Upper Mustang Trek

After breakfast, we embark on a full-day guided city tour of Kathmandu, covering four iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase Nepal’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

1. Pashupatinath Temple

We begin our tour with a visit to Pashupatinath, one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated along the Bagmati River, this revered temple is not only a religious site but also a place where Hindu cremation rituals take place, offering deep insights into Nepalese spiritual traditions.

2. Boudhanath Stupa

Next, we visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in Asia and a significant Tibetan Buddhist pilgrimage site. The stupa is surrounded by over 50 Tibetan monasteries (gompas) and vibrant prayer wheels, making it a peaceful yet lively destination where you can witness monks chanting prayers and devotees circumambulating the stupa.

3. Kathmandu Durbar Square

Our journey continues to Kathmandu Durbar Square, an architectural masterpiece that reflects Nepal’s royal history. This historic site was once the royal palace of the Malla and Shah kings and is home to ancient temples, courtyards, and the Kumari Ghar (home of the living goddess, Kumari). The square is a perfect place to explore Newari art, culture, and heritage.

4. Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

We conclude our tour at Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, located on a hilltop overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. This ancient Buddhist stupa is a blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions and offers panoramic views of the city. The presence of playful monkeys, fluttering prayer flags, and spinning prayer wheels adds to the spiritual ambiance of the site.

After an enriching day of sightseeing, we return to the hotel, where you can relax or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel in the evening.

Early morning, after breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital and one of the most picturesque cities in the country. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours via the Prithvi Highway, offering breathtaking views of rivers, lush green hills, terraced fields, and small villages along the way.

As we leave Kathmandu, we follow the Trishuli River, a popular spot for rafting and adventure activities. The drive continues alongside the Marshyangdi River, passing through deep valleys, gorges, and charming countryside landscapes. En route, we pass towns like Mugling and Dumre, where you can see locals engaged in daily activities.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, we check into our hotel and freshen up. In the evening, you can take a leisurely walk around Phewa Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal, and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the lakeside area. You may also choose to go boating on the lake or visit Tal Barahi Temple, situated on a small island in the middle of the lake.

Pokhara’s vibrant Lakeside area is perfect for unwinding, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and shops to explore. You can enjoy a relaxing evening soaking in the beauty of the Annapurna mountain range reflecting over the calm waters of Phewa Lake.

After breakfast in Kagbeni, we begin our trek towards Chhuksang, following the right bank of the Kali Gandaki River. The trail passes through a stunning desert-like landscape, with views of eroded cliffs, red rock formations, and caves that reflect the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of Mustang.

As we walk, we pass small green patches of farmland, where villagers cultivate barley, buckwheat, and potatoes using traditional irrigation techniques. The contrast between the barren cliffs and green oases is mesmerizing.

After approximately 3.5 hours of walking, we reach Chhuksang village (2,980m), where we take a lunch break. The village features traditional whitewashed mud-brick houses, built to withstand the harsh mountain winds. The surrounding landscape is dotted with ancient caves and red cliffs, adding to the mystical atmosphere of the Mustang region.

In the afternoon, we continue exploring the village and its Tibetan-influenced culture, before settling in for the night.

Leaving Chhuksang, the trail crosses the Kali Gandaki River over a bridge and enters a fascinating landscape of red cliffs and eroded rock formations. Along the riverbed, you might come across pieces of turquoise-colored stones, a rare and beautiful mineral that adds to the mystique of the Mustang region.

The Kali Gandaki River flows beneath a tunnel-like rock formation, creating an awe-inspiring sight. After about 45 minutes of ascent, we arrive at Tsele village (3,050m), a small settlement with about 18–20 traditional houses, surrounded by terraced fields. From here, we get an impressive north-facing view of Nilgiri (6,940m).

The trail continues to climb, passing through narrow cliffs and rugged terrain before reaching Samar Pass. Along the way, we see stunning crystalline mountains, reddish rock formations, and deep gorges. A long suspension bridge stretches across the valley to Gyaker village, an alternative route for those interested in exploring remote settlements.

As we approach Samar village (3,660m), we begin to see colorful Himalayan plants growing along the trail. We reach Samar around lunchtime, enjoying the greenery, Tibetan-influenced houses, and breathtaking views. This small village is an important stop on the way to Upper Mustang, offering a peaceful atmosphere for trekkers.

Beyond Samar village (3,660m), the trail splits into two routes leading to Syangmochen (3,800m). If you wish to visit the Chhunsi Kangchung Cave Monastery, you must take the right trail, which is known for its steep and narrow paths. The trek is exposed to direct sunlight, making it a challenging ascent.

