Journey through Nepal's legendary Last Forbidden Kingdom, exploring ancient monasteries, Tibetan-influenced villages, the walled city of Lo Manthang and the spectacular desert landscapes of Upper Mustang.
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is one of the most adventurous and unique tours that can be done in Nepal.
Upper Mustang, often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom”, is one of Nepal’s most fascinating and culturally preserved regions. Nestled in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, this remote corner of Nepal is renowned for its dramatic desert landscapes, colourful cliffs, deep canyons, ancient cave systems and centuries-old trade routes that once connected Nepal and Tibet. Its stark, arid scenery offers a striking contrast to the lush valleys found elsewhere in the country, creating one of the most unique travel experiences in the Himalayas.
Once part of the independent Kingdom of Lo, Upper Mustang has preserved its unique Tibetan Buddhist culture, traditions and architecture for centuries. Home to ancient monasteries, sacred pilgrimage sites, traditional villages and the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang, the region offers a rare glimpse into a way of life that has changed little over generations. Along the way, you’ll encounter welcoming Loba communities, colourful prayer flags and sacred gompas, while festivals such as the vibrant Tiji Festival showcase centuries-old Buddhist traditions through masked dances, rituals and celebrations that symbolise the victory of good over evil.
Travelling by private 4WD jeep allows you to explore this extraordinary region in comfort while covering significant distances through some of Nepal’s most dramatic landscapes. Following rugged mountain roads alongside the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest river gorge, this overland adventure provides access to remote villages, hidden monasteries and spectacular viewpoints that would otherwise require weeks of trekking. Combining culture, history, scenery and adventure, the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour offers an unforgettable journey into one of the Himalayas’ most remarkable destinations.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Upper Mustang Jeep Tour.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, permit processing and trip preparation
Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing tour including Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa
Day 3: Fly Kathmandu – Pokhara and visit Phewa Lake and the World Peace Pagoda
Day 4: Scenic drive from Pokhara to Kagbeni (2,800m) via Kusma, Rupse Waterfall and Marpha
Day 5: Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple and drive into Upper Mustang to Samar (3,660m)
Day 6: Drive to Tsarang (3,560m) via Chungsi Cave, Ghami and the historic Ghar Gompa
Day 7: Drive to Lo Manthang (3,780m) and explore the ancient walled kingdom
Day 8: Excursion to Chhoser (3,908m) to visit ancient caves, monasteries and local villages
Day 9: Explore Luri Gumba and traditional Mustang villages before driving to Ghiling (3,570m)
Day 10: Drive through the Kali Gandaki Valley to the picturesque village of Marpha (2,650m)
Day 11: Return drive from Marpha to Pokhara and free evening by the lakeside
Day 12: Fly Pokhara – Kathmandu and enjoy free time
Day 13: Transfer to the airport for your onward departure
Note: All tours are lead by a professional tour guides.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Passports will be collected to process the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore Kathmandu at your leisure.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing, Tour Briefing and Preparation
After breakfast, attend a comprehensive tour briefing before visiting two of Nepal’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in the world, and visit the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in Asia.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly Kathmandu - Pokhara and Visit Phewa Lake
Take a short morning flight to Pokhara, Nepal’s beautiful lakeside city. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a relaxing boat ride across Phewa Lake before hiking to the World Peace Pagoda. From the hilltop stupa, enjoy panoramic views of Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake and the Annapurna mountain range.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 4: Drive Pokhara - Kagbeni (2,800m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours
Today begins your overland journey towards Upper Mustang. Following the Kali Gandaki Valley, travel through diverse landscapes and traditional mountain settlements. Along the way, visit the famous Kusma Bungee Bridge, one of the highest suspension bridges in Nepal, and stop at the spectacular Rupse Waterfall.
Continue through the picturesque apple-growing village of Marpha before arriving at Kagbeni, a medieval settlement that serves as the gateway to Upper Mustang. Overnight in Kagbeni.
Day 5: Visit Muktinath Temple and Drive to Samar (3,660m)
This morning visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, an important pilgrimage destination for both Hindus and Buddhists. Situated at 3,760 metres, the temple offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
After exploring Muktinath, continue into the restricted Upper Mustang region. Pass through the traditional villages of Tangbe, Chhusang and Chele, where whitewashed houses, prayer flags and ancient chortens reflect the region’s strong Tibetan heritage. Arrive in the peaceful village of Samar for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Drive Samar - Tsarang (3,560m) via Chungsi Cave and Ghar Gompa
Today’s journey takes you through some of Upper Mustang’s most dramatic landscapes. Travel past deep canyons, colourful cliffs and barren valleys as you make your way towards Tsarang.
