Nepal · Trekking

18-Day Upper Mustang Trek to Lo Manthang via Kagbeni and Charang

18 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Moderate pace
Mustang Tsarang
Travelers in paragliding
Upper Mustang

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore ancient monasteries and the royal palace of Lo Manthang
  • 02 Trek through Mustang's scenic landscapes, including the Kali Gandaki Gorge
  • 03 Discover Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath and Boudhanath
  • 04 Engage with local communities in Kagbeni, Chele, and Ghami

Steeped in undisturbed Tibetan Buddhist traditions, Upper Mustang is a hidden gem in north-west Nepal, known for its ancient monasteries, traditional villages, cliffside cave dwellings, and the walled capital of Lo Manthang. This trek leads through a striking semi-arid desert of vibrant rock formations, deep ravines, and snow-capped peaks, with views of the majestic Kali Gandaki Gorge and serene yak grazing pastures. Commonly referred to as "Little Tibet," Mustang has a complex history dating back to the 8th century and is shrouded in legends, myths, and records of visits by historical figures such as the Tibetan poet Milarepa.

Steeped in undisturbed Tibetan Buddhist traditions, Upper Mustang is a hidden gem in north-west Nepal, known for its ancient monasteries, traditional villages, cliffside cave dwellings, and the walled capital of Lo Manthang.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 18 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Mustang, Jomsom, Lo Manthang, Charang, Kagbeni
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Thamel Exploration

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will take you to your designated hotel. Take a rest after the long flight and spend the evening exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel.

  • Transportation: Private Vehicle
  • Accommodation: 3 Star Graded Hotel
2
Day 02

Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the evening, meet your guide for a trek briefing and confirm your gear for the trek.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Transportation: Private Vehicles
  • Accommodation: 3 Star Graded Hotel
3
Day 03

Scenic Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Travel to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara on a journey that offers scenic views of hills, rivers, and mountains. Soak in the beauty of Pokhara.

  • Duration: 7 hours drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Transportation: Kathmandu to Pokhara by Tourist Bus
  • Accommodation: Standard Hotel
4
Day 04

Flight to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni

Take an early morning flight to Jomsom. Upon arrival, start the trek towards Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.

  • Duration: 25 min flight, 3-4 hours trek
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Transportation: Pokhara to Jomsom by Flight
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
5
Day 05

Trek from Kagbeni to Chele

Trek along the east bank of the Kali Gandaki, climbing over numerous ridges as you head to the village of Chele.

  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
6
Day 06

Trek from Chele to Syanbochen

Begin the trek to Syanbochen, ascending above the village and taking in the stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas and the barren landscape of Mustang.

  • Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
7
Day 07

Trek from Syanbochen to Ghami

Trek to Ghami, one of the main centres of Mustang. You will be greeted by beautiful mani (prayer) walls as you enter the village.

  • Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
8
Day 08

Trek from Ghami to Charang

Trek from Ghami to Charang, passing through a desert-like landscape and across a suspension bridge to reach the village of Charang, with its maze-like streets and tunnels.

  • Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
9
Day 09

Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang

Trek to Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang. The trail offers wonderful views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I, and Bhrikuti Peak.

  • Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
10
Day 10

Rest Day to Explore Lo Manthang

Rest day. Explore Lo Manthang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
11
Day 11

Trek from Lo Manthang to Drakmar

Trek from Lo Manthang to Drakmar, descending through the beautiful landscape and catching views of the Himalayas.

  • Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
12
Day 12

Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling

Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling, descending through the beautiful landscape and catching views of the Himalayas.

  • Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
13
Day 13

Trek from Ghiling to Chhuksang

Continue the trek from Ghiling to Chhuksang, enjoying the beautiful desert landscape of Mustang.

  • Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
14
Day 14

Trek from Chhuksang back to Jomsom

Trek back to Jomsom, where the beautiful landscapes offer a grand farewell.

  • Trek Duration: 7 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Standard Teahouse
15
Day 15

Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

Take a morning flight back to Pokhara. Spend the rest of the day at leisure in Pokhara.

