffs to the west of Ghami. After navigating a pass through Ghami, you will reach Tsarang. From Tasarang, you’ll explore significant cultural sites, including the majestic White Palace and Ghar Gompa, both ancient monasteries renowned for their historical significance. Overnight in Tsarang.

Day 7: Drive to Lo Manthang (3,780m) and explore the walled kingdom. As you make your way from Tsarang towards Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, you will be accompanied by breath-taking views of majestic peaks like Tilicho, Mount Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Bhrikurti. Crossing the Lho Pass, you’ll be greeted by the vast and impressive Lo Manthang Valley. The ancient walled city of Lo Manthang is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, featuring ancient monasteries, the Amchi school of Tibetan medicine, a royal palace and narrow streets that weave through its rich history and unique architecture. Surrounded by spectacular mountain views, this charming town offers a deep dive into its vibrant culture and history. During our visit, we’ll explore the historic monasteries, wander through the narrow alleyways and engage with the welcoming locals. Overnight in Lo Mantang.

Day 8: Morning drive to Chhoser 3,908m visiting caves and monasteries before returning to Lo Manthang. The journey from Lo Manthang to Chhoser winds through several villages, including Nenyul, Bharcha, Dhuk, Ghom, Gharphu, and Chhoser. On this Chhoser excursion, you have the chance to explore significant sites like the Jhong Cave, Niphu and Garphu Monasteries, as well as chortens and mani walls, all while enjoying views of the surrounding hills and valleys. This side trip also offers you the opportunity to engage with local residents, providing insights into their culture, traditions and everyday life. Overnight in Lo Manthang

Day 9: Drive to Luri Gumba and back down to Ghiling (3,570m)
After breakfast at the hotel you will drive from Lo Manthang to the villages of Yara and Ghara in Upper Mustang. This route offers the chance to explore notable sites such as Luri Gumba, Tashi Kabum, ancient monasteries and experience the Tibetan-influenced culture and lifestyle of the locals and villages. Overnight in Ghiling.

Day 10: Drive to Marpha (2,650m)
After breakfast you will journey back towards Marpha, tracing the route along the Kali Gandaki River Valley. Enjoy the sweeping panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Overnight Marpha.

Day 11: Drive back to Pokhara and free evening (c. 6-7 hours).
After our final day on the road, you can enjoy a relaxed evening in Pokhara.

Day 12: Fly to Kathmandu
Today you’ll fly back to the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.

Day 13: Depart from Nepal

Trekking Gear List

Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments which retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain and snow.    

THIS IS A GUIDELINE ONLY

UPPER BODY LAYERS

• T Shirts – walking 2  Merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic, wicking fabric.  No cotton
• T-shirt – sleeping 1  Can be cotton
• Base layers 1  Light weight or mid weight thermal long sleeved t-shirt
• Top insulating Layers 1  Mid weight fleece that can be worn over other layers
• Fleece Vest 1
• Rain jacket 1
• Down jacket 1

LOWER BODY LAYERS

• Underwear  Sufficient for trek (remember you can wash them)
• Thermal long underwear 1       
• Trekking Trousers  2  Lightweight quick dry trousers (no cotton). Zip-offs are good
• Hiking Shorts  1  If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies
• Rain Pants  1

PACKS & BAGS

• Day pack  1  35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear
• Sleeping bag & compression sack  1  Minimum 3 season

FOOTWEAR

• Hiking boots  1  Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support
• Socks  3 or 4  
• Flip flops/Camp shoes  1  Lightweight for evening use

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS

• Water bottles  2  One litre each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred
• Water purification drops  Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus)
• Sunscreen  We recommend SPF 30 or greater
• Lip Balm  With SPF factor
• Personal first aid kit  To include any prescribed medications
• Sunglasses
• Bandana/Buff
• Flash light /head torch  Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries
• Travel towel  Lightweight and compact
• Wash kit  Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible
• Hand Sanitizer   Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean
• Sun hat
• Warm hat
• Gloves
• Trekking poles  Optional, but advised if you have dodgy knees
• Toilet paper & rubbish bag
• Trekking snacks  Good selection available in KTM
• Camera  With charger &/or extra batteries
• Book/journal
• Pack of cards/travel game  For evening entertainment
• Mosquito repellent
• Passport photos  Always useful and a must have if you want a local sim card
• Photocopies of all your important documents
• A great sense of humour & positive attitude  Essential – don’t come without it!! J

Much of the above equipment can be bought cheaply in Kathmandu. You do not need to spend a fortune on gear.

Your trek cost includes:

• Pre-trip advice and detailed information
• Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
• Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
• 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1-night post-trek in Kathmandu
• 1-night accommodation pre or post-trek in Pokhara (where applicable)
• Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
• Basic teahouse/lodge/camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
• During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
• All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
• Porters
• Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
• Rescue assistance
• Group medical kit

Your trek cost does NOT include:

• International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
• Visa for Nepal
• Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory.  Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
• Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during the trek, etc.
• Meals unless specified
• Sightseeing
• Gratuities
• Excess baggage on internal flights
• Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests