Journey into Nepal's legendary Last Forbidden Kingdom, trekking through ancient Tibetan villages, dramatic desert landscapes, sacred monasteries and the historic walled city of Lo Manthang
The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most extraordinary cultural trekking experiences, taking you deep into the ancient Kingdom of Lo, a remote Himalayan region that remained closed to foreign visitors until 1992. Often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom”, Upper Mustang offers a remarkable blend of dramatic desert landscapes, Tibetan Buddhist heritage, ancient cave systems and centuries-old traditions that have remained largely unchanged for generations.
Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Mustang features striking red cliffs, eroded canyons, colourful rock formations, high mountain passes and traditional mud-brick villages unlike anywhere else in Nepal. The journey follows ancient trade routes once used by merchants travelling between Tibet and the Indian subcontinent, passing sacred monasteries, chortens, mani walls and remote settlements inhabited by the Loba people.
The cultural heart of the trek is Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo. Here, visitors can explore royal palaces, centuries-old monasteries and narrow alleyways steeped in history. Along the route, highlights include the sacred pilgrimage cave of Ranchung Chungsi, the historic Ghar Gompa monastery, the spectacular red cliffs of Dhakmar and the mysterious sky caves of Chhosar.
This unique trekking adventure combines stunning Himalayan scenery with one of the most authentic Tibetan cultural experiences available anywhere in the Himalayas, making it one of the best cultural treks in Nepal.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Upper Mustang Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel and permit processing.
Day 2: Trek briefing and preparation
Day 3: Fly to Pokhara (30 mins), drive to Kagbeni (2,800m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 4: Trek from Kagbeni to Chhuksang (2,950m), approx. 4-5 hours, 12km.
Day 5: Trek from Chhuksang to Samar (3,600m), approx. 5-6 hours, 13km.
Day 6: Trek from Samar to Ghiling (3,570m), approx. 6-7 hours, 15km.
Day 7: Trek from Ghiling to Dhakmar (3,820m), approx. 5-6 hours, 12km.
Day 8: Trek from Dhakmar to Marang (3,780m), approx. 4-5 hours, 9km.
Day 9: Trek from Marang to Lo Manthang (3,810m), approx. 5-6 hours, 13km.
Day 10: Excursion to Chhosar and exploration of Lo Manthang, approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 11: Drive from Lo Manthang to Jomsom, approx. 6 hours.
Day 12: Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara, approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 13: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu (30 mins).
Day 14: Departure from Nepal.
Note: The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, road conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All tours are lead by a professional city tour guide
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Permit Processing
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Your passports will be collected to begin processing the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Trek Briefing and Preparation (B)
Today begins with a comprehensive trek briefing and final equipment check. You will meet your guide for a comprehensive briefing covering the route, permits, safety procedures, altitude awareness and equipment checks. There will also be time for any last-minute shopping or gear rental.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly to Pokhara, drive to Kagbeni (2,800m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Take a short scenic flight to Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital. Then, travel by private jeep through the Kali Gandaki Valley towards the gateway to Upper Mustang. Along the route, visit the famous Kusma Suspension Bridge, Rupse Waterfall and the picturesque apple-growing village of Marpha before arriving in Kagbeni, an ancient settlement situated at the entrance to Upper Mustang.
Overnight in Kagbeni.
Day 4: Trek from Kagbeni to Chhuksang (2,950m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
After completing permit checks, enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang. The trail follows the broad Kali Gandaki Valley through striking desert landscapes and traditional villages. Reach Tangbe village for lunch before crossing the river and continuing to Chhuksang.
Enjoy excellent views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and the Tukuche Himal.
Overnight in Chhuksang.
Day 5: Trek from Chhuksang to Samar (3,600m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Today’s trail climbs steadily after crossing the steel bridge below Chele village. Traverse dramatic cliffs, rocky canyons and ancient cave systems while enjoying magnificent mountain scenery. After lunch in the traditional village of Ghyakar, continue across the Darjori La Pass (3,735m) before descending gently to Samar.
Overnight in Samar.
Day 6: Trek from Samar to Ghiling (3,570m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
A fascinating day of ascents and descents leads to one of Mustang’s most important pilgrimage sites, Ranchung Chungsi Cave. Revered by both Buddhists and Hindus, the cave is associated with Guru Rinpoche and Lord Shiva. After exploring the cave, climb to Shangmochen for lunch before descending gradually to the beautiful village of Ghiling.
Overnight in Ghiling.
Day 7: Trek from Ghiling to Dhakmar (3,820m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Climb steadily to a high pass at 4,150m before descending into the traditional village of Ghimi. The route passes long mani walls, ancient chortens and beautifully decorated stone houses. Continue onwards to Dhakmar, famous for its spectacular red cliffs and dramatic rock formations.
Overnight in Dhakmar.
Day 8: Trek from Dhakmar to Marang (3,780m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Ascend gradually to Muila Pass (4,170m) before descending to the historic Ghar Gompa Monastery. Believed to have been established by Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century, Ghar Gompa is one of the oldest monasteries in Mustang and contains important Buddhist murals and manuscripts. After exploring the monastery and enjoying lunch, continue to Marang.
Overnight in Marang.
Day 9: Trek from Marang to Lo Manthang (3,810m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Today’s trek crosses Manga La Pass (4,230m), the highest point of the journey. From the pass, enjoy spectacular panoramic views across Upper Mustang before descending towards the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang. Arrive in time for a late lunch and spend the afternoon exploring this historic capital.
Overnight in Lo Manthang.
Day 10: Excursion to Chhosar and Explore Lo Manthang | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Travel to Chhosar to visit the remarkable sky caves carved into the cliffs of Upper Mustang. Dating back more than 2,000 years, these caves have served as burial chambers, homes and meditation retreats throughout history. Archaeological discoveries here include ancient manuscripts, Buddhist artefacts and human remains.
Return to Lo Manthang and spend the afternoon exploring monasteries, royal palaces and the narrow streets of the ancient walled city.
Overnight in Lo Manthang.
Day 11: Drive from Lo Manthang to Jomsom | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
After breakfast, begin the scenic return journey through Upper Mustang by jeep. Travel through dramatic landscapes and traditional villages while enjoying views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Arrive in Jomsom in the afternoon and enjoy free time to explore the town.
Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 12 Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L)
Follow the Kali Gandaki Valley southwards through Marpha, Tatopani and Beni before reaching Pokhara. The evening is free to relax by the lakeside and celebrate the completion of your Upper Mustang adventure.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 13: Fly to Kathmandu (B)
Take a short scenic flight back to Kathmandu and enjoy a free afternoon for sightseeing, shopping or relaxation.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 14: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, trail conditions, road access, permit regulations or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All tours are lead by a professional city tour guide
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 | |
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 | |
| Sandals/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 |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Upper Mustang Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
9 Days
Everest Region
Easy/Moderate