  • Duration: 25 min fly
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Transportation: Jomsom to Pokhara by Flight
  • Accommodation: Standard Hotel
16
Day 16

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Drive back to Kathmandu. You can spend the evening exploring Kathmandu or shopping for souvenirs.

  • Duration: Around 7 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Standard Hotel
17
Day 17

Departure from Kathmandu

  • Your Upper Mustang Trek concludes here. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Transportation: Private Vehicles
Lo Manthang walled capital, Kagbeni gateway, Mustang's semi-arid desert, Kali Gandaki Gorge

Where this trip takes you

Lo Manthang walled capital, Kagbeni gateway, Mustang's semi-arid desert, Kali Gandaki Gorge

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 7 cities · 18 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Permits and Fees: All necessary permits for the Upper Mustang trek, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
  • Accommodation: Lodging during the trek, usually in teahouses or lodges. This typically includes accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek.
  • Meals: Most treks include three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the course of the trek. This also includes two hot beverages, at breakfast and lunch, and seasonal fruits after dinner.
  • Transportation: Ground transportation to and from the trailhead, usually a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and then a flight to Jomsom, the starting point of the trek.
  • Guide and Porters: An experienced English-speaking trekking guide and porters to carry luggage. This also includes their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and lodging.
  • First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit for trekkers.
  • Trekking Map: A map of the trekking route.
  • Pick-up and Drop-off: Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights: Round-trip airfare from your home country to Nepal is usually not included.
  • Travel Insurance: You are generally expected to have your own travel insurance, which covers emergency rescue and evacuation.
  • Personal Expenses: Anything not specified in the inclusions will be considered an extra cost. For example, charges for additional food, drinks, showers, charging electronics, souvenirs, tips, and donations are typically not included.
  • Visa Fees: Entry visa fees for Nepal.
  • Additional Accommodation and Meals: If you finish the trek ahead of schedule or stay in Kathmandu for extra nights, the cost of additional accommodation or meals will typically not be covered.
  • Rescue and Evacuation: Costs incurred in the case of emergency rescue or evacuation, which is why having comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended.
  • Equipment: Trekking equipment, such as hiking boots, trekking poles, down jackets, and similar items, is not included, and you will be expected to bring your own.

What to bring

  • Sturdy Hiking Boots: Ensure comfort and stability with durable hiking boots suitable for varied terrains.
  • Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Pack layers for varying temperatures, including a waterproof jacket, fleece, and quick-drying trekking pants.
  • Daypack: Carry essentials in a daypack for daily excursions, ensuring you are prepared for each day's adventure.
  • Trekking Poles: Enhance stability on challenging trails with adjustable trekking poles.
  • Hat and Sunglasses: Shield yourself from the Himalayan sun with a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
  • Sleeping Bag: Stay warm and comfortable during overnight stays in teahouses with a suitable sleeping bag.
  • Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a basic first aid kit, including essentials like bandages, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
  • Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with a durable, reusable water bottle, refilling it at teahouses along the route.
  • Headlamp/Flashlight: Navigate teahouses and trails after dark with a reliable headlamp or flashlight.
  • Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Protect your skin from the mountain sun with high SPF sunscreen and keep your lips moisturised.
  • Trekking Towel: Pack a quick-dry trekking towel for personal hygiene during the trek.

Know before you go

  • Confirmation: Ensure a smooth start to your adventure with a confirmed booking. You will receive confirmation when booking, providing the necessary details for your upcoming journey.
  • Health Considerations: This trek is not recommended for individuals with back problems, heart issues, or other severe medical conditions. Pregnant travellers are also advised against participating in this trek. Prioritise your well-being and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
  • Accessibility: While most travellers can participate, it is essential to be mindful of the trek's physical demands. Assess your fitness level to ensure you are prepared for the trekking challenges and varying terrains.
  • Transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara may include flights in some packages.
  • Duffle bag and sleeping bag are available if necessary.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kathmandu, Nepal
Tour start
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 18 days finish where they began, in Kathmandu 44600.

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