Visit the sacred Chungsi Cave, believed to be associated with Guru Padmasambhava, who introduced Buddhism to Tibet in the eighth century. Continue through Ghami and admire the spectacular red cliffs before visiting Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in Mustang. Arrive in the historic village of Tsarang, home to impressive monasteries and ancient royal structures.
Overnight in Tsarang.
Day 7: Drive Tsarang - Lo Manthang (3,780m)
Cross the Lo La Pass and enjoy your first panoramic views of the legendary Lo Manthang Valley. Surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery, the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang stands as the cultural heart of Upper Mustang.
Spend the afternoon exploring the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo. Visit ancient monasteries, traditional homes, the royal palace and the renowned Amchi School of Tibetan Medicine. Wander through narrow alleyways and experience the unique atmosphere of this remarkable Himalayan kingdom.
Overnight in Lo Manthang.
Day 8: Excursion to Chhoser (3,908m)
Today enjoy an excursion to the fascinating village of Chhoser, located near the Tibetan border. Explore the remarkable Jhong Cave, a multi-storey cave complex carved into towering cliffs centuries ago.
Visit ancient monasteries including Niphu and Garphu Monasteries and observe traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture that continues to thrive in this remote region. Return to Lo Manthang for your overnight stay.
Day 9: Drive to Luri Gumba and Continue to Ghiling (3,570m)
Travel through the remote villages of Yara and Ghara, exploring one of Upper Mustang’s most important religious sites, Luri Gumba. This ancient cave monastery contains remarkable Buddhist paintings, chortens and meditation chambers hidden within dramatic cliffs.
After exploring the region’s unique cultural heritage and traditional settlements, begin your return journey through Upper Mustang and continue to Ghiling.
Overnight in Ghiling.
Day 10: Drive Ghiling - Marpha (2,650m)
Leave Upper Mustang behind and descend through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Valley. Enjoy sweeping views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Nilgiri while passing through traditional villages and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Arrive in Marpha, one of Nepal’s most charming mountain settlements, famous for its stone-paved streets, whitewashed houses and apple orchards.
Overnight in Marpha.
Day 11: Drive Marpha - Pokhara | Approx. 6-7 Hours
Continue your journey south through the Kali Gandaki Valley, retracing your route towards Pokhara. Upon arrival, enjoy a free evening to relax by the lakeside, explore local cafés or celebrate the completion of your Upper Mustang adventure.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 12: Fly Pokhara - Kathmandu
Take a short scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The remainder of the day is free for sightseeing, shopping or relaxation in Nepal’s vibrant capital city.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 13: Departure from Nepal
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight, bringing your unforgettable journey through Upper Mustang and the Last Forbidden Kingdom to an end.
Please note: This itinerary is a guide only and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, road access, local festivals, permit regulations or operational requirements.
Note: All tours are lead by a professional tour guides.
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
Cost Excludes
- 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
What to Bring
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
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| 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 | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
| FOOTWEAR | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Flip flops/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| 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 humor & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! J | |
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FAQs for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
What can I see on an Upper Mustang jeep tour?
The journey includes dramatic Trans-Himalayan landscapes, ancient villages, monasteries, caves, traditional Tibetan-influenced culture and historic places such as Lo Manthang.
What is the best time for an Upper Mustang jeep tour?
Spring and autumn are popular seasons. Because Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, it can also be a good option during the monsoon season when many other parts of Nepal experience heavy rainfall.
How long does an Upper Mustang jeep tour take?
The duration depends on the itinerary and places you want to visit. A typical journey takes around 13 days, including travel from Kathmandu and exploration of Upper Mustang.
Do I need a special permit for Upper Mustang?
Yes. Upper Mustang is a restricted area and requires a special trekking permit. Additional conservation area and other applicable permits are also required. These are arranged as part of an organised tour.
Is Upper Mustang suitable for families and older travellers?
It can be, particularly for travellers who prefer not to trek long distances. However, the high altitude, rough roads and remote conditions should be considered when planning the journey.