The climb takes approximately one hour, leading to the Samar Hill Pass. From here, the trail suddenly descends into a steep and rocky path, requiring careful footing, especially on loose gravel and dry terrain. As you descend further, the deep gorge and barren landscape of Mustang unfold before you.

Soon, we arrive at the Chhunsi Kangchung Monastery Cave (3,400m), one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Upper Mustang. This sacred cave is believed to be where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) meditated centuries ago. The cave’s mystical atmosphere, adorned with Buddhist murals and prayer flags, makes it a special spiritual destination.

After visiting the monastery, the trail climbs again through a narrow valley surrounded by barren hills, taking about 1.5 hours to reach Syangmochen village. This small settlement offers spectacular views of the Gelling Valley, and on clear days, you can catch glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance.

We take a lunch break in Syangmochen, enjoying the peaceful surroundings before continuing the trek.

After leaving Syangmochen (3,800m), the trail gradually ascends towards the Nyi La Pass (4,010m), one of the highest points of the Mustang trek. The climb is steep and demanding, but reaching the top offers stunning panoramic views of the Mustang region, along with breathtaking sights of the Annapurna and Nilgiri mountain ranges.

Descending from Nyi La, the trail shifts towards the left side, where you will witness a beautiful green valley in the distance—this is Ghami village (3,520m), our destination for the night. The descent is relatively easy compared to the earlier climb, and by the time we arrive in Ghami, it will be around lunchtime.

After lunch, there are several cultural and historical sites to explore in Ghami:

• Japanese Hospital – A small health center built with Japanese support, offering medical services to locals.
• Primary School – A chance to observe the local education system and interact with the children.
• The Longest Mani Wall in Mustang – A stone wall covered with Buddhist prayers and inscriptions, stretching over 600 meters. It is believed that walking alongside the prayer wheels brings good fortune and blessings.
• Apple Gardens – Mustang is famous for its sweet apples, and Ghami has several orchards where you can taste fresh, locally grown apples.

For those seeking additional exploration, an optional short hike leads up the valley of Ghami towards Dolph, a remote village known for its ancient Buddhist culture and hidden caves.

We spend the night in Ghami, a tranquil village surrounded by red cliffs and traditional whitewashed houses, enjoying the serene ambiance of Mustang.

After breakfast in Ghami, we begin our journey towards Dhakmar (3,820m), a village known for its vivid red cliffs and ancient cave dwellings. The trail starts with a gradual descent followed by a short uphill climb, taking about 45 minutes to reach Dhakmar. The landscape here is breathtaking, with colorful eroded cliffs, and if you’re lucky, you may spot blue sheep grazing along the steep slopes.

From Dhakmar, the trail ascends towards Mui La Pass (4,170m), the highest point of today’s trek. The climb is moderately steep, but reaching the top offers spectacular views of the Mustang region’s barren hills and deep canyons. The pass is also known for sightings of blue sheep and Himalayan griffon vultures soaring above.

Descending from Mui La, we arrive at Ghar Gompa (3,950m), one of the oldest monasteries in Nepal, built before the Samye Monastery in Tibet. It belongs to the Nyingma sect of Buddhism and is believed to contain hidden scriptures of Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche). The monastery holds great spiritual and historical significance, and visiting it offers a glimpse into Mustang’s deep Buddhist heritage.

From Ghar Gompa, the trail follows the Tsarang Khola (river), passing through Lo Ghekar, a small settlement with a few houses and cultivated fields. The final stretch of today’s trek leads us to Tsarang (3,620m), a picturesque village with whitewashed houses, a large monastery, and the ruins of an ancient fort.

In the evening, we can explore Tsarang Monastery, a 17th-century Buddhist monastery with impressive murals, prayer wheels, and a large collection of Buddhist scriptures. The ruins of the Tsarang Palace, once the royal residence of Mustang’s rulers, stand nearby, offering insights into the region’s rich history.

We spend the night in Tsarang, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and preparing for the next day’s trek towards Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang.

Today’s trek takes us to Lo Manthang, the ancient walled city and the capital of Upper Mustang. After breakfast in Tsarang, we descend towards the Tsarang River, crossing it via a small bridge before beginning a steady uphill climb. The trail offers stunning views of the Mustang landscape, with vast barren hills, deep gorges, and eroded cliffs creating a mesmerizing desert-like scenery.

As we gain elevation, the south face of Nilgiri Himal (6,940m) comes into view, standing tall against the backdrop of the Mustang plateau. The trail continues through a high-altitude desert, with chortens, mani walls, and caves carved into cliffs, reflecting the Tibetan Buddhist heritage of the region.

