Kathmandu to Pokhara, Kagbeni, Lo Manthang and Return Journey
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Pokhara (822m) by Tourist Sofa-Seated Bus
After an early breakfast in Kathmandu, your Upper Mustang Overland Jeep Tour begins with a scenic drive to Pokhara. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours and follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers, passing terraced farmlands, charming villages, and rolling green hills.
For travelers wishing to save time, an optional domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara (approx. 25 minutes) can be arranged at an additional cost. Upon arrival in Pokhara, enjoy panoramic Himalayan views including Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal.
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast
Driving Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 205 km / 127 miles
Day 2: Drive from Pokhara to Kagbeni (2,850m)
Today's journey follows the Kali Gandaki River through dramatic landscapes and traditional villages. Passing through Beni - the gateway to Mustang - you will cross the Gandaki Golden Bridge, a popular photo stop, before continuing toward Kalopani, surrounded by Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
The drive then leads to Marpha, famous for its apple orchards, whitewashed houses, and stone-paved alleys. After exploring the village and sampling local apple products, you proceed to Kagbeni, a culturally rich settlement where you will spend the night.
Accommodation: Hotel or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Driving Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 161 km / 98 miles
Day 3: Drive from Kagbeni to Ghami (3,510m)
After breakfast, you enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang. A highlight of the day is a visit to Ranchung Chungshi Cave, a sacred meditation site believed to have been used by Guru Rinpoche.
Continuing through arid landscapes and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, you drive toward Ghiling and finally reach Ghami, one of the largest and most historic villages in Upper Mustang.
Accommodation: Hotel or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Driving Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 60 km / 37 miles
Day 4: Drive from Ghami to Lo Manthang (3,840m)
After breakfast, the journey continues to Dhakmar, renowned for its striking red cliffs. You then visit Ghar Gumba (Ghar Monastery), one of the oldest monasteries in Nepal and an important spiritual landmark.
The drive proceeds to Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang, celebrated for its ancient monasteries, royal history, and preserved Tibetan culture.
Accommodation: Hotel or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Driving Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 42 km / 26 miles
Day 5: Explore Lo Manthang & Chhoser Valley
Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural heart of Upper Mustang. Walk through the ancient alleys of Lo Manthang and visit Champa Lhakang, home to a massive Buddha statue and exquisite mandala paintings. Continue to Namgyal Gompa, which serves as both a monastery and local court.
In the afternoon, drive to Chhoser Valley to explore the famous Sky Caves, including Konchokling Cave and Marzong Cave - important meditation sites carved into cliffs centuries ago. Return to Lo Manthang for overnight.
Accommodation: Hotel or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Drive from Lo Manthang to Muktinath, then Jomsom (2,743m)
Leaving Lo Manthang, you descend toward Muktinath Temple, one of Nepal's most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. Visit the temple complex, including the 108 water spouts and holy ponds believed to cleanse past sins.
After the visit, continue by 4WD Jeep to Jomsom, enjoying stunning views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri ranges. In the evening, explore the local market and sample Mustang's famous apple products and apple brandy.
Accommodation: Hotel or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Driving Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 114 km / 70 miles
Day 7: Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (822m)
The scenic drive back to Pokhara passes through Marpha, Kalopani, Tatopani (natural hot springs), and Beni. Traveling by Jeep allows flexible stops for photos and cultural exploration along the way.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, enjoy the lakeside atmosphere or visit attractions such as Phewa Lake, Devi's Fall, World Peace Pagoda, and Sarangkot.
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Driving Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 158 km / 98 miles
Day 8: Drive from Pokhara (822m) to Kathmandu (1,400m) by Tourist Bus
After breakfast, board a tourist bus for the return journey to Kathmandu. The drive follows the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers, passing market towns such as Damauli, Dumre, and Mugling.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. Spend your final evening exploring Thamel or shopping for souvenirs.
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel
Driving Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 205 km / 127 miles