After approximately 3 to 4 hours of walking, we reach the gates of Lo Manthang (3,840m), an ancient city surrounded by a thick mud-brick wall. This historic town was founded in the 14th century and served as the capital of the Kingdom of Lo, which maintained close cultural and trade ties with Tibet for centuries.

Upon arrival, we check into a local guesthouse or set up camp in the dusty yet beautiful desert garden of Lo Manthang. In the afternoon, we can explore the narrow alleys, ancient monasteries, and traditional mud-brick houses of this fascinating city.

Tomorrow, we will have a full day to explore Lo Manthang, visiting its historic sites, Buddhist monasteries, and interacting with the ethnic Loba people who have preserved their unique Tibetan-influenced culture for generations.

Today is a full day to explore Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Lo, rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture, history, and architecture. The city is surrounded by a thick mud-brick wall, and inside, the houses are closely packed, forming narrow alleys and tunnels. If unfamiliar, it’s easy to get lost in the maze-like passageways. The traditional mud houses, with flat roofs and whitewashed exteriors, reflect the unique Lo-Pa architectural style. Inside, the homes are spacious, featuring large living rooms with long benches and an iron fireplace, a crucial element for warmth in the harsh Mustang winters.

The Lo-Pa people, who are of Tibetan descent, mainly grow wheat, barley, buckwheat, and potatoes in the region’s arid climate. They have long been involved in trade with Tibet, importing Chinese goods and other essentials. During the harsh winter months, when temperatures drop to below freezing, many Lo-Pa families migrate to lower Mustang for better living conditions.

Key Attractions in Lo Manthang

1. Chode Gompa – A Sakya sect monastery, this ancient structure serves as an important religious and community center for the Lo-Pa people.
2. Jampa Lhakhang (God House of Future Buddha) – Also known as the Jampa Monastery, it is one of the oldest monasteries in Mustang, built in the 15th century and housing intricate murals and ancient scriptures.
3. Thubchen Gompa – A massive red monastery built in the late 15th century, known for its beautiful Tibetan frescoes and historical significance.
4. King’s Palace – A four-story palace where the former King of Lo and his family resided. Though the monarchy was abolished in 2008, the Royal Family of Mustang still holds cultural importance in the region.

Lo Manthang is a place where history, culture, and tradition remain untouched by time. As we explore this enchanting city, we get a rare glimpse into the ancient Tibetan-influenced way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.

Today, we embark on an adventurous horse ride to Chhoser, a mystical site near Lo Manthang, known for its incredible ancient cave dwellings. Carrying a self-packed lunch, we set off on a scenic journey through the rugged Mustang landscape, passing deserted valleys, colorful cliffs, and traditional Tibetan settlements.

Chhoser Cave: A Mysterious Architectural Marvel

Upon reaching Chhoser, we are greeted by a breathtaking cliffside structure, which at first glance appears to be a natural rock formation. However, a closer look reveals a man-made multi-story cave system, carved into the cliff face centuries ago. The cave consists of 44 rooms, interconnected by narrow tunnels and staircases, creating a maze-like structure.

The origin of the Chhoser Cave remains a mystery, but it is believed to have been used by Buddhist monks for meditation, local villagers as shelters, or even as a fortress during ancient conflicts. Walking through its dimly lit corridors and multi-level chambers, we experience an almost otherworldly atmosphere, as if stepping into an alien landscape.

Chhoser is also home to ancient monasteries, including Ranchung Cave Monastery, where Buddhist monks still practice meditation. The area is rich in Tibetan Buddhist heritage, and the views from the top of the cave offer a spectacular panorama of the Mustang region.

After exploring this enigmatic cave city, we ride back to Lo Manthang, reflecting on the mystical beauty and historical wonder of Chhoser.

As we bid farewell to Lo Manthang, the historic walled city of Mustang, the trek begins with a short ascent towards a glacial valley, offering a final panoramic view of the reddish-brown fortress-like settlement. The arid landscapes, characteristic of the rainless zone of Upper Mustang, create an unforgettable last glimpse of this ancient kingdom.

After about an hour of trekking along the mountain ridge, the trail gradually descends towards Dhi village, a picturesque settlement known for its traditional mud houses and terraced farmlands. As we descend, the landscape transforms, revealing lush meadows and fertile fields near the riverside, in contrast to the barren terrain left behind.

Lunch Stop at Dhi Village

Dhi serves as an ideal lunch break stop, providing an opportunity to rest and appreciate the traditional way of life in Mustang. The riverside location of the village makes it a refreshing halt before continuing the trek.

Trek to Yara – The Land of Natural Sand Castles

After lunch, we cross the river and follow the left bank of the stream, making our way towards Yara (3,838m). The trail varies depending on the season—

• During the dry season, we follow the riverbed, navigating through its winding paths.
• In the monsoon, we take an alternative route, ascending the hillside trails to avoid the high water levels.

The final stretch involves a steep climb, leading to the top of Yara hills, where a breathtaking sight awaits—a landscape that appears as if it was sculpted by nature itself. The hills resemble natural sand castles, their eroded formations shaped by centuries of wind and water. In some areas, we come across salty, mineral-rich dust deposits, which add to the uniqueness of the terrain.

We conclude the day by setting up camp in Yara village, enjoying a full-board meal under the star-lit Himalayan sky, surrounded by the surreal desert-like beauty of Mustang.

Today’s journey takes us to Luri Gompa, one of the most significant and ancient cave monasteries of Upper Mustang, dating back to the 13th century. This Kagyukpa sect monastery, built into the sandstone cliffs, holds priceless golden-written Lama books, sacred murals, and intricately painted mandalas, reflecting the rich Buddhist heritage of Mustang.

After exploring the mystical monastery, we continue our trek towards Duyung Khola, following a trail that leads to the sacred basin of Damodar Kund—one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus. This revered site is believed to be the headwater region of the Kali Gandaki River, a place of spiritual cleansing and devotion.

The Sacred Fossils of Kali Gandaki – Shaligram

The area around Duyung Khola is famous for black ammonite fossils, known as Shaligrams, which hold deep religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists.

• For Hindus, these fossils are considered the embodiment of Lord Vishnu and are worshipped in temples and homes.
• For Buddhists, the fossils symbolize eternity and are often collected for prayer and meditation practices.

Many pilgrims visit this region to collect these sacred stones, believing they bring spiritual blessings and divine energy.

After our spiritual and cultural exploration, we return to Yara, reflecting on the deep mysticism and religious significance of Mustang’s sacred lands.

Early in the morning, we leave Yara and follow a high, winding path that descends towards the Dhechaeng Khola (river). This river originates from the sacred Damodar Kund, a Hindu pilgrimage site known as the headwater of the Kali Gandaki River. As we cross the river, we find black ammonite fossils (Shaligrams), revered by Hindus and Buddhists as the embodiment of Lord Vishnu. Pilgrims and monks often collect these fossils for prayers and religious rituals.

After crossing the small glacial river, the trail climbs steeply for about one and a half hours, leading us to Dhi village. The climb is through a barren, desert-like landscape, with rolling sand dunes and rugged mountain terrain. Dhi village is a traditional Lo-Pa settlement, where the locals follow Tibetan Buddhism and engage in small-scale trade and agriculture. The village sits in a gentle valley, offering a picturesque setting of mud-brick houses, surrounded by wind-carved cliffs.

From Dhi village, the trail continues along a narrow, dusty path to Tanya village. The villagers here are gentle and deeply religious, adhering to Buddhist traditions while engaging in local businesses such as herding and trading Tibetan goods. Looking towards the northern horizon, you will see towering sandy cliffs, shaped by centuries of strong Himalayan winds.

Continuing our trek, we reach Tangbe village (3,240m). This charming village is known for its labyrinth of narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and Buddhist chortens. The village is surrounded by orchards of apples and buckwheat fields, adding a touch of greenery to the arid Mustang landscape. Tangbe is an excellent place to relax and explore, as we enjoy the traditional lifestyle of the Lo-Pa people.

Today’s trek is longer and more challenging than the previous days, so we start very early in the morning with a packed lunch. After a short initial walk, we cross a suspension bridge and follow the trail to the right side. The path soon leads to the Yak Khola (river) before the steep ascent to the highest point of the Upper Mustang trip— a pass at 4,210m.

The climb takes approximately two and a half hours, requiring physical endurance and determination. As we reach the summit at 4,200m, we might feel exhausted and sweaty, but the rewarding panoramic view makes it all worthwhile. From the top, we can see the majestic Damodar Himal and Saribung Himal (6,346m) in the far distance.

Descending slightly, we walk on flat terrain for about an hour and a half, reaching a place known as PA. This is an ideal lunch spot, though it only consists of ruins and water sources, with no existing houses. Since we have only covered half the journey, we must avoid spending too much time here.

The second half of the trek is a challenging four to five-hour descent on a rough, uneven trail. This section requires extra caution to avoid slips, twists, or injuries. As we carefully descend, we finally catch a glimpse of a deep valley with traditional mud-roof houses—our final destination for the day: Chhuksang (also known as Tetang).

Upon arrival, we can rest and recover while enjoying the picturesque setting of this ancient Mustang village, nestled between towering red cliffs and lush fields along the Kali Gandaki River.

Today’s trek is relatively easy compared to the previous day, as we gradually ascend towards the Gyu La Pass (4,077m). The trail takes us through Kharkas (seasonal grazing lands), where we can spot domestic animals like yaks and goats, as well as wildlife such as Himalayan mountain goats. The peaceful and scenic valley offers a serene trekking experience as we make our way to the pass.

Upon reaching the top of Gyu La Pass, we are greeted by a breathtaking panoramic view of Thorong Peak, Nilgiri, Tukche Peak, and the Muktinath Valley below. This is an ideal spot to take a short rest and capture the stunning Himalayan landscape before descending.

The trail then leads us downward, passing through Chhenkar village, a traditional Mustang settlement, before reaching Muktinath (3,800m). Muktinath is a significant pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its sacred temple, eternal flame, and 108 water spouts.

After arriving in Muktinath, we can explore the holy temple complex and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred place, marking the end of our Upper Mustang adventure.

Today’s trek from Muktinath (3,800m) to Jomsom (2,720m) is a scenic and culturally enriching journey, offering spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Nilgiri (7,061m) mountain ranges. The trail initially descends towards the Lupra River (Pangda Khola), leading us into the isolated and historic village of Lupra.

Lupra is one of the few remaining Bon settlements in Nepal, home to two Bonpo monasteries, preserving the ancient pre-Buddhist religion of Tibet. This village provides a unique opportunity to explore Bon traditions, old monasteries, and traditional lifestyle that has remained unchanged for centuries.

After spending some time in Lupra, we continue following the Pangda River for about 30 minutes, before rejoining the main Kaligandaki trekking route. The trail from here is relatively flat, but Jomsom is known for its strong afternoon winds, making the final stretch a bit challenging.

Upon arrival in Jomsom, we complete our Upper Mustang adventure, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this trade and transport hub. Jomsom is the gateway to Mustang and the Kali Gandaki Valley, with its airport, tea houses, and bustling market, offering a great place to relax and celebrate the completion of the trek.

Early in the morning, after breakfast, we take a scenic 30-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. The flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as the deep Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge. Upon arrival in Pokhara (822m), we check in at the hotel and take some time to freshen up.

Pokhara Sightseeing Tour:

In the afternoon, we explore some of Pokhara’s most important cultural and natural attractions:

• Bindhyabasini Temple – One of the oldest and most revered Hindu temples in Pokhara, dedicated to Goddess Durga.
• Seti Gorge River – A stunning limestone gorge where the Seti River flows deep beneath, carving out an impressive canyon.
• Devi’s Fall (Patale Chhango) – A mesmerizing waterfall that disappears into an underground tunnel, creating a fascinating natural wonder.
• Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave – A sacred cave with a Shiva temple inside, located just across from Devi’s Fall, featuring beautifully formed stalactites and stalagmites.

Evening Activities:

In the evening, we enjoy a relaxing walk around Lakeside, the lively tourist hub of Pokhara, filled with cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops. We also take a boat ride on Phewa Lake to visit Tal Barahi Temple, a Hindu temple located on a small island in the middle of the lake.

We end the day soaking in the serene ambiance of Pokhara, with the Annapurna mountains reflecting on the calm waters of Phewa Lake.

After an early morning breakfast in Pokhara, we embark on a scenic 7-8 hour drive back to Kathmandu. The journey follows the Prithvi Highway, offering breathtaking views of the Trishuli River, lush green hills, and deep valleys. Along the way, we pass through charming towns and villages, witnessing the diverse landscapes of Nepal, from the serene hills of Pokhara to the bustling streets of Kathmandu.

Arrival in Kathmandu & Shopping in Thamel

Upon reaching Kathmandu, we check in at the hotel and freshen up. You can spend the evening shopping in Thamel, a vibrant tourist district known for local handicrafts, souvenirs, trekking gear, and handmade woolen items—perfect gifts for your friends and family.

Farewell Dinner with Cultural Dance Show

To celebrate the end of an incredible journey, we gather for a traditional Nepalese farewell dinner at an authentic Nepali restaurant. The evening is made even more special with a cultural dance performance, showcasing traditional Nepali music and ethnic dances from different regions of Nepal.

This memorable dinner marks the perfect conclusion to our Upper Mustang adventure, as we reminisce about the incredible experiences and breathtaking landscapes we explored